The short-lived and precious days of monsoon are upon us bringing a brief window of opportunity to immerse oneself in the beautiful and aesthetic beauty that is often forgotten in the daily battles of life. If you are looking for an escape to truly enjoy the charms of a rainy day, here are 5 places fairly close to Dhaka that are perfect for it.

Panam City, Sonargaon

The Panam City of Sonargaon, a sharp contrast to the bustling modern ways of Dhaka, is like a tangible representation of history, inviting you to step into a world where time stands still and the echoes of magnificence resonate through every brick and archway. Add the charms of rain and it becomes a trip into the glorious days of the past.

During monsoon, the rain-soaked walls reveal the mark of time in each crack, letting you explore their histories and celebrate their legacy. As you walk the grounds near the vast ponds with an umbrella in hand, the enchanted feeling created by rain and the tranquillity of the surroundings brings a sense of unparalleled peace.

Photo: Mushfique Fuad Mitul

Mawa

The combination of the monsoon and the river has its charms. With the first drops of rain, the Padma River becomes a breathtaking canvas of serenity and natural beauty.

The beautiful riverbanks of Mawa make a beautiful backdrop for a rainy-day escapade. The natural beauty is enhanced by the grey clouds overhead, which cast a beautiful, diffused light. Standing here, your train of thought slows down ever so slightly.

The journey through the Padma Bridge itself is nothing short of poetic as the rain beats down on window panes and your favourite songs play in the background.

Lastly, you can wrap up your perfect day with a meal consisting of the freshest of hilsas and a wide range of mouth-watering bhortas, all on a budget.

Bhawal National Park, Gazipur

The Bhawal National Park is still largely an underrated gem in Gazipur that lets you experience a day in nature as if you were in an exotic location.

Upon entering, you are met with a symphony of greens. Stunning shadows cast on the forest floor by towering trees filter sunlight while the rustling of leaves in the monsoon breeze fills the air with the smell of rain-soaked earth.

Whether you decide to hike the paths, enjoy a leisurely picnic on its immaculate grounds, or just sit in silent reflection, the park offers a beautiful refuge where you may reconnect with nature. It is a blank canvas of unspoiled beauty that is just waiting to be observed and enjoyed by people looking for a moment of solace in nature.

Chuti Resort, Gazipur

Located in Joydebpur of Gazipur is Chuti resort, perfect for a daylong getaway among the soothing rhythm of rain. The long stretches of flowerbeds look like a burst of colours against the cloudy sky. The lake flowing close to it offers boat rides allowing you to take in the scenic view surrounding the calm waters.

You can also find small tents in the dense line of trees. The rain, the rustling of leaves, and you among all of it are what perfect rustic escapes look like. Alternatively, you can choose to sit in one of the bamboo huts, enjoying the unique charm of traditional architecture while staying sheltered from the rain.

Sit down with lunch in one of the two picnic spots or stroll through the vast area taking in the fresh scent of rain-soaked earth, you will feel your tensions melt away in an instant.

Jolshiri Central Park

Located only an hour away from Dhaka, Jolshiri Central Park is a serene oasis with landscaped gardens, flower beds, impeccably built walkways, and a long-stretched lake surrounding the area.

Whether you want to spend a day by yourself, a romantic outing, or a friends and family gathering Jolshiri serves as an ideal setup. The rain combined with this park's beauty really makes you want to slow down for a bit and enjoy every passing moment.

The small huts are perfect for enjoying a cup of coffee while you take in the beauty of rain on the lake near it. Walk among the green grass or rent one of the paddle boats, an umbrella is all you need to enjoy the charms of Jolshiri Park in a whole new form.