Kirtipasha Zamindar Bari

Faded mansions, temples and tanks of an old zamindar family a short ride west of Jhalokathi.

Historical Jhalokathi, Barishal Good time to visit now
Kirtipasha Zamindar Bari
Dr. Emdadul Hoque Mamun / CC BY-SA 4.0

Kirtipasha, a village a few kilometres west of Jhalokathi town, was the centre of a wealthy zamindar family during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Their estate once included grand residences, temples, a school and large ponds, much of which can still be seen today in various states of repair.

The main building, with its columned facade and arched openings, now partly houses a school, while other mansions stand roofless and draped in vines. Old temples and a bathing ghat on a large tank add to the scene. It is an evocative place to imagine the life of the Bengal gentry, and the surrounding countryside of canals and betel-nut groves is lovely to explore by van.

How to go

From Jhalokathi town take an auto or easy-bike to Kirtipasha (≈20-25 min, 40-80 BDT).

Where to stay

Stay in Jhalokathi town (800-2,500 BDT) or Barishal city.

Travel tips: Visit outside school hours if you want to photograph the main building freely, and stay clear of unstable ruins.