1. Bangladesh: Rajshahi Tour with Varendra Research Museum
Following a hotel pick-up from Rajshahi at 08:00, your first stop will be Choto Sona Mosque – the main attraction of this area. The fifteen domes of the mosque were once gilded, giving the mosque its name (Small Golden Mosque), although the gilding that gave the building its name does not exist anymore. The mosque was originally surrounded by an outer wall (now restored) with a gateway in the middle of the east side. Next, you’ll head to the Toha Khana, a complex including a three domed mosque and the tomb of Shah Neamotullah Wali. After lunch at local restaurant, continue to Varendra Research Museum. This gem of a museum is tucked away in an unassuming building on a quiet street. Housed within is a fantastic collection of relics spanning the entire subcontinent, from the earliest civilization of Mohenjodaro in Pakistan to local archaeological excavation sites. Enjoy the wonderful sculpture galleries, with exquisite figurines of Hindu gods, goddesses and mythical figures. The collection of Islamic artifacts from the medieval era, comprising weapons, ensembles, daily objects and a number of ornate hand-written copies of the Quran, is simply stunning. The building itself is a curious mix of British and Hindu architectural styles. At approximately 18:00 you'll arrive back at your hotel in Rajshahi where the tour will end.