sonargaon travel reviews

Sonargaon Travel Guide | Things to Do & How to Get There

• March 28, 2024

Heading out from  Dhaka  for a day trip? Sonargaon is your go-to destination. 

The “City of Gold”, was once the flourishing capital of ancient Bengal. Today, t he star attraction here is Panam Nagar, a street lined with the hauntingly beautiful, decaying mansions of wealthy merchants from the colonial era.

And let’s not forget about the natural beauty surrounding Sonargaon. With the lush greenery and the serene waters of the nearby rivers, it’s a breath of fresh air—quite literally—from the hustle and bustle of Dhaka.

So, if you’re looking to add a dash of adventure, a touch of history, and a whole lot of cultural richness to your Dhaka visit, Sonargaon ticks all the boxes. It’s not just a day trip; it’s a journey back in time and a chance to see a different side of Bangladesh’s storied past. Ready to explore? Sonargaon awaits.

Table of Contents

History of Sonargaon

Sonargaon has historical roots beginning from the13th century when it emerged as a prominent city during the reign of the Bengal Sultanate . Specifically, under the rule of the Ilyas Shahi dynasty in the 14th and 15th centuries, Sonargaon was designated as one of the dual capitals of the Bengal Sultanate, alongside Gaur. 

It’s estimated that, at its peak, the muslin trade contributed significantly to the region’s economy, with European traders in the 16th and 17th centuries recording the export of thousands of pieces of muslin to markets as far away as Europe and Asia.

The Portuguese, attracted by this thriving trade, established their presence in Sonargaon around the early 16th century. Their interaction with the region was not always peaceful; accounts from the period detail conflicts with local rulers as well as piracy, which impacted trade routes.

The decline of Sonargaon began in the late 16th century when the Mughal Empire, under Emperor Akbar , consolidated control over Bengal and shifted the capital to Dhaka. This move, coupled with the silting of local rivers led to a gradual decrease in Sonargaon’s commercial importance. By the 18th century, Sonargaon had largely faded from prominence as a major urban center.

How to Get to Sonargaon

Your adventure begins in  Dhaka , with Gulshan being a common starting point for many. Given the city’s notorious traffic, expect the journey to Sonargaon to take a good part of your day. The great news? This trip is incredibly budget-friendly, costing under 4 USD for transportation and entry fees, making it a steal for the experience you get. Here are your options:

• Public Bus : For the budget-conscious traveler, the public bus is your go-to option. Buses to Sonargaon can be boarded from Sayedabad or Gulistan bus terminals. The fare is about 40 taka each way, making it an economical choice. Remember, you’re aiming for Mograpara bus station, the nearest drop-off point for Sonargaon.
• Uber: If you prefer comfort and convenience and don’t mind to spend 15 USD or so, you can opt to go by Uber which will get you there faster. Since it is a popular stop, there are even options to book a return trip where the driver will wait for you for around 2 hours, which is actually enough time depending on your style. You can also book an Uber back as there are constantly people from Dhaka heading to Sonargaon.

Once you arrive at Mograpara bus station, Sonargaon is reachable with a 30-minute walk or a quick rickshaw ride away. Rickshaws should cost around 20 taka, but as a foreigner, you might be quoted higher. Walking is a good way to stretch those legs.

For the return trip, buses from Sonargaon back to Dhaka are frequent, leaving every hour. The bus stop for Dhaka-bound buses is easily found on the main road.

Top Things to Do in Sonargaon

1. Drop by the Folk Art and Craft Museum

Perhaps the most recognizable icon of Sonargaon, the Folk Art and Crafts Museum is super photogenic and would most likely be the first thing that catches your eye one you arrive at the ticket booth. It was established in 1975 by the renowned  Bangladeshi cultural  advocate Shilpacharya Zainul Abedin. His vision was to preserve and display Bangladesh’s folk artistry, a mission that the museum continues to fulfill today.

The museum itself is spread over a large area, featuring several buildings that house a diverse collection of over a thousand artifacts. These include textiles, metal crafts, woodwork, pottery, and traditional musical instruments, each carefully curated to represent the cultural heritage of various regions across  Bangladesh .

The museum is also home to a reconstructed village, offering a glimpse into rural Bangladeshi life. Though this is something you can still see by walking around Sonargaon.

It operates from Saturday to Thursday, with a break at midday. Note that it opens around 9AM. I went there a bit too early so I just lapped around the area.

2. Explore Panam Nagar

Panam Nagar stands as a hauntingly beautiful reminder of Sonargaon’s once-thriving past. This ancient city was originally built in the late 19th century as a trading and residential area for the wealthy  Hindu  merchant community during British rule.

The street, lined with around 52 residences, offers a rare glimpse into colonial-era architecture blended with traditional  Bengali  designs. These grand mansions, once bustling with life, now stand silent, their intricate facades and ornate details speaking volumes of a bygone era.

Despite its deserted state, each building in Panam Nagar tells a story. The construction style reflects a mix of European influences and local craftsmanship, with high columns, spacious verandas, and beautifully decorated walls. The use of imported materials alongside local terracotta plaques showcases the wealth and status of its former inhabitants.

Following the Partition of Bengal in 1947, and later the independence of Bangladesh in 1971, the original community gradually left, leaving their homes to stand as relics of the past.

3. Check out Goaldi Mosque

Not far from the grandeur of Panam Nagar, lies the Goaldi Mosque, a gem of pre-Mughal architecture that dates back to the early 16th century. Built in 1519 under the rule of Sultan Sikandar Shah, it stands as one of the only ancient mosques you can visit in the area.

It’s small but definitely worth the visit if you’re not going to  Bagerhat . It’s tucked away in a forested area and you’ll probably be the only tourist there. It’s quite unfortunate to say that this was the only place in Bangladesh that I encountered something… not so good , yet it still doesn’t take away the beauty of this place.

Unlike the grandiose structures of the later Mughal period, this mosque’s beauty lies in its detailed terracotta ornamentation and the intricacy of its brickwork. The mosque’s dome, a distinctive feature of Islamic architecture, is supported by thick walls and corner towers.

4. Immerse in Nature

Imagine stepping out of the car or off the bus, and the first thing that hits you is how much room there is to breathe. It’s a world away from Dhaka’s constant buzz. You’re surrounded by so much greenery and ponds that catch the sky’s reflection. It really makes you want to just stop and stare for a while.

The ponds are not just for show, though. They’re a big part of life here, used for everything from fishing to just cooling off on a hot day.

For anyone coming from Dhaka, this change of pace is like hitting the refresh button. The air feels cleaner, the sky bigger, and the sound of nature replaces the honk of traffic. While it’s not on the same level as the  Sundarbans , Sonargaon is the perfect spot for a leisurely walk.

5. Learn About the Local Life

A visit to Sonargaon isn’t complete without getting a real feel for the local life. Beyond the historical sites and natural beauty, it’s the people that paint the full picture of this place.

Imagine wandering through a local market. It’s a sensory overload in the best possible way—colors, sounds, and smells all mixing together. Here, you can see firsthand the fruits of the land you just admired: vegetables fresh from the fields, fish from the nearby waters, and a variety of local delicacies.

In fact, go ahead and try to strike up a conversation. I can say for sure that the Bangladeshi people are very warm and welcoming, and even though there might be a language barrier, a smile goes a long way. Don’t be surprised if you’re invited for a cup of tea or to join a meal; this level of hospitality is quite normal here.

Usually, it’s even the other way around as people are naturally curious about you and would strike up a conversation, more often than not with a “Where are you from?”

Where to Stay in Dhaka

When visiting Sonargaon, you’re most likely going there as a day trip from Dhaka. I’ve gone more in-depth on the capital city but in the meantime, here are some of the best hotels to stay in Dhaka:

Best Hotels in Dhaka :

• Nascent Gardenia Residence  – this is where I personally stayed. It’s in a quiet and cozy neighborhood in Gulshan area. Make sure to put the right one in on your Uber as there’s also another Nascent Gardenia that I mistakenly ended up in which was like an apartment. On the booking website, they mentioned that free airport shuttle is included though they did try to charge me at first when I asked for it. And the shuttle actually was not there when I arrived which put a bit of a sour taste in my mouth. But! They more than made up for it though, the place was perfect. Big and comfortable beds, spacious and quiet rooms. The bellboy was extremely polite and kind, always happy to assist. The bathroom’s shower worked perfectly and came with various toiletries and other amneties including water and fruits. Breakfast is a buffet with a great selection. They also offered me a shuttle back to the airport but I didn’t need it as I was heading to  Khulna . All in all, I highly recommend it, just be on the same page and follow up with the airport shuttle as we discussed that a month back so perhaps it got lost.
• Hotel the Capital Ltd.  – provides a range of amenities including a fitness center, complimentary WiFi, and on-site parking at no extra cost. This 3-star establishment not only features round-the-clock front desk and concierge services but also caters to families with a kids’ club, offers room service, and facilitates currency exchange. You’ll have the option to dine at the hotel’s restaurant, which serves a variety of Chinese, Indian, and Italian dishes, with special dietary requests such as vegetarian, halal, and vegan meals accommodated.
• InterContinental Dhaka  – Experience the luxury of celebrity-like treatment at InterContinental Dhaka, an IHG Hotel. This lavish 5-star hotel boasts an array of upscale facilities, including an outdoor swimming pool, a state-of-the-art fitness center, a serene garden, and a sophisticated restaurant complemented by a chic bar. You’re welcomed around the clock at the 24-hour front desk and can enjoy the convenience of airport transportation, room service, and complimentary WiFi across the premises.

How to Get Around Sonargaon

Sonargaon is a place easily and best explored on foot. The places that you’re here to visit are all reachable via walking. Including the Folk Art and Crafts Museum and Panam Nagar.

Goaldi Mosque might require at least 15 to 20 minutes of walking but the journey there is well worth the effort as it gives you a glimpse of the rural life and the natural sceneries.  Otherwise, you can also find a rickshaw.

How to Stay Safe in Bangladesh

Bangladesh is generally an okay place though it isn’t exactly a first world country, as a foreigner you will catch attention and I personally found that people tend to stare. It’s hard not to stand out, but just do your best and ignore it. People are naturally curious. Wearing sunglasses or a balaclava can help.

It’s also a fact that Dhaka is one the most polluted cities on Earth. There’s garbage everywhere and the scents intermingle with the heavy perfumes, incense, spices, and food which completely barrages the senses. I highly recommend wearing a mask. Though Sonargaon is in the rural area so the air here is much cleaner and it was a welcome respite.

As for the food, sticking to vegetarian meals or fancier restaurants should give you that sense of peace. In the end, Bangladesh is one of the few countries that I highly recommend getting  travel insurance  for when going.

For petty crime, based on my research it’s more on situational than targeted, so just practice common sense and reduce late-night movement.

Best Time to Visit Sonargaon

The best time to visit Sonargaon is during the cooler, drier months from November to February . During this period, temperatures range comfortably between 15°C to 26°C (59°F to 79°F).

As for the time of day, the early morning hours, right after sunrise, are magical in Sonargaon. The soft light and cooler air make it the perfect time for photography, especially if you’re keen on capturing the architectural beauty or the natural surroundings in the best light. It’s also a great time to see local life start to buzz, with markets setting up and the daily routines kicking off.

Late afternoon, leading up to sunset, is another ideal time to explore. The heat of the day starts to wane, and the setting sun casts a golden hue over the landscapes and historical buildings, offering a different but equally enchanting perspective. Though it’s worth noting that you’ll be getting back to Dhaka quite late if you choose to visit for sunset.

Plan Your Trip to Bangladesh | Best Travel Resources

Book Your Accommodations

• Booking.com  – the world’s leading online booking platform for accomodations around the world, they have an extensive amount of available listings with zero booking fees and best price guarantees.
• Hostelworld  – a backpacker’s best friend, Hostelworld has the largest collection of hostels and guesthouses for affordable prices.

Don’t Forget Insurance

• SafetyWing  – from Nomad Insurance, an insurance by nomads for nomads. They understand our lifestyle well and have really comprehensive and flexible plans that cater to any traveler.

Find Cheap Flights

• Kiwi.com  – my go-to for booking and finding the cheapest flights and it’s helped me save tons of money. They do virtual interlining which is connecting flights from airlines that do not codeshare, so you can find routes that you wouldn’t be able to find normally. 

Join Tours & Activities

• GetYourGuide  – is one of the best places to find unique tours and activities. I found that it’s an excellent way to meet fellow travelers and create fond memories. They are not only limited to tours as they also offer niche services such as skip-the-line tickets or private transfers.

Catch a Ride

• Rentalcars.com  – nothing beats the freedom of the road, Rentalcars.com is the world’s largest online car rental service. They operate across 160 countries so they’re the perfect partner to work with if you find yourself wanting a ride.

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Sonargaon – a medieval capital of Bengal

History and heritage sites are the open windows to the past of any country. Bangladesh, one of the most offbeat destinations in South Asia, has preserved both Muslim and Hindu heritage sites. Sonargaon, a city just one hour away from Dhaka, gives you a peek into the history of this medieval capital and how different cultures co-existed together. To help you plan a trip to this city by yourself, here are the questions I will focus on:

• How much time do you need to explore Sonargaon?
• Sonargaon Museum complex
• How to reach Sonargaon from Dhaka?
• Where to eat in Sonargaon?

Sonargaon visit: how much time do you need to explore it?

Overall there are two major sites in Sonargaon – museum and Panam Nagar. If you have some extra time, there are a few mosques to explore. It took me about 6 hours for this trip together with the road. Overall, Sonargaon is a one day getaway from Dhaka . I wouldn’t plan something extra the same day not to make it too hectic.

Sonargaon Museum Complex

The complex includes a museum of Arts and Crafts, a park with a lake and a few buildings with a colonial architecture. You can see different elements of ancient and medieval daily-life in the museum: utensils, agriculture instruments, pottery. At the same time, there are also musical instruments, paintings, fabrics, handicraft items.

Though it is interesting to know more about the culture of the nation through its arts & crafts, I wish there was more information on what I’m looking at. Out of all museums I’ve visited, I found the State Museum in Dhaka the most valuable on the level of information about Bangladesh.

The park has been transformed into the picnic spot for families and despite peaceful atmosphere, it is unfortunately dirty. If you decide to make a lunch-meet-up in the territory of the complex, please use the dustbins in the area to clean the garbage. Overall the area is very relaxing and green. You can do boating at the lake or take a few fun rides at the attractions.

Visiting hours of Sonargaon Complex: Friday to Tuesday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The entrance to the complex costs 20 Tk for Bangladeshi people and 100 Tk for foreigners. The Complex remains closed on public holidays.

Panam City Sonargaon

Panam city or Panam Nagar is another big attraction in Sonargaon and, to be honest, I found it the most interesting place to explore. Panam Nagar is a ghost city that was abandoned by Hindu merchants a century back. In the 19th century, it used to be a popular trading center of fabrics.

Nevertheless, after British left the subcontinent, there were riots and all the territories were divided based on the religious factor. Sonargaon fell into the Muslim majority part, hence it became part of East Pakistan that time. Many Hindu families migrated leaving their homes and businesses behind.

According to Mr. Bhuiyan, the archeology manager of the site, whom I accidentally stumbled upon, most of the buildings have been closed to protect their state. There are visitors who draw on the walls or litter (Don’t be like them!).

Nevertheless, he was very kind to open a few spaces to peep with one eye into the past. In Panam City, you can see both residential and entertainment buildings. For instance, there are four ballrooms that were used for gatherings and parties.

The Government regained the control over Panam Nagar only a few years back. Today Panam City is a protected site by the Department of Archaeology in Bangladesh. Before, there were homeless people, who used to stay in some of the buildings. Now they plan to restore the town little by little to transform it into a properly protected heritage site. Nowadays, Panam Nagar also serves as a place for movie and other creative shoots due to its unique ambiance. Panam Nagar is just 10 min walking distance from the Museum Complex. You can also take an e-rickshaw for 20 INR if you don’t feel like walking.

Visiting hours of Panam Nagar: The Complex works from Tuesday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. It remains closed on Sundays and public holidays. The ticket price is 20 Tk for Bangladeshi citizens and 100 Tk for foreigners.

Dhaka to Sonargaon bus service – how to reach?

You need to take a bus from Gulistan bus stop (23.723132, 90.412102). The road takes about one hour (depending on traffic in Dhaka) and costs 40 Tk one way by bus. From the station in Sonargaon, you can hire an e-rickshaw till museum for 20 Tk.

Advice: Ask the bus driver (several times! to ensure he understood) that whether the bus goes till Sonargaon. Also, ask the passengers on the bus if there is anyone going to Sonargaon or further. In my case, the driver stopped halfway in the mid-city and all passengers left the bus except me. Eventually, the driver told me to take another bus from there.

Of course, the bus will not leave you in the middle of nowhere. You will be at the station and there will be people to help you take the right bus. Just this is an extra hassle.

Note: If you are a woman, dress more conservatively. There is a lot of catcalling in Gulistan as it’s a cheap area. Nevertheless, for one unmannered guy, you get 10 people who will scold him should you give any sign.

You can take a bus from Sonargaon main road here (23.637052, 90.594123) back to Dhaka. Usually, there are several buses lined in the queue and they leave regularly every hour.

Sonargaon restaurants – where to eat?

Though there are lanes with both local cafes and restaurants near the station, I would recommend heading straight to the museum area. It is a touristic spot and there are several vendors there – from snacks to proper meals. As mentioned above, many families come to that park as a picnic spot. If you see women and kids eating in a place, you can be sure it’s good.

Moreover, the area close to the bus station doesn’t impress with its looks, so I wouldn’t recommend buying food from the street stalls unless you are with a local person.

I hope you found this introduction and review of Sonargaon trip useful. What about you? Would you like to visit it?

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Bangladesh Scenic Tours

Leading Tour Operator in Bangladesh

Beginners travel guide to Sonargaon in 2022

Bangladesh is filled with plenty of historical sites and Sonargaon is one of the most prominent ones. During the medieval age, it was the capital of the then Bengal. Alongside the role of capital, the region also had contributions in the administrative sector. For our beginner’s tourists here we show A to Z travel guide to Sonargaon.

Historians also have found evidence about the commercial centers and maritime ports in this particular region of Bangladesh.

Numbers of Muslim rulers have dominated the region with an iron hand that enriched the surrounding area. Since the 13th century, rulers have started using the place as their capital for the improved cultural features, natural beauty and environment.

Besides, several other rulers also used the place to ride into the throne of Bengal.

Unluckily, the region started losing its importance once the Mughal emperors changed its policies. Shifting the capital of Bengal to Jahangirnar (later named as Dhaka) in 1610 was such a decision.

With time, the area has lost the glory but the appeal to explore the ancient Bengal still is visible among the local and global tourists. They mostly visit the old remains of the decayed cities and villages.

It would be a nice pastime if you can manage a day to explore the glorious past. We will help you to explore the glorious past by the travel guide to Sonargaon.

Sonargaon Folk-Arts and Crafts Museum

Folk-Arts and Crafts Museum in Sonargaon is the most popular tourist spot here. The locals of the capital city also consider it as a prime tourist location.

After entering the premises of Sonargaon Folk-Arts and Crafts Museum, the visitors will find two museums. They are famous for their artifacts and backgrounds.

Famous painter of Bangladesh Joynul Abedin formed the original museum in 1975 on an old house called Bara Sardar Bari. The Sadar Bari was built in 1901. Historically, the place is important.

The artifacts of the museum belong to the 17th century of the then Bengal. They include the everyday items of the local people like daily life tools, utensils, ornaments, furniture, treasure box, arms, musical instruments, boats, decoration pieces. Most of the artifacts are related to the heritage of Bengal and the key attraction of this museum.

Moreover, the building that houses the museum also has been renovated to its original state. But the renovation is underway now and will open shortly after the renovation ends.

To display the enriched fabric culture of Sonargaon, another new museum has been built later on the same site.

Sonargaon once was famous for Moslin – a handmade share of the finest quality of fabrics. The saying goes that the sharee was too thin that an entire piece could be folded and stored in a tiny firebox.

So, the fabric arrested the attention of the royal families of home and abroad. Even the local elites also used to get the sharees for their families.

Luckily, the new museum has a display of such a fabric. Besides, there are some other items also on display like ornamented Kanthas (Nakshi Kantha), the mattress made of fabrics and brass, and many other historic artifacts.

You will wonder at the life-size ornamented houseboat which is also on display in the museum. Besides, you can experience ornamented wooden doors that the rich use in their house.

The ornamented wooden partition of a house is another attraction while the different wooden decoration pieces will also make you amazed.

You will also see some models of different types of boats which once were the key transportation mode in Bangladesh, it is a riverine country. Sadly, the boats are not available now.

Visiting Sonargaon Museum

Ticket price of sonargaon folk-arts and crafts museum.

The ticket price for entering the foundation premises is BDT 30 for locals and BDT 100 for the foreign nationals. You don’t need an extra ticket for entering the museum.

Car parking charges

A newly renovated car parking area is available adjacent to the museum. It’s quite spacious to park your motorized vehicles like buses and private cars. The charges for parking are as follows (no time limit):

• Bicycle: BDT 10
• CNG / Motor Bike: BDT 25
• Cars, SUVs, Vans (NOAH/HIACE): BDT 100
• Coaster: BDT 200
• Bus: BDT 300

Boat Riding on the Lake

Another attraction is the boat ride. The authorities have made an arrangement of riding paddle-wheel boats on the lake inside the museum premises. Ticket price for boat riding is BDT 20 per person and a rider can ride for 30 minutes with a ticket.

Fishing on the lake

You can go fishing by a hook on the lake. The price is BDT 1,750 for an entire day. You have to bring your own hook.

Picnic spot hiring

There are several picnic spots on the museum premises which you can hire for a picnic. Contact the authority for booking details and pricing. But you need to contact them at least a certain time before your program date.

Since the picnic spot is always busy, it is rented on a ‘first come first served’ basis.

Shooting of film

For the shooting of film, drama, documentary, television commercials and other types of visuals inside the museum premises, the charge is BDT 3,450 for a day.

Visiting Hours of Sonargaon Museum

Summer season (april – september).

• Tuesday – Saturday: 10.00 AM – 06.00 PM
• Museum Galleries: 10.30 AM – 05.30 PM
• Fridays 12.30 PM – 02.30 PM: – Museum Galleries Closed for Prayer.
• Wednesday & Thursday: Closed.
• Government holidays: Closed.

Winter Season (October – March)

• Tuesday – Saturday: 09.00 AM – 05.00 PM
• Museum Galleries: 09.30 AM – 04.30 PM

Sonargaon Museum is open during the Eid day for visitors. It will be closed only on the previous day of the Eid day.

Contact no of Sonargaon Museum

For any inquiry regarding Sonargaon Folk-Arts and Crafts Museum, You can call their official IVR based help desk no 09604 000 777 or land-phone no 02-7656331.

How to go Sonargaon

At first, you have to reach the Gulistan bus stand in Dhaka. Next, you have to take a bus to Moghrapara. The bus service called ‘Meghla’ goes to Mograpara.

From Mograpara, take a rickshaw to Sonargaon Museum. Bus service to Sonargaon also available from Chasara of Narayanganj.

Panam Nagar

Panam Nagar is an abandoned city now. Earlier, it was a paradise of the local Hindu merchants. The place is a 10-minute walk from Sonargaon Folk-Arts and Crafts Museum.

Undoubtedly, this is the most attractive tourist spot in Sonargaon for some of its extraordinary features.

Panam Nagar was founded at Sonargaon in the early 19th century during British rule in the sub-continent. It was established as a cotton fabric trading center.

Hindu merchants built their houses in this city. You will find 52 houses on a single street. The building style of these houses was influenced by European style with a mixture of traditional Bengal style.

When the British left the sub-incontinent dividing it based on religion, Sonargaon fell in the Muslim majority of the then Pakistan.

Several religious riots took place here and consequently, the Hindu merchants had to flee India with their family. They left their houses to the caretakers with an intention to return later.

Unluckily, their return never happened. Once a wealthy city full of life turned into an abandoned one.

The assigned caretakers later claimed the houses with forged documents. Later, the government of Bangladesh acquired the entire city from them.

Panam Nagar is now under the protection of the archaeological department of Bangladesh .

Panam Nagar is the only abandoned city of its kind in the entire world. Fifty-two abandoned houses on the same street make it look like a ghost city.

Mainly, there were two types of buildings in this city. The first category was aimed to be used for residential purposes while the other category was intended for entertainment.

The house owners used to hold entertainment parties every night in those buildings. They had the provision of different types of beverages, dancing, and singing by Baijis (professional female dancers).

These houses had a gallery in the middle. The house owner and his friends used to watch the performance of the Baijis from the gallery .

Now, Panam Nagar is a great place to spend an entire afternoon with the family on the outskirt of Dhaka.

Check out Panam Nagar: A fully abandoned city of the Hindu merchants in Bangladesh for more details on Panam Nagar with lots of photos.

Visiting Panam Nagar

Ticket price of panam nagar.

Panam Nagar was always open without any boundary and no ticket was previously required. However, the archeological department has recently taken initiative to make the boundary wall surrounding the city for security and protection purposes.

And now you will need a ticket to enter the city – Panam Nagar. The ticket price for locals is BDT 15 TK and for foreign nationals, it is BDT 100.

Visiting hours of Panam Nagar

• Tuesday – Saturday: Open from 9.00 am – 5.00 pm
• Sunday: Closed.
• Monday: Opens after 02.00 pm.

Panam Nagar will remain closed for visitors during Eid day and the previous day of Eid. It will remain open as usual from the next day of Eid day.

How to go Panam Nagar

Walk for 10 minutes or take a rickshaw from the gate of Sonargaon Museum to reach Panam Nagar.

Goaldi Mosque

Goaldi Mosque is a beautiful medieval period mosque in Sonargaon. The mosque is located around one-kilometer north-west of Panam Nagar. This is the only structure remaining in Sonargaon from the medieval period when it was the prime time of Sonargaon.

Mulla Hizabar Akbar Khan built the mosque in 1519 during the reign of Alauddin Husain Shah at a village called Goaldi.

This mosque fully collapsed including its single dome hidden behind the bushes. The archaeological department of Bangladesh later carefully restored the mosque.

Goaldi Mosque is now standing as its own state again. This is another must visiting sight in Sonargaon.

How to visit Goaldi Mosque

Ticket price of goaldi mosque.

No ticket is required to visit Goaldi Mosque.

Visiting hours of Goaldi Mosque

Goaldi Mosque is always open for visitors. If you find the gate locked, you’ll find the caretaker nearby to open it for you.

How to go Goaldi Mosque

Take a rickshaw or auto-rickshaw from the Museum of Panam Nagar to reach Sonargaon, and return on the same transport.

You can also see our Old Capital Tour Packages. We hope you enjoy the travel guide to Sonargaon. If you have any questions, please feel free to comment on the comment section or contact us .

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Lifestyle, travel and wildlife

Travel · March 12, 2019

A day trip from Dhaka to Sonargaon and Panam Nagar in Bangladesh

If you’re visiting Dhaka, then this guide tells you how to visit Sonargaon, the museum park and the old city of Panam Nagar by bus from the capital city in one day while on a budget.

Sonargaon is famous for being Bangladesh’s ‘Golden City’ and it was where the Hindu powers based themselves before the Muslim invasion. It was restored by an independent sultan and prospered for nearly 300 years until the Mughals decided the river location was too vulnerable to Burmese invaders. To replace Sonargaon they founded Dhaka and the rest is history.

Getting to Sonargaon

Sonargaon is the only really viable day trip that you can make from Dhaka and it will take you a full day to get there and back due to the traffic. The good news is that you can do this trip for under $4 including bus and entry fees. Bangladesh really is one of the cheapest places to visit in South Asia.

It isn’t a particularly difficult journey to make, but it can be really slow and it took us about 3 hours to get from Gulshan (take a bus or taxi) to Dhaka and then then from Dhaka to Sonargaon.

You can get a public bus or a private car – a private tour will cost about 5,000 taka and the bus costs about 40 taka each way plus entry fees but takes a lot longer. In a private car you can also visit the mini Taj Mahal monument at the same time and be back before dark.

We opted for the public bus, which you can get from either Sayedabad bus station or Gulistan bus terminal. You need to ask for Mograpara bus station as this is the place next to the highway where you’ll be dropped off.

It then takes about 30 minutes along the straight road to walk or you can get a rickshaw which should be 20 taka, but foreigners are quoted around 200 taka. We opted to walk but once you get past the shops near the Main Street, there wasn’t much to see.

Sonargaon Museum

The closest attraction to the main road is the Sonargaon Museum complex which houses the Folk Art and Craft Museum. The Sadarbari building below is closed for renovation in 2019 but you can see it from the outside.

Entry for a foreigner is 100 taka or 30 for Bangladeshis (much less than museums in Dhaka which are 500 taka for foreigners).

The complex gets busy as it is a playground for middle-class families and school groups of which there were many!

Be aware that many Bangladeshis have not seen foreign tourists so be prepared for selfies! We got asked a lot for selfies but we found that people were respectful and spent time chatting so we felt welcome. Some teachers even gave us hats as a gift!

The main sights are the new folk museum itself where the art is housed and the old ornate buildings at the front near the water tank.

When you walk around the complex, there is a boating lake, snack stalls, gift shops, art sculptures and gift stands. If you need any presents to send home, Bangladesh is great place to buy them as they’re cheap and they don’t have the inflated prices of nearby countries like India.

Panam Nagar

Once you’ve been around the grounds of the museum, it is a ten-minute walk to the Panam Nagar complex which is a street of 50 old mansions built by wealthy Hindus that remain as relics from the ancient capital city. The owners fled due to the Indian Partition so this isn’t the only place in Bangladesh with these abandoned homes as a result.

They are not particularly well preserved but they’re certainly atmospheric and worth seeing if you’ve come from Dhaka. A couple are occupied which makes them more interesting.

Panam Nagar costs 100 taka for a foreigner or 15 taka for a Bangladeshi so you can see both of Sonargaon’s attractions for 200 taka as a foreign tourist, which is great! These deserted buildings aren’t structurally sound so avoid going inside them.

Hidden away is the Goaldi Mosque which was built in 1519 but is now hard to see through tree foliage. On your way back it’s on a right-hand street after you’ve left Panam Nagar and you may have to ask a few times for directions! It’s free as it is essentially abandoned now.

Getting back to Dhaka

When you get back to the highway, cross at the flyover and get a ticket from the little booth to make sure you pay the right price for your ticket. There are many beggars on the bridge and it is quite harrowing to see people suffering due to a lack of public health provision.

Keep an eye on your map on the way back, as it’s a lot quicker to get into the city than out of it. Also, you may be dropped off on the flyover and have to walk down to street level to get back to the bus station.

Have you been travelling in Bangladesh? Whereabouts did you go and what did you like about it? Any questions then let me know in the comments below!

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Sonargaon & Panam City Tour

Day tour from dhaka to visit old capital sonargaon & abandoned city panam nagar, experience village life on a sandbank island, and more, day tour   $70* us, sonargaon & panam city tour to bangladesh old capital.

Experience the captivating Sonargaon and Panam City Tour, a day trip from Dhaka that showcases the highlights of Bengal’s old capital during the medieval era. Discover the abandoned city of Panam Nagar, a 19th-century trading center for Hindu cotton merchants. Explore the Sonargaon Folk Arts and Crafts Museum, Boro Sardar Bari, the pre-Mughal architecture Goaldi Mosque, and the tomb of an independent ruler of Sonargaon. Take a scenic boat ride on the Meghna River and experience the village life on a sandbank island. This tour is a must-do for anyone visiting Bangladesh, offering an immersive experience that reveals the country’s rich cultural heritage.

On Sonargaon & Panam City Tour, starting with visiting the pre-Mughal period Goaldi Mosque, you’ll see the Folk-Arts and Crafts Museum, which showcases the region’s rich textile heritage, and the newly renovated Baro Sardar Bari, a massive mansion from the British colonial period. Next, you’ll visit Panam Nagar, an entirely abandoned city of wealthy Hindu cotton merchants from the early 19th century, which is a highlight of the tour.

After lunch, have a pleasant boat ride on River Meghna with proper safety and experience village life on a sandbank island, which is different from the city life not far from there. You’ll conclude the tour by paying a visit to the tomb of a ruler from the 15th century, whose capital was Sonargaon, before returning to Dhaka. The Sonargaon & Panam City Tour is the second tour you should book if you visit Bangladesh after the Dhaka City Tour.

Highlights of Sonargaon & Panam City Tour

• Visit an entirely abandoned city of the Hindu cotton merchants from the early 19th century.
• Visit the tomb of an independent Sultan of Bengal in the 15th century, whose capital was Sonargaon.
• Visit a pre-Mughal mosque from the 16th century.
• Visit the newly renovated Boro Sardar Bari, a massive mansion from the same Panam Nagar period.
• Visit the Folk-arts and Crafts Museum and know the country’s rich textile heritage.
• Ride a boat on the mighty river Meghna.
• Experience village life on a sandbank island of river Meghna.

A map of the full-day Sonargaon & Panam City Tour to Bangladesh’s Old Capital with Nijhoom Tours.

Itinerary of Sonargaon & Panam City Tour

Contact us for the Detailed Itinerary

Price of Sonargaon & Panam City Tour

• 1 Person Gruop: $130 US Per Person
• 2 People Group: $95 US Per Person
• 3 People Group: $85 US Per Person
• 4 People Group: $70 US Per Person
• Private Tour: Please contact us for the price

Inclusions and Exclusions

Tour includes:.

• An air-conditioned car and driver.
• An English-speaking guide.
• All entrance tickets.
• Lunch at a local restaurant with authentic Bangladeshi food.
• Drinking water.
• All boat rides.
• All tips except our guide and driver.

Does not include:

• Any food or drinks other than those mentioned above.
• Any personal item.

Upcoming Group Tours

Contact us for the Latest Schedule

Crossing River Meghna with proper safety on a Sonargaon & Panam City Tour with Nijhoom Tours.

FAQs on Sonargaon & Panam City Tour

How is your sonargaon & panam city tour different than the others.

★ Safety: Customer safety is the priority of our tours. We'll use life jackets during boat rides for the safety of our customers. We'll never overload the boat on the river to save a few bucks. We'll provide a safe driver who will drive you safely in a country where everyone drives like crazy. Our cars will have seatbelts, which almost no one uses in Bangladesh. ★ Comfortable Car: We'll provide a comfortable, decent, clean car with air-conditioning to navigate the hectic Dhaka traffic for long hours. We'll not squeeze you into the middle seats of the car to save money. Everyone will get a comfortable window seat. ★ Food Hygiene: We'll be cautious about food safety on the tour so that you don't become sick from food poisoning, which is common in Bangladesh. We'll take you to restaurants that maintain good hygiene. ★ Numerous Positive Reviews: We have numerous positive reviews of our Sonargaon & Panam City Tour on TripAdvisor from our past clients who've had a pleasant and memorable experience with us. You'll have a great experience on our tour too! ★ Knowledgeable Guide: We'll provide a knowledgeable guide on our Sonargaon & Panam City Tour, who will be able to provide you with the history and other interesting information about the sites on the tour. ★ On-Time Pick-up: We'll not be late to pick you up and give excuses for traffic. ★ No Nuicense: We will not annoy you by taking a few dozen selfies with you on the tour and posting them directly on social media.

Why book Sonargaon & Panam City Tour with Nijhoom Tours?

★ Great Experience: You’ll have a great experience on our Sonargaon & Panam City Tour, as we are a multi-award-winning local tour operator in Bangladesh with vast local knowledge and the highest quality. We have the highest number of reviews in Bangladesh on TripAdvisor (375+ reviews) from our clients with an average rating of 5 on 5. We’ve been featured in the International Travel News Magazine multiple times, published in California, USA. ★ Support a Local Business: By directly booking with us instead of the giant foreign online platforms like Viator, ToursByLocals, GetYourGuide, TourRadar, Expedia, Kayak, or many others like them dominating the industry with huge marketing budgets, that only sell other local companies' tours and charge them a hefty commission, you are also supporting a local small business instead of a big foreign corporation. ★ Scheduled Tours: We have scheduled tours year-round. You can join any of them and reduce your cost. ★ Fast Communication: We reply fast. Communication with us will be a breeze. ★ Smooth Payment: Making payments with us will be swift for our Sonargaon & Panam City Tour. We offer multiple payment options with credit cards and bank transfers. You can pay us in major local currencies online and avoid paying any charges for making cross-border payments for our tours.

Interior of an abandoned house in Panam City. © Photo Credit: Tina Manley.

Important Notes

• Sonargaon & Panam City Tour is available to book any day of the week except Sunday , year-round.
• Panam Nagar will be closed on Sunday and will open after 02.00 pm on Monday. That is why we do not offer this tour on Sunday, as Panan Nagar is one of Sonargaon & Panam City Tour’s highlights.
• Sonargaon Folk-arts and Crafts Foundation, which contains the Boro Sardar Bari and the Folk-arts and Crafts Museum, will be closed on Thursday. You can see the beautiful mansion from outside if you book this tour on this day.
• There will be a heavy rush of local tourists at Panam Nagar and Sonargaon Folk-arts and Crafts Foundation on Friday, being the weekend.
• Panam Nagar will remain closed on any public holiday .
• Villagers on the river island we’ll be visiting are conservative. You should dress modestly on this tour. Wearing short pants/skirts, and sleeveless t-shirts/blouses will not be appropriate for the ladies. Bare shoulders and midriffs should be covered with shawls. Wearing short pants for men will not be a problem.

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• Irish Self-Tanners Do It Better

An Irish summer isn’t really “summer” in the sunshine sense. Although there are pockets of good weather, there’s never any guarantee of sun. Ever. It’s entirely unpredictable. The “forecast” invariably says showers, and even that isn’t a given. You just deal with whatever the weather throws at you on an hourly basis and always carry both sunglasses AND an umbrella , just in case . “Ireland would be a great country,” people love to say “if you could put a roof on it!”

Almost daily cloud cover means the concern is often more about adequate Vitamin D than SPF, and as for tanning? Yeah, that’s going to be from a bottle. Now, people in Ireland know some things better than others. A sharp wit. The best butter in the world. That kind of thing. The freckled and fair-skinned types also know fake tanner , and some of the best fake tanner brands come out of Ireland. You’ve heard of the Irish Goodbye, but have you heard of the Irish Hello? It’s most common during the summer when Irish people meet and don’t just say “ Hello’” they say “ Hello, is that tan real or fake?”

This is how my fellow fair-skinned Irish friend, the actress/comedian Aisling Bea greeted me when we met recently at Altro Paradiso for lunch with our (Irish-American) friend SNL Producer Erin Doyle. Aisling has skin so pale that when she has a single layer of fake tan on, you can’t even tell. She will readily tell you this. I, too, share this affliction. At the start of summer, I have to apply two layers of tan before my blindingly white legs are fit for public consumption. And by the way, this isn’t even to get a “sun-kissed” look — very pale people such as ourselves sometimes use fake tanner just to take the blue out of our translucent skin.

A few years ago, I met my Dublin friend Nicky for a drink, I think it was at Dudley’s on Orchard St. “ Is that tan real or fake?” I said, before she even sat down. “It’s Tan Organic oil,” she told me. “I just put it on this morning.”

As an airline Captain for Aer Lingus (I know, cool!), Nicky wears a white shirt as part of her uniform, so putting on fake tan before a flight seemed a bit ill advised to me. “Did that not stain your shirt?” I wondered. “No!” She said, telling me this particular tan doesn’t transfer even on white clothes. My eyes almost popped out of my head. Excuse me?! Fake tan stains are such a part of contemporary Irish living that my sister Sinead buys exclusively dark bed sheets for her fake-tanning teen daughters, and even then, her OCD level clean-freakiness can’t cope.

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My old fake tan process went like this: Apply at night — always at night — using gloves. Sleep in pajamas and sheets that you are okay staining and knowing the next day will need to be laundry day. But now with Tan Organic, I do it differently. I apply whenever I feel like it, often in the morning. I apply a small amount of oil in a thin layer all over, starting with the calves and working up. I don’t use gloves. And, I have learned over the years to do my own back using the backs of my hands (Pilates has helped with the contortions involved with that). The oil feels more like a dry oil — it’s not greasy like say, baby oil. Your skin feels moisturized, but not tacky.

After applying oil to the whole body, I take a small bit of body lotion and apply to elbows, knees and feet/ankles which brings down the intensity of the tan in those areas. Then I wash my hands and apply a drop of oil to the back of one hand and rub the backs of both hands together. That’s followed by a touch more lotion, which I rub into my hands like you would with hand cream, including the palms and wrists. Finally, I wipe off the excess from the palms with a damp washcloth. This really helps keep the tan even on the hands and wrists.

The oil absorbs remarkably fast into the skin and I even sit on my cream-colored sofa without worrying about leaving a fake tan stain. (I shudder remembering one Real Housewife of Beverly Hills rudely leaving the most offensive fake tan stain on Lisa Vanderpump’s white upholstery, and if I recall correctly, she was barely apologetic about it!) Within a couple of hours, my legs already get a really realistic tan, in fact it was the color that my skin actually goes when I have a real tan. I’d call the results a Light Bronze shade. If you want to, you can attain a deeper color by adding a second layer. I have done that and it works. (Tan Organic also offers lotion and a mousse for a darker tan, though I haven’t tried those.)

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This Luxury Hotel Has Its Own Yacht — Here's What It's Like Sailing On It

The visionary couple behind the beloved Tuscan boutique hotel Borgo San Pietro has introduced "Satori," a 137-foot sailing yacht.

Stuart Pearce/Courtesy of Borgo Lifestyle Group

This lifestyle luxury group is the gift that keeps on giving.

Shattering the glass ceiling with the highly talked about, award-winning 13th-century Tuscany boutique hotel Borgo Santo Pietro, the eponymous company now extends unrivaled charm and timeless design to Satori , the ultimate yacht experience.

A tender whisks me from the port in Athens, and we'll soon be approaching the yacht. From a short distance, I see the majestic Satori — or at least I hope I do. We start to slow for disembarkment, and the nautical blue starboard, vintage schooner shape, and vertical spars, standing majestic with the gods give her away. I do an internal backflip. It’s here, aboard this five-star luxury charter,  where I’ll spend the next few nights. 

Stacey Wreathall/Travel + Leisure

I’m greeted with flowing wine and hors d'oeuvres, and I don't know it yet, but for the next few days, every bite (and sip) I take will make my taste buds dance with the Mediterranean's brightest and most organically sourced flavors.

As my luggage is taken care of, I'm ushered towards the plush coffee lounge seating area where I meet Claus Thottrup, half of the duo behind the Borgo Santo Pietro Group of lifestyle companies. "C’est Magnifique" by Kay Starr hums in the background, and the rosé feels pleasing on the palate. Claus beams as he tells me passionately about Satori ’s air-conditioned wine cellar.

(Side note: You're invited to indulge in the wine services aboard the yacht, and with an admirable boutique collection of wines selected to complement the impressive meals on board, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a reason not to indulge. In fact, the cellar stocks biodynamic and sustainably produced wines sourced directly from Borgo Santo Pietro’s estate in Tuscany.)

Claus continues to tell me with pride all about the 12 years of dedication and commitment to creating excellent taste profiles. Before I know it, I’ve finished my rosé, and I'm being handed a glass of pinot noir, another Borgo classic that goes down all too well. 

Within an hour of my arrival, I slip into something more comfortable for sailing and began exploring.

At almost 137 feet in length, there’s ample opportunity for you to feel at home, and meandering through the space is easy. The teak flooring is smooth underfoot, and the flat floors make passing through each facet safe. With 376 square feet of indoor living space, encompassing a library, indoor dining area, and writing desk, you can take full advantage of the quiet moments. The best bit about this 'indoor' area is that you don’t feel like you're missing out on the sailing experience — the windows have been designed at sea level to bring expansive 360-degree views to you. In addition, the coffee deck at the stern lets you relax and be social with the wind in your hair. For complete privacy, the bow area offers an additional outdoor lounge. By night, it transforms into the most romantic cinema you’ve ever seen. 

With five luxury guest rooms including a main suite, Satori can accommodate up to 10 guests. On the other hand, with fewer guests, you can convert a cabin into a private spa facility with a steam room and treatments.

We dropped anchor in the most idyllic spots: Dokos, Hydra, Spetses, and Poros. Unlike other charters, this slimline sailing yacht can schmooze close to the turquoise rock pools and crystal-clear shallow depths. Our first stop was Agine, a picture-perfect lagoon for swimming, jet skis, and getting out the toys . Adrenaline lovers will have endless fun with the range of Seabobs, Kayaks, and Ringos.

An afternoon of frivolity can work up a serious appetite, and I soon learned that aboard Satori , feeling hungry is a good idea. No matter what time of the day, a meal is never just a plate of food; it's a labor of love, thought, and execution — and there's plenty to go around. Guests can expect to eat at the mid-deck dining table with open kitchen views and unobstructed destination scenes.  

Chefs are trained at Borgo Santo Pietro Saporium , the flagship Tuscany restaurant where authentic flavors and inventive cooking practices are the hallmarks of tantalizing cuisine. Needless to say, we were spoiled with inspired, flavourful dishes. My favorites were the lahmacun (a Middle Eastern flatbread), lobster risotto, and fresh tuna. For specifics, guests are encouraged to communicate preferences with the chef. 

Co-owners and designers Claus and Jeanette Thottrup made it their mission to capture a truly remarkable dining experience . As part of the Borgo Santo Pietro luxury lifestyle group, the culinary mission is one of great passion for the pair. With two Michelin-starred restaurants, a five-star boutique hotel, and unique guest experiences centered around food and wine, there’s no surprise that gourmet flavors are at the epicenter of a Satori voyage. 

Overamplifying the grace of Satori’s understated elegance and uncompromised comfort would ordinarily feel too much. But I catch a glimpse of myself in the glossy mahogany exterior, and amidst the deep diagonal layers of rich brown tones, I can see that Satori has gotten under my skin. Living up to her namesake meaning "instant enlightenment," I feel relaxed and at peace. Maybe it's the idea of traveling back in time?

This hand-carved wooden schooner gives all the vintage feels, as the inside decor illuminates the refined characteristics and prosperity of the 1920s and 1930s. The emphasis on clean lines, smooth round corners, and nature-inspired neutrals reflect a contemporary interpretation of Streamline Moderne . With orthopedic mattresses, sepia-tinted marble en-suite bathrooms, and technology-forward devices in every room, the old and new design elements merge unprecedentedly for a world-class sailing experience. I’m beginning to think that Satori’s unique narrative is what sailing dreams are made of.

The Genoa sail is out as we glide towards the island of Hydra. Island hopping and exploring untouched remnants of history are foremost on the itinerary. Of course, you can shape it to your liking, but for now, I felt like an Iconic star of the 1930s, taking in my first quintessential Greek experience.

A picturesque landscape that has seduced many with its stone mansions, brightly colored neighborhoods, and fairy-lit harbor is what you can expect from this island.  For us, getting lost in narrow alleys and visiting art museums is first on the agenda. Musing over the pleasant temperature came second. “This is shoulder season? It's perfect!” was the working title. Zero crowds and T-shirt weather make October in Greece a hot commodity — some might say it's the new July.  

Satori offers multiple sailing destinations, and guests can pick from a Mediterranean menu of beautiful places. Itineraries for Turkey, Croatia, Montenegro, Italy, France (Corsica) can be found here . Satori sails between June through October. Booking in advance is recommended to secure dates for that eagerly awaited romantic getaway or family adventure. 

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After Hajj Deaths, Egypt Suspends Companies That Took Pilgrims to Mecca

The action against 16 tour companies came as governments look into whether many travelers were not properly registered to make the journey into the desert.

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By Gerry Mullany

After hundreds of pilgrims died in the scorching desert heat during the annual hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, the Egyptian government announced on Saturday that it had suspended the licenses of 16 tour companies that had facilitated travel for some pilgrims to Saudi Arabia.

At least 450 people have died during this year’s pilgrimage, in which travelers endured maximum temperatures that ranged from 108 degrees to 120 degrees Fahrenheit (42 to 49 degrees Celsius). But the actual number of fatalities is expected to climb as governments get more accurate tallies of the deaths. (Egypt, for one, has officially acknowledged only 31 deaths.)

In announcing the suspension of the 16 travel companies, the Egyptian government said the businesses failed to offer the pilgrims important services like medical care. It said the companies did not provide the pilgrims with “appropriate accommodation,” which caused them to suffer from “exhaustion due to the high temperatures.”

Reuters reported that some travel agencies may not have officially registered for the pilgrimage, to get around the high costs of package tours. And, Reuters said, companies were being blamed for letting pilgrims travel to Saudi Arabia on personal visas, rather than hajj visas, which provide access to medical care and the holy sites.

Mahmoud Qassem, a member of Egypt’s Parliament, said the travel companies “left the pilgrims stranded and turned off their mobile phones” so they could not hear the travelers’ calls for help.

There were also complaints that pilgrims were not given access to enough cooling stations or water amid the intense heat.

The number of unregistered visitors — in addition to the intense desert heat — could have left Saudi Arabia unprepared for dealing with such a large influx of people.

Tunisia’s government has said that the death toll of pilgrims from that country was expected to rise from the 49 reported on Friday, as the number of people traveling on tourist visas became more clear.

The hajj has been the site of several tragedies, including a stampede in 2015 that killed more than 2,200 people . In recent years, with rising temperatures, many pilgrims have also succumbed to heat stress .

The Saudi government has said that during this year’s hajj, more than 1.8 million Muslims traveled to Mecca, 1.6 million of them from outside Saudi Arabia.

Hager Al-Hakeem contributed reporting from Luxor, Egypt.

An earlier version of this article misattributed reporting on travel agencies that may not have officially registered for the pilgrimage to the hajj. It was from Reuters, not The Associated Press.

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Gerry Mullany is an international news editor in New York. He previously held that role in Hong Kong, where he was responsible for coverage of breaking news in Asia and Australia.  He served as deputy politics editor for the 2008, 2012 and 2016 U.S. presidential races. More about Gerry Mullany