# PRIME TIME SHORTWAVE (FREQUENCY CHART-sorted by country A to F)

PRIME TIME SHORTWAVE (FREQUENCY CHART) English shortwave broadcasts sorted by country Relay site codes: ae-United Arab Emirates, al-Albania, an-Antigua, ar-Armenia as-Ascension, at-Ausralia, au-Austria, bo-Bonaire Neth. Antilles, bt-Botswana,bu-Bulgaria, ca-Sackville Canada, ch-China, cl-Chile, cu-Cuba, cy-Cyprus, fg-French Guiana, fr-France, ga-Gabon, ge-Germany, gr-Greenville USA, hu-Hungary, ja-Japan, ka-Kazakhstan, ko-South Korea, ku-Kuwait, li-Lithuania, ma-Madagascar, ml-Mali, mo-Moldova, nm-North Mariana Islands, no-Norway, om-Oman, ph-Philippines, po-Sines Portugal, ru-Russia, rw-Rwanda, sa-Sao Tome e Principe, se-Seychelles, si-Singapore, sl-Sri Lanka, so-Slovakia,sp-Spain, sw-Sweden, ta-Taiwan,th-Thailand, tj-Tajikistan, tu-Turkey, uk-United Kingdom, uz-Uzbekistan, va-Santa Maria Vatican, wb-WBCQ USA, wr-WRMI USA, wy-WYFR USA, za-South Africa Notes -- Days of week: Su-Sunday, M-Monday, Tu-Tuesday, W-Wednesday,Th-Thursday, F-Friday, Sa-Saturday, exW-except WednesdayTarget areas: Af-Africa, Am-America, As-Asia, Eu-Europe, LA-Latin America,ME-Middle East, NA-North America, Oc-Oceania/Australia; Other: alt-alternatefrequency, drm-Digital Radio Mondiale, occ-occasional use, se-Special English This page was last updated by Ernest Riley on October 23, 2009. Version B09v01
Country Station UTC Time Notes Frequencies
Alaska KNLS 0800-0900 As 6150
Alaska KNLS 1000-1100 As 6150
Alaska KNLS 1200-1300 As 6150, 6915
Alaska KNLS 1400-1500 As 6890
Albania R. Tirana 0130-0145 NA, Tu-Su 7425
Albania R. Tirana 0245-0300 NA, Tu-Su 7425
Albania R. Tirana 0330-0400 NA, Tu-Su 6150
Albania R. Tirana 0430-0500 NA, Tu-Su 6100
Albania R. Tirana 1530-1600 NA, M-Sa 13640
Albania R. Tirana 1945-2000 Eu, M-Sa 7465
Albania R. Tirana 1945-2000 NA, M-Sa 11635
Albania R. Tirana 2100-2130 Eu, M-Sa 7520
Albania R. Tirana 2100-2130 NA, M-Sa 9895
Angola R. Nac. de Angola 2100-2200 Af 7217
Anguilla Wld Univ Network 0000-1000 Am 6090
Anguilla Wld Univ Network 1000-2200 Am 11775
Anguilla Wld Univ Network 2200-2400 Am 6090
Argentina RAE 0200-0300 NA,Tu-Sa 11710
Argentina RAE 1800-1900 Eu,M-F 9690, 15345
Australia ABC N Territory 0000-0830 As, Oc 4835
Australia ABC N Territory 0000-0830 As, Oc 4910
Australia ABC N Territory 0000-0830 As, Oc 5025
Australia ABC N Territory 0830-2130 As, Oc 2310
Australia ABC N Territory 0830-2130 As, Oc 2325
Australia ABC N Territory 0830-2130 As, Oc 2485
Australia ABC N Territory 2130-2400 As, Oc 4835
Australia ABC N Territory 2130-2400 As, Oc 4910
Australia ABC N Territory 2130-2400 As, Oc 5025
Australia CVC International 0830-1130 As 15555
Australia CVC International 1130-1500 As 13635
Australia CVC International 1500-1600 As 11730
Australia CVC International 1600-1730 As 9680
Australia HCJB Global 0245-0300 As 15400
Australia HCJB Global 0730-0930 Oc 11750
Australia HCJB Global 1200-1245 As 15400
Australia HCJB Global 1245-1300 As, Su-F 15400
Australia HCJB Global 1300-1330 As 15400
Australia HCJB Global 1445-1530 As 15425
Australia HCJB Global 2200-2230 As 15525
Australia R. Australia 0000-0030 As, Oc 9660, 12080, 13690,
15240, 17665, 17715,
17750, 17665, 17795
Australia R. Australia 0030-0100 As, Oc 9660, 12080, 13690,
15240, 15415, 17665,
17715, 17750, 17665,
17795
Australia R. Australia 0100-0130 As, Oc 9660, 12080, 13690,
15240, 15415, 17665,
17715, 17750, 17665,
17795
Australia R. Australia 0130-0200 As, Oc 9660, 12080, 13690,
15240, 15415, 17665,
17715, 17750, 17665,
17795
Australia R. Australia 0200-0400 As, Oc 9660, 12080, 13690,
15240, 15415, 15515,
17750, 21725
Australia R. Australia 0400-0430 As, Oc 9660, 12080, 13690,
15240, 15515, 17750,
21725
Australia R. Australia 0430-0500 As, Oc 9660, 12080, 13690,
15240, 15415, 15515,
17750, 21725
Australia R. Australia 0500-0530 As, Oc 9660, 12080, 13690,
15160, 15240, 15515,
17750
Australia R. Australia 0530-0600 As, Oc 9660, 12080, 13690,
15160, 15240, 15415,
15515, 17750
Australia R. Australia 0600-0630 As, Oc 9660, 11650, 12080,
13690, 15160, 15240,
15515, 17750
Australia R. Australia 0600-0630 As,,Sa-Su 15180, 15290ta, 15415
Australia R. Australia 0630-0700 As, Oc 9660, 11650, 12080,
13690, 15160, 15240,
15415, 15515, 17750
Australia R. Australia 0700-0800 As, Oc 9475, 9660, 9710, 11650,
11945, 12080, 13630,
15160, 15240, 17750
Australia R. Australia 0800-0900 As, Oc 9475, 9580, 9590, 9710,
11945, 12080, 13630
Australia R. Australia 0900-0930 As, Oc 9475, 9580, 9590, 11945,
12080
Australia R. Australia 0930-1100 As, Oc 9475, 9580, 9590, 11945,
12080
Australia R. Australia 1100-1200 As, Oc 5995, 6020, 9475, 9560,
9580, 9590, 11945,
12080drm
Australia R. Australia 1200-1300 As, Oc 5995 drm, 6020, 9475,
9560, 9580, 9590, 11945
Australia R. Australia 1300-1400 As, Oc 5995 drm, 6020, 9560,
9580, 9590
Australia R. Australia 1400-1430 As, Oc 5995, 6080, 7240, 9590,
9625
Australia R. Australia 1430-1600 As, Oc 5995, 6080, 7240, 9475,
9590, 9625, 11660
Australia R. Australia 1600-1700 As, Oc 5995, 6080, 7240, 9475,
9580, 9710, 11660
Australia R. Australia 1700-1800 As, Oc 5995, 6080, 9475,9580,
9710, 11880
Australia R. Australia 1800-1900 As, Oc 6080, 7240,9475,9580,
9710, 11880
Australia R. Australia 1900-2000 As, Oc 6080, 7240,9500,9580,
9710, 11880
Australia R. Australia 2000-2100 As, Oc 6080 Sa-Su,7240 Sa-Su,
9500, 11650, 11660,
11880, 12080 Sa-Su
Australia R. Australia 2100-2200 As, Oc 9500,9660,11650,11660,
11695, 12080,13630,
15515
Australia R. Australia 2200-2300 As, Oc 11840, 13630,15230,
15240ta, 15515, 15560
Australia R. Australia 2300-2330 As, Oc 9660, 11840, 12080,
13690, 15230,5240ta,
15560, 17795
Australia R. Australia 2330-2400 As, Oc 9660, 11840, 12080,
13690, 15230, 5415,
17750, 15560, 17795
Austria AWR 2100-2130 Af 9830
Austria Osterreich 1 News 0013-0017 LA 9820
Austria Osterreich 1 News 0043-0047 NA 9820
Bangladesh Bangladesh Betar 1230-1300 As 7250
Bangladesh Bangladesh Betar 1745-1815 Eu 7250
Bangladesh Bangladesh Betar 1815-1900 Eu 7250
Belarus R. Belarus 2000-2200 Eu 7210, 7255, 7390
Belgium TDP Radio 0700-0800 As 17755at
Belgium TDP Radio 0800-0900 Eu, M 6015fr drm
Belgium TDP Radio 0900-1000 Eu, Tu 6015fr drm
Belgium TDP Radio 1000-1100 Eu, W 6015fr drm
Belgium TDP Radio 1100-1200 Eu, Th 6015fr drm
Belgium TDP Radio 1200-1300 Eu, F 6015fr drm
Belgium TDP Radio 1300-1400 Eu, Sa 6015fr drm
Belgium TDP Radio 1400-1500 Eu, Su 6015fr drm
Belgium TDP Radio 1500-1600 Eu 6015fr drm
Belgium TDP Radio 2300-2400 Am 9790ca drm
Bulgaria R. Bulgaria 0000-0100 NA 5900, 7400
Bulgaria R. Bulgaria 0300-0400 NA 5900, 7400
Bulgaria R. Bulgaria 0730-0800 Eu 5900, 7400
Bulgaria R. Bulgaria 1830-1900 Eu 6200, 7400, 9700 drm
Bulgaria R. Bulgaria 2200-2300 Eu 6200, 7400
Canada Bible Voice 0030-0100 As, F-Su 9490ge
Canada Bible Voice 0700-0730 Eu, Su 5945ge
Canada Bible Voice 0700-0815 Eu, Sa 5945ge
Canada Bible Voice 0745-0800 Eu, F 5945ge
Canada Bible Voice 1015-1045 As, Su 5910ru
Canada Bible Voice 1115-1130 As, M-F 5945ru
Canada Bible Voice 1115-1145 As, Su 5945ru
Canada Bible Voice 1115-1200 As, Sa 5945ru
Canada Bible Voice 1145-1200 As, Su 5945ru
Canada Bible Voice 1400-1500 As, Sa-Su 17805ge
Canada Bible Voice 1500-1515 As, Su 15680ge
Canada Bible Voice 1500-1530 As, Sa 15295ge
Canada Bible Voice 1530-1600 As, Th,Sa 15680ge
Canada Bible Voice 1530-1815 ME, Su 13590ge
Canada Bible Voice 1545-1600 ME, M,W 13590ge
Canada Bible Voice 1545-1615 ME, F 13590ge
Canada Bible Voice 1545-1645 ME, Th 13590ge
Canada Bible Voice 1545-1700 ME, Tu 13590ge
Canada Bible Voice 1545-1730 ME, Sa 13590ge
Canada Bible Voice 1700-1800 ME, Sa 9430ge
Canada Bible Voice 1730-1800 ME, F 13590ge
Canada Bible Voice 1730-1800 ME, Su 9430ge
Canada Bible Voice 1800-1815 ME, Sa 11970ge
Canada Bible Voice 1800-1830 ME, Sa 13590ge
Canada Bible Voice 1800-1845 Eu, Sa 6130ge
Canada Bible Voice 1800-1900 ME, Sa 9430ge
Canada Bible Voice 1800-1900 Eu, Su 6130ge
Canada Bible Voice 1815-1845 ME, Su 9430ge
Canada Bible Voice 1830-1900 ME, F 9430ge
Canada Bible Voice 1845-2000 Af, Su 11830ge
Canada Bible Voice 1945-2015 Af, M-F 11830ge
Canada CBCNQ 0000-0100 NA 9625
Canada CBCNQ 0100-0505 NA, Su,M 9625
Canada CBCNQ 0300-0505 NA, Tu-Sa 9625
Canada CBCNQ 1100-1400 NA, Sa 9625
Canada CBCNQ 1100-1600 NA, Su 9625
Canada CBCNQ 1300-1600 NA, M-F 9625
Canada CBCNQ 1500-2300 NA, Sa 9625
Canada CBCNQ 1800-2100 NA, Su 9625
Canada CBCNQ 2200-2300 NA, Su 9625
Canada CBCNQ 2300-2400 NA 9625
Canada CFRX 0000-2400 NA 6070
Canada CFVP 0000-2400 NA 6030
Canada CKZN 0000-2400 NA 6160
Canada CKZU 0000-2400 NA 6160
Canada R. Canada Int'l 0000-0057 As 9880ch
Canada R. Canada Int'l 0005-0104 Am 9755
Canada R. Canada Int'l 0100-0159 As 6165tu, 7255uk
Canada R. Canada Int'l 1500-1557 ME, As 9635ch, 11975ch
Canada R. Canada Int'l 1505-1704 NA 9610, 9800 drm
Canada R. Canada Int'l 1800-1859 Af 9740ch, 11845va, 3650,
15365, 17790
Canada R. Canada Int'l 2000-2100 Eu, Af 15235, 17735
Canada R. Canada Int'l 2100-2200 NA 9800 drm
Canada R. Canada Int'l 2305-0004 Am, M-F 9755
China China R. Int'l 0000-0057 Eu 7350
China China R. Int'l 0000-0057 As 6005, 6180, 7235, 7425,
9425, 11650, 11790, 11885
China China R. Int'l 0000-0157 NA 6020al, 9570al
China China R. Int'l 0030-0127 As 11730
China China R. Int'l 0100-0157 NA 6005ca, 6080ca drm,
9580cu
China China R. Int'l 0100-0157 As 6075, 6175, 9420, 11650,
11885
China China R. Int'l 0100-0157 Eu 7350, 9410
China China R. Int'l 0200-0257 As 11785, 13640
China China R. Int'l 0230-0257 ME 15435
China China R. Int'l 0300-0357 NA 6190ca, 9690sp, 9790cu
China China R. Int'l 0300-0357 As 15110, 11785
China China R. Int'l 0300-0457 As 9460, 13620, 15120
China China R. Int'l 0400-0457 NA 6190ca
China China R. Int'l 0400-0557 As 17725, 17855
China China R. Int'l 0500-0557 NA 5960ca, 6190ca
China China R. Int'l 0500-0557 Af 7220
China China R. Int'l 0500-0657 ME 17505
China China R. Int'l 0500-0657 Af 17505
China China R. Int'l 0500-0857 As 11880, 15350, 15465,
17540
China China R. Int'l 0600-0657 ME 11770, 15145
China China R. Int'l 0600-0657 NA 6115ca
China China R. Int'l 0600-0657 Af 11750
China China R. Int'l 0600-0757 As 13645, 17710
China China R. Int'l 0700-0757 ME 15125
China China R. Int'l 0700-0757 Af 15125
China China R. Int'l 0700-0857 Eu 11785al, 17490
China China R. Int'l 0800-0857 ME 15625
China China R. Int'l 0800-0957 As 9415
China China R. Int'l 0900-0957 Eu 15270, 17490, 17570
China China R. Int'l 0900-0957 As 15350, 17750
China China R. Int'l 0900-1057 Oc 15210, 17690
China China R. Int'l 1000-1057 As 7215, 11640, 15190, 15350
China China R. Int'l 1000-1057 Eu 17490
China China R. Int'l 1000-1157 As 13590, 13720
China China R. Int'l 1000-1557 As 5955
China China R. Int'l 1100-1127 As 6060
China China R. Int'l 1100-1157 NA 5960ca
China China R. Int'l 1100-1157 As 9570, 11650, 11795, 13645
China China R. Int'l 1100-1257 Eu 13665al, 17490
China China R. Int'l 1200-1257 Eu 13790
China China R. Int'l 1200-1257 As 7250, 9460, 9600, 9645,
9730, 11650, 11690,
11980, 12105
China China R. Int'l 1200-1257 Oc 9760, 11760
China China R. Int'l 1230-1257 As 11780
China China R. Int'l 1300-1357 Oc 11760, 11900
China China R. Int'l 1300-1357 NA 9570cu, 11885ca, 15230ca
China China R. Int'l 1300-1357 Eu 13670, 13790
China China R. Int'l 1300-1357 As 7300, 9655, 9730, 9870,
11980
China China R. Int'l 1300-1457 As 9765
China China R. Int'l 1400-1427 As 7325
China China R. Int'l 1400-1457 Eu 9700, 9795
China China R. Int'l 1400-1457 NA 13675ca, 15230ca
China China R. Int'l 1400-1457 As 7300, 9460, 9765, 11665
China China R. Int'l 1400-1557 Af 13685ml, 17630ml
China China R. Int'l 1400-1557 As 9870
China China R. Int'l 1400-1557 NA 13740cu
China China R. Int'l 1500-1557 Eu 9435, 9525
China China R. Int'l 1500-1557 As 7325, 7405, 9785, 9870
China China R. Int'l 1500-1557 ME 6095, 9720
China China R. Int'l 1530-1557 ME 9600
China China R. Int'l 1600-1657 Eu 7255, 9435, 9525, 11650
China China R. Int'l 1600-1657 As 6060, 7235
China China R. Int'l 1600-1657 Af 7420
China China R. Int'l 1600-1757 Af 7435, 9570
China China R. Int'l 1700-1757 Eu 6100, 7205, 7255, 7335
China China R. Int'l 1700-1757 As 6090, 6140, 7410, 7420,
7425
China China R. Int'l 1700-1757 ME 6100, 7420, 9600
China China R. Int'l 1800-1827 Eu 7265
China China R. Int'l 1800-1857 Eu 6100, 7405
China China R. Int'l 1800-1857 ME 6165
China China R. Int'l 1900-1957 ME 7295, 9440
China China R. Int'l 1900-1957 Af 7295, 9440
China China R. Int'l 1900-1957 Eu 7285al
China China R. Int'l 2000-2057 Af 5985, 7295, 9440,
11640ml, 13630ml
China China R. Int'l 2000-2057 Eu 7415, 9600
China China R. Int'l 2000-2057 ME 7295, 9440
China China R. Int'l 2000-2157 Eu 5960al, 7285al
China China R. Int'l 2100-2127 Eu 7250, 11640, 13630
China China R. Int'l 2100-2127 Af 11640ml, 13630ml
China China R. Int'l 2100-2157 Eu 6135, 7225, 7415, 9600
China China R. Int'l 2100-2157 Af 7205, 7405
China China R. Int'l 2130-2157 Eu 7325, 7365
China China R. Int'l 2200-2257 As 5915
China China R. Int'l 2300-2357 As 5915, 6145, 7415, 9610,
11790
China China R. Int'l 2300-2357 Eu 7350
China China R. Int'l 2300-2400 NA 6040ca, 11970ca
China China R. Int'l 2300-2400 LA 5990cu
Costa Rica Wld Univ Network 0000-0200 NA 13750
Costa Rica Wld Univ Network 0000-0600 Am,Eu,Af 5030, 6150, 7375, 9725
Costa Rica Wld Univ Network 0600-0900 Am,Eu,Af 5030, 6150, 7375, 9725
Costa Rica Wld Univ Network 0900-1200 Am,Eu,Af 5030, 6150, 7375, 9725
Costa Rica Wld Univ Network 1200-1600 Am 9725, 11870, 13750
Costa Rica Wld Univ Network 1600-2000 NA 9725, 11870, 13750
Costa Rica Wld Univ Network 2000-2400 NA 9725, 11870, 13750
Croatia V. of Croatia 0200-0230 NA, LA 7375ge
Croatia V. of Croatia 0300-0330 Eu 3985
Croatia V. of Croatia 0700-0705 Eu 6165
Croatia V. of Croatia 1000-1005 Oc 11675si
Croatia V. of Croatia 1100-1105 Eu, M-F 7370
Croatia V. of Croatia 1700-1730 Eu 6165
Croatia V. of Croatia 1905-1915 Eu 6165
Croatia V. of Croatia 2215-2230 LA 7375ge
Croatia V. of Croatia 2215-2230 Eu 3985
Cuba R. Havana Cuba 0100-0500 NA 6000, 6140
Cuba R. Havana Cuba 0500-0700 NA, LA 6000, 6010, 6060, 6140,
11760
Cuba R. Havana Cuba 2030-2130 LA 11760, 17660
Cuba R. Havana Cuba 2300-2400 NA 13790
Cuba R. N. de Venezuela1100-1200 LA 6060
Cuba R. N. de Venezuela2300-2310 LA 13680, 15250
Czech Republic R. Prague 0100-0127 NA 6200, 7355
Czech Republic R. Prague 0200-0227 NA 6200, 7355
Czech Republic R. Prague 0400-0427 NA 6200, 7345
Czech Republic R. Prague 0430-0457 Af, As 9855
Czech Republic R. Prague 0800-0827 Eu 7345, 9860
Czech Republic R. Prague 1000-1027 As 15700
Czech Republic R. Prague 1000-1027 LA 9955wr
Czech Republic R. Prague 1000-1027 Af 21745
Czech Republic R. Prague 1130-1157 Eu 11640
Czech Republic R. Prague 1130-1157 Af, ME 17545
Czech Republic R. Prague 1330-1357 Eu, F-Sa 9850uk drm
Czech Republic R. Prague 1400-1427 NA 13580
Czech Republic R. Prague 1400-1427 As 11600
Czech Republic R. Prague 1400-1430 Eu, Sa 9660uk drm
Czech Republic R. Prague 1500-1527 NA 9955wr
Czech Republic R. Prague 1700-1727 Eu 5930
Czech Republic R. Prague 1700-1727 Af 15710
Czech Republic R. Prague 1800-1827 Eu 5930
Czech Republic R. Prague 1800-1827 As, Oc 9400
Czech Republic R. Prague 2100-2127 Eu, NA 5930
Czech Republic R. Prague 2100-2127 As, Oc 9430
Czech Republic R. Prague 2230-2257 Af 7355
Czech Republic R. Prague 2230-2257 NA 5930
Czech Republic R. Prague 2330-2357 NA 5930
Czech Republic R. Prague 2330-2357 Af 7355
Diego Garcia AFRTS 0000-2400 As 4319 USB, 12579 USB
Ecuador HCJB Global 0315-0330 NA, LA 9745
Egypt R. Cairo 0000-0030 NA 7580
Egypt R. Cairo 0200-0330 NA 7540
Egypt R. Cairo 1215-1330 As 17870
Egypt R. Cairo 1600-1800 Af 12170, 13660
Egypt R. Cairo 1900-2030 Af 11510
Egypt R. Cairo 2115-2245 Eu 6270
Egypt R. Cairo 2300-2400 NA 7580
Equ Guinea R. Africa 0800-1300 Af 15190
Equ Guinea R. Africa 1415-2300 Af 15190
France R. France Int'l 0400-0430 Af 9805, 11995
France R. France Int'l 0500-0530 Af 11995, 13680
France R. France Int'l 0600-0630 Af 9765, 15160, 17800
France R. France Int'l 0700-0730 Af 13675
France R. France Int'l 1200-1230 Af 21620
France R. France Int'l 1600-1700 Af 15605, 17605

* DEUTSCHE WELLE RADIO, English Service: QUIZ Competition/October 09

*****************************************************************

DEUTSCHE WELLE RADIO, ENGLISH SERVICE
SPORTS REPORT QUIZ: OCTOBER 09


Your chance to win great prizes!

October sees the start of the new NBA season. For Germany’s best basketball player, Dirk Nowitzki, it might be the last chance to finally win the Championship title.

In our Sports quiz we would like to know:

Which team does Nowitzki play for?

Is it
a) Chicago Bulls
b) New York Knicks
or
c) Dallas Mavericks ?

If you know the answer, please send it to sport.english@dw-world.de or to: Deutsche Welle Radio/English, 53110 Bonn, Germany.
The winner will receive a shortwave radio and the four runners-up will each get a Deutsche Welle football.
Good luck!

Previous Winners:
April:Radio Winner:

Paidraig McGreal - Republic of Ireland

Runners-up:

Öwamga Jerbert - Uganda

Miss Hindun - Indonesia

Donovan Parkinson - Canada

Nita Viegas - India

May:Radio Winner:

Paterne Mizero - Rwanda
Runners-up:

Milana Bessarab - Russia

J. Sangeetha - India

Belal Hossain - Bangladesh

Ibrahim Bunu - Nigeria
Congratulations!

*******************************************************************

DEUTSCHE WELLE RADIO, ENGLISH SERVICE

NEWSLINK QUIZ: OCTOBER 09

Your chance to win an MP-3-Player!

Germany is celebrating a major anniversary this year – the fall of the Berlin wall, an event which paved the way to German reunification.

In our Newslink quiz this month we’d like to know:

How many years have passed since then?

a) 10 years

b) 20 years
or
c) 30 years?

If you know the answer, send it to newslink@dw-world.de or to Deutsche Welle, English Service, 53110 Bonn, Germany.You can win a shortwave radio or an MP3 player.

Good luck!

Previous Winners:

May:Winner:

Jay Handel - Canada

Runners-up:

M. Salahuddin Bhuiya - Bangladesh

Yin Cheung Mar - Hongkong

Claire Walkinshaw - New Zealand

Agyemang Karikari Marfo - Ghana

Michael Joseph - Tanzania

June:Winner:

Richard J. Bianchino - U.S.A.

Runners-up:

Ibrahim Bunu - Nigeria

Marlies Henke - Canada

G. Morscheck - Australia

Bernadette-Ann Simmons - Trinidad &

TobagoJulius Angelo Colaco - India
Congratulations!

*******************************************************************

DEUTSCHE WELLE RADIO, ENGLISH SERVICE

INBOX QUIZ: OCTOBER 09

Halloween - or All Hallow's Eve - is celebrated in October - this month we want you to tell us the actual date of this ghoulish festival

Spiders' webs, vampires and bats - appropriate accessories for that special night when adults and children alike dress up and take part in Trick or Treating, costume balls or simply attend Halloween parties.

On All Hallows’ eve, which is where the name originates from, the ancient Celts would place a skull on their window sill to represent the departed. Later on, the skull was replaced by carved turnips and even later, when it became popular in North America where pumpkins are readily available – the Jack o’ Lantern became the hallmark of Halloween – a carved out pumpkin lit from within with either a candle or light bulb.


It’s hugely celebrated in the United States of America and has only quite recently become a hit here in Germany.

Our October question is: on what date is Halloween celebrated

is it-
a) 1st October
b) 31st October or
c) 25th October

Naturally we are also interested in hearing your thoughts on the matter. Perhaps you have an story you would like to share with us! It could very well be featured in the program or on our web page.
Get your entry sent off by 31st October at the latest - as an e-mail to:
inbox@dw-world.de
- as a text message to:
+49 160148 1000
- by post to:
Deutsche Welle, English Service, Inbox, 53110 Bonn, Germany

Good luck!

*********************************************************************

DEUTSCHE WELLE RADIO, ASIA ENGLISH SDEPARTMENT

QUIZ OF THE MONTH: OCTOBER 09

Answer the following question to win a short-wave radio and other Deutsche Welle prizes!

Which country is being celebrated by the 2009 Frankfurt Book Fair?

A. Japan
B. India
C. China

To enter the prize draw, please send your answers and your postal addresses to us at myasia@dw-world.de or to Deutsche Welle Radio, Asia English Department, Kurt-Schumacher Straße 3, 53113 Bonn, Germany.

The draw will take place at the end of the month -- the winners will be informed on our radio programme Asia Compact and on this site. Good luck!

* Visit Rajshahi

Rajshahi is the capital of Rajshahi Division in Bangladesh.

Understand

Rajshahi is a city in Rajshahi District in northwestern Bangladesh, and is one of the most peaceful areas of the country.The river Padma,one of the major rivers of Indian subcontinent runs along the city. Rajshahi has a population of 700,000. It is the headquarter of the Rajshahi division, one of the six administrative divisions in Bangladesh. Rajshahi municipality established in 1876,one of the first in Bangladesh. Rajshahi is located near many ancient capitals of Bengal,notably 'Lakhnoiti' or 'Lokhnaboti' and 'Pundra'. Rajshahi is home to many educational institutes,and is often referred to in Bangladesh as 'education city'. It is famous for pure silk, mango and lichi. Attractive silk products are cheaper in Rajshahi and is often referred to as the 'silk city'. There are also a number ancient mosques, shrines and temples in and around Rajshahi. The city of Rajshahi was declared as the happiest city in the world by the World Happiness Survey in 2006. The city has very peaceful environment.

Get in
Rajshahi is connected to the rest of the country through roads, water, rail and air.

By air

Shah Mokhdum Airport an airport named after the famous Preacher Hazrat Shah Mokhdum (Rh.) is situated a short distance away from

By bus
It takes approximately 5 hours by road to reach the capital, Dhaka. A number of bus services including AC and non-AC buses are available from and to Dhaka via Natore. Bus services to other major districts are also available from the Bus Terminal of Rajshahi.Buses for Dhaka-
Greenline
Hanif Enterprise
NP Elegance
Modern Enterprise
National Travels

By train
A luxurious intercity express train named Silk City Express runs between Dhaka and Rajshahi. There are also number of intercity express trains runs between Rajshahi and other major cities of Bangladesh. Another intercity train running between Dhaka and Rajshahi is the Padma Express.
Silk City Express Start from Dhaka to Rajshahi at 03:00PM and Start from Rajshahi to Dhaka at 07:15AM.
Padma Express Start from Dhaka to Rajshahi at 11:45PM and Start from Rajshahi to Dhaka at 04:00PM.
Weekly Holiday Silk City Express : Sunday and Padma Express : Tuesday

Get around
Taxicabs are available. "Rickshaw(a tri-cycle human paddled vehicle)" and "auto-rickshaw" are also available.Taking a rickshaw is a good way to travel around when you have time at hand. The travel expenses are much cheaper than the capital city of Dhaka, and the most important thing is you won't find any road traffic-jam or snitcher around the streets of Rajshahi.
See

# River Side There is a beautiful seeing sight by the bank of river Padma.At rainy season,water comes up and it looks realy beautiful.

# Chhota Sona Mosque One of the most graceful monument of the Sultanate period is the Chhota Sona Masjid or Small Golden Mosque at Gaur in Rajshahi Built by one Wali Muhammad during the reign of Sultan Alauddin Husain Shah (1493-1519). Originally it was roofed over with 15 gold-gilded domes including the 3 Chauchala domes in the middle row, from which it derives its curious name.

# Varendra Research Museum Situated at Rajshahi, this museum has a rich collection of objects of Mohenjodaro and also of 16th to 19th century A.D. This is devoted to the study of ancient history and culture. Its rich collections contain interesting objects of past Hindu, Buddhist and Muslim heritage. It is located at the heart of Rajshahi town and maintained by Rajshahi University authority. The year of its formal establishment is 1910 A.D. Admission is free.

# Shrine of Hazrat Shah Mokhdum(Rh.) A Majar or Dorga(Shrine)is established around the grave of Hazrat Shah Mokhdum Ruposh(Rh.) in Rajshahi city.Is is said that he was the first Islam preacher in the Rajshahi region.It is said that he came to Rajshahi through the river Padma riding two crocodiles.Even now,some crocodiles are reserved in the Dhighi(Large pond) next to the shrine of Hazrat Shah Mokhdum(Rh).

# Central Park and Zoo A central park and zoo is one of the main attractions of Rajshahi city.A wide area with lush green trees and grasses also houses different animal species. It is located by the bank of river Padma.

# Bangladesh Betar Bangladesh Betar(Radio Bangladesh) has a regional station in Rajshahi which transmits various programs of mass interest.Rajshahi station has broadcasting house and transmitter in different campus.Two transmitters of 100kW and 10kW transmitting capacity transmits the programs development at the broadcasting house.Bangladesh betar,Rajshahi station transmits its programs in Medium Wavelength.


# Puthia Palace Situated a little far away from the city. Its an ancient palace which attracts all to visit.


# Shahid Zia Park An amusement park for pleasure. It has mono rail, bumping cars and many other exciting things for amusement. It is under the Rajshahi City Corporation.


# Bagha Mosque A historical mosque situated in Bagha of Rajshahi. There is a picture of this mosque in one side of 50 taka note.
# Rajshahi University. You must see this well-planned beautiful green campus before leaving Rajshahi. It is within a few kilometers from the city centre and easily accessible.

# Ghoramara. The oldest part of Rajshahi City, consisting most of oldest (70-100 year old) buildings.

# Kashia-Danga. From this area massive mango tree garden area of Rajshahi starts. Anyone can have a glimpse of famous mangoe's tree of Rajshahi from this area. The area is at the west part of the city, near to Rajshahi court railway station.

# Santal Para. Located inside the Mahish-Bathan Area. Some santal tribes people lives here. Anyone can have a look to their tribal life.

Do
Rajshahi University. You must see this well-planned beautiful green campus before leaving Rajshahi. It is within a few kilometers from the city centre and easily accessible.


Buy
Shopping Mall & Fashion Stores: These fashion clothing stores and mall are located in the center of the city. Both traditional and western style clothes are available here.
New Market, Style Zone, Look Me, Nanking Bazar, Index plaza, Cats Eye, Iota Style Zone, Shaheb Bazaar. (The oldest market of the city)


Eat
Restaurants and Bakery: Some nice restaurants and fast food places are available in the city.
Nanking Chinese Restaurant
Chilis fast food
Chilis Kabab
McDonalds Restaurant
Bishal Bakery & Confectionary
Ruchita confectionary
Charping Chinese Restaurant
Chang Pai Chinese Restaurant
China Garden Chinese Restaurant
Safa Wang Chinese Restaurant
Eligance Chinese Restaurant
Meatloaf Fast Food
Fresh and wild fast food
Young King Chinese Restaurant
Just Inn Fast food
Goodys Fast Food
Sun Sea Chinese Restaurant
Razia Chinese restaurant
Aristocrat Chinese Restaurant and Fast Food
Hilsha Bangla Foods


Sleep
Hotels: Hotels rates are cheap in the city. Most accommodations are available in these hotels.
Hotel Mukta International
Haq's Inn
Dallas International
Rajshahi Parjatan Motel
Hotel Relax
Hotel Asia
Hotel Galaxy
New Way Home

* Visit Chittagong, Bangladesh

Chittagong is the capital of Chittagong Division in south-eastern Bangladesh.

Understand
Chittagong is a fairly big, spread out town, and the largest international seaport in the country. Like Dhaka the streets are filled with masses of rickshaws, though the city puts in a little more effort to keep its streets and sidewalks clean. Foreigners will notice a distinct increase in nuisance from beggars and the people are slightly less friendly than in other parts of the country.
The busiest part of town is the area around the train station and Station Road, while things get a little more bearable as you move further north. GEC Circle is the intersection of Zakir Hossain Rd, O. R. Nizam Rd and CDA Avenue, about 3 km north of the train station, and is the center of middle to upper class life with a variety of good restaurants and shopping.
Chittagong is a conservative place. Local women tend to dress in modest clothing and don't like to shake hands with men. This does not apply to the upper classes that are much westernised. Local people aren't offended when foreigners don't comply with the expectations of local people. Foreigners drinking alcohol or foreign women wearing skirts which show their bare legs aren't going to upset people. This is true in other parts of Bangladesh and reflects the tolerant and gentle nature of the Bangladeshi people.
In the more affluent neighborhoods like Khulshi and Nasirabad local women are more westernised. The parties that let women have fun are mostly indoors, and Chittagong Club or Hotel Agrabad is fairly happening places at that.
The Chittagonian enthusiasm for inviting people to massive feasts is a bit of legend both locally and elsewhere in Bangladesh. Known as mezbani these feasts feature a tremendously hot curry, usually of beef. If you're not used to it, approach with caution.

Get in By Air
Shah Amanat International Airport is modern and clean and serves as Chittagong's international airport besides domestic services to and from Dhaka and Sylhet. It is the 2nd busiest in Bangladesh. Situated in Patenga, it has international services to destinations such as Dubai, Kolkata, Yangon, Muscat and Bangkok. Formerly known as MA Hannan International Airport, but was renamed on April 2, 2005 by the Government of Bangladesh. Major airlines that serve the airport include Biman Bangladesh Airlines, GMG Airlines, Thai Airways International, Oman Air, United Airways, Best Air and Royal Bengal Airlines.

Get in By Train
Trains run to Dhaka, Sylhet and other cities. The main route out of Chittagong runs north to Comilla and Akhaura, from where the routes to Dhaka and Sylhet diverge. The train station is on Station Road just west of Jubilee Rd. Chittagong is a terminal station on the metre gauge eastern section of the Bangladesh Railway. The headquarters of this railway are located here. Train journeys are, in general, cheaper than bus journeys.

Get in By Bus
There are 2 spots in the city where the major private companies operate from and have offices - just to the south of GEC Circle on CDA Ave, and on Station Rd near Hotel Golden Inn. Greenline, Silkline and Shohag are the nicest and have frequent services to Dhaka and Cox's Bazar. Greenline also offers the only direct bus to Sylhet.
Local buses to Cox's Bazar (Tk 140, 3 hours) run frequently throughout the day from Cinema Palace Bus Station, about 1km north of the Station Rd area.

Get in By Boat
BIWTC has an office and launches its ferries from Sadarghat, about 1km south of the train station down Sadarghat Rd. Barisal is the main destination, from where you can continue to Dhaka.

Get Around
Transport in Chittagong is similar to that of the country's capital Dhaka. There are various bus systems, taxis, and as well as smaller 'Baby' or 'CNG' taxis which are basically tricycle-structured motor vehicles. Also, there are the traditional manual rickshaws which are very common.
# Cycle-rickshaws are the natural choice, and cost around Tk 5 per kilometer.
# Walking is also a possibility as the town isn't too confusing, but keep and eye out as the streets can be very busy, especially around Station Rd and Jubilee Rd.

**See and Enjoy**

# Hazrat Shah Sufi Amanat Khan (R): Hazrat Shah Sufi Amanat Khan (R) (capital R is used to show respect) a very famous saint of Chittagong, Bangladesh. Hazrat Shah Sufi Amanat Khan (R) came from Bihar Sharif, India. At Chittagong he lived in a cottage and accepted service as a pankha wala (hanging fan puller) in the Judge's Court. From the circumstantial evidence it appears that he was a great man of the late 18th century. The family that lives in the compound of Hazrat Shah Amanat Khan's (R) mausoleum and looks after it are Hazrat Shah Sufi Amanat Khan's descendants. They have got in their possession a Persian waqfnama (deed of endowment) of Anwar Khan, the son of Hazrat Shah Sufi Amanat Khan (R).
Hazrat Shah Sufi Amanat Khan (R) lived a very simple life. His daily routine was to attend to his duties in the Court and to engage in prayers. No one knew that he was spiritually endowed nor did he pose to be such. His spiritual greatness was revealed through a Karamat (spiritual power with magical elements recieved from The Almighty Allah) which brought him to the limelight and people came to know that he was a Wali (saint) of the highest rank. When his spiritual attainments became known, he resigned from his job and remained busy with spiritual religious act and meditation. He is ranked among the greatest saints of Chittagong. People visit his mausoleum specially to seek blessings in matters of litigation. Hazrat Shah Sufi Amanat Khan (R) lies buried in a mausoleum to the east of the Laldighi of Chittagong

# Patenga Beach: Sandy beach at the meeting place of the roaring sea and the river Karnaphuli. It looks more beautiful from Naval Academy Road which is just beside the Shah Amanat International Airport.

# Foy's Lake: Set amidst panoramic surroundings, this ideal spot for outings and picnics is thronged by thousands of visitors. This Lake has been created in the natural environment in 1924 by the initiative of the then Assam-Bengal Railway. This lake has been created by building a dam based on a plan by an English engineer Mr. Foy. Now an amusement park is established there. The zoo is next door.

# Shrine of Baizid Bostami: This holy shrine attracts a large number of visitors and pilgrims. At its base there is a large pond with several hundred tortoises floating in the water. According to tradition, these turtles are descendants of evil spirits (djinns) who were cast into this shape because they incurred the wrath of the great saint who visited the place about 1100 years ago.
# World War II Cemetery: In this well-preserved cemetery at quiet and picturesque place lie buried over 700 soldiers from Commonwealth countries and Japan. The War Cemetery is located in a hillside sloping place, in the south-western corner of Chittagong Medical College Hospital, beside the Badshah Mia Road of the city. The total area of this cemetery is eight acres, which is protected and supervised by the Commonwealth Graves Commission.

# Ethnological Museum: Shows a mix of tribal artifacts. The Ethnological Museum of Chittagong was established in the first half of nineteen sixties. The museum contains four galleries and a small hall. It is a little dark. Some sections contain mock ups of 'village life' for the different tribal areas with life size dolls. These are reminiscent of the museum in the film 'Planet of the Apes'.

# Baitul Falah The largest mosque in Chittagong.

# Chandanpura Mosque: Situated in the old city, the multi-domed mosque is an architectural sight to behold.

# Chittagong College: Situated in the old city, is one of the oldest colleges in Bangladesh (estd 1869) and also one of the prestigious academies.

# Mohsin College: Situated beside Chittagong college. The College area covers almost 31 acres of land decked with beautiful landscape. The college Campus wears a garb of natural panoramic beauty. It is housed in eight metalled/pucca buildings on an extensive beautiful campus in the lap of nature. A beautiful play ground a stretches to the south of college gate, supplying the students a great scope to participate in different games and sports. The college campus upholds the ancient architectural beauty in the shape of a building built by the Portuguese.

# Court Building: Situated on the Fairy Hill, this building commands a magnificent bird's eye view of Chittagong city, particularly at night. The Court building was built immediately after the East India Company conquered and declared Chittagong as a separate administrative area in 1773. The building is huge, over 250 thousand square feet and has hundreds of rooms.

# Red-light district: The Red light district is situated near the Railway station at Kadamtoli. Opposite to the railway stations (basically there are two in Chittagong, one is the new one and another is the British built old one) a number of Hotels cater women and girls ranging from a cheap to quite a high price. Foreigners can sometimes request the room boys in their hotels for girls depending on what hotels they are staying. Some cheap hotels also offer quickies. A vast collection of porn CDs, VDVs, and books in local language are sold openly on road-side near the rail stations. This is an awsome site! At night and in evening you might even see girls standing nearby looking for customers. The place is quite crowded and looks like a typical bangkok brothel area.

Do
There are a few amusement parks and public parks in Chittagong:
***Karnafully Sishu Park (Agrabad,Chittagong)
***Zia Sishu Park (Circuit House,Chittagong)
***Mini Bangladesh (Chandgaon,Chittagong)
***Biplobi Uddan (2 number gate,Chittagong)
***Jatisongho Park (Panchlaish, Chittagong).

Buy
Aarong Handicrafts has a large branch on CDA Ave just north of GEC Circle. It is well stocked with men's and women's clothing and housewares at medium to expensive prices.

Eat
The people of Bangladesh love oily food. This can be a problem for foreigners and lead to upset stomachs. If you are a foreigner you should consider sticking with better restaurants and eating in large hotels. Never eat salad which comes with your meal as you will not know if it has been washed in pure water. All but a couple of restaurants in town use tap water to wash salad and this is a recipe for explosive diarrhoea.One oddity in Bangladesh is that restaurants advertise themselves as, for example, "Zaman Hotel and Restaurant" but do not operate a hotel. Where you eat at one of these establishments you can tease them by demanding a room.

NB: one room stores also have signboards advertising themselves as 'Department stores'.

# Ambrosia: Jiban Bima Bhaban (Ground Floor), 1053, Sk. Mujib Road (Next to Radio Station & Opposite to Standard Chartered Chittagong Main Branch). The largest and the latest international standard restaurant in town with a Karaoke corner, seats up to 500 people across 2 floors. Has a huge menu of Continental, Indian, Thai, Chinese, Indonesian and Bangladeshi dishes.
# Bonanza: Above Aarong and opposite to the Meridian (GEC circle). The best restaurant in town which is of international standard. Bonanza has a huge menu. Recommended for foreigners who need a break from an upset stomach.
# The Meridian: Opposite to Bonanza (GEC circle).
# Shaad Snacks: Station Road, across the street from New Market. A friendly place serving the usual fast food snacks - rolls and buns filled with chicken, beef or vegetables, microwaved to a spongy perfection as you order.
#Shangri-La Chinese Restaurant: 39, Agrabad. Smart air-conditioned Chinese restaurant.
# Baskin Robbins: just east of GEC Circle. One of the city's greatest redeeming qualities.
# Sugarbun (Well food): GEC circle. Fast food place from the international chain of the same name. Selling pizza, burgers, fries plus a variety of dishes to Asian tastes in a fast food format. Sugarbun also sells coffee, cakes, bread and other snacks.
# Pizza Hut: GEC circle up the hill towards Welmart. Pizza hut only arrived in Chittagong in 2006. Before that people had to go all the way to Dhaka for pizza.
# Zaman Hotel: (there are 13 Zaman hotels in Chittagong), just north of GEC Circle, on west side of street.
# Zaman Hotel: (Agrabad), On the Agrabad circle

Drink
Alcoholic beverages are available at five-star hotels in Bangladesh as well as a number of private clubs. Three hotels in Chittagong have a drinks license; the Agrabad hotel, the Silmoon hotel and the Peninsula hotel. While all the hotels are expensive for drinks the Peninsula is the most expensive by far.

There are three private clubs in Chittagong. The premiere club is the Chittagong Club which is located at number one Empress Road. The Chittagong club has a drinks license and serves foreign alcohol in addition to local gin, vodka and whisky. Chittagong Club membership is closed but foreigners can apply for "temporary membership" for up to two years.

The Chittagong Institute is a far smaller club but it does maintain a bar. It is located in Jamal Khan road.
The Catholic club opens membership to all persons for a small fee but membership applications are only accepted once a year (I think during December). It maintains a small bar serving local drinks.
It is possible to buy alcoholic beverages, ranging from local brews to smuggled beer and counterfeit brand alcohol. Local booze is available legally at government licensed shops. There is one in Agrabad on Sheik Mujib Rahman road. It is tucked into an alley way a short distance from the first floor "Siemens" showroom. Counterfeit branded alcohol is available from illegal traders in Kulshie and other area. Deaths have been reported from consumption of adulterated liquor. Headaches and illness are more common. Smuggled booze is sometimes available from the sea beach.
Readers should note that the 'Expats Inn' has closed it's doors. So no more pub nights!

Sleep
Budget
Hotel Miskha, 95 Station Road, ☎ +880 (0) 31 610923. Checkout: 12PM. One of the better of the Station Road cheapies, rooms are large, fairly clean and more atmospheric than others in the area with faded old wooden furniture. Prices are a little high but don't even think of asking the stubborn manager for a discount or to throw in a TV. There's a decent restaurant behind the reception desk. Tk 400-500.

Mid range
# Asian SR Hotel: The Asian SR Hotel is a 3 star international hotel situated on 291 Station Road, Chittagong, Bangladesh. Phone : +880-31-636383, Mobile: 01711889555, Website: www.asiansrhotel.com, Email: info@asiansrhotel.com
Hotel Al-Faisal, 1050 Nur Ahmed Road, Phone: +880 (0) 31 710048. checkout: 12PM. This is a good option, mostly because it's far enough away from Station Rd. Tk 350-1200.
# Hotel Bandargaon: 875 Nur Ahmed Road, ☎ +880 (0) 31 637686. checkout: 12PM. Near Hotel Al-Faisal, it's also a good choice. Rooms around Tk 600.
# Hotel Eastern View: 225/A, Sk. Mujib Road, (Chowmuhony) Agrabad, Phone: 00880-031-2510567,2514935, Hot Line: 00880 01727-739 839,01710-914 448, 01811-227 888, E-mail: easternview@ctgtel.net. The newest hotel in Chittagong. It is well equipped, 24 hours service, lift, standby generator, all kinds of food in room, Internet, hot & cold water, secretarial service. It's run by ex-managers of renowned hotels & staff are really good, whole atmosphere is quiet & clean.
# Hotel Sylhet Super: 16 Station Road, ☎ +880 (0) 31 632265. checkout: 12PM. This is a very large hotel west of the train station, good if you need to be in this area. Tk 300-1000.
# Hotel Golden Inn: 36 Station Road, ☎ +880 (0) 31 611004. checkout: 12PM. Across the street from Sylhet Super, it's another decent choice. Tk 400-1000.
# Hotel Golden Inn: Station Road. A 2-star hotel situated on.
Hotel Saint Martin: Hotel Saint Martin is a 3-star hotel situated in the commercial district of Chittagong on Sheik Mujib road.
Splurge
# Hotel Agrabad: Agrabad Commercial Area, +880-31-713311, E-mail: info@agrabadhotels.com. Online Booking Accepted. A business hotel in the heart of the commercial area, easy airport access, restaurants and a swimming pool. $154-581. Hotel Agrabad is 4-star hotel situated in the commercial district of Chittagong.
# The Peninsula Chittagong: Best Business Hotel in Town, 486/B, OR Nizam Road, CDA Avenue,Chittagong, BANGLADESH, PABX: +88-031-285-0860-69 (10 lines), Tel: +88-031-616722 or 619850, Fax: +88-031-624385 or 632506 reservation@peninsulactg.com, http://www.peninsulactg.com/. Situated in the prestigious GEC circle of the Port City, The Peninsula Chittagong provides superior services combining western sophistication and Chittagonian hospitality in a scenic and convenient location. Discover this unique retreat for business or pleasure just minutes from the commercial center surrounded by famous retail shops, restaurants and corporate offices. Tariff: $100-$150. The Peninsula Chittagong is a 4-Star Hotel situated in the center of the city near the G.E.C Circle. The roof of the building contains a swimming pool and offers a view of the entire city.

Get out
Bandarban - a hill district - two hours by bus
Rangamati - a popular town in the Chittagong Hill Tracts
Cox's Bazar - The country's premier beach resort, about 3 hours south by bus

* Visit Sundarban (world biggest mangrove forest)

Sundarban
Sundarban is the world biggest mangrove forest. In Bangladesh tourism, Sundarban plays the most vital role. A large number of foreigners come to Bangladesh every year only to visit this unique mangrove forest. Besides, local tourists also go to visit Sundarban every year. The area of great Sundarban is approximately 6000 sq. km.

General Information about Sudarban:
AREA: Nearly 2400 sq. miles or 6000 sq. km.
FOREST LIMITS: North-Bagerhat, Khulna and Sathkira districts : South-Bay of Bengal; East-Baleswar (or Haringhata) river, Perojpur, Barisal district, and West-Raimangal and Hariabhanga rivers which partially form Bangladesh boundary with West Bengal in India.

MAIN ATTRACTIONS: Wildlife photography including photography of the famous Royal Bengal Tiger, wildlife viewing, boating inside the forest will call recordings, nature study, meeting fishermen, wood-cutters and honey-collectors, peace and tranquility in the wilderness, seeing the world's largest mangrove forest and the revering beauty.The Sundarbans are the largest littoral mangrove belt in the world, stretching 80km (50mi) into the Bangladeshi hinterland from the coast. The forests aren't just mangrove swamps though; they include some of the last remaining stands of the mighty jungles, which once covered the Gangetic plain. The Sundarbans cover an area of 38,500 sq km, of which about one-third is covered in water.

Since 1966 the Sundarbans have been a wildlife sanctuary, and it is estimated that there are now 400 Royal Bengal tigers and about 30,000 spotted deer in the area. Sundarbans is home to many different species of birds, mammals, insects, reptiles and fishes. Over 120 species of fish and over 260 species of birds have been recorded in the Sundarbans. The Gangetic River Dolphin (Platanista gangeticus) is common in the rivers. No less than 50 species of reptiles and eight species of amphibians are known to occur. The Sundarbans now support the only population of the Estuarine, or Salt-Water Crocodile (Crocodiles paresis) in Bangladesh, and that population is estimated at less than two hundred individuals.
Here land and water meet in many novel fashions, Wildlife presents many a spectacle. No wonder, you may come across a Royal Bengal Tiger swimming across the streams or the crocodiles basking on the riverbanks.

With the approach of the evening herds of deer make for the darking glades where boisterous monkeys shower Keora leaves from above for sumptuous meal for the former. For the botanist, the lover of nature, the poet and the painter this land provides a variety of wonder for which they all crave.It's beauty lies in its unique natural surrounding. Thousands of meandering streams, creeks, rivers and estuaries have enhanced its charm. Sundarbans meaning beautiful forest is the natural habitat of the world famous Royal Bengal Tiger, spotted deer, crocodiles, jungle fowl, wild boar, lizards, theses monkey and an innumerable variety of beautiful birds. Migratory flock of Siberian ducks flying over thousands of sail boats loaded with timber, golpatta (round-leaf), fuel wood, honey, shell and fish further add to the serene natural beauty of the Sundarbans.

This is indeed a land for the sportsmen, the anglers and the photographers with its abundance of game, big and small, crocodile, wild boar, deer, pythons, wild-birds and above all the Royal Bengal Tiger, cunning, ruthless and yet majestic and graceful, For the less adventurously inclined, there are ducks and snipes, herons and coots, yellow-lags and sandpipers. It is also the land for the ordinary holiday makers who desire to rest or wander around at will to refresh their mind and feast their eyes with the rich treasure that nature has so fondly bestowed.

Means of Communication: Water transport is the only means of communication for visiting the Sundarbans from Khulna or Mongla Port. Private motor launch, speedboats, country boats as well as mechanized vessel of Mongla Port Authority might be hired for the purpose. From Dhaka visitors may travel by air, road or rocket steamer to Khulna - the gateway to the Sundarbans. Most pleasant journey from Dhaka to Khulna is by Paddle Steamer, Rocket presenting a picturesque panorama of rural Bangladesh. Day and nightlong coach services by road are also available. The quickest mode is by air from Dhaka to Jessore and then to Khulna by road.

Journey time: It varies depending on tides against or in favor in the river. Usually it takes 6 to 10 hours journey by motor vessel from Mongla to Hiron Point or Katka.

FAMOUS SPOTS:

The main tourist spots in Sundarban are Karamjol, Katka, Kochikhali, Hiron point and Mandarbaria. Hiron Point (Nilkamal) for tiger, deer, monkey, crocodiles, birds and natural beauty. Katka for deer, tiger, crocodiles, varieties of birds and monkey, morning and evening symphony of wild fowls. Vast expanse of grassy meadows running from Katka to Kachikhali (Tiger Point) provides opportunities for wild tracking. Tin Kona Island for tiger and deer.

Dublar Char (Island) for fishermen. It is a beautiful island where herds of spotted deer are often seen to graze.

Katka :

Katka is one of Heritage sites in Sunderban. In Katka there is a wooden watching tower of 40 ft. high from where you can enjoy the scenic beauty of Sunderban. A beautiful sea beach is there is Katka; you will enjoy while you are walking to go the beach from the watching tower. Verities birds are visible in Katka.

Karamjol:

Karamjol is a forest station for the Rangers. Here you can see a dear breeding center. To visit Sunderban you need to go there with a guide and it is even better if you go there with a group. You can stay two/three days in Sunderban depending on your desire and requirements. One-day tour is not enough for Sundarban as you will not be able to see the nature in haste. For one-day tour you can go up to Karamjol and at a glance visit the outer portion of Sunderban forest areas. In your Sunderban tour you will be able to see a lots of verities birds (a heaven for the bird watchers), can watch the fishing in the river by the fishermen, if you wish you can ask your tour operator to give a stopover in the fishermen villages to watch their lifestyle, see lots of animals like monkeys, various types Dears, foxes,Crocodiles, Snakes and if you are lucky person you will be able to see the greatest mystery of Sunderban The Royal Bengal Tiger. Sunderban is one of main sources to collect pure honey. You should not forget to buy some pure honey. Another inexpressible and unforgettable beauty you can enjoy if you can match your timing of tour in full moon. In the full moon the nights in Sunderban could be one of the most memorable nights for your whole life.
Other necessary Information about

Sundarban Tour:
Entry Permission: Prior permission must be obtained through written application from the Divisional Forest Office, Circuit House Road, Khulna (Phone 20665, 211731) to visit the Sundarbans. Required entrance fees for visitors, vessel or boat payable at the relevant forest station/range office.

Fee for Commercial Photography:

Movie Tk. 5,000.00 per role exposedVideo Tk. 4,000.00 per CassetteStill Tk. 1,000.00 per role exposed

Guided Tours:

To feel the beauty of Sunderban you will have to go inside Sunderban & visit at least the most common tourist spots of Sunderban, specially the four-heritage side of Katka, Hiron point, Mandarbaria & Kachikhali. It will require minimum two nights stay in Sunderban to visit these spots and if you are in a group you can ask your tour operator to make it three, four or five night tour package as per your desire ness to invent the real beauty of Sunderban in your Package tour program. In Sunderban visit, all the way you will have to go by tourist launch and spend your night also in the launch as no hotel or motel facilities are available there inside of Sunderban. In this tour your foods and water will be supplied from the tourist launch only. So to visit the great Sundarban you will have to decide in advance how many days you want to spent in Sunderban – accordingly your tour operator will arrange and preserve year foods and water. Tour operators offers all-inclusive guided package fours from Dhaka to Sundarbans and return during the tourist season (October to March).
Climate: Climate in the Sundarbans is moderate. Air is humid. Full monsoon is from June to September. The annual rainfall average between 65" and 70". During ebb tide the forest becomes bare by 6-7 feet and at high tide (30 miles and hour) the entire territory of the forest floats on water.

Life in Forest: Only means of transportation inside the forest is boat. There is no road, no trail of a path anywhere. The woodcutters make temporary dwellings at the edge of the forest at a height of 8-10 feet for fear of wild animals others live on boats. In the chandpai region it is fascinating to see the nomadic fishermen (living with families on boats) catching fish with the help of trained offers. Exciting activities take place in Dublar Char in the forest where fishermen from Chittagong gather for four months (mid Oct. to mid Feb.) to catch and dry fish. But the most daring and exciting of all activities is presented by the honey-collectors who work in groups for just two months (April-May) and it is interesting to see how they locate a hive and then collect honey.

Flora and Fauna: The Sundarbans is endowed by nature with rich flora and fauna. It is a wonderful place to see or to shoot a Royal Bengal Tiger with Camera if one has the time to wait in the forest. There are a good number of tigers in the Sundarbans. Lovely spotted deer are easy to find. Besides there are a wide variety of wildlife for which the Sundarbans is so famous.
Visit to the Forest: Permission from the Division Forest Officer, Khulna is required to visit to the forest. Cholera vaccine is to be taken well in advance. Anti-malarial, anti-diarrhoeal, insect repellent cream, drinking water, green coconuts, medical kit, light tropical dress, thick rubber soled boots etc. are to be carried with the tourist. It will be wise to take the help of an experienced guide to make the journey fruitful.
Tourist season & Shooting: Best time to visit the Sundarbans is from November to March. Exciting honey collection season is during April-May. Hunting is prohibited by law in the country for the preservation of wildlife. Certain species of birds, however, can be shot with prior permission of the Divisional Forest Officer, Khulna.
N.B: Special notes to the tourist to remember again - do not go in side of the forest without your guide and proper securities while your are in Sunderban.