Visit Magura's rural agricultural landscapes and historic Mohammadpur. Western district with traditional village life, jute cultivation, and folk traditions.
The Nabaganga River is the lifeline of Magura district and one of the most scenic rivers in southwestern Bangladesh. Flowing right through the heart of Magura town, this 230-kilometer-long river has shaped the history, culture, and daily life of the region for centuries. **Origin and Name** The [Nabaganga River](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nabaganga_River) is a branch of the Mathabhanga River, originating near Chuadanga district. The name "Nabaganga" means "New Ganges" in Bengali - it was named this way because people believed the sacred Ganges flowed through the Mathabhanga into this river, giving it a new form. From its source, the river flows east through Jhenidah and Magura districts before turning south and eventually joining the Chitra River in Narail district. **A River with Rich History** The Nabaganga was once a busy waterway. Up until the mid-1970s, large steamers named "Ostrich" and "Gazi" regularly carried passengers from Kushtia to Khulna, passing through Magura and Narail. Launches and cargo boats used the river as a major trade route connecting the southwestern region. The river also has a dramatic history - centuries ago, Mog and Portuguese pirates from the Sundarbans coast would travel up the Nabaganga to raid villages along its banks. **The River Today** Near Magura town, the Nabaganga is about 200 meters wide, though it narrows in some spots due to encroachment. During the monsoon season (June-September), the river swells with water and becomes fully navigable, creating a beautiful sight as it stretches across the flat landscape. In the dry season, the water level drops, revealing sandy banks that attract flocks of birds. The riverfront area in Magura town has a park and a bridge, making it a popular spot for locals to relax in the evenings. **Why Visit** The Nabaganga offers a peaceful escape from the busy town. Whether you come for a quiet boat ride, to watch the sunset from the riverbank, or simply to enjoy the fresh air by the water, the river provides a calming experience. The surrounding countryside, with its green fields and rural villages, adds to the charm. During winter months, you can spot various migratory birds along the sandy banks.
**About** Sirijdia Baor is a beautiful U-shaped oxbow lake located in Chaulia Union of Magura Sadar Upazila. This natural water body covers about 92 acres of water surface, making it one of the largest baors ([oxbow lakes](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oxbow_lake)) in the Magura region. With its calm waters, green surroundings, and wide open skies, Sirijdia Baor offers a peaceful escape from everyday life. **How the Baor Was Formed** Like all baors in Bangladesh, Sirijdia Baor was created naturally over hundreds of years as an [oxbow lake](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oxbow_lake). When the nearby [Nabaganga River](/tourist-places/nabaganga-river) changed its course, it left behind this curved, U-shaped body of water. Over time, the lake developed its own ecosystem with various fish species, aquatic plants, and birds that depend on it for survival. **Sirijdia Eco Park** In September 2020, an eco-park project was officially launched on 105 acres of government land surrounding the baor (92 acres of water and 13 acres of land). The project was inaugurated by Advocate Saifuzzaman Shikhar, Member of Parliament from Magura-1 constituency. The initial budget of 35 lakh Taka came from the MP's government development fund, with additional support from the Zila and Upazila Parishad. **What Makes It Special** The eco-park project aims to turn Sirijdia Baor into a major tourist destination. Plans include tree plantations along the banks, power supply, cottage construction, boating facilities, and safety measures for visitors. The vast crop fields along the banks add to the scenic beauty, especially during the rice growing season. **Visitor Information** - Entry Fee: Free (no formal entry fee currently) - Opening Hours: Open area, accessible during daylight hours - Best Time to Visit: November to March (cool, dry weather with clear skies) - Time Needed: 2 to 3 hours - Estimated Cost: 200-500 Taka (transport from Magura town)
Sreepur Zamindar Bari is a historic landlord estate located in Sreepur Upazila, about 15 kilometers from Magura town. This centuries-old mansion is not just an architectural gem - it holds a special place in Bengali literature as the inspiration behind Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore's famous novel "Bou Thakuranir Haat." **The Story Behind the Mansion** The zamindar bari was built by Sarada Ranjan Pal, a powerful landlord who purchased these lands from Nawab Alivardi Khan. The Pal family became one of the most influential families in the region. Sarada Ranjan's daughter, Bibha Rani Pal, married Udayaditya, the son of the legendary King Pratapaditya of Jessore - one of the most famous historical figures of Bengal. This marriage connected two of the most powerful families of the region. **The Rabindranath Tagore Connection** What makes this zamindar bari truly special is its connection to world poet [Rabindranath Tagore](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rabindranath_Tagore). Tagore wrote his celebrated novel "Bou Thakuranir Haat" based on the story of this very zamindar house. The novel's main character Surma was inspired by Bibha Rani Pal, the zamindar's daughter. This literary connection makes Sreepur Zamindar Bari a place of great cultural significance, not just for Magura but for all of Bengali literature. **Architecture and Design** The zamindar bari features the typical blend of Bengali and colonial architectural styles that was popular among wealthy landlords during the British period. The main gate is one of the most striking features, along with several rooms inside the house that still survive. You can see decorative columns, arched doorways, and detailed plasterwork on the remaining structures. An old iron chest used by the zamindars also remains at the site. **Current Condition** The estate is unfortunately on the verge of ruin due to lack of proper maintenance. The entrance gate is in a fragile state, with cracks on the building walls and plaster falling from the ceilings. Local authorities have recognized its archaeological importance, and there are plans to develop it as a tourist site. The Magura Deputy Commissioner has noted that the government has started working on Magura tourist spots, including this one. Despite its worn state, the building still carries the atmosphere of a bygone era. For lovers of Bengali literature and history, this is a pilgrimage-worthy destination.
Raja Sitaram Roy's Palace is one of the most important historical sites in Magura district and a window into Bengal's rich past. Located in Mohammadpur Upazila, about 25 kilometers southeast of Magura town, this 300-year-old palace complex sits on the banks of the Madhumati River. The Bangladesh Department of Archaeology declared it a preserved antiquity on April 15, 2010. **The Story of Raja Sitaram Roy** [Raja Sitaram Roy](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Raja_Sitaram_Ray) (1658-1714) started as a government official under the Nawab of Murshidabad during the Mughal era. Through his sharp mind and political skill, he rose from a simple bureaucrat to a powerful zamindar (landlord) and eventually earned the title of "Raja" (King) in 1688. His estate stretched from Pabna in the north all the way down to the Bay of Bengal, and from Barisal in the east to Nadia in the west. He was one of the last independent Hindu rulers in this part of Bengal before the Mughals took full control. **The Fortified Capital** Around 1697-98, Sitaram built his capital at Mohammadpur, choosing the location carefully. The area was naturally protected by large wetlands (bils) on three sides and the Madhumati River on the east. He built a massive square fort with each side stretching about 1,300 feet (roughly 400 meters), made of earthen bricks. A wide moat about 200 feet across and one mile long surrounded the fort, making it very hard for enemies to attack. **What You Can See Today** While much of the palace has fallen into ruins over the centuries, several structures and features still survive: - **Kacharibari (Court Building)** - The old administrative building where the Raja held court, still in relatively good shape - **Dol Manch (Swing Pavilion)** - A three-tiered ceremonial platform used for festivals, one of the better-preserved structures - **Toshakhana (Treasury)** - The royal treasury building, now in poor condition - **Dashabhuja Temple** - Built in 1699, this temple shows the Raja's early Hindu Shakti worship - **Lakshmi Narayan Temple** - Built in 1704, reflecting his later shift to Vaishnavism - **Singha Daraja (Lion Gate)** - The main entrance gate decorated with elephant trunk carvings - **Ramsagar** - A huge rectangular lake measuring 2,400 by 900 feet and about 20 feet deep - **Krishnasagar** - Another large tank measuring 1,000 by 350 feet, built to prevent flooding - **Sukh Sagar** - A square tank with a three-story palace at its center where the royal family would retreat for rest **The Fall of a Kingdom** Raja Sitaram eventually stopped paying taxes to the Mughal Nawab and declared himself an independent ruler. This did not sit well with the Mughals. In 1714, Nawab Murshid Quli Khan sent his forces against Sitaram. The Raja was defeated, captured, and executed, bringing an end to his short-lived kingdom. The palace was abandoned and gradually fell into decay. Despite the damage from time and neglect, walking through the ruins gives you a strong sense of the grandness this place once held. For anyone interested in Bengal's history, this is a must-visit destination in southwestern Bangladesh.
Siddheshwari Math is an ancient Hindu monastery located in Darimagura area of Magura Sadar Upazila. Recognized as an archaeological heritage site, this religious institution has been a center of Hindu spiritual practice and community life in the Magura region for generations. **What is a Math?** A "Math" (also spelled "Matha") is a Hindu monastery or spiritual center where monks and devotees gather for prayer, meditation, and religious study. Unlike temples that are primarily for worship, a math serves as a living community where religious scholars reside, teach, and carry forward spiritual traditions. **Historical Significance** Siddheshwari Math is one of the most noted religious institutions in Magura Sadar. The name "Siddheshwari" refers to a form of the Hindu goddess, suggesting the math has roots in [Shakti worship](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shaktism) - one of the major traditions of Hinduism. The math has been listed as an archaeological heritage site by local authorities, pointing to its age and historical importance. **What You Will See** The math complex includes traditional religious buildings, prayer halls, and living quarters for monks. The architecture reflects the simple but elegant style typical of Bengali Hindu monasteries, with terracotta details and traditional roofing. The peaceful courtyard, old trees, and the atmosphere of devotion make it a calming place to visit. **A Living Tradition** Unlike many historical sites that are just ruins, Siddheshwari Math remains an active religious center. Devotees still come here for prayers and festivals. If you visit during a Hindu festival, you can experience traditional rituals, devotional music, and community gatherings that have been part of this place for centuries.
**About** Shotrujitpur Modonmohan Temple is a historic Hindu temple in Magura District dedicated to Modonmohan (Madan Mohan), a beloved form of [Lord Krishna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Krishna). Located in the ancient settlement of Shatrujitpur within Magura Sadar Upazila, this temple has been a center of Hindu worship and cultural life for generations. **Historical Significance** Shatrujitpur is one of the older settlements in Magura with deep historical roots. The area has its own market (Shatrujitpur Hat) and the Shatrujitpur Kaliprasanna Secondary School, established in 1919, pointing to the community's long cultural tradition. The Modonmohan Temple stands as a symbol of the region's Hindu heritage and devotional practices that have continued over centuries. **Architecture and Design** The temple features traditional Bengali Hindu temple architecture. The structure reflects the artistic styles common in rural Bangladesh temples, with decorative elements and terracotta work. The main deity, Modonmohan (a form of Krishna known as the "enchanter of hearts"), is housed in the central shrine. **Religious Life** The temple remains an active place of worship. Regular prayers (puja) take place daily, and the temple comes alive during major Hindu festivals, especially Janmashtami (the birthday of Lord Krishna) and Rath Yatra. Devotees from across the Magura region visit to offer prayers and participate in religious ceremonies. **Visitor Information** - Entry Fee: Free (no entry fee) - Opening Hours: Open daily, dawn to dusk (best to visit during morning or evening prayers) - Best Time to Visit: November to February; also during Janmashtami and other Hindu festivals - Time Needed: 1 to 1.5 hours - Estimated Cost: 100-300 Taka (local transport from Magura town)
**About** Ichakhada Neelkuthi is a colonial-era indigo factory located in Ichakhada village, Magura Sadar Upazila. Built in 1805 by an English indigo planter named Thomas Tweedey, this historic site stands as a powerful reminder of the dark chapter of British colonial exploitation in Bengal. **The Indigo Trade in Bengal** Indigo cultivation began across Bengal around 1777. European planters, mainly British, forced local farmers into tight contracts to grow indigo instead of food crops. The farmers received very low prices while the planters made enormous profits. The Ichakhada-Hazarapur area in Magura was one of the centers of this indigo trade, with commercial importance dating back to the Mughal era. **The Indigo Revolt** The suffering of farmers under indigo planters eventually led to the famous [Indigo Revolt of 1859-60](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indigo_revolt). Farmers across Bengal rose up against the oppressive system. The Ichakhada-Hazarapur region played a role in this uprising. Remnants of indigo cultivation can still be found at Hajrapur, Boroi, and Amtail in the area. **After the Indigo Era** When indigo cultivation ended, the Neelkuthi building was repurposed. Around 1876, it was converted into a government boys' school. Later, a Women's College was established on the premises. An interesting legacy of the indigo planters is that they planted the first litchi saplings in the Hazarapur area, which eventually grew and spread to become the famous Hajrapuri Litchi variety known across the region. **What You Can See Today** The original colonial structure still has visible remains. The brick walls, architectural elements, and overall layout give visitors a sense of what the indigo factory once looked like. The site is recognized as an archaeological heritage of Magura District. **Visitor Information** - Entry Fee: Free (open heritage ruins) - Opening Hours: Accessible during daylight hours - Best Time to Visit: November to February (pleasant weather for exploring ruins) - Time Needed: 1 to 1.5 hours - Estimated Cost: 200-500 Taka (transport from Magura town)
**About** Nangta Baba Ashram, also known as Satdoha Ashram, is a well-known Hindu spiritual center located on the south bank of the [Nabaganga River](/tourist-places/nabaganga-river), just about 1 kilometer east of Magura town center. The ashram is dedicated to the memory of a revered ascetic known locally as Nangta Baba, whose spiritual life and teachings attracted devoted followers from across the region. **The Life of Nangta Baba** Nangta Baba's real name was Jitendra Nath Chakraborty. He was born in Bhabanipur village in Narail District. One day, a cloth-less ascetic appeared in the Magura area, and people learned he had come from the Gangnalia cremation ground. Word of his remarkable spiritual powers and qualities spread quickly, drawing followers from far and wide. **Establishing the Ashram** After arriving in the Satdoha area on the banks of the Nabaganga, Nangta Baba established his ashram. He later received Vedic initiation from Ashutosh Bhattacharya, who was the priest of Magura Kalibari (Kali temple) at that time. His popularity grew steadily as more and more devotees came to seek his blessings and guidance. **Legacy** Nangta Baba passed away on the 31st of Baishakh, Bengali year 1370 (approximately May 1963), while speaking at the ashram premises. His samadhi (memorial) remains at the ashram, which continues to be a place of pilgrimage and spiritual practice. The ashram is recognized as an archaeological heritage and notable religious institution of [Magura Sadar Upazila](https://en.banglapedia.org/index.php/Magura_Sadar_Upazila). **Visitor Information** - Entry Fee: Free (no entry fee) - Opening Hours: Open daily, dawn to dusk - Best Time to Visit: November to February (pleasant weather) - Time Needed: 1 to 2 hours - Estimated Cost: 50-150 Taka (very close to Magura town)
**About** Arpara Eco Park is a nature-focused recreational park located in Arpara Union, Shalikha Upazila of Magura District. It is the only dedicated eco park in Magura, offering visitors a green escape with tree-lined pathways, a scenic canal, and family-friendly outdoor activities. The park promotes environmental awareness while providing a pleasant space for relaxation and recreation. **What the Park Offers** The park features a beautiful 2-kilometer-long canal running along its south side, lined with [Krishnachura (Royal Poinciana)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Delonix_regia) trees and various other species. When the Krishnachura trees bloom in summer with bright red and orange flowers, the view is truly stunning. The lush greenery throughout the park creates a refreshing atmosphere, especially welcome during hot weather. **For Families and Children** Children will love the play area with swings, slides, and creative clay sculptures of animals including tigers, deer, zebras, herons, camels, and birds. These life-sized animal figures make for great photo opportunities and keep kids entertained while parents enjoy the natural surroundings. **Environmental Mission** Arpara Eco Park was developed with a focus on maintaining environmental balance and protecting local biodiversity. Regular tree plantation drives are organized here, including events led by the Shalikha Upazila administration. The park serves as a living example of how green spaces can be created and maintained for both people and nature. **Visitor Information** - Entry Fee: Small local entry fee (check at the gate) - Opening Hours: Open daily during daylight hours - Best Time to Visit: November to February (pleasant weather); also beautiful during Krishnachura bloom season (April to June) - Time Needed: 2 to 3 hours - Estimated Cost: 300-600 Taka (including transport from Magura town)
**About** Hazrat Pir Mokarram Ali Shah Dargah is an important religious and historical site in Magura District. This sacred shrine holds the tomb of Pir Mokarram Ali Shah, a revered Sufi saint who was one of the twelve disciples of the legendary [Hazrat Khan Jahan Ali](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Khan_Jahan_Ali) (R:). **Historical Background** Around 1400 CE, the great saint Khan Jahan Ali arrived in Barobazar (in present-day Jessore) with twelve devoted followers. Pir Mokarram Ali Shah was among them. From Barobazar, he traveled to Ichakhada village in Magura to spread the message of Islam. He settled near the banks of the [Nabaganga River](/tourist-places/nabaganga-river), where he built a mosque and dug two large ponds for the local people. **The Historic Mosque Ruins** Pir Mokarram Ali Shah is said to have possessed remarkable spiritual powers that drew people from far and wide. The mosque he built over six hundred years ago still has visible ruins standing today. These ancient brick structures are a rare example of early Islamic architecture in the Magura region. **The Shrine Today** Over the years, the dargah has been renovated and maintained by local devotees. The two historic ponds have been restored to their former beauty. A madrasa (Islamic school) now operates on the premises, serving students up to class VIII. The green, peaceful surroundings on the Nabaganga riverbank make it a serene place for both prayer and reflection. **Visitor Information** - Entry Fee: Free (no entry fee) - Opening Hours: Open daily, dawn to dusk - Best Time to Visit: November to February (pleasant weather) - Time Needed: 1 to 2 hours - Estimated Cost: 200-500 Taka (transport from Magura town)
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