Dharmapalagarh

Dharmapalagarh is located near Garh Dharmapal village, Dharmapala union, on the east bank of the Deonai river in Nilphamari district's Jaldhaka upazila. This Buddhist temple, believed to be built in the 12th century during the Pala period has been unearthed in Jaldhaka upazila of Nilphamari. According to sources, Dharmapalagarh was established when the Pala Empire was ruling Bengal, from the 8th to the 12th centuries.

It was named after the famous Buddhist ruler Dharmapala. As the name suggests, this site holds a strong Buddhist historical connection. It was likely a prominent center for Buddhist learning and culture during the Pala dynasty.

According to historical sources, after the death of Gopal Pal, the founder of the Pal dynasty, his son Dharmapala Raj ascended the throne and established the capital 20 km away from Jaldhaka Upazila to administer the state. Later, he built a mud wall around the capital to protect it from foreign enemies. Since then this place has been named Dharmapalagarh. 1 mile east of this center are the remains of the Pala capital and an ancient Buddhist temple. Apart from this, the Dighi of Chandanpath, spread over an area of about 33 bighas, still retains the memories of the Pala period. Currently, a housing project named Garh Dharmapala has been developed near these ruins.

While the site has not been extensively excavated, there are remnants of ancient structures that suggest the existence of a significant settlement. These archaeological remains include scattered bricks, walls, and other architectural features. Excavations began here in 1990 but were never completed. Later that year, during re-excavation under the supervision of the Ministry of Culture, Dharmapalagarh was revealed.

Since Dharmapala is situated in Nilphamari, which is in the northern part of the country, bordering India, remember to check with local authorities or guides for any specific visiting guidelines or restrictions before planning a trip to Dharmapalagarh.

Dharmapalagarh is an important part of Bangladesh's cultural heritage. It serves as a reminder of the region's rich history and the influence of Buddhism in ancient Bengal.

For history enthusiasts and those interested in archaeological sites, Dharmapalagarh is a place of interest. The site, though not extensively developed for tourism, offers a glimpse into the ancient past of the region.

How to go & Where to stay

There are direct bus routes to Nilphamari from the capital Dhaka's Collegegate, Gabtali, and Mohakhali. In addition, the Nilsagar Express train from Kamalapur or the Airport railway station can take you to Nilphamari. You can also fly domestically from Syedpur to Nilphamari. You can take a bus/CNG from Nilphamari district town to Jaldhaka upazila and then an auto rickshaw to Dharmapala Garh via Garh Hat, which is around 15 kilometers distant.

There are notable residential hotels in Nilphamari district. You stay easily if you want.