Jashore District and its headquarter city with the same name (Bengali: যশোর, pronounced Jaw-shore, Anglicised: Jessore), is not part of the official Greater Sundarbans tourism destination, but it plays a crucial role as an adjacent logistical hub and key access point for travelers heading to the Sundarbans, thanks to its relatively large and well-connected airport and busy Benapole border crossing with India.
Jashore is the third largest city in Khulna Division and is a hub for transiting visitors to the Sundarbans in the south and from India. The Benapole border, one of the busiest land ports in Bangladesh, is located west of Jashore city about a 40 minute drive along the N706. Much of the import and export trading between Bangladesh and India is done through this port. This access to India further enhances Jashore’s importance as a logistical hub for travelers and traders alike. For those traveling from Dhaka or elsewhere, many visitors fly into Jashore Airport and then travel from there by vehicle or boat to Khulna City or Mongla for their journey into the Sundarbans. This was especially true before the Padma River Bridge opened on the N8, making travel to Khulna and the Sundarbans from Dhaka more quick and easily accessible by bus and personal vehicle.
In addition to being a transportation hub, this district is known for its agriculture - especially flowers - and for archaeological sites. It is dotted with ancient mosques, Hindu temples, and other historic structures that reflect the area’s deep-rooted history. The ruins of ancient settlements and relics found in the region offer glimpses into the area's past, making it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts. For a brief stop in transit, Jashore provides a blend of cultural, historical, and natural attractions, making it a fitting complement to a trip to the Sundarbans.
More about Jashore
Jashore City is relatively navigable on foot, and it’s easy to hail a cycle-rickshaw to explore the city further. If you have time to spend a few days in Jashore during your transit, here are some things to explore:
Jashore hosts a stadium, a library, several educational institutions, and many recreational parks and picnic spots, like Jess Garden, Binodia Family Park and Zoo, and and Monohorpur Boat Club. If you’re eager to indulge in the local gastronomy of Jashore, be sure to try the district’s famous Khejur Gur (jaggery) which is made of date palm and is said to provide many health benefits. Another local favorite is Jamtala sweet meat, which is made from curdled milk and is popular at ceremonies and usually gifted to neighbors as a symbol of good wishes.
Godkhali
Godkhali is only 20 kilometers west from the city. This "Flower Kingdom" is renowned for its flower cultivation. Here, vast fields of rose, gerbera, gladiolus, tuberose, marigold, and chrysanthemum are cultivated, supplying a significant portion of Bangladesh's floral needs. Seasonal festivals showcase the region's agricultural prowess, adding a splash of color to festivities across the country.
Sagardari
About 45 kilometers south of Jashore City, Sagardari is the birthplace of Michael Madhusudan Dutta, often regarded as the father of the Bangla sonnet. His large villa consists of a huge garden, a small museum and houses. The museum displays his life history and allows visitors to learn about his famous works of modern Bengali literature. The front gate has a solid sculpture work. The Kobodak River is at a stone's throw away.