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EUROPCAR BANGLADESH Franchisee: Trivia Aviation Ltd. (Concern of Dana Group) House # 59, Road # 13 & 15, Block # D, Banani, Dhaka-1213 Tel : 883 7694-6 Fax : 881 3108, Email : info@europcarbd.com

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SUNDARBAN & KUAKATA

YOU RENT A LOT MORE THAN A CAR.

SUNDARBANS The Sundarbans, named after the long, thin Sundari trees that grow there, is the largest littoral mangrove belt in the world, stretching 80km into the hinterland from the coast that is Bangladesh's southwest border. Apart from the mangrove swamps, the forests include some of the last remnants of the mighty jungles that once stood over the Gangetic plain. Today, a skeleton of creeks and canals that swells and sinks with the tide from the Bay of Bengal weaves itself around ten thousand little islets.

Covering an area of nearly 3600 sq km in Bangladesh, the Sundarbans' most famous resident is the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger. Now an endangered species, there are still enough sightings to keep visitors coming. The ecological balance in the Sundarbans is extremely delicate and heavily influenced by tidal shifts that also serve to constantly reshape the two-thirds of it that is land. Although the wildlife is sufficiently diverse, with over 270 different species of birds, 50 species of reptiles, as well as wild boars, clawless otters, spotted deer, monkeys and crocodiles apart from the Tiger, many visitors argue it is the pristine environment that is the real attraction of the Sundarbans.

Getting to the Sundarbans from Dhaka can involve air, land and water. A half-hour journey by air to Jessore, followed by 90 minutes on the road to Khulna, from where you can board some kind of water vessel (rowboats, steamers, etc) to your destination, is probably the easiest way. If you feel adventurous, take the Rocket Steamer out of Dhaka that will take you on a 22-hour ride through the vast network of rivers in Bangladesh's south-west to Mongla, and then a rowboat to the forests.

Granted permission, you can stay at one of the guest-houses run by the Mongla Port Authority or the Divisional Forest Office.

KUAKATA Witness to the most beautiful sunset in Bangladesh, Kuakata is an isolated beach at the southern tip of the delta, 320 km from Dhaka.

Named by its original Buddhist settlers who marked the land by digging a well (kua means well, and kata means dug), it still retains its legacy. A Buddhist temple about 100m from the beach contains a 100-year-old statue of Buddha that is said to be the largest in the country. A pleasant forestry reserve is also nearby, and a trip to the nearby forested islands is another pleasant excursion.

Clockwise from Left to Right: Sunrise at Kuakata Deer at the Sundarban Forests The Sundarban Mangrove Tourists on board the vessel at Sundarban A water bank at Sundarban A waterway through the forests, a common place for spotting the Royal Bengal Tiger

Not as developed and hence quieter than Cox's Bazaar, the tranquil atmosphere in Kuakata makes you feel closer to nature, and even if you don't feel like a swim, the vibe is right for you to lie on the beach from sunset through to sunrise if you wish.

Travel options to Kuakata from Dhaka are similar to the Sundarbans.

The easiest route to follow is to get to Barisal by air, and from there to Kuakata by road via Patuakhali.

WORLD'S LARGEST MANGROVE FOREST

Once there, you can stay at one of a number of hotels that are generally low in amenities but rich in atmosphere.

COMMITTED TO CARING FOR THE EARTH. Save trees. Print only when necessary.

SUNDARBAN & KUAKATA

YOU RENT A LOT MORE THAN A CAR.

SUNDARBANS The Sundarbans, named after the long, thin Sundari trees that grow there, is the largest littoral mangrove belt in the world, stretching 80km into the hinterland from the coast that is Bangladesh's southwest border. Apart from the mangrove swamps, the forests include some of the last remnants of the mighty jungles that once stood over the Gangetic plain. Today, a skeleton of creeks and canals that swells and sinks with the tide from the Bay of Bengal weaves itself around ten thousand little islets.

Covering an area of nearly 3600 sq km in Bangladesh, the Sundarbans' most famous resident is the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger. Now an endangered species, there are still enough sightings to keep visitors coming. The ecological balance in the Sundarbans is extremely delicate and heavily influenced by tidal shifts that also serve to constantly reshape the two-thirds of it that is land. Although the wildlife is sufficiently diverse, with over 270 different species of birds, 50 species of reptiles, as well as wild boars, clawless otters, spotted deer, monkeys and crocodiles apart from the Tiger, many visitors argue it is the pristine environment that is the real attraction of the Sundarbans.

Getting to the Sundarbans from Dhaka can involve air, land and water. A half-hour journey by air to Jessore, followed by 90 minutes on the road to Khulna, from where you can board some kind of water vessel (rowboats, steamers, etc) to your destination, is probably the easiest way. If you feel adventurous, take the Rocket Steamer out of Dhaka that will take you on a 22-hour ride through the vast network of rivers in Bangladesh's south-west to Mongla, and then a rowboat to the forests.

Granted permission, you can stay at one of the guest-houses run by the Mongla Port Authority or the Divisional Forest Office.

KUAKATA Witness to the most beautiful sunset in Bangladesh, Kuakata is an isolated beach at the southern tip of the delta, 320 km from Dhaka.

Named by its original Buddhist settlers who marked the land by digging a well (kua means well, and kata means dug), it still retains its legacy. A Buddhist temple about 100m from the beach contains a 100-year-old statue of Buddha that is said to be the largest in the country. A pleasant forestry reserve is also nearby, and a trip to the nearby forested islands is another pleasant excursion.

Clockwise from Left to Right: Sunrise at Kuakata Deer at the Sundarban Forests The Sundarban Mangrove Tourists on board the vessel at Sundarban A water bank at Sundarban A waterway through the forests, a common place for spotting the Royal Bengal Tiger

Not as developed and hence quieter than Cox's Bazaar, the tranquil atmosphere in Kuakata makes you feel closer to nature, and even if you don't feel like a swim, the vibe is right for you to lie on the beach from sunset through to sunrise if you wish.

Travel options to Kuakata from Dhaka are similar to the Sundarbans.

The easiest route to follow is to get to Barisal by air, and from there to Kuakata by road via Patuakhali.

WORLD'S LARGEST MANGROVE FOREST

Once there, you can stay at one of a number of hotels that are generally low in amenities but rich in atmosphere.

COMMITTED TO CARING FOR THE EARTH. Save trees. Print only when necessary.

SYLHET, SRIMANGAL, JAFLONG

YOU RENT A LOT MORE THAN A CAR.

JAFLONG Sylhet division is a broad valley flanked by the Khasi and Jaintia Hills to the north and the hills of Tripura to the south.

Blessed with a cool, temperate climate, the countryside is covered with terraced tea estates , patches of tropical forest, pineapple plantations and orange groves.

The tea estates of Sylhet are its most famous feature. Some like Malnicherra date back to the mid-19th century. Tea estate managers love to lecture tourists on the history of tea production, and if you bear with them, you're sure to learn a thing or two. By far the largest number of tea estates in the north of Sylhet division are to be found around Jaflong, near the Indian border. Jaflang is widely acclaimed as one of the most scenic parts of Sylhet, and a major hotbed of tribal culture, with the Khasi tribe being most prominent. The bus from Sylhet town takes almost three hours to reach Jaflong.

SRIMANGAL Another famous tourist destination in Sylhet is Srimangal, around 75km south of the city. Srimangal is recognized as the tea centre of Bangladesh. It is amrked by a hilly landscape with tea estates, lemon orchards and pineapple plantations, and is easily one of the most picturesque parts of the country. Tea-estates for an endless carpet of green that seems to stretch for miles and miles and round and over the gently sloping hills. Some of the main attractions that draw tourists here are visits to the forest reserves, tea estates and tribal villages. Srimangal has also gained some fame for its unique five-layered tea. Srimangal is a five-hour journey by bus from Dhaka. Some of the largest, most successful tea-estates in Srimangal include the Madabpore Tea Gardens, which has a lake on its premises. Some of the estates often have their own guesthouses, where if you are lucky, they may consent to put you up for a period.

Clockwise from Left to Right: Overlooking the town at Bandarban Hanging Bridge at Rangamati The Golden Temple at Bandarban A scenic view from Nilgiri Hills, the highest point of Bangladesh

THE ROOF OF BANGLADESH

Sylhet is also home to the Lawachhara National Forest, around 8km east of Srimangal. Although not large in terms of size, its hilly terrain and thick vegetation have always attracted the attention of horticulturalists.

COMMITTED TO CARING FOR THE EARTH. Save trees. Print only when necessary.

BANDARBAN & RANGAMATI

YOU RENT A LOT MORE THAN A CAR.

BANDARBAN Bandarban, 'the roof of Bangladesh', is one of the only three hill districts in Bangladesh. Situated on the Sangu River in the Chittagong Hill Tracts, most of the inhabitants here belong to the Buddhist Marma Tribe. The tribal heritage manifests itself in the bazaar that sits every Sunday and Wednesday, the great water festival that is held every April, as well as the small Tribal Cultural Institute.

RANGAMATI The scenic hill station of Rangamati is situated over a series of islands in Kaptai Lake, the largest artificial lake in Bangladesh. Surrounded by a lush, undulating countryside, Rangamati is home to a large Adivasi (indigenous) community, mainly Chakmas. The Chakma king has his palace in one of the islands. A number of modern Buddhist monasteries lie scattered over Rangamati, most impressively the Bana Vihara with its elaborate throne in the shape of a Naga serpent for the head abbot.

Bandarban offers its visitors a wide variety of activities not found in other parts of Bangladesh, given its hilly terrain. The three highest peaks of Bangladesh are located in the district. Hill-trekking to remote villages and bird-watching are just two of these popular activities. For years, Bandardban had been the scene of insurgent activity that afflicted the Hill Tracts, but since the signing of a peace accord, it has come to be recognized as one of the most exotic tourist destinations in the country. Within Bandarban itself, there are numerous sights of natural beauty, such as Boga Lake and Chimbuk Hill; of cultural interest, such as the Buddha Dhatu Jadi, a Buddhist temple; and historic significance, like Alikandam.

The most popular excursion in Rangamati is a boat trip on the Kaptai Lake, which stops at tribal villages along the way . Its these villages that make the trip truly worthwhile, inspite of the beautiful lake. These brief stops allow tourists to get an up-close look at the Chakmas' traditional bamboo houses and small Buddhist shrines made of bamboo. The hanging bride is a popular landmark of Rangamati. Due to its hilly landscape, Rangamati is one of the rare Bangladeshi towns without rickshaws.

Bandarban is most accessible from Chittagong, where you can travel from Dhaka by air (30 minutes), rail (6-8 hours) or bus (6 hours).

From there, buses leave for the three-hour journey to Bandarban throughout the day.

Like Bandarban, Rangamati is best accessed from Chittagong. Once you reach Chittagong from Dhaka by plane, bus or train, you can take one of the buses that leave periodically from Modapur station. The journey usually lasts three hours.

A number of small hotels offering basic services can be found in Bandarban town, for the more up-scale tourist, there is even a modest but charming hillside resort.

Rangamati offers quite a range of options for lodging. A number of small to medium-sized hotels are complemented by a few budget motels and even a resort.

Clockwise from Left to Right: Tea garden at Sylhet View of a natural stream in Jaflong A residential resort in Srimongol Collection of stones at the river banks of Jaflong

THE TEA ESTATES COMMITTED TO CARING FOR THE EARTH. Save trees. Print only when necessary.

BANDARBAN & RANGAMATI

YOU RENT A LOT MORE THAN A CAR.

BANDARBAN Bandarban, 'the roof of Bangladesh', is one of the only three hill districts in Bangladesh. Situated on the Sangu River in the Chittagong Hill Tracts, most of the inhabitants here belong to the Buddhist Marma Tribe. The tribal heritage manifests itself in the bazaar that sits every Sunday and Wednesday, the great water festival that is held every April, as well as the small Tribal Cultural Institute.

RANGAMATI The scenic hill station of Rangamati is situated over a series of islands in Kaptai Lake, the largest artificial lake in Bangladesh. Surrounded by a lush, undulating countryside, Rangamati is home to a large Adivasi (indigenous) community, mainly Chakmas. The Chakma king has his palace in one of the islands. A number of modern Buddhist monasteries lie scattered over Rangamati, most impressively the Bana Vihara with its elaborate throne in the shape of a Naga serpent for the head abbot.

Bandarban offers its visitors a wide variety of activities not found in other parts of Bangladesh, given its hilly terrain. The three highest peaks of Bangladesh are located in the district. Hill-trekking to remote villages and bird-watching are just two of these popular activities. For years, Bandardban had been the scene of insurgent activity that afflicted the Hill Tracts, but since the signing of a peace accord, it has come to be recognized as one of the most exotic tourist destinations in the country. Within Bandarban itself, there are numerous sights of natural beauty, such as Boga Lake and Chimbuk Hill; of cultural interest, such as the Buddha Dhatu Jadi, a Buddhist temple; and historic significance, like Alikandam.

The most popular excursion in Rangamati is a boat trip on the Kaptai Lake, which stops at tribal villages along the way . Its these villages that make the trip truly worthwhile, inspite of the beautiful lake. These brief stops allow tourists to get an up-close look at the Chakmas' traditional bamboo houses and small Buddhist shrines made of bamboo. The hanging bride is a popular landmark of Rangamati. Due to its hilly landscape, Rangamati is one of the rare Bangladeshi towns without rickshaws.

Bandarban is most accessible from Chittagong, where you can travel from Dhaka by air (30 minutes), rail (6-8 hours) or bus (6 hours).

From there, buses leave for the three-hour journey to Bandarban throughout the day.

Like Bandarban, Rangamati is best accessed from Chittagong. Once you reach Chittagong from Dhaka by plane, bus or train, you can take one of the buses that leave periodically from Modapur station. The journey usually lasts three hours.

A number of small hotels offering basic services can be found in Bandarban town, for the more up-scale tourist, there is even a modest but charming hillside resort.

Rangamati offers quite a range of options for lodging. A number of small to medium-sized hotels are complemented by a few budget motels and even a resort.

Clockwise from Left to Right: Tea garden at Sylhet View of a natural stream in Jaflong A residential resort in Srimongol Collection of stones at the river banks of Jaflong

THE TEA ESTATES COMMITTED TO CARING FOR THE EARTH. Save trees. Print only when necessary.

SYLHET, SRIMANGAL, JAFLONG

YOU RENT A LOT MORE THAN A CAR.

JAFLONG Sylhet division is a broad valley flanked by the Khasi and Jaintia Hills to the north and the hills of Tripura to the south.

Blessed with a cool, temperate climate, the countryside is covered with terraced tea estates , patches of tropical forest, pineapple plantations and orange groves.

The tea estates of Sylhet are its most famous feature. Some like Malnicherra date back to the mid-19th century. Tea estate managers love to lecture tourists on the history of tea production, and if you bear with them, you're sure to learn a thing or two. By far the largest number of tea estates in the north of Sylhet division are to be found around Jaflong, near the Indian border. Jaflang is widely acclaimed as one of the most scenic parts of Sylhet, and a major hotbed of tribal culture, with the Khasi tribe being most prominent. The bus from Sylhet town takes almost three hours to reach Jaflong.

SRIMANGAL Another famous tourist destination in Sylhet is Srimangal, around 75km south of the city. Srimangal is recognized as the tea centre of Bangladesh. It is amrked by a hilly landscape with tea estates, lemon orchards and pineapple plantations, and is easily one of the most picturesque parts of the country. Tea-estates for an endless carpet of green that seems to stretch for miles and miles and round and over the gently sloping hills. Some of the main attractions that draw tourists here are visits to the forest reserves, tea estates and tribal villages. Srimangal has also gained some fame for its unique five-layered tea. Srimangal is a five-hour journey by bus from Dhaka. Some of the largest, most successful tea-estates in Srimangal include the Madabpore Tea Gardens, which has a lake on its premises. Some of the estates often have their own guesthouses, where if you are lucky, they may consent to put you up for a period.

Clockwise from Left to Right: Overlooking the town at Bandarban Hanging Bridge at Rangamati The Golden Temple at Bandarban A scenic view from Nilgiri Hills, the highest point of Bangladesh

THE ROOF OF BANGLADESH

Sylhet is also home to the Lawachhara National Forest, around 8km east of Srimangal. Although not large in terms of size, its hilly terrain and thick vegetation have always attracted the attention of horticulturalists.

COMMITTED TO CARING FOR THE EARTH. Save trees. Print only when necessary.

MAHASTHANGARH & PAHARPUR

YOU RENT A LOT MORE THAN A CAR.

MAHASTANGARH Mahasthangarh is the earliest urban archaeological site so far discovered in Bangladesh. The village Mahasthan in Shibganj thana of Bogra District contains the remains of an ancient city which was called Pundranagara or Paundravardhanapura in the territory of Pundravardhana. A limestone slab bearing six lines in Prakrit in Brahmi script was discovered in 1931. This dates Mahasthangarh to at least the 3rd century BC. The fortified area was in use till the 18th century AD. Systematic archaeological excavation of Mahasthangarh was first started in 1928-29 under the guidance of K.N.Dikshit of the Archaeological Survey of India. The areas around Jahajghata, Munir Ghon and Bairagir Bhita were explored. Excavation was resumed in 1934-36 at Bairagir Bhita and Govinda Bhita. Excavation was carried out in 1960s around the Mazhar, Parasuramer Prasad, Mankalir Dhap, Jiat Kunda and in a part of the northern rampart. The next phase of excavation was carried out sporadically in parts of the east and north ramparts but the final report is yet to be published. In the period 1992-98 excavation was conducted in the area lying between Bairagir Bhita and the gateway exposed in 1991 as a Bangla-Franco joint venture, which is now in its second phase with excavation around the mazhar in the western side of the citadel. Mahasthangarh dates back to at least 3rd century BC and is acknowledged as the earliest city-site so far discovered in Bangladesh.

This vast archaeological site of such great importance is only 3 hours away from Dhaka by bus. Once you reach Bogra, accommodation can be sought in any one of the small motel that have sprung up there, or the government guest-houses.

PAHARPUR The Somapuri Vihara at Paharpur is arguably the most impressive archaeological site in Bangladesh. Dating from the 8th Century AD, it was once the biggest Buddhist monastery south of the Himalayas. The temple complex is a large quadrangle covering 11 hectares, and the artwork is a mixture of Buddhist, Jain and Hindu; that is, those who have successively occupied it.

Clockwise from Left to Right: Sunset at the beach Cox's Bazaar, the longest natural beach in the world St. Martin's Island A scenic view from the hills at Maheshkhali Afternoon at the beach in Cox's Bazaar Another scenic view

There is a small museum which is nevertheless informative. Between it and the temple is the Archaelogical Rest House, where you can spend the night once you get there. Easiest way to do that is to get to Bogra from Dhaka by bus, and then another 90-minute journey by bus to Jaipurhat. Another half-hour bus journey from there will take you to Paharpur. A 20-taka rickshaw ride from there will take you to the temple.

LONGEST NATURAL BEACH COMMITTED TO CARING FOR THE EARTH. Save trees. Print only when necessary.

COX'S BAZAR & ST. MARTINS ISLAND

YOU RENT A LOT MORE THAN A CAR.

COX'S BAZAAR The main reason for anybody visiting Cox's Bazaar is the beach.

Reputedly the longest unbroken beach in the world, stretching golden sands alongside blue seawater for a staggering 120km, this sea-side tourist township is overlooked by gentle cliffs, awash with foaming waves and replete with colourful conch shells, startling pagodas and scrumptious seafood. It takes its name from Captain Hiram Cox of the British colonialists, who founded the town as a refuge for the Arakanese people fleeing persecution in neighbouring Burma. Cox's Bazaar has traditionally been Bangladesh's most popular tourist destination.

The road going south along the seashore from Cox's Bazaar towards Teknaf will take you past some of the best tropical rainforest in the country. Rich in plant and animal life, bird-watching is a popular exercise here. Further south, around 30k down the road from Cox's Bazaar, you will come to Inani Beach, a relatively quieter stretch of beach that is lent an air of tranquility by virtue of being relatively undiscovered as yet. Other attractions in the vicinity include the elegant waterfall in Himchhari, the tiny Sonadia Island once famous for pink pearls, and the larger Maheskhali Island, which can be reached by a 15-minute speedboat ride from Kastura Ghat in Cox's Bazaar. The mixed Buddhist, Muslim and Hindu population here celebrates festivals with great aplomb, and the island offers options for hiking and swimming.

ST. MARTINS ISLAND The jewel in the crown of Bangladesh's natural beauty, St. Martin's, or as the locals call it, Narikel Jinjira (Coconut Island) is Bangladesh's only coral island. Situated 10 km south of the Teknaf peninsula, the dumbbell-shaped island has an area of 8 sq km, which diminishes to 5 sq km during high tide. Unspoilt beaches, amiable islanders and the lack of concrete blocks of building serve to make it the ideal retreat from the cities, Dhaka in particular. Recently, activities like diving and snorkeling have started thriving in the island.

In spite of its small size, over 180 species of wildlife have been recorded there. In winter, the island is flush with migratory birds, enhancing its beauty. Chhera-Dwip, which separates itself from St. Martin's according to the tide is a coral paradise. Only one small bush of gree is found there, adding to the island's mystic beauty. The shallow lagoon in the northern part of St. Martin's is a sight to behold, as is a moonlit night on the island against the sounds of the rolling waves in the sea.

Being the country's major source of tourism revenue, Cox's Bazaar is understandably well-connected to the rest of the nation, especially Dhaka. Express buses running to Chittagong take 4 hours, while those to Dhaka take around 8 hours. Flights to and fro m Dhaka take around 90 minutes.

To get to St. Martin's from Dhaka, one can reach Cox's Bazaar by bus (8 hours) followed by a three-hour bus journey to Teknaf. From there, the three-hour boat journey to St. Martin's along the coast of Myanmar is an experience in itself.

By dint of being a tourist location, Cox's Bazaar is available to offer a wide range of accommodation options.

A number of quaint little hotels and motels exist in the island, but high demand means you should book yourself in early!

Clockwise from Left to Right: Terracotta dating back to about 3 BC at Paharpur Museum premises at Mahasthangarh 'dating back to about 7 BC Excavation site at Mahasthangarh dating back to about 7 BC Excavation site at Paharpur dating back to about 3 BC

THE OLDEST ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE COMMITTED TO CARING FOR THE EARTH. Save trees. Print only when necessary.

COX'S BAZAR & ST. MARTINS ISLAND

YOU RENT A LOT MORE THAN A CAR.

COX'S BAZAAR The main reason for anybody visiting Cox's Bazaar is the beach.

Reputedly the longest unbroken beach in the world, stretching golden sands alongside blue seawater for a staggering 120km, this sea-side tourist township is overlooked by gentle cliffs, awash with foaming waves and replete with colourful conch shells, startling pagodas and scrumptious seafood. It takes its name from Captain Hiram Cox of the British colonialists, who founded the town as a refuge for the Arakanese people fleeing persecution in neighbouring Burma. Cox's Bazaar has traditionally been Bangladesh's most popular tourist destination.

The road going south along the seashore from Cox's Bazaar towards Teknaf will take you past some of the best tropical rainforest in the country. Rich in plant and animal life, bird-watching is a popular exercise here. Further south, around 30k down the road from Cox's Bazaar, you will come to Inani Beach, a relatively quieter stretch of beach that is lent an air of tranquility by virtue of being relatively undiscovered as yet. Other attractions in the vicinity include the elegant waterfall in Himchhari, the tiny Sonadia Island once famous for pink pearls, and the larger Maheskhali Island, which can be reached by a 15-minute speedboat ride from Kastura Ghat in Cox's Bazaar. The mixed Buddhist, Muslim and Hindu population here celebrates festivals with great aplomb, and the island offers options for hiking and swimming.

ST. MARTINS ISLAND The jewel in the crown of Bangladesh's natural beauty, St. Martin's, or as the locals call it, Narikel Jinjira (Coconut Island) is Bangladesh's only coral island. Situated 10 km south of the Teknaf peninsula, the dumbbell-shaped island has an area of 8 sq km, which diminishes to 5 sq km during high tide. Unspoilt beaches, amiable islanders and the lack of concrete blocks of building serve to make it the ideal retreat from the cities, Dhaka in particular. Recently, activities like diving and snorkeling have started thriving in the island.

In spite of its small size, over 180 species of wildlife have been recorded there. In winter, the island is flush with migratory birds, enhancing its beauty. Chhera-Dwip, which separates itself from St. Martin's according to the tide is a coral paradise. Only one small bush of gree is found there, adding to the island's mystic beauty. The shallow lagoon in the northern part of St. Martin's is a sight to behold, as is a moonlit night on the island against the sounds of the rolling waves in the sea.

Being the country's major source of tourism revenue, Cox's Bazaar is understandably well-connected to the rest of the nation, especially Dhaka. Express buses running to Chittagong take 4 hours, while those to Dhaka take around 8 hours. Flights to and fro m Dhaka take around 90 minutes.

To get to St. Martin's from Dhaka, one can reach Cox's Bazaar by bus (8 hours) followed by a three-hour bus journey to Teknaf. From there, the three-hour boat journey to St. Martin's along the coast of Myanmar is an experience in itself.

By dint of being a tourist location, Cox's Bazaar is available to offer a wide range of accommodation options.

A number of quaint little hotels and motels exist in the island, but high demand means you should book yourself in early!

Clockwise from Left to Right: Terracotta dating back to about 3 BC at Paharpur Museum premises at Mahasthangarh 'dating back to about 7 BC Excavation site at Mahasthangarh dating back to about 7 BC Excavation site at Paharpur dating back to about 3 BC

THE OLDEST ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE COMMITTED TO CARING FOR THE EARTH. Save trees. Print only when necessary.

MAHASTHANGARH & PAHARPUR

YOU RENT A LOT MORE THAN A CAR.

MAHASTANGARH Mahasthangarh is the earliest urban archaeological site so far discovered in Bangladesh. The village Mahasthan in Shibganj thana of Bogra District contains the remains of an ancient city which was called Pundranagara or Paundravardhanapura in the territory of Pundravardhana. A limestone slab bearing six lines in Prakrit in Brahmi script was discovered in 1931. This dates Mahasthangarh to at least the 3rd century BC. The fortified area was in use till the 18th century AD. Systematic archaeological excavation of Mahasthangarh was first started in 1928-29 under the guidance of K.N.Dikshit of the Archaeological Survey of India. The areas around Jahajghata, Munir Ghon and Bairagir Bhita were explored. Excavation was resumed in 1934-36 at Bairagir Bhita and Govinda Bhita. Excavation was carried out in 1960s around the Mazhar, Parasuramer Prasad, Mankalir Dhap, Jiat Kunda and in a part of the northern rampart. The next phase of excavation was carried out sporadically in parts of the east and north ramparts but the final report is yet to be published. In the period 1992-98 excavation was conducted in the area lying between Bairagir Bhita and the gateway exposed in 1991 as a Bangla-Franco joint venture, which is now in its second phase with excavation around the mazhar in the western side of the citadel. Mahasthangarh dates back to at least 3rd century BC and is acknowledged as the earliest city-site so far discovered in Bangladesh.

This vast archaeological site of such great importance is only 3 hours away from Dhaka by bus. Once you reach Bogra, accommodation can be sought in any one of the small motel that have sprung up there, or the government guest-houses.

PAHARPUR The Somapuri Vihara at Paharpur is arguably the most impressive archaeological site in Bangladesh. Dating from the 8th Century AD, it was once the biggest Buddhist monastery south of the Himalayas. The temple complex is a large quadrangle covering 11 hectares, and the artwork is a mixture of Buddhist, Jain and Hindu; that is, those who have successively occupied it.

Clockwise from Left to Right: Sunset at the beach Cox's Bazaar, the longest natural beach in the world St. Martin's Island A scenic view from the hills at Maheshkhali Afternoon at the beach in Cox's Bazaar Another scenic view

There is a small museum which is nevertheless informative. Between it and the temple is the Archaelogical Rest House, where you can spend the night once you get there. Easiest way to do that is to get to Bogra from Dhaka by bus, and then another 90-minute journey by bus to Jaipurhat. Another half-hour bus journey from there will take you to Paharpur. A 20-taka rickshaw ride from there will take you to the temple.

LONGEST NATURAL BEACH COMMITTED TO CARING FOR THE EARTH. Save trees. Print only when necessary.

YOU RENT A LOT MORE THAN A CAR.

YOU RENT A LOT MORE THAN A CAR.

Clockwise from Left to Right: The palace at Sonargaon, the ancient capital of Bangladesh Laalbagh Fort, the 17th Century Mughal palace The National Assembly Building Ahsan Manzil, the residence of the Dhaka Nawab Family in the 1800's

ONE OF THE WORLD'S BUSIEST CITIES COMMITTED TO CARING FOR THE EARTH. Save trees. Print only when necessary.

YOU RENT A LOT MORE THAN A CAR.

DHAKA CITY

DISTANCE & DRIVING TIME CHART

Dhaka

DHAKA Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh is now celebrating more than 400 years of its birth. Originating and growing along the banks of the Buriganga, it is now a sprawling, modernizing megacity with a population of over 12 million. Dhaka's long-standing relationships with eclectic groups of foreign settlers from the Armenians (who even have a locality named after them, Armanitola) to the Kanpuris who emigrated from India means elements of multiculturalism are also prevalent relative to many other cities in the region. Dhaka has also been fortunate in inheriting a diverse architectural legacy, even though the Mughals did dominate to some extent.

Ahsan Manzil is magnificently imposing pink-coloured palatial abode of the erstwhile Nawabs of Dhaka on the banks of the Buriganga had originally been owned by a group of French traders (and before them, a Sheikh Enayetullah, a zamindar from the Mughal era) before Nawab Khwaja Alimullah bought it from them in 1835. The final renovations were done by a European company under the auspices of the Nawab Abdul Ghani, who established as the official palace of the Nawabs of Dhaka and named it after his son, Nawab Ahsanullah. This historic building which has not only seen some of the great figures of colonial history stay in it but also some of the great chapters of the history acted out there. Today it serves as a museum.

Sonargaon literally means 'Golden City', Sonargaon was the capital of Bengal from 13th to 17th centuries under the Chandra and Deva dynasties.

Panam, one of its two halves, was a particularly flourishing city during that period. In 1611, the Mughals relocated their capital to nearby Dhaka (under an hour by road these days) over concerns of too much exposure to the Portuguese and the Mogh pirates. At the height of its powers, Sonargaon was the epicenter in the world for the weaving as well as the export of the extremely fine muslin cloth that has now disappeared off the face of the planet.

Dhaka

National Assembly Building is the acknowledged masterpiece of one of the greatest architects of the 20th Century, Louis Kahn, as well as one of the great monuments of international modernism, the National Assembly Building where the Bangladesh Parliament sits is also one of the largest legislative complexes in the world. Constructed over 12 years from 19621974, Kahn unfortunately failed to see it through to completion himself, dying just months before it would be ready for use by the then young Bangladeshi government. In 2006, The Globe and Mail, Canada's biggest national newspaper, named it one of the 7 architectural wonders of the world. If Ahsan Manzil represents the heritage of Dhaka, the Jatiya Sangsad, situated centrally and easily accessible from everywhere, is the symbol of its modernization.

It is hard to think a structure could inspire so much awe and wonder without even being completed. But that is what the Lalbagh Fort is, a fort whose construction had been abandoned. Work had commenced under Prince Muhammad Azam on the Buriganga River in south-west Dhaka. But soon, he was recalled by his emperor Aurangzeb. Azam's successor, Shaista Khan, did not complete it as well, inspite of staying in Dhaka till 1688. The general reason cited for this is that the death of his daughter in the fort's premises in 1684 had made him view the construction of the fort with ominous eyes. A pity for architecture, since what was seemingly taking shape was an elaborate complex of numerous structures (some say 27 or 28) coming together to form one coherent, functional whole. Lalbagh Fort today is located in the part of town popularly known as 'Old Dhaka', but can be easily found and reached.

Comilla

Cox’s Bazar

Chittagong

Jessore

Khulna

Rajshahi

Rangamati

97 Km 2.5 Hrs

424 Km 9.5 Hrs.

264 Km 6 Hrs.

274 5.5 Hrs.

335 6.5 Hrs.

270 6 Hrs.

340 7.5 Hrs.

346 5 Hrs.

512 10.5 Hrs.

327 Km 6.5 Hrs.

167 Km 3.5 Hrs.

371 Km 8.5 Hrs.

432 Km 9.5 Hrs.

367 Km 9 Hrs.

243 Km 4.5 Hrs.

257 Km 4 Hrs.

415 Km 8 Hrs.

160 Km 3.5 Hrs.

698 Km 15 Hrs.

759 Km 16 Hrs.

694 Km 15.5 Hrs.

236 Km 4.5 Hrs.

424 Km 10 Hrs.

88 Km 2 Hrs.

538 Km 11.5 Hrs.

599 Km 12.5 Hrs.

534 Km 12 Hrs.

76 Km 1.5 Hrs.

425 Km 8.5 Hrs.

238 Km 4 Hrs.

61 Km 1 Hr.

233 Km 4 Hrs.

614 Km 11 Hrs.

620 Km 10.5 Hrs.

786 Km 16 Hrs.

295 Km 5.5 Hrs.

675 Km 14 Hrs.

681 Km 11.5 Hrs.

847 Km 17 Hrs.

610 Km 13.5 Hrs.

616 Km 11 Hrs.

782 Km 16.5 Hrs.

686 Km 9 Hrs.

314 Km 5.5 Hrs.

Comilla

97 Km 2.5 Hrs

Cox’s Bazar

424 Km 9.5 Hrs.

327 Km 6.5 Hrs.

Chittagong

264 Km 6 Hrs.

167 Km 3.5 Hrs.

160 Km 3.5 Hrs.

Jessore

274 5.5 Hrs.

371 Km 8.5 Hrs.

698 Km 15 Hrs.

538 Km 11.5 Hrs.

Khulna

335 6.5 Hrs.

432 Km 9.5 Hrs.

759 Km 16 Hrs.

599 Km 12.5 Hrs.

61 Km 1 Hr.

Rajshahi

270 6 Hrs.

367 Km 9 Hrs.

694 Km 15.5 Hrs.

534 Km 12 Hrs.

233 Km 4 Hrs.

295 Km 5.5 Hrs.

Rangamati

340 7.5 Hrs.

243 Km 4.5 Hrs.

236 Km 4.5 Hrs.

76 Km 1.5 Hrs.

614 Km 11 Hrs.

675 Km 14 Hrs.

610 Km 13.5 Hrs.

Sylhet

346 5 Hrs.

257 Km 4 Hrs.

424 Km 10 Hrs.

425 Km 8.5 Hrs.

620 Km 10.5 Hrs.

681 Km 11.5 Hrs.

616 Km 11 Hrs.

686 Km 9 Hrs.

Teknaf

512 10.5 Hrs.

415 Km 8 Hrs.

88 Km 2 Hrs.

238 Km 4 Hrs.

786 Km 16 Hrs.

847 Km 17 Hrs.

782 Km 16.5 Hrs.

314 Km 5.5 Hrs.

Sylhet

Teknaf

663 Km 12.5 Hrs. 663 Km 12.5 Hrs.

* The Distance chart includes our main locations throughout Bangladesh

YOU RENT A LOT MORE THAN A CAR.

YOU RENT A LOT MORE THAN A CAR.

Clockwise from Left to Right: The palace at Sonargaon, the ancient capital of Bangladesh Laalbagh Fort, the 17th Century Mughal palace The National Assembly Building Ahsan Manzil, the residence of the Dhaka Nawab Family in the 1800's

ONE OF THE WORLD'S BUSIEST CITIES COMMITTED TO CARING FOR THE EARTH. Save trees. Print only when necessary.

YOU RENT A LOT MORE THAN A CAR.

PROFILE

YOU RENT A LOT MORE THAN A CAR.

WHERE TRANQUILITY MEETS SERENITY

The franchisee of Europcar Bangladesh is held by Trivia Aviation Limited, a sister concern of DANA GROUP. The franchise was awarded in the year 2005 and Europcar Bangladesh started its journey from February 2006. With a presence in a progressive country with rich legacy and diversity, Europcar Bangladesh has evolved to be the leading car rental company of Bangladesh. We aspire to gain a firm footing by focusing on attractive client-oriented packages and maintaining high standards of our diverse services. Our product portfolio is continually modified to keep up with the dynamic market needs. Our current fleet size is 250 comprising of Sedan Cars, Luxuries Sedan Cars, MPVs, SUVs and Pick-up Vans.

One of our major achievements came in the recently concluded National Elections of Bangladesh during which period we provided transport and handled protocol and tourism services all over the country, for 130 foreign election observers from the European Union.

OUR UNIQUE SELLING POINTS

YOU REN T

A LOT MO RE

THA N

A CAR .

.. .. .. .. ..

Experienced English-speaking chauffeur, trained to work with expatriates Chauffeurs trained on HSE, First Aid Treatment, Fire Fighting and Defensive Driving Skills All chauffeurs' backgrounds are checked by police and home district authority.

Comprehensive Private Insurance Round the clock monitoring from operation room Fully qualified and dedicated team Mobile communication with support managers & drivers.

Dedicated Manager to each & every client Round the clock HOTLINE (+88-0173 351 5757) and Roadside assistance Instant replacement and grooming items for offered vehicles

TOURIST PACKAGE 1

.. .. ..

Airport Protocol Services Transport Facility Food (continental and/or local) Accommodation (all ranges) Safety and Security Cultural Show and other entertainment

TOURIST PACKAGE 2

. ..

Only transport

* conditions apply Models shown are for examples only.

Europcar reserves all rights to change any terms and rental rates without prior notice.

YOU RENT A LOT MORE THAN A CAR.

PROFILE

YOU RENT A LOT MORE THAN A CAR.

WHERE TRANQUILITY MEETS SERENITY

The franchisee of Europcar Bangladesh is held by Trivia Aviation Limited, a sister concern of DANA GROUP. The franchise was awarded in the year 2005 and Europcar Bangladesh started its journey from February 2006. With a presence in a progressive country with rich legacy and diversity, Europcar Bangladesh has evolved to be the leading car rental company of Bangladesh. We aspire to gain a firm footing by focusing on attractive client-oriented packages and maintaining high standards of our diverse services. Our product portfolio is continually modified to keep up with the dynamic market needs. Our current fleet size is 250 comprising of Sedan Cars, Luxuries Sedan Cars, MPVs, SUVs and Pick-up Vans.

One of our major achievements came in the recently concluded National Elections of Bangladesh during which period we provided transport and handled protocol and tourism services all over the country, for 130 foreign election observers from the European Union.

OUR UNIQUE SELLING POINTS

YOU REN T

A LOT MO RE

THA N

A CAR .

.. .. .. .. ..

Experienced English-speaking chauffeur, trained to work with expatriates Chauffeurs trained on HSE, First Aid Treatment, Fire Fighting and Defensive Driving Skills All chauffeurs' backgrounds are checked by police and home district authority.

Comprehensive Private Insurance Round the clock monitoring from operation room Fully qualified and dedicated team Mobile communication with support managers & drivers.

Dedicated Manager to each & every client Round the clock HOTLINE (+88-0173 351 5757) and Roadside assistance Instant replacement and grooming items for offered vehicles

TOURIST PACKAGE 1

.. .. ..

Airport Protocol Services Transport Facility Food (continental and/or local) Accommodation (all ranges) Safety and Security Cultural Show and other entertainment

TOURIST PACKAGE 2

. ..

Only transport

* conditions apply Models shown are for examples only.

Europcar reserves all rights to change any terms and rental rates without prior notice.

YOU RENT A LOT MORE THAN A CAR.

DHAKA CITY

DISTANCE & DRIVING TIME CHART

Dhaka

DHAKA Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh is now celebrating more than 400 years of its birth. Originating and growing along the banks of the Buriganga, it is now a sprawling, modernizing megacity with a population of over 12 million. Dhaka's long-standing relationships with eclectic groups of foreign settlers from the Armenians (who even have a locality named after them, Armanitola) to the Kanpuris who emigrated from India means elements of multiculturalism are also prevalent relative to many other cities in the region. Dhaka has also been fortunate in inheriting a diverse architectural legacy, even though the Mughals did dominate to some extent.

Ahsan Manzil is magnificently imposing pink-coloured palatial abode of the erstwhile Nawabs of Dhaka on the banks of the Buriganga had originally been owned by a group of French traders (and before them, a Sheikh Enayetullah, a zamindar from the Mughal era) before Nawab Khwaja Alimullah bought it from them in 1835. The final renovations were done by a European company under the auspices of the Nawab Abdul Ghani, who established as the official palace of the Nawabs of Dhaka and named it after his son, Nawab Ahsanullah. This historic building which has not only seen some of the great figures of colonial history stay in it but also some of the great chapters of the history acted out there. Today it serves as a museum.

Sonargaon literally means 'Golden City', Sonargaon was the capital of Bengal from 13th to 17th centuries under the Chandra and Deva dynasties.

Panam, one of its two halves, was a particularly flourishing city during that period. In 1611, the Mughals relocated their capital to nearby Dhaka (under an hour by road these days) over concerns of too much exposure to the Portuguese and the Mogh pirates. At the height of its powers, Sonargaon was the epicenter in the world for the weaving as well as the export of the extremely fine muslin cloth that has now disappeared off the face of the planet.

Dhaka

National Assembly Building is the acknowledged masterpiece of one of the greatest architects of the 20th Century, Louis Kahn, as well as one of the great monuments of international modernism, the National Assembly Building where the Bangladesh Parliament sits is also one of the largest legislative complexes in the world. Constructed over 12 years from 19621974, Kahn unfortunately failed to see it through to completion himself, dying just months before it would be ready for use by the then young Bangladeshi government. In 2006, The Globe and Mail, Canada's biggest national newspaper, named it one of the 7 architectural wonders of the world. If Ahsan Manzil represents the heritage of Dhaka, the Jatiya Sangsad, situated centrally and easily accessible from everywhere, is the symbol of its modernization.

It is hard to think a structure could inspire so much awe and wonder without even being completed. But that is what the Lalbagh Fort is, a fort whose construction had been abandoned. Work had commenced under Prince Muhammad Azam on the Buriganga River in south-west Dhaka. But soon, he was recalled by his emperor Aurangzeb. Azam's successor, Shaista Khan, did not complete it as well, inspite of staying in Dhaka till 1688. The general reason cited for this is that the death of his daughter in the fort's premises in 1684 had made him view the construction of the fort with ominous eyes. A pity for architecture, since what was seemingly taking shape was an elaborate complex of numerous structures (some say 27 or 28) coming together to form one coherent, functional whole. Lalbagh Fort today is located in the part of town popularly known as 'Old Dhaka', but can be easily found and reached.

Comilla

Cox’s Bazar

Chittagong

Jessore

Khulna

Rajshahi

Rangamati

97 Km 2.5 Hrs

424 Km 9.5 Hrs.

264 Km 6 Hrs.

274 5.5 Hrs.

335 6.5 Hrs.

270 6 Hrs.

340 7.5 Hrs.

346 5 Hrs.

512 10.5 Hrs.

327 Km 6.5 Hrs.

167 Km 3.5 Hrs.

371 Km 8.5 Hrs.

432 Km 9.5 Hrs.

367 Km 9 Hrs.

243 Km 4.5 Hrs.

257 Km 4 Hrs.

415 Km 8 Hrs.

160 Km 3.5 Hrs.

698 Km 15 Hrs.

759 Km 16 Hrs.

694 Km 15.5 Hrs.

236 Km 4.5 Hrs.

424 Km 10 Hrs.

88 Km 2 Hrs.

538 Km 11.5 Hrs.

599 Km 12.5 Hrs.

534 Km 12 Hrs.

76 Km 1.5 Hrs.

425 Km 8.5 Hrs.

238 Km 4 Hrs.

61 Km 1 Hr.

233 Km 4 Hrs.

614 Km 11 Hrs.

620 Km 10.5 Hrs.

786 Km 16 Hrs.

295 Km 5.5 Hrs.

675 Km 14 Hrs.

681 Km 11.5 Hrs.

847 Km 17 Hrs.

610 Km 13.5 Hrs.

616 Km 11 Hrs.

782 Km 16.5 Hrs.

686 Km 9 Hrs.

314 Km 5.5 Hrs.

Comilla

97 Km 2.5 Hrs

Cox’s Bazar

424 Km 9.5 Hrs.

327 Km 6.5 Hrs.

Chittagong

264 Km 6 Hrs.

167 Km 3.5 Hrs.

160 Km 3.5 Hrs.

Jessore

274 5.5 Hrs.

371 Km 8.5 Hrs.

698 Km 15 Hrs.

538 Km 11.5 Hrs.

Khulna

335 6.5 Hrs.

432 Km 9.5 Hrs.

759 Km 16 Hrs.

599 Km 12.5 Hrs.

61 Km 1 Hr.

Rajshahi

270 6 Hrs.

367 Km 9 Hrs.

694 Km 15.5 Hrs.

534 Km 12 Hrs.

233 Km 4 Hrs.

295 Km 5.5 Hrs.

Rangamati

340 7.5 Hrs.

243 Km 4.5 Hrs.

236 Km 4.5 Hrs.

76 Km 1.5 Hrs.

614 Km 11 Hrs.

675 Km 14 Hrs.

610 Km 13.5 Hrs.

Sylhet

346 5 Hrs.

257 Km 4 Hrs.

424 Km 10 Hrs.

425 Km 8.5 Hrs.

620 Km 10.5 Hrs.

681 Km 11.5 Hrs.

616 Km 11 Hrs.

686 Km 9 Hrs.

Teknaf

512 10.5 Hrs.

415 Km 8 Hrs.

88 Km 2 Hrs.

238 Km 4 Hrs.

786 Km 16 Hrs.

847 Km 17 Hrs.

782 Km 16.5 Hrs.

314 Km 5.5 Hrs.

Sylhet

Teknaf

663 Km 12.5 Hrs. 663 Km 12.5 Hrs.

* The Distance chart includes our main locations throughout Bangladesh

YOU RENT A LOT MORE THAN A CAR.

CRUISE IN STYLE WITH EUROPCAR

YOU RENT A LOT MORE THAN A CAR.

.

Long Term Rental

.

Short Term Rental

.

Wedding Services

.

Airport Protocol Services

.

Package Tours

HOTLINE - 0173 351 5757 OR SMS - CAR TO 4238

COMMITTED TO CARING FOR THE EARTH. Save trees. Print only when necessary.

EUROPCAR BANGLADESH Franchisee: Trivia Aviation Ltd. (Concern of Dana Group) House # 59, Road # 13 & 15, Block # D, Banani, Dhaka-1213 Tel : 883 7694-6 Fax : 881 3108, Email : info@europcarbd.com

design & print : tradexbd.com

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