Nilphamari, Rangpur
A large, centuries-old dighi near Nilphamari town, wrapped in legend, with tree-lined banks and migratory birds in winter.
Nilsagar is one of the oldest and largest dighis — man-made reservoirs — in the north. Local tradition gives it an ancient origin, linking it with a legendary king and his daughter, and it is also known by the older name Binnadighi; the stories vary, and no one knows for certain who dug it.
Today it is a broad sheet of still water ringed by high banks and trees, a quiet place to walk and sit. In winter, flocks of migratory ducks settle on the water, and local efforts aim to keep the dighi a safe refuge for them.
There is a small temple on the banks, and the dighi has long been a place of gatherings and fairs for the surrounding villages.
Hire a CNG or battery auto-rickshaw in Nilphamari town for the round trip.
Walk quietly along the banks while the ducks are feeding in the morning light.
Circle the tree-lined banks and stop by the temple on the shore.
Return to Nilphamari for lunch, or continue on to Saidpur.
November to February, when the migratory birds are on the water
A short trip from Nilphamari town, under an hour by CNG or battery auto-rickshaw; drivers know it well. Hire one for the return, as transport back can be scarce.
