Rajshahi & Rangpur

The vast alluvial floodplains of northwest Bangladesh were a cradle of ancient Buddhist and Hindu kingdoms that held sway over the region for centuries, before eventually succumbing to Islamic conquerors. Modern-day Rajshahi and Rangpur divisions – which cover this heritage-strewn region – are thus rife with the tumbledown walls of many splendidly decaying ruins from these bygone eras. Needless to say, it's enough reason for history and archaeology buffs to visit.

In a nutshell, the area contains some of Bangladesh’s finest rajbaris (Raj-era palaces), exquisitely decorated temples and the country's largest and most impressive Buddhist ruins. Small villages, colourful markets and remote communities living on fast-eroding sand islands all add to the allure of a trip to this part of the country. The idyllic rural landscape is stunning to boot, and lends a fantastic backdrop to the moss-hewn ancient architecture that steals the attention of your camera.