Panam City: The Lost City of Bengal

Panam City, located 27km east of Dhaka in Sonargaon, is a captivating step back in time. Emerging in the late 19th century, it served as a residential and commercial enclave for wealthy Hindu merchants during British colonial rule. The city's design blends European colonial styles with traditional Bengali architecture. Panam City stretches along a single, 5-meter wide street, lined with 52 abandoned houses of varying sizes. These structures, ranging from one to three stories, showcase a unique urban street-front character with verandas, balconies, and decorative parapets. The city is enclosed by artificial canals, indicative of its design as a suburban area. Following the partition of India in 1947 and subsequent riots, the Hindu merchants migrated to India, leaving Panam City deserted. Today, it stands as an archaeological site, attracting tourists with its architectural beauty and historical significance. Ongoing restoration efforts aim to preserve its rich legacy, offering visitors a glimpse into Bengal's past. Nearby attractions include the Sonargaon Folk Arts and Crafts Museum and Goaldi Mosque.