Bangabandhu Udyan Bells Park
The historic Bangabandhu Udyan or Bell’s Park is located just 4 km away from the Barisal district headquarters. ND Bitson Bells came to Barisal in 1898 as a District Magistrate. The park was built on the banks of the Kirtankhola River during the reign of Bells, centering on the arrival of British King George V. The park is named after Bitson Bells in recognition of his contribution to the development of Barisal city, Muslim education and public health. At various times many state dignitaries have given their valuable speeches in this park. An open stage and mural was erected in this park to commemorate the speech given by Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in 1972. In 1996, the government of Bangladesh changed the name of Bells Park to Bangabandhu Udyan. At present this park is managed by Barisal City Corporation under the Department of Public Works.
Surrounded by trees, Bangabandhu Udyan is 550 feet long and 450 feet wide. The park is surrounded by a walkway, helipad, playground, seating area and a lake. Formerly known as the main playground of Barisal city, the park now hosts various social and cultural events such as tree fairs, trade fairs and parades. The beautiful scenery of Kirtankhola river from Bangabandhu Udyan and the glitter of colorful light on the green grass after dusk is captivating. Bells Park is more popular among the locals of Barisal district for morning walk and jogging.
How to get there
Barisal can be reached by road, waterway and air from Dhaka. From Gabtali and Sayedabad in Dhaka, Sakura, Survi and BRTC buses can reach Barisal via Mawa or Aricha. From Sadarghat in Dhaka, MV Sundarbans, Manami, Adventure, Survi, Parabat, Kirtankhola and Farhan launches to Barisal. Besides, Barisal can be reached by domestic airlines from Hazrat Shah Jalal International Airport. You can come to Barisal and reach Bell’s Park or Bangabandhu Udyan by local transport.
Where to stay
The city of Barisal has residential hotels like Hotel Arena, Hotel Grand Park, Hotel Paradise, Hotel One, Hotel Sedona, Hotel Ali, Hotel Paradise and Hotel Imperial.
Where to eat
Barisal city has a variety of Chinese, Bengali and fast food restaurants. Malida and Gournadi curd are popular dishes of Barisal.
Other places of interest in Barisal district
Next to Bangabandhu Udyan are Muktijoddha Park, Planet World Park and Padma Pond. Other places of interest in Barisal include Shankar Math, Bibi Pond, Miyabari Jame Mosque, Oxford Mission, Lakutia Zamindar Bari, Floating Guava Garden, Shapla Village, Durga Sagar Dighi and Gutia Mosque.
