Mongla Port
Khulna
The Port of Mongla, located in Mongla Upazila of Bagerhat district within the Khulna division, is Bangladesh's second largest and busiest seaport after Chittagong. Situated near the north shore of the Bay of Bengal and at the confluence of the Pasur and Mongla rivers, it serves as a critical maritime hub for southwestern Bangladesh. Established in 1950 originally as Chalna Port, it was relocated in 1954 to its current position 48 km south of Khulna city. The port is protected by the Sundarbans, the world's largest mangrove forest and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it a gateway for tourist ships visiting this ecological treasure. With 11 jetties, 8 warehouses, and 12 swinging moorings, Mongla handles hundreds of ships annually, connecting Bangladesh to major Asian ports such as Singapore, Hong Kong, and Colombo. The port is also connected by rail to Khulna and inland ports like Dhaka and Narayanganj. Recent developments include India's rights to operate a terminal, reflecting the port's growing regional importance. Ongoing expansion projects aim to increase capacity through dredging and new jetty construction, responding to rising demand caused by congestion at Chittagong and regional economic growth.
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Tip: Visitors interested in exploring the Sundarbans can use Mongla Port as a gateway, making it advisable to plan visits during the dry season for better river navigation and wildlife viewing. While the port itself is an industrial area, tourists should arrange guided tours in advance for safety and access. Booking transportation and accommodations in Khulna city beforehand is recommended. No direct ticketing for the port is required, but visitors to the Sundarbans may benefit from purchasing organized tour packages that include port transit and permits. Travelers should check local weather and river conditions before planning trips.
Interesting facts
- •Port of Mongla is the second largest seaport in Bangladesh after Chittagong.
- •The port serves as a gateway to the Sundarbans, the world's largest mangrove forest and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- •Mongla port was originally known as Chalna Port before being relocated in 1954.
- •The port handles hundreds of ships annually, connecting to major Asian ports such as Singapore, Hong Kong, and Colombo.
- •India obtained rights in 2024 to operate a terminal at Mongla port, enhancing bilateral trade links.
History
The port was founded in 1950 to serve the southwestern region of East Bengal and was initially known as Chalna Port.
In 1954, it was relocated 48 kilometers south of Khulna city to its current site at the confluence of the Pasur and Mongla rivers.
Historically, Mongla has been an important port in the Bengal delta region.
In recent years, political and economic initiatives, including the Padma Bridge mega-project, have stimulated its development.
In July 2024, India was granted rights to operate a terminal at Mongla, marking a significant step in regional cooperation and port expansion.
