Khulna, Bangladesh Travel Guide

Discover Khulna, the gateway to the Sundarbans, where natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture come together to create an unforgettable travel experience.

Khulna, the third-largest city in Bangladesh, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Located in the southwestern part of the country, this city is the gateway to the Sundarbans, the world's largest mangrove forest and home to the elusive Bengal tiger. The city's unique charm lies in its blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Khulna is a city of rivers, with the Rupsha River flowing majestically through it. The riverbanks offer picturesque views and a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a boat ride. The city itself is a bustling hub of activity, with lively markets, historical mosques, and colonial-era buildings. The Khulna Divisional Museum is a must-visit for history enthusiasts, showcasing artifacts that tell the story of the region's past. One of the main attractions of Khulna is its proximity to the Sundarbans. A trip to this UNESCO World Heritage Site is an unforgettable experience, with opportunities to explore the dense mangrove forests, spot wildlife, and enjoy the serene beauty of nature. Whether you are an adventure seeker, a history buff, or someone looking to unwind, Khulna has something to offer everyone.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Khulna.

Visit the Sundarbans: Plan a trip to the Sundarbans from Khulna to experience the unique mangrove ecosystem and spot wildlife.
Try Local Cuisine: Don't miss out on trying local dishes like 'Chingri Malai Curry' and 'Panta Ilish' at the local eateries.
Rupsha River Cruise: Take a boat ride on the Rupsha River to enjoy scenic views and a relaxing atmosphere.
Khulna Divisional Museum: Spend some time at this museum to learn about the region's history and culture.
Local Markets: Explore the bustling local markets for unique souvenirs and a taste of local life.

Explore Khulna: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Khulna

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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1971 : Genocide-Torture Archive & Museum

Preserving the memory of the 1971 genocide in Bangladesh through artifacts, photos, and survivor stories. A deeply emotional and educational experience.

4.4

Central Shaheed Minar, Khulna

A solemn memorial in Khulna honoring the heroes of the Bengali Language Movement and the spirit of Bengali nationalism.

4.5

Khan Jahan Ali Dighi

Explore the serene beauty and historical significance of Khan Jahan Ali Dighi, home to revered shrines and ancient crocodiles.

4.4

Shahid Hadis Park

Discover Khulna's heart at Shahid Hadis Park: a historic landmark offering tranquility, recreation, and a vibrant community atmosphere.

4.4

Best landmarks in Khulna

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Shahid Hadis Park

Discover the lush landscapes and vibrant atmosphere of Shahid Hadis Park, Khulna's perfect oasis for relaxation and recreation.

4.4

Divisional Museum, Khulna

Explore the Divisional Museum in Khulna for a captivating journey through Bangladesh's rich history and culture, showcasing unique artifacts and local heritage.

4.1

Central Shaheed Minar, Khulna

Discover the poignant beauty of Central Shaheed Minar in Khulna, a memorial park honoring the Bengali language movement and cultural heritage.

4.5

Jatra Flagship Khulna City Centre

Experience the perfect blend of comfort and local charm at Jatra Flagship Khulna City Centre, your ideal home base in Khulna.

4.7

Best restaurants in Khulna

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Deshi Kitchen

Savor the essence of Bangladesh at Deshi Kitchen—where authentic flavors meet warm hospitality.

4.1

Abbas Hotel

Experience authentic Bangladeshi cuisine at Abbas Hotel in Khulna - where flavor meets affordability in a cozy setting.

4.0

Chinese Palace

Experience authentic Bangladeshi cuisine at Chinese Palace in Khulna – where flavor meets tradition in a cozy setting.

4.0

ROVERS CAFE

Discover Rovers Cafe in Khulna – where authentic Bangladeshi flavors meet global cuisine in a cozy setting.

4.2

Best bars in Khulna

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Tiger Garden Int. Hotel

Discover the elegance of Tiger Garden International Hotel, a perfect blend of luxury, fine dining, and stunning event venues in Khulna.

4.1

Deshi Kitchen

Experience the essence of Bangladeshi cuisine at Deshi Kitchen, a must-visit restaurant in Khulna for all food lovers.

4.1

Chinese Palace

Savor authentic Bangladeshi cuisine at Chinese Palace in Khulna, where every dish tells a story of local flavors and culinary tradition.

4.0

ROVERS CAFE

Discover the delightful flavors of Khulna at Rovers Cafe, where every dish tells a story and satisfaction is guaranteed.

4.2

Best nightclubs in Khulna

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United Club

Discover the vibrant nightlife at United Club in Debnagar, where music, dance, and an electrifying atmosphere come together for an unforgettable experience.

3.0

Project

Discover Khulna's nightlife at Project Night Club, where vibrant music, lively crowds, and exquisite cocktails create unforgettable experiences.

4.0

Alamgir maitors

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Khulna at Alamgir Maitors, a premier night club offering music, dancing, and an unforgettable experience.

5.0

Bachelor Center

Join the vibrant nightlife at Bachelor Center, Khulna's premier night club, featuring top DJs, dance floors, and a lively social scene.

5.0

Best shops in Khulna

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Aarong Khulna

Discover the vibrant world of Bangladeshi fashion at Aarong Khulna, where tradition meets modernity in every exquisite piece.

4.0

Khulna Shopping Complex

Discover the lively Khulna Shopping Complex, where shopping meets culture in the heart of Bangladesh's vibrant city.

4.1

NABARUPA KHULNA-2

Discover the vibrant fashion scene at NABARUPA KHULNA-2 in Khulna, where local culture meets contemporary style for every shopper's delight.

4.1

Easy Fashion Ltd. Khulna Branch

Explore the latest men's fashion trends at Easy Fashion Ltd. in Khulna – where style meets quality and affordability.

4.2

Explore Khulna on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Khulna, mapped for you.

Khulna Essentials

Khulna is well connected by road, rail, and water. The nearest international airport is Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka. From Dhaka, you can take a domestic flight to Jessore Airport, which is about 70 kilometers from Khulna. From Jessore, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Khulna. There are also direct bus services from Dhaka to Khulna, which take about 7-8 hours. Additionally, you can travel by train from Dhaka to Khulna, which offers a scenic and comfortable journey.
Within Khulna, you can use a variety of transportation options. Cycle rickshaws and auto-rickshaws are common for short distances. For longer journeys within the city or to nearby areas, you can hire taxis or use ride-sharing services. Public buses are available but might be crowded. Renting a car with a driver is another convenient option for exploring the region.
The official currency in Bangladesh is the Bangladeshi Taka (BDT). Credit cards are accepted in major hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it's advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are widely available in Khulna, so withdrawing cash shouldn't be an issue. It's a good idea to have some smaller denominations for day-to-day expenses.
Khulna is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to stay vigilant. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas. High-crime areas targeting tourists are uncommon, but it's always best to keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places like markets and bus stations. Stick to well-lit and populated areas after dark.
In case of emergency, dial 999 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Khulna Medical College Hospital is the primary medical facility in the city. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available throughout the city where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your head when entering mosques and other religious places. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake or a slight bow of the head. Using 'As-Salaam-Alaikum' is a respectful greeting. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Khulna like a local, visit the local markets such as the Rupsha Fish Market, where you can buy fresh produce and traditional goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the Sundarbans, the largest mangrove forest in the world. For a unique experience, take a boat ride on the Rupsha River, offering beautiful views of the city and its surroundings.

When is the best time to visit Khulna?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Khulna

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Khulna. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- Helloনমস্কার
  [nomoskar]
- Goodbyeবিদায়
  [bidae]
- Yesহ্যাঁ
  [ha]
- Noনা
  [na]
- Please/You're welcomeঅনুগ্রহ করে / স্বাগতম
  [onugroh kore / shagotom]
- Thank youধন্যবাদ
  [dhonobad]
- Excuse me/Sorryদুঃখিত
  [dukkhit]
- How are you?আপনি কেমন আছেন?
  [apni kemon achen?]
- Fine. And you?ভাল। আর আপনি?
  [bhal. ar apni?]
- Do you speak English?আপনি ইংলিশ বলতে পারেন?
  [apni English bolte paren?]
- I don't understandআমি বুঝতে পারি না
  [ami bujhte pari na]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseদয়া করে মেনু দেখাবেন
  [doya kore menu dekhaben]
- I don't eat meatআমি মাংস খাই না
  [ami mangsh khai na]
- Cheers!চিয়ারস!
  [cheers!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseদয়া করে আমি দিতে চাই
  [doya kore ami dite chai]
- Help!মাদদ!
  [madad!]
- Go away!চলে যাও!
  [chole jao!]
- Call the Police!পুলিশকে কল করুন!
  [polishke kol korun!]
- Call a doctor!ডাক্তারকে কল করুন!
  [daktarke kol korun!]
- I'm lostআমি হারানো গেছি
  [ami harano gesi]
- I'm illআমি অসুস্থ
  [ami osustho]
- I'd like to buy...আমি কিনতে চাই...
  [ami kinte chai...]
- I'm just lookingআমি শুধু দেখছি
  [ami shudhu dekhchi]
- How much is it?এটা কত টাকা?
  [eta kot taka?]
- That's too expensiveএটা খুব ব্যয়সূত্র
  [eta khub boshosro]
- Can you lower the price?আপনি দাম কমাতে পারেন?
  [apni dam kamate paren?]
- What time is it?এখানে কত সময়?
  [ekhane kot shomoy?]
- It's one o'clockএটা একটা
  [eta ekta]
- Half past (10)দশের অর্ধেক
  [dasher ordhek]
- Morningসকাল
  [shokal]
- Afternoonদুপুর
  [dupur]
- Eveningসন্ধ্যা
  [shondhya]
- Yesterdayগতকাল
  [gotkal]
- Todayআজ
  [aj]
- Tomorrowআগামীকাল
  [agamikal]
- 1এক
  [ek]
- 2দুই
  [dui]
- 3তিন
  [tin]
- 4চার
  [char]
- 5পাঁচ
  [pach]
- 6ছয়
  [chhoy]
- 7সাত
  [shat]
- 8আট
  [at]
- 9নয়
  [noy]
- 10দশ
  [dosh]
- Where's a/the...?...কোথায়?
  [...kothay?]
- What's the address?ঠিকানাটি কি?
  [thikanati ki?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?আপনি আমাকে দেখাতে পারেন?
  [apni amake dekhate paren?]
- When's the next (bus)?পরবর্তী (বাস) কখন?
  [porborti (bus) kohon?]
- A ticket (to ....)একটি টিকেট (... পর্যন্ত)
  [ekti ticket (... porjonto)]

History of Khulna

Khulna, located in the southwestern part of Bangladesh, has a rich history dating back to ancient times. The area was originally inhabited by various indigenous communities, including the Buno and the Munda, who thrived on the fertile lands by engaging in agriculture and fishing. The early settlements were influenced by the Ganges and Brahmaputra river systems, which provided both sustenance and a means of transportation.
During the medieval period, Khulna came under the rule of various Muslim sultans and chiefs. The region saw an influx of Islamic culture and architecture, with the construction of mosques, madrasas, and other religious institutions. This period also marked the beginning of Khulna's integration into the broader Bengal Sultanate, which facilitated trade and cultural exchanges.
The arrival of the British East India Company in the 18th century significantly altered Khulna's social and economic landscape. The British established administrative centers and introduced modern infrastructure, including railways and ports. Khulna's strategic location made it an important hub for trade, particularly in jute and salt industries. The colonial period also saw the construction of significant buildings, including the Khulna Circuit House and the Khulna Divisional Museum.
Khulna played a pivotal role during Bangladesh's Language Movement in the 1950s and the Liberation War in 1971. The city was a center of resistance against the imposition of Urdu as the national language, which culminated in the historic 1952 protests. During the Liberation War, Khulna was a crucial battleground, with many local residents participating in the struggle for independence. The city's liberation from Pakistani forces on December 17, 1971, is commemorated annually.
Since gaining independence, Khulna has undergone significant urbanization and development. It has emerged as a key industrial and commercial center, with thriving shipbuilding, seafood processing, and textile industries. The city is also home to several universities and research institutions, contributing to its reputation as an educational hub. Modern Khulna is a blend of historical heritage and contemporary growth, attracting both tourists and investors.
Khulna boasts a rich cultural heritage, reflected in its diverse festivals and traditions. The city celebrates various religious and cultural events, including Durga Puja, Eid, and the traditional Bengali New Year (Pohela Boishakh). The Sundarbans, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the world's largest mangrove forest, is located nearby, offering a unique ecological and cultural experience. Art, music, and dance are integral to Khulna's cultural identity, with numerous local artists and performers contributing to the vibrant cultural scene.