Heritage of Nilphamari District
Though not an actual sea, Nilsagar carries the name and spirit of one. Its vast expanse of shimmering blue water, lined with lush trees resembling a seaside landscape, fills the eyes with wonder. The tranquility of the place, combined with the songs of colorful birds, makes Nilsagar a true sanctuary. Historically, this massive pond was known as "Binnadighi." According to local legend, it was excavated nearly 5,200 years ago, covering an area of about 93.90 acres. It is said that after King Virat, a character from the Mahabharata, was killed in the battle of Kurukshetra, he was buried on the banks of this very pond. Over time, "Birat Raja’s Dighi" became known as "Birna Dighi" and, later during the cadastral survey (C.S. Survey), was recorded as "Binnadighi." On March 8, 1980, during a restoration ceremony attended by the then Deputy Commissioner of Rangpur, Mr. Mahe Alam, and the Subdivisional Officer of Nilphamari, Mr. Abdul Jabbar, along with local dignitaries, the pond was officially renamed "Nilsagar". Nil Sagar is located about 14.5 kilometers northwest of Nilphamari town, right beside the paved Nilphamari-Debiganj-Panchagarh road. Today, under the direct supervision of the District Administration and funded by the Ministry of Land, a bird sanctuary has been established here. Various physical infrastructures have been developed to support tourism, including accommodation facilities for visitors. There are also arrangements for recreational fishing (with a rod) for a nominal entry fee. Several institutions, newspapers, vehicles, and even the intercity train connecting Nilphamari and Dhaka have been named after Nilsagar. The Nilphamari District Administration warmly invites everyone to visit and experience the beauty of Nilsagar.
Planning and Implementation: Cabinet Division, A2I, BCC, DoICT and BASIS