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Walking Through Time: Exploring the Forgotten Streets of Panam City
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Walking Through Time: Exploring the Forgotten Streets of Panam City

Introduction

Tucked away in the historic heart of Sonargaon, just 30 km southeast of Dhaka, lies a fascinating colonial-era ghost town known as Panam City (Panam Nagar). Once a thriving center of commerce and culture, today it stands as a silent witness to the grandeur of Bengal's past. If you're a history lover, photographer, or curious traveler, this place deserves a spot on your Bangladesh travel bucket list.


The Legacy of Panam City

Panam City was built in the late 19th century by wealthy Hindu merchants during British colonial rule. Its 52 unique buildings—stretching along a single narrow street—blend Mughal and European architectural elements, making it one of the most visually striking historical sites in the country.

The city was part of the ancient Sonargaon capital, which played a key role during the Sultanate and Mughal periods. After the Partition of India in 1947 and communal riots in 1965, Panam City was abandoned, leaving behind decaying but beautiful reminders of a once-flourishing community.


What to See

🏛️ Panam Nagar Lane

  • The main attraction is the street lined with colonial mansions, many of which still retain their carved wooden doors, ornate balconies, and arched facades.
  • It feels like walking through a real-life historical movie set.

🕌 Goaldi Mosque

  • A small but elegant single-domed mosque built in 1519 during the Bengal Sultanate.
  • Just a short ride from Panam City.

🖼️ Sonargaon Folk Arts and Crafts Museum

  • Housed in the beautiful Boro Sardar Bari, this museum showcases Bangladesh’s rich textile, pottery, and handicraft traditions.
  • Founded by celebrated artist Zainul Abedin in 1975.

How to Get There

  • From Dhaka: Take a bus from Gulistan to Mograpara. From there, hire a rickshaw or CNG auto-rickshaw to Panam City (approx. 10–15 minutes).
  • Travel Time: Around 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic.

Entry & Visiting Hours

  • 🎟️ Entry Fee:
    • Locals: 100 BDT
    • Foreigners: 200 BDT
  • 🕰️ Museum Hours:
    • Summer: 10 AM – 6 PM (Closed Sundays)
    • Winter: 9 AM – 5 PM

Travel Tips

  • ✅ Visit in the morning to avoid crowds and harsh sunlight.
  • ✅ Wear comfortable walking shoes.
  • ✅ Photography is allowed—bring a good camera!
  • ✅ Stay respectful; this is a preserved archaeological site.

Why You Should Visit

Panam City offers a rare chance to walk through a well-preserved slice of Bengal’s colonial history. The decaying beauty of the mansions, the still air of the narrow lanes, and the surrounding cultural landmarks make it a unique day trip from Dhaka.


Final Thoughts

Whether you're a traveler drawn to lost cities or a local looking to explore your roots, Panam City promises a journey back in time. It’s more than just a tourist spot—it’s a reminder of resilience, cultural richness, and architectural elegance.

So pack your camera, grab a friend, and go walk through time.


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