Bangladesh

Bangladesh, nestled in South Asia, is a country of mesmerizing rivers, vibrant culture, and deep-rooted history. Once part of British India and later East Pakistan, it achieved independence in 1971 after a brutal liberation war. Today, the country is a tapestry of ancient archaeological sites, bustling cities, and the tranquil countryside dotted with rice paddies and palm trees. Its capital, Dhaka, pulses with energy and contrasts—rickshaws whiz past colonial-era buildings while high-rises rise above vibrant street markets.

Why Visit Spain?

Architectural Marvels: Marvel at the 60-domed Mosque of Bagerhat and Mahasthangarh’s ancient ruins.

Sundarbans Safari: Cruise through the world’s largest mangrove forest in search of Royal Bengal tigers.

Cultural Immersion: Witness vibrant rickshaw art, traditional boat races, and colorful village festivals.

Tea Gardens of Sylhet: Stroll through endless tea plantations and lush hills in Bangladesh’s greenest region.

Chittagong Hill Tracts: Discover tribal culture, hidden waterfalls, and serene landscapes.

Dhaka’s Chaos & Charm: Ride a rickshaw through the maze of Old Dhaka, where history meets hustle.

Smart Travel: Off-Season Deals & Delights

Key Advantages:

Lowest Prices on Everything: Airfares, hotels, and even internal transport see significant drops, making it the cheapest time to explore Bangladesh.
No Tourist Crowds: With far fewer travelers, major sites like the Sundarbans, Srimangal, and Old Dhaka feel undiscovered and serene.
Lush, Vibrant Landscapes: The countryside transforms into a vivid green paradise—tea estates, rice paddies, and rural villages are especially beautiful under the monsoon rains.
More Immersive Travel: The lack of tourists allows for a deeply authentic experience of Bangladeshi life, from fishing villages to quiet mosques.

Main Drawbacks:

Heavy Rainfall & Flooding: Torrential downpours are frequent, and some regions (particularly rural or low-lying areas) may experience flooding or road closures.
Transport Disruptions: Flights may be delayed, and road or river transport can be affected during intense storms.
Leech Season in Forested Areas: Jungle treks, especially in the Sylhet region, may require extra precautions.
Limited Access to the Sundarbans: Boat trips in the Sundarbans can be restricted for safety during the stormiest weeks.

Key Regions:

Srimangal: The rain enhances the lushness of tea gardens and tropical forests—perfect for sipping seven-layer tea in a misty setting.
Chittagong Hill Tracts (Rangamati, Bandarban): Less crowded and magical in the rain, with dramatic mist-covered hills and tribal culture—though travel should be planned cautiously.
Old Dhaka: Discover its chaotic charm at a relaxed pace, with fewer crowds at historical sites like Lalbagh Fort and Ahsan Manzil.
Khulna (gateway to the Sundarbans): For those seeking monsoon solitude and wildlife (crocodiles, birds, and river dolphins), tours may still run during early/late monsoon windows.

Key Advantages:

Ideal Weather: Spring and autumn offer warm but manageable temperatures, perfect for sightseeing, hiking, or river cruising.
Moderate Prices: While not as cheap as the monsoon, flights and accommodation remain affordable compared to peak season.
Great Visibility: Post-monsoon skies are clear, landscapes are green and fresh, and wildlife spotting (especially in the Sundarbans) is ideal.
Festivals & Local Culture: Spring brings in colorful festivals like Pohela Boishakh (Bengali New Year), while autumn offers Durga Puja celebrations—both enriching cultural experiences.
Accessible Nature: Hill tracts, tea estates, and national parks are in top condition, with rivers flowing and trails dry.

Main Drawbacks:

Rising Heat in Late Spring: By late April and May, some lowland areas (especially Dhaka and Khulna) become hot and humid.
Occasional Showers in Autumn: The retreating monsoon can still bring light rains in late September.
Some Tourist Services Still Rebooting: Early spring and post-monsoon seasons may see slow ramp-up of full tour services in remote areas.

Key Regions:

Sundarbans Mangrove Forest: Ideal season for wildlife boat tours; tigers are rarely seen but birdlife, deer, monkeys, and river dolphins abound.
Sylhet & Srimangal: Stunning in post-monsoon greenery, with pleasant temperatures for exploring tea gardens, waterfalls, and rainforests.
Bandarban & Rangamati: Comfortable for hiking, cultural village visits, and boat rides across hill lakes.
Dhaka & Surroundings: Explore the capital’s historic quarters, food scene, and vibrant bazaars with less heat and congestion.

Winter is Bangladesh’s peak travel season. With dry, cool weather, this is when both local and international tourists hit the road—making it the busiest (and most expensive) time to visit. Expect significantly higher prices for domestic flights, resorts in Sylhet and the Hill Tracts, and Sundarbans tours. Popular sites such as Cox’s Bazar beach, Saint Martin’s Island, and Srimangal’s tea estates can get quite crowded. Hotel availability in high-demand areas may be limited if not booked early. That said, the pleasant temperatures, vibrant cultural festivals, and crystal-clear skies make this the most comfortable—though not the most budget-friendly—time to explore the country.

Ready To Experience Your Perfect Gateaway?

Essential Trip Information

Visa and Entry Requirements

• Most visitors need a visa. Many nationalities can apply online for a Visa on Arrival (VoA) or pre-arranged tourist visa.
• Official immigration website: https://www.visa.gov.bd/
• Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of entry.
• Proof of onward travel, accommodation, and sufficient funds may be required at immigration.
• VoA costs US$50, plus a small processing fee.
• Citizens of SAARC countries may receive preferential terms.

Currency

Bangladesh uses the Bangladeshi Taka (BDT).

Bills: BDT 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, 1000. Coins: 1, 2, 5 BDT.

Best Ways to Handle Currency

Before Your Trip: It’s advisable to exchange a small amount of BDT before your trip for initial expenses.
During Your Trip: Use ATMs at major banks (e.g., BRAC Bank, Standard Chartered Bank, HSBC). Credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted at larger hotels, restaurants, and shops in urban areas, but carry US$20–50 equivalent in cash for local markets, small vendors, and transportation.
What to Avoid: Avoid unofficial money changers and ensure you count your change carefully.

Language

Bengali (Bangla) is the official language.
English is understood by many in tourist areas, hotels, and among educated individuals, especially in major cities.
Helpful phrases: “Assalamu Alaikum” (hello/peace be upon you), “Dhonnobad” (thank you), “Kothay?” (Where is…?), “Koto?” (How much?).

Safety & Security

Generally safe, but be cautious in crowded areas and at night, particularly in major cities.
Watch for pickpockets in busy markets and public transport.
Women travelers should dress modestly to respect local customs.
Emergency number: 999.

Health & Insurance

Consult your doctor regarding recommended vaccinations (e.g., Tetanus, Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid). Malaria prophylaxis may be recommended for certain areas.
Travel insurance is highly recommended as healthcare facilities can be basic outside of major cities.
Pharmacies are available. Drink bottled water and avoid ice unless you are sure it’s made from purified water. Be mindful of food hygiene.

Transportation

Rickshaws/CNG Auto-rickshaws: Abundant for short distances, offering a unique local experience. Always negotiate the fare beforehand.
Buses: Extensive network for inter-city travel; both local and air-conditioned options available.
Trains: A good option for longer distances, though can be crowded. Book tickets in advance.
Boats/Ferries: Essential for river travel, especially in the southern delta regions.
Ride-sharing apps: Uber and Pathao are available in Dhaka and other major cities.

Price Level

Bangladesh is generally an affordable destination, especially outside of high-end establishments in major cities.

Accommodation

Budget: Guesthouses/budget hotels (US$15–40/night)
Mid-range: 3-star hotels (US$50–100/night)
Luxury: 4-5 star hotels (US$120+/night)

Food

Quick eats: Street food (US$1–5), local restaurants (US$5–10/person)
Casual dining: US$10–25/person
Fine dining: US$30+/person

Drinks

Soft drinks/tea: US$0.50–2
Coffee: US$1–4
Alcohol is generally not widely available outside of specific establishments, and prices vary significantly.

Transportation

Rickshaw/CNG auto-rickshaw: US$1–5 for short trips
Local bus: US$0.50–3 per ride
Ride-sharing (e.g., Pathao, Uber in major cities): US$3–10 for short to medium trips
Inter-city bus: US$5–20 depending on distance and comfort level
Train: US$5–25 depending on class and distance

Money-Saving Tips

Embrace local street food for delicious and affordable meals.
Use rickshaws or CNG auto-rickshaws for short distances. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey.
Stay in guesthouses or locally-owned hotels for a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Explore Bangladesh

A chaotic capital filled with contrasts: explore Lalbagh Fort, Sadarghat river port, and historic Old Dhaka.

UNESCO-listed mangrove forest teeming with wildlife—take a multi-day boat tour for the full experience.

Known for its tea estates, rolling green hills, and the picturesque Ratargul Swamp Forest.

A busy port city with colonial architecture, ethnic diversity, and a gateway to the hill tracts.

Hill station offering trekking, indigenous villages, and scenic views—home to the Marma and Chakma people.

Claimed to be the world’s longest natural sea beach—great for sunbathing, seafood, and surfing.

Bangladesh’s only coral island—ideal for snorkeling, seafood, and turquoise waters.

A former ancient capital with beautiful ruins, folk art museum, and restored Mughal mansions.

UNESCO Heritage site with Islamic architecture, especially the famous Sixty Dome Mosque.

Western region with mango orchards and one of South Asia’s oldest archaeological sites.

Planning Your Trip

Best Time To Visit

Bangladesh has a tropical monsoon climate with three main seasons: summer, monsoon, and winter. Your travel experience will vary significantly depending on the region and time of year.

Winter (November–February) – Best time to visit nationwide.

Dry and pleasant weather (59–79°F / 15–26°C).
Ideal for exploring cities like Dhaka, Rajshahi, and the Sundarbans mangrove forest.

Pre-monsoon (March–May) – Hot and increasingly humid.

Temperatures can soar to 95°F (35°C) in central and western areas.
Suitable for cultural festivals like Pahela Baishakh (Bengali New Year in April).

Monsoon (June–October) – High rainfall and occasional flooding.

Lush countryside and rivers at full glory, but travel can be disrupted.
Avoid low-lying areas like Barisal and Sylhet during peak rains.

Bold Recommendation: Visit between November–February for comfortable weather, easier transport, and peak wildlife season in the Sundarbans.

Local Customs And Etiquette

Dress Modestly: Especially in rural areas—cover shoulders and knees; women often wear a scarf.
Shoes Off: Remove footwear when entering homes and religious sites.
Photography: Always ask before photographing people, especially women or inside temples/mosques.
Tipping: Not mandatory, but rounding up or tipping 5–10% in restaurants is appreciated.
Religious Sensitivity: Bangladesh is a Muslim-majority country; respect prayer times and avoid eating in public during Ramadan.
Hospitality: Locals are incredibly warm—expect to be invited for tea or meals; accepting is appreciated.

Budgeting For Your Trip

Accommodation:

Budget hotels: US$20–50
Mid-range: US$60–120
Luxury: US$150–300+

Food:

Street food/snacks: US$1–3 (fuchka, biryani, tea stalls)
Sit-down local meals: US$5–10
Upscale dining: US$20–40

Transport:

City travel: US$2–6/day via rickshaw or ride-share
Intercity bus/train: US$5–20
Private driver: ~US$60/day

Activities:

Museums: Often free or ~US$1–2
Guided tours: US$20–40/day
Sundarbans boat tour: US$80–150 (multi-day)

Daily Budget:

Budget: US$50–80 (guesthouses, local transport, street food).
Mid-range: US$120–200 (nice hotels, guided activities).
Luxury: US$300+ (top hotels, private drivers, domestic flights).

Internet & Mobile

SIM Cards:

Buy local SIMs at the airport or shops in cities (Grameenphone, Robi, Banglalink).
Prepaid plans: ~US$5–10 for 10–15GB of data.

eSIMs:

Supported by Airalo and Holafly for Bangladesh.

Wi-Fi:

Common in hotels, cafes, and restaurants in urban centers—less reliable in rural areas.

Travel Insurance

Strongly recommended, especially for:

Medical emergencies: Quality care is limited outside of Dhaka.
Natural events: Monsoon flooding, cyclones.
Adventure travel: Policies should cover boat tours, hikes, and hill district treks.

Check if coverage includes trip delays, emergency evacuation, and cancellations.

Accomodation Options

Bangladesh’s accommodation ranges from riverfront eco-lodges to affordable city hotels.

Luxury:

The Westin Dhaka, Pan Pacific Sonargaon, and Sea Pearl Beach Resort (Cox’s Bazar).
Rates from US$150–300+/night.

Mid-range:

Boutique hotels like Innotel Luxury Business Hotel (Dhaka), Nazimgarh Resorts (Sylhet).
Around US$60–120/night.

Budget:

Guesthouses and local hotels (e.g., Hotel 71, Hotel Tropical Daisy in Dhaka): US$20–50/night.
Homestays in the Chittagong Hill Tracts or Sundarbans area.

Unique Stays:

Eco-resorts: Srimangal’s tea estates and Sundarbans river lodges.
Floating hotels on traditional boats (launch cruises from Dhaka to Barisal).

Tip: Book ahead during public holidays and festival seasons (especially December–January and April).

Getting Around

Navigating Bangladesh requires flexibility—trains and private drivers are most reliable for intercity travel.

Trains:

Popular routes: Dhaka–Chittagong, Dhaka–Rajshahi, and Dhaka–Sylhet.
Classes: 1st AC (most comfortable), Shovon (2nd class, decent), and local (very basic).
Booking tip: Reserve in advance through Bangladesh Railway’s e-ticket site or local counters.

Buses:

Private operators (Green Line, Shohagh, Hanif): Clean and air-conditioned, costing US$5–20.
Public buses are much cheaper (US$1–3) but often overcrowded and less safe.

Rickshaws & CNGs (auto-rickshaws):

Short distances within cities: US$1–3 per ride—negotiate fares or ask for meter.
Ride-hailing apps like Pathao and Uber are widely used in Dhaka and Chittagong.

Car Rentals:

Self-driving is not advised due to chaotic traffic.
Hire a car with driver for ~US$50–70/day, ideal for exploring rural areas.

Domestic Flights:

Useful for long distances (e.g., Dhaka–Cox’s Bazar, Dhaka–Jessore).
Fares range from US$40–100 with operators like Biman Bangladesh and NovoAir.

Bold Recommendation: Use trains or domestic flights for intercity travel and ride-hailing apps or hired drivers for local mobility.

Handy Tips

Bangladesh uses the Bangladeshi Taka (৳). Notes commonly come in ৳2, ৳5, ৳10, ৳20, ৳50, ৳100, ৳500, and ৳1000 denominations; coins are rarely used but include ৳1, ৳2, and ৳5.

Exchanging Currency: Avoid changing money at the airport. Use ATMs at banks like BRAC Bank, Dutch-Bangla, or City Bank for favorable exchange rates.
Using Cards: Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted at high-end hotels, restaurants, and malls, but carry cash for street food, transport, and rural areas.
Tipping Etiquette: Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory.
- Restaurants: 5–10%, only in mid-range to upscale venues.
- Rickshaws/CNGs: Round up fare.
- Hotel Staff: ৳100–200 (approx. US$1–2) for porters or housekeeping.
- Guides/Drivers: US$5–10 per day is generous for full-day service.

Bengali (Bangla) is the official language. English is spoken in hotels, airports, and by educated locals. Handy phrases:

“Koto taka?” – “How much is it?”
“Dhonnobad” – “Thank you”
“Washroom kothay?” – “Where is the toilet?”

Pro Tip: Most locals are friendly—a smile and a polite “Hello” go a long way, especially in smaller towns.

Bangladesh is generally safe for tourists, especially in urban centers like Dhaka and Chittagong. Exercise caution in crowds, markets, and when traveling at night.

Emergency Numbers:
- 999 – Police, Fire, Ambulance
- 109 – National Women’s Help Line
- Contact your embassy in Dhaka (keep a printed copy of the address).

Bangladesh uses 220V/50Hz electricity with Type C/D/G plugs. You may need a universal adapter. Converters are necessary for high-voltage appliances from the U.S.

Avoid drinking tap water. Only drink bottled or filtered water (e.g., from brands like Mum, Fresh, or Aquafina). Boil water if you’re in remote areas. Ice in hotels/restaurants is usually safe, but ask if unsure.

Government offices, banks, and many shops close on:

21 Feb: Language Martyrs’ Day
26 Mar: Independence Day
14 Apr: Bengali New Year (Pohela Boishakh)
Eid-ul-Fitr: Date varies (3-day public holiday)
Eid-ul-Adha: Date varies (3-day public holiday)
15 Aug: National Mourning Day
16 Dec: Victory Day
25 Dec: Christmas (for Christians and public offices)

Note: Tourist attractions may be crowded or closed during Eid holidays. Plan ahead!

Shops & Bazaars: Usually open from 10:00–20:00. Fridays are off-days in many areas (Islamic weekend).
Malls: 11:00–21:00 daily, closed Fridays in some cities.
Pharmacies: Major ones (Lazz Pharma, UniMed) stay open late or 24/7 in cities.
Markets: Check out New Market in Dhaka or Chattogram’s Reazuddin Bazaar for local finds.

Biriyani: Fragrant rice with marinated meat (try at Haji or Fakruddin in Dhaka).
Panta Ilish: Fermented rice with fried hilsa fish—a Bengali New Year favorite.
Shorshe Ilish: Hilsa fish in mustard gravy—iconic river delicacy.
Morog Polao: Spiced rice with chicken and boiled eggs.
Beef Tehari: Spicy beef and rice cooked together, different from biriyani.
Fuchka: Crisp puris stuffed with tangy tamarind water and potatoes (try at Dhanmondi Lake).
Chingri Malai Curry: Prawns in coconut milk.
Kacchi Biriyani: Marinated mutton and fragrant rice, often for weddings or special occasions.
Mishti Doi: Sweet fermented yogurt—best chilled.
Roshogolla: Soft spongy cheese balls in syrup.
Sandesh: Delicate milk-based sweet, often flavored with cardamom or mango.
Chomchom: Syrupy, log-shaped sweets with a slightly chewy texture.

Alcoholic Drinks:
Alcohol is restricted but available in international hotels and expat bars.

Hunter Beer: Locally brewed light lager.
Carlsberg/Budweiser: Imported and sold at legal liquor shops.
Bangla Spirits: Local whiskey/rum—acquire from government-approved vendors only.
Bottola Bar (Dhaka): Popular among expats for drink selection and live music.

Non-Alcoholic Drinks:

Borhani: Spiced yogurt drink—cooling after biriyani.
Seven Ring Lassi: Sweet, thick yogurt drink with saffron/rose.
Green Coconut Water: Widely available, especially on coastal trips.
Black Tea (Cha): Served roadside with ginger or cardamom.
Sugarcane Juice: Freshly pressed on carts—refreshing but ensure it’s hygienic.
Aam Pora Sharbat: Smoky raw mango drink—tangy and hydrating.

Lalbagh Fort: 17th-century Mughal fort in Old Dhaka.
Ahsan Manzil: Pink Palace and former Nawab residence.
Sonargaon: Ancient capital, folk museum, and old architecture.
Jatiyo Sangsad Bhaban: Parliament building by Louis Kahn—architectural marvel.
Kantaji Temple: Terracotta Hindu temple near Dinajpur.
Mahasthangarh: Ruins of one of South Asia’s earliest urban archaeological sites.
Paharpur Monastery: UNESCO-listed Buddhist ruins.
Shat Gambuj Mosque: 15th-century brick mosque in Bagerhat.
Chattogram War Cemetery: WWII memorial, beautifully maintained.
Rickshaw Art: Dhaka’s rickshaws are mobile pieces of folk art.

Boat Ride in Sadarghat: Wooden boat across Buriganga River—a cultural must-do.
Cox’s Bazar Beach: Longest natural sea beach in the world.
Saint Martin’s Island: Tropical paradise with coral reefs.
Tea Gardens of Sylhet: Lush greenery and misty hills—perfect for relaxing.
Hatirjheel Lake: Scenic urban lake with bridges and cafés.
Dhaka Art Summit: Biennial modern art event—globally recognized.
National Zoo: Great for families; best visited early morning.
Shilpakala Academy: Live music, drama, and dance performances.
Fantasy Kingdom: Amusement park near Dhaka—fun for kids.
Cineplex Bashundhara: Catch the latest Bollywood or Hollywood flicks.

Dhaka Regency Rooftop: Live music, rooftop views, cocktails.
Heritage Restaurant: Traditional Bengali cuisine in historic decor.
Club 13: Stylish bar and lounge—upscale crowd, good security.
Gloria Jean’s Gulshan: Café scene with outdoor seating.
Café Eden: Shisha and snacks, trendy among youth.
Crimson Cup Coffee: International café chain, Dhaka branch.
Café Mango: Art café and gallery—serves great fusion meals.
Jatra Biroti: Rooftop live music venue and community café.
North End Coffee Roasters: Western-style espresso bar, expat-favorite.
The Westin Sky Lounge: Premium cocktails with panoramic skyline views.