Barisal Bell’s Park
Barishal
Bell's Park, also known as Bangabandhu Udyan, is a historic urban park located in the heart of Barishal, Bangladesh. Established in 1896 during the magistracy of N.D. Beatson-Bell, it was created to commemorate the visit of Sir Alexander Mackenzie, the Lieutenant-Governor of Bengal. The park is beautifully set beside the Kirtankhola river, featuring a playground, a lakeside walkway, a helipad, and abundant trees including palm trees originally planted nearby. Over decades, it has served as the principal playground and center for sports and athletic activities in Barishal. It is also a significant venue for large public meetings and cultural events, hosting speeches by prominent national leaders such as Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Ziaur Rahman, and Sheikh Hasina. Renamed Bangabandhu Udyan in 1996, the park includes a stage and a mural honoring Bangabandhu’s first visit to Barishal in 1972. In 2011, the park underwent significant beautification including the addition of flower plants, benches, illumination, and a walkway, enhancing its role as a cherished urban green space and cultural hub.
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Tip: The best time to visit Bell's Park is during the cooler months of the year to enjoy leisurely walks along the lakeside walkway and to experience cultural events. Visitors are encouraged to check for scheduled public events or speeches which often take place here. While entry is generally free, arriving early on event days can help secure a good spot. The park’s illumination in the evenings offers a pleasant atmosphere for relaxation. No advanced ticket booking is required.
Interesting facts
- •Bell's Park was established to commemorate the visit of Sir Alexander Mackenzie, Lieutenant-Governor of Bengal, in 1896.
- •The park was named after N.D. Beatson-Bell, the magistrate who contributed significantly to Barishal's development.
- •It has been a central venue for speeches by prominent Bangladeshi leaders including Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and Sheikh Hasina.
- •The park was renamed Bangabandhu Udyan in 1996 to honor Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s historic visit in 1972.
- •In 2011, the park underwent a major beautification project costing around 1 Crore Taka, adding walkways, lighting, and flower beds.
History
Bell's Park was constructed in 1896 through public subscriptions during the magistracy of N.D.
Beatson-Bell to celebrate the visit of Sir Alexander Mackenzie.
Initially laid out between the civil lines and riverside road near the Kirtankhola river, it was named after Beatson Bell for his contributions to Barishal's development, education, and public health.
Over the 20th century, the park became the main playground and venue for major public meetings featuring national leaders.
In 1996, it was renamed Bangabandhu Udyan with a stage and mural commemorating Sheikh Mujibur Rahman's 1972 visit.
In 2011, the park saw major improvements including walkways, illumination, and landscaping under the initiative of former mayor Shawkat Hossain Hiron.
Place Guide
Lakeside Walkway
A scenic path surrounding the park, offering views of the adjacent lake and lush trees, ideal for leisurely strolls and relaxation.
Bangabandhu Stage and Mural1996
A commemorative stage and mural dedicated to Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, marking his first visit to Barishal in 1972 and serving as a focal point for public gatherings.
Playground Area
A designated space within the park for sports and athletic activities, historically the principal playground of Barishal city.
