Bishwabat
Type: Nature / Wild Life
Contributed By: Nayeem
Brief
Bishwabat (The Great Banyan) is located in northwestern side of Bethuli village of Kaliganj Upazila of Jhenaidah district. It was known as Mallikpur (Suitala) banyan tree. As it is huge in size so people call it Bishwabat. No other banyan tree in Asia is as large as it. Located on bank side of river the breeze makes it more elegant to watch. The original tree was involved in generation of 45 smaller trees slowly, it covers a range of 2.33 hectares. The original tree is no longer prevalent. Among aerial roots of it, 345 have penetrated the ground and 38 are still hanging. Many believe that tree grew 200-250 years ago on the wall of a local potter’s well.
Banyan Tree (batgachh) an evergreen tree, Ficus bengalensis, of the family Moraceae, with spreading branches and numerous aerial roots developing into accessory trunks. A mature banyan tree becomes very large and creates a huge canopy over the whole trunk. The tree is commonly found all over the country.
The wood of the accessory trunks is stronger than that of the main stem. Grey, moderately hard and durable, it is used for making tent poles, bars for palanquins, cheap furniture, cart yokes and boxes. Hindus regard it as a sacred plant. It also has medicinal value.
Source: Banglapedia [Md Zulfiker Ali Bhutto]
How to go
Jhenaidah is approximately 210km away from Dhaka. There are no rail or boat services available. After reaching at Jhenaidah, take local transport to visit that place.
How To Reach: Jhenaidah District
Jhenaidah is linked by road with Dhaka. You can take a bus from Dhaka to reach Jhenaidah. The road distance between Dhaka and Jhenaidah is 210 kilometers.
Some of the bus companies that provide service from Dhaka to Jhenaidah are listed below:
1. J R Paribahan
Contact: 01719818483
Fare: TK 450 (Approx.)
2. Dorshona dhila
Contact: 01711136983
Fare: TK 450 (Approx.)
3. Mamun Paribahan
Contact: 01915600364
Fare: TK 450 (Approx.)
4. Hanif Paribahan
Contact: 01712952972
Fare: TK 450 (Approx.)
There are no direct flights available from Dhaka to Jhenaidah. However, if you want to travel by air, you have to first come to Jessore by plane. From there, you will have to take a road transport to come to Jhenaidah district. The distance from Jessore to Jhenaidah is 45 kilometers.
Where to Stay
1. Hotel Zaman
Address: Jhenaidah Sadar (Post Office Circle)
Phone: 01711152954
Room-43, Bed-47
Double-08 (AC), Single-35
Distance: From Dhaka it is around 210 km away by road.
2. Khonika Rest House
Address: H. S. S. Road, Jhenaidah
Room-12, Bed-5
3. Srijoni Rest House
Manager/owner: Srijoni, NGO,
Address: Jhenaidah Sadar
Phone: 0451-62497
Room-12, Bed-54,
Single (AC)-01, Non AC VIP double-02, Normal-27, General-22.
Things to do
A traveler may enjoy the extraordinary natural beauty just beside it. Many people visit this place in special occasions like Pahela Baishakh, various fairs, Eid, Puja etc.
Eating Facilities
A traveler will have to search for restaurants or fast food shops nearby. A traveler may also carry his/her own food.
