Barisal Division

Introducing Barisal Division

Barisal division is marked by the branches of the Padma that braid through it to the Bay of Bengal, creating a maze of waterways. This wide, flat region has little to offer in the way of historical monuments but, in many ways, Barisal division is the quintessential Bangladesh. There is hardly any industrial development in this luxuriously green region fringed by rivers and the sea. The land is intermingled with ponds, marshes and streams, which keep the soft, fertile ground moist.

Though first impressions might show that there is little here, Barisal division in general (and the southern half in particular) should get the hearts of explorers racing in excitement. The possibilities for adventure in this remote corner are almost limitless. The best way to tackle the area is just to pick a spot on the map and ask at chaotic Barisal port about boats heading there. It might take time, it might get uncomfortable and sweaty, it might involve numerous changes of boat and days spent stuck in muddy villages marked on no map and then, when you finally reach your goal there might be nothing of note to see, but rest assured that nothing will beat the experience of lying on the deck of a ship on a steamy night, listening to the sounds of the swamps and rivers, destined for a place you don’t know.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009