About Rajshahi
Rajshahi, a picturesque city located in the northwest part of Bangladesh, is renowned for its serene beauty, rich cultural heritage, and significant educational institutions. As of 2023, Rajshahi is home to approximately 800,000 residents, making it a prominent urban center in the country. The city is a key hub for trade and education, with its famed silk industry and prestigious institutions like Rajshahi University.
Rajshahi features a tropical wet and dry climate, with hot summers, a monsoon season from June to October, and mild winters. The best time to visit Rajshahi is from November to February when the weather is cooler and ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
The city is served by Shah Makhdum Airport, located about 10 kilometers from the city center. Various airlines, including Biman Bangladesh Airlines and Novoair, offer flights from major international and domestic destinations, connecting Rajshahi to the rest of the world. For Saudi Arabian citizens, reaching Rajshahi typically involves flying to Dhaka and then taking a domestic flight to Rajshahi. Major airlines like Saudia, Flydubai, Air Arabia, Qatar Airways, and Biman Bangladesh Airlines provide direct or connected international connections from Riyadh, Dammam, and Jeddah to Dhaka.
Rajshahi’s culinary scene is diverse, featuring traditional Bangladeshi and regional dishes that reflect its cultural heritage. Local favorites include Rajshahi silk fried fish, bhorta (mashed vegetables with spices), and misti doi (sweet yogurt). Street food is also popular, with vendors offering snacks like singara (savory pastries) and fuchka (puffed puris filled with spiced water).
Tourists in Rajshahi can explore a variety of attractions that highlight the city's cultural and historical significance. The Varendra Research Museum, one of the oldest museums in Bangladesh, offers insights into the region's archaeological and cultural history. Other notable sites include the Puthia Temple Complex, known for its stunning Hindu temples, and the Padma River, which is ideal for boat rides and enjoying scenic views.
Outdoor enthusiasts and cultural explorers will appreciate the festivals celebrated in Rajshahi, such as Pohela Boishakh (Bengali New Year) and the Rajshahi Silk Festival, which showcases the city's famous silk products. The city’s parks and public spaces, such as the Central Park and Zoo and the Rajshahi University Campus, are popular for relaxation and social activities.
Saudi Arabian citizens are eligible for a visa on arrival in Bangladesh. To obtain a Bangladesh visa on arrival, travelers need to have a valid passport, a return ticket, and proof of sufficient funds for their stay. Upon arrival at Shah Makhdum Airport, visitors can fill out the visa application form and pay the visa fee. This convenient process eliminates the need for prior visa arrangements, making it easier for Saudi Arabian citizens to travel to Bangladesh.
