Imagine walking through narrow streets lined with ancient structures, each step taking you deeper into a tale of lost grandeur. What was once a thriving trade and commerce hub is now an abandoned town where nobody lives. Sonargaon, once the capital of Bengal, is today just an upazila of the Narayanganj district in Bangladesh.
As I approached Panam City, my mind was filled with a strange obsession—a rich city lost in history. Now, it is an abandoned city where no one lives anymore. Buildings hundreds of years old stand as silent witnesses of time on both sides of the narrow road. Near the entrance to Panam Nagar, a book made of cement contains a brief history of the city. Stepping into this city lost in the womb of time, I found myself lost in its glorious past.
Welcome to Panam City, an ancient trading hub that still holds the secrets of a glorious past within its walls. Join me as we unfold the rise, fall, and present of this extraordinary city.
The word “Panam” is believed to be of Persian origin, meaning “shelter.” According to historical accounts, the Panam area was part of the capital Sonargaon during Hindu rule in the late 13th century. In the 15th century, Isha Khan established the first capital of Bengal at Sonargaon. He designated Panam as the capital, and Sonargaon was ruled from there. With the River Meghna to the east and the Sitalakhya to the west, cloth from Britain and the famous muslin from this region were traded. Later, the English took over this cloth trade, transforming Panam into a hub for their indigo business.
Originally, Panam was a residential city for Hindu traders whose business spanned across Dhaka and Calcutta. After the Mughals acquired Sonargaon in 1611 AD, Panam was directly connected to the capital city through newly constructed roads and bridges. However, when the capital shifted to Dhaka in the 17th century, Sonargaon’s commercial importance declined, and the Muslim population moved to the new center of power.
Isa Khan, one of the 12 independent kings of Bengal, often visited this city. Among the three cities of ancient Sonargaon—Bara Nagar, Khas Nagar, and Panam Nagar—Panam was the most appealing. Because of this, Isa Khan frequently brought distinguished guests to Panam, showcasing the city’s splendor.
History also mentions that the famous Persian poet Hafiz was invited by Sultan Ghiyas Uddin Azam Shah of Bengal to visit Panam. Though Hafiz could not come due to his old age, he was so moved by the invitation that he composed a poem about Panam and sent it to the Sultan. Inspired by this poem, several Persian tourists later visited Panam City and were captivated by its beauty.
Falls:
During the 1964 India-Pakistan communal riots, this settlement of Hindu traders was targeted by looters. At that time, robbers looted the doors and windows. In 1971, when many Hindu businessmen migrated to India, Panam became almost deserted.
In 2006, Panam Nagar was included in the list of the 100 endangered historical cities of the world, underscoring its significance.
Architectural Highlights of Panam City
Among the few houses that have survived to this day in Panam Nagar, 52 are notable. There are 31 houses on the north side of Panam Road and 21 on the south side. Most of the houses are rectangular in a north-south layout and range from one to three stories in height. The architecture is a blend of Mughal, Greek, Gandharan, and local styles. Each home exhibits innovative flair in utility, craftsmanship, use of paint, and architectural style. Cast iron brackets, ventilators, and window grills are used along with brick, and the floors feature red, white, and black mosaic work. The design and cast iron work in these houses are equivalent to European standards, and many houses are adorned with ceramic tiles.
Each house is divided into inner and outer sections. Most have open courtyards within the outer enclosure. Panam Nagar’s planning is also impressive, with two canals on either side and five ponds for water supply. Almost every house has a well, and the land is sloped towards the canal to prevent waterlogging. The city has only one road running through it. Apart from residential buildings, there are temples, churches, monasteries, baths, dance halls, panthshalas, picture galleries, courtyards, secret passages, courthouses, old museums, and more.
Why Panam City is a Must-Visit Destination
1. Explore History Firsthand
1. Explore History FirsthandPanam City offers a rare opportunity to walk through an abandoned city steeped in history. The city’s empty streets and old buildings evoke a sense of nostalgia, allowing you to step back in time and imagine what life was like centuries ago. It is a place where history enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the past.
2. Perfect for Photography
Panam City’s ruins, ancient courtyards, and serene surroundings are a paradise for photographers. Whether it’s the vibrant colors of the ancient bricks, the play of light and shadow through the doors and windows of the buildings, or the tranquil beauty of an old palace, every shot here tells a different story. The unique atmosphere of the city is perfect for creative photography.
3. Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure
Compared to many other popular tourist destinations, Panam City offers a more intimate and offbeat experience. This is a place where you can explore at your own pace, away from the crowds. For those who love discovering hidden gems, Panam City provides a unique adventure and a sense of discovery that is hard to find elsewhere.
Travel Information for Panam City
How to Get There:
Panam City is located just one hour away from Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, approximately 30 km away. You can reach Sonargaon by car or bus. If traveling by bus, get down at the Mograpara bus stand in Narayanganj, and from there, you can easily reach the city by rickshaw or taxi.
Visitor Information:
| Sl No. | Day | Open/Closed | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | Sunday | Closed | N/A |
| 2. | Monday | Open | 2 PM – 5 PM |
| 3. | Tuesday-Saturday | Open | 9 AM – 5 PM |
Note: Closed on government holidays.
Entry Fee:
| Sl No. | Visitor Type | Entry Fee |
|---|---|---|
| 1. | Bangladeshi | 15 BDT |
| 2. | Foreigner | 100 BDT |
Note: Time and fees are subject to change by the maintenance authority.
The Importance of Preservation
While Panam City is an attractive place to visit, it also faces challenges from weather, neglect, and urbanization. Conservation efforts are underway to protect and maintain its historic structures, but they are not sufficient. As a visitor, you can support these efforts by promoting responsible tourism, respecting the site, and spreading awareness of its significance.
Conclusion
Panam City is a treasure trove of history, architecture, and culture, offering a unique travel experience in Bangladesh. Whether you’re a history buff, a photographer, or just someone who loves offbeat adventures, Panam City has something for everyone. Don’t forget to add this historic abandoned city to your travel plans and discover the stories hidden within its walls.
Call to Action
Have you visited Panam City or are you planning to? Share your experiences or questions in the comments below! And be sure to check out our other travel guides for more hidden gems around the world.
FAQs:
Why is Panam City famous?
Panam Nagar, or Ancient Panam City, is famous as a significant cultural heritage site of Bengal, being part of the ancient capital and the only remaining intact city of ancient Bengal today.
What country is Panam City in?
Panam City is located in Sonargaon Upazila, Narayanganj District, Bangladesh.
How old is Panam City?
Panam City traces its origin to the 13th century, declined in the 17th century, and experienced a revival in the 19th century.
What is the old capital of Bangladesh?
Sonargaon was the old capital of Bangladesh during the Mughal era. Panam City was part of it.
What is the ghost city of Bangladesh?
Panam Nagar, or Panam City, is the ghost city of Bangladesh, located in Sonargaon Upazila, Narayanganj District.
