Gabkhan Channel & Bridge (Suez of Bangladesh)

The Gabkhan Channel (Gabkhan Khal, famously dubbed the 'Suez Canal of Bangladesh') is one of the most remarkable hydraulic engineering, maritime shipping, and scenic waterfront destinations in the country, situated in Jhalokathi Sadar upazila. Excavated in 1918 during the British colonial period, this 18-kilometre artificial deepwater canal cuts through the delta to connect the mighty Sugandha River with the Sandhya and Dhaleshwari rivers.

By shortening the international shipping route between Mongla Seaport, Chattogram, Kolkata, and Dhaka by over 118 kilometres, the channel is a vital maritime thoroughfare. Day and night, colossal cargo vessels, oil tankers, passenger launches, and traditional wooden trawlers navigate through its narrow, deep waters.

Soaring dramatically above the canal stands the monumental Gabkhan Bridge (the 5th Bangladesh-China Friendship Bridge), rising to a soaring height of 115 metres (377 feet) to allow deep-draft cargo ships to pass underneath. Standing on the pedestrian sidewalks of the bridge offers breathtaking, bird's-eye panoramic views looking down upon the straight blue canal ribbon slicing through emerald coconut groves and mangrove forests.

Along the canal banks lie scenic eco-parks, viewing pavilions, and boat jetties where travelers can charter motorized boats to cruise along this historic engineering wonder.

Excavated in 1918 by the British Bengal Public Works Department, the canal was designed to provide a sheltered inland navigation corridor bypassing dangerous open-sea coastal routes.

The channel played a pivotal role during the colonial era, enabling British paddle steamers ('Rocket Steamers') to run fast scheduled passenger and postal services between Kolkata, Barishal, and Assam.

In 2002, the monumental Gabkhan Bridge was completed with Chinese engineering cooperation, connecting Jhalokathi and Pirojpur without interrupting international river navigation.

November to February: Cool winter weather; ideal for walking across the high bridge deck and taking canal boat cruises.

July to October: Monsoon season; full water levels, vibrant green canal banks, and bustling river traffic.

Late Afternoon (4:00 PM – 6:00 PM): Best time for golden hour photography and sunset views.