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Hardinge Bridge
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Landmark
Hardinge Bridge is an imposing steel railway bridge spanning the Padma River between Paksey and Bheramara in Bangladesh. Constructed between 1910 and 1915 during the British colonial era, the bridge was named after Lord Hardinge, the then Viceroy of India. With a total length of approximately 1.8 kilometers, the structure consists of 15 heavy steel spans resting on massive piers. The construction was an engineering marvel of its time and remains a vital component of the railway network connecting the southern and western parts of the country. During the Liberation War in 1971, the bridge suffered significant damage but was subsequently repaired and restored to service. Adjacent to Hardinge Bridge, the Lalon Shah Bridge for road traffic was completed in 2004, further enhancing the importance of this transport hub. The bridge stands not only as a symbol of engineering durability but also as a landmark of the region, frequently visited by tourists to enjoy the view of the mighty Padma River.
- Location: Bangladesh
- Top sights: laaln shaah setu · Hazrat Fatematuz Zahura R.A. Jame Masjid, Mosque · Moslempur Jame Masjid, Mosque
- Nearby: Naogaon (10 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Nov, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 17 | 22 | 27 | 31 | 32 | 30 | 29 | 29 | 28 | 26 | 22 | 18 |
| Rain mm | 8 | 14 | 29 | 76 | 158 | 224 | 295 | 236 | 215 | 135 | 13 | 9 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Hardinge Bridge is an active railway bridge and not open to pedestrians. You can view the bridge from the banks of the Padma River and take photos.
Typical hours
The bridge is visible at any time of day as it is outdoors. The best time for photos is late afternoon when the sun lights up the metal structure.
Photography
Photography is easy from the banks; a telephoto lens helps for detail shots. Watch for passing trains, which add an authentic element to your pictures.
Time needed
A visit to the viewpoints takes about 15 to 30 minutes. Allow extra time to wait for a train crossing the bridge.
Combine with
Combine the viewing with a visit to the nearby town of Paksey or the Padma riverbank. The railway history of the region can also be explored at the local museum.
Getting there
The bridge is near Paksey, about 50 kilometers southwest of Rajshahi. It is best reached by car or auto-rickshaw from the town.
Insider tip
Bring binoculars to see the steel structure details and arrive before sunset for dramatic colors. Ask locals for the best viewpoint along the riverbank.
Geography
Facts
- Construction of the bridge began in 1910 and took five years to complete.
- The official inauguration by Lord Hardinge took place on March 4, 1915.
- The total length of the bridge is exactly 1,798.32 meters (5,900 feet).
- It consists of 15 main spans and 3 additional approach spans.
- In 1971, one of the spans was destroyed during an air strike in the war.
- The bridge was designed by the renowned engineer Sir Robert Gales.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Hardinge Bridge (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Hardinge Bridge for?
It is a major railway bridge over the Padma River.
How old is the bridge?
It was commissioned in 1915 during British rule.
Can you walk across the bridge?
No, the bridge is exclusively for train traffic.
Where is the best photo spot?
From the bank in Paksey you have an impressive view of the steel structure.
Is there another bridge next to it?
Yes, the Lalon Shah road bridge runs parallel to it.
Hardinge Bridge: where is it located?
Hardinge Bridge is located in Bangladesh.
Hardinge Bridge: what is there to see?
Highlights include laaln shaah setu, Hazrat Fatematuz Zahura R.A. Jame Masjid, Mosque, Moslempur Jame Masjid, Mosque.
Hardinge Bridge: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Nov, Dec.
Hardinge Bridge: why is it worth visiting?
Hardinge Bridge is an imposing steel railway bridge spanning the Padma River between Paksey and Bheramara in Bangladesh.
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