19/01/2025
Posted by Mostafa Naser bhai on STBD - Scooter Travellers Bangladesh 🛵🇧🇩
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🛵 A Day-Long Motorbike Adventure with STBD : Dhaka to Shat Gombuz Mosque and Beyond !
✅ It all started with a fantastic plan from STBD (Scooter Travellers Bangladesh). The Saturday meetup on 11th January '25 near Birulia Foodcourt was where everything fell into place. I was warmly welcomed by a few great souls and immediately invited to join this amazing adventure. I couldn’t contain my excitement and had a ton of questions about the trip. However, the group made it clear that safety was a priority, and I was kindly reminded that I could only join if I had proper safety gear. So, without hesitation, I rushed out and bought my Moto-Wolf safety guard just two days before the tour – I was ready to go! This careful planning and emphasis on safety showed the group's commitment to a smooth and enjoyable journey for all.
✅ On a calm Friday morning, 17th January '25, 14 of us gathered at Dhaka's iconic Shaheed Minar, eager for the adventure ahead. With 13 bikes roaring to life just after the Fajr prayer, we set off for our destination: the historic Shat Gombuz Mosque. The excitement was palpable as the fresh morning air made our ride even more invigorating.
Our first stop came early in the journey, before reaching the Padma Bridge near the toll plaza. The weather was perfect for a tea break, and we took this opportunity to enjoy the cool breeze while chatting. It was a perfect moment to introduce ourselves to each other, especially for those who had joined the tour a bit later or were running behind. Sharing a cup of tea, we connected with one another, ensuring that everyone felt welcomed and ready for the adventure ahead.
Our next stop was Gopalganj’s Shampan Restaurant, where we enjoyed a hearty breakfast to fuel us for the rest of the journey. Afterward, we took a brief rest under the shade of a century-old mango tree, appreciating the beauty of nature before continuing our ride.
✅ Before noon, we arrived at the magnificent Shat Gombuz Mosque, just in time for Jumma prayers. It was a special moment to offer prayers in such a historic site, surrounded by friends. Afterward, we relaxed, chatting with our tour mates and exploring the peaceful Ghora Dighi. Ghora Dighi is a historic gem, once the only source of fresh drinking water (mitha pani) for the entire Bagerhat area. Before 1990, the water from this large reservoir was distributed through pipelines, serving the whole town. Knowing this added even deeper appreciation for the site’s historical significance.
Unfortunately, due to time constraints, we had to miss visiting Khan Jahan Ali's Mazar and the famous pond nearby. The pond is known for having been home to two legendary crocodiles, Kala Pahar and Dhola Pahar, who lived there for many years. Though they are no longer alive, one of their skins is preserved in the museum near the Shat Gombuz Mosque, shaped into a dummy for visitors to see. Their descendants now rule the pond, continuing the legacy of these iconic creatures.
✅ The true highlight of the journey, however, was the camaraderie among the group. Every time we approached a new turn, someone would stop and ensure that everyone was heading in the right direction. This constant lookout made sure no one was left behind, creating a strong bond of trust and support among us.
✅ While riding along the Khulna-Chuknagar road, I had an unfortunate fall. I spotted sand on the road and instinctively braked, causing my bike to skid and me to fall. But in that moment, I realized how fortunate I was to be with this group. Everyone stopped immediately, rushed to my aid, and offered words of encouragement. Their support lifted my spirits, and I knew I was in the right company—riding with people who cared not only about the adventure but also about each other’s well-being. It’s a rare feeling to be part of such a group, and I felt truly grateful.
✅ After recovering, we continued our journey toward Chuknagar in Khulna district, Dumuria Thana, for lunch at the renowned Abbas Hotel. Their famous Cuijhall mutton curry, served with plain rice, was exceptional—truly a culinary experience worth remembering.
✅ As the day progressed, we rode toward Kalna Bridge via Jessore and Narail. Before reaching Kalna, one of our tour mate’s cousins met us and treated us to some of the best milk tea we’ve ever had. The tea was so good that one of our younger riders couldn’t resist having two cups!
✅ Our last stop before heading back was Before the Padma Bridge Tool Plaza, where we took a break, enjoyed some tea, and had a heartfelt chit-chat. This was the moment we discussed our exit plan for the day. From there, we said our goodbyes and parted ways, with everyone heading in their own directions. However, the last group ride continued until we reached Babu Bazar Bridge, completing the final stretch of the journey. By the time we reached home around 12:45 AM, we were tired but immensely satisfied. The ride wasn’t just about the destinations; it was about the journey and the incredible group of people I had the privilege to share it with.
✅ I want to extend my heartfelt thanks once again to STBD for organizing such a wonderful tour. The Saturday, 11th January '25 meetup near Birulia Foodcourt was where it all began.
✅ To anyone considering joining the next tour – I encourage you to jump in! It’s not just about the bikes and roads; it’s about the people you meet and the bonds you form along the way. Trust me, if the young star Kochi and his team are there on the tour, you’ll not only enjoy the ride but also the incredible sense of camaraderie that comes with it. Friendship grows where mutual respect and love stay – that’s the essence of these people and what makes STBD such a special community.
✅ Looking forward to the next adventure with STBD!
