Mahasthangarh

Mahasthangarh is an archaeological site located in Bogra, Bangladesh, and is one of the oldest and best-preserved urban ruins in South Asia. It was once the capital of the ancient kingdom of Pundravardhana.

Visitors can explore the ruins of the city walls, gates, and palaces, as well as the remains of Buddhist monasteries, Hindu temples, and Islamic structures. The highlight of the site is the well-preserved citadel, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Visitors can also visit the museum on site, which houses a collection of artifacts and sculptures from the Mahasthangarh period.

To visit Mahasthangarh, it is best to go during the cooler months from October to March. The site is open daily and there is an entrance fee. It is recommended to hire a local guide to get the most out of your visit and learn about the history and significance of the site. Mahasthangarh was established in the 3rd century BCE and has a rich history and cultural significance. It was an important center of trade and commerce in the ancient world, and has been mentioned in various Hindu, Buddhist, and Persian texts. The site is believed to have been occupied continuously for over 2,000 years, and has gone through many phases of growth and decline over the centuries. The city walls of Mahasthangarh are well preserved and stand up to 10 meters high in some places. The walls are surrounded by a moat, which was once filled with water to provide added protection to the city. Visitors can also explore the various gates that provided access to the city, including the Jahajghata gate, the south gate, and the north gate.

Inside the citadel, visitors can see the remains of palaces and administrative buildings, as well as a large pond, which was once used for bathing and washing. There are also several Hindu temples and Buddhist monasteries, including the Gobinda Temple, the Jiyat Kunda, and the Shiva Temple. Overall, a visit to Mahasthangarh is an opportunity to explore a fascinating piece of Bangladesh's cultural and historical heritage and gain a deeper understanding of the country's rich past.