Barisal

Barisal, also spelt Barishal, is the capital of Barisal Division in Southern Bangladesh.

Understand
Barisal is famous for paddy growing and its rivers. The town is busy like most others in Bangladesh. Mobile phone service is well established, with good 4G and 3G connections.

History
During the Pakistan period Barisal division was a district under the same name and was part of Khulna Division then as one of four divisions of East Pakistan.

Get in
Though buses are available, the launch (boat) journey from Dhaka is recommended. It takes 8-9 hours and is comfortable and enjoyable. Launches leaving for Barisal depart from Dhaka Sadarghat approximately at 9PM. By road in a hired car, the journey from Dhaka takes 6-8 hours, requiring a half hour ferry crossing. Coaches are also available.

Barisal Bus Depot, +0431 54793. Schedule and fares

Get around
The Rocket (boats) departs from Barisal for Chittagong on Fridays and for Dhaka days other than Sundays.

See

 * Guthia Masjid, also called Baitul Aman Jame Masjid, has been appreciated by some travellers.
 * Floating Guava Market, only floating market in Bangladesh.
 * Durga Sagor, known locally as Madhabpasha Dighi, is the largest lake in southern Bangladesh.
 * University of Barisal, only general public university in Barisal Division.
 * Oxford Mission Church, considered to be one of the oldest (circa 1903) and largest churches in Asia.

Buy
There are plenty of ATM's in Barisal.

Go next

 * Kuakata - a rare and scenic spot on the southernmost tip of Bangladesh where you can watch the sun both rise and set over the sea.