Khulna

Khulna Division is one of the eight administrative divisions of Bangladesh, located in the southwestern part of the country. Known for its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and economic importance, Khulna is home to the world’s largest mangrove forest—the Sundarbans—and one of the country’s busiest seaports, Mongla Port.

🗺️ Basic Information

• Name: Khulna Division (খুলনা বিভাগ)
• Established: 1960 (as a division)
• Division Capital: Khulna City
• Area: Approximately 22,285 km²
• Population: Around 17.8 million (as of the latest census)
• Timezone: BST (UTC +6)

🏙️ Administrative Districts (10)

Khulna Division is divided into 10 districts:

1. Khulna
2. Bagerhat
3. Satkhira
4. Jessore (Jashore)
5. Jhenaidah
6. Narail
7. Magura
8. Chuadanga
9. Kushtia
10. Meherpur

Each district is further divided into upazilas (sub-districts), unions, and villages.

🌿 Geography & Climate

• Location: Southwestern part of Bangladesh.
• Borders: India to the west, Barisal Division to the east, and Dhaka Division to the north.
• Notable Rivers: Ganges (Padma), Bhairab, Rupsha, and Kobadak.
• Climate: Tropical – hot and humid summers, mild winters, and heavy monsoon rains.

🌳 Important Landmarks & Natural Sites

• Sundarbans:
  The largest mangrove forest in the world, home to the Royal Bengal Tiger, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Sixty Dome Mosque (Shat Gombuj Masjid), Bagerhat:
  A UNESCO World Heritage Site from the 15th century.
• Karamjal Wildlife Center:
  Gateway to the Sundarbans with wildlife observation opportunities.
• Rabindra Complex, Kushtia:
  Historical residence of Rabindranath Tagore.
• Lalon Shah Mazar, Kushtia:
  Shrine of the spiritual leader Lalon Fakir.

🏭 Economy

• Industries:
  • Shrimp farming and fishery (a major export item)
  • Jute and textile industries
  • Shipbuilding (especially in Khulna)
  • Sundarbans-based eco-tourism
• Ports:
  • Mongla Port (2nd largest seaport in Bangladesh)
• Agriculture:
  Rice, jute, sugarcane, and betel leaves are important crops.

🛤️ Transport

• Road: Good highway networks connect Khulna with Dhaka and other major cities.
• Rail: Regular train services to Dhaka, Jessore, and other places.
• River: Traditional boat and launch services still operate.
• Air: Nearest airport – Jessore Airport (JSR).

👥 Culture & People

• Known for Baul music, folk traditions, and Lalon songs.
• Diverse mix of rural and urban lifestyles.
• Predominantly Bengali-speaking population with some tribal communities.