Your Bangladesh travel question answered

Bangladesh is a country in South Asia, located on the eastern side of the Indian subcontinent. It is bordered by India to the north, east, and west, and Myanmar to the southeast. The Bay of Bengal lies to the south of Bangladesh. Famous for its people, diversified culture, natural challenges and recent economic growth

Bangladesh is known for a variety of things, including:

1. Natural Beauty: Bangladesh has a diverse range of natural beauty, including the world’s largest delta, the Sundarbans mangrove forest, numerous waterfalls, and stunning beaches.

2. Culture and Heritage: Bangladesh has a rich and vibrant culture, with a mix of Bengali, Muslim, and British influences. It is home to numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the historic Mosque City of Bagerhat and the ancient ruins of Paharpur.

3. Textiles and Garments: Bangladesh is one of the world’s largest exporters of textiles and garments, with a thriving industry that employs millions of people.

4. Food: Bangladesh has a delicious cuisine that is known for its bold and spicy flavors, including popular dishes like biryani, dal, and chutneys.

5. Wildlife: The Sundarbans mangrove forest is home to the Bengal tiger, while the Chittagong Hill Tracts are home to numerous rare and endangered species like the clouded leopard and the Asian elephant.

6. Hospitality: Bangladeshis are known for their warm hospitality and friendly nature, making it a welcoming destination for travelers.

The best time to visit Bangladesh is from November to February, when the weather is dry and pleasant. However, if you’re looking for adventure, the monsoon season (June to September) can be an exciting time to visit, with lush green landscapes and dramatic waterfalls. Keep a note that The Sundarbans is closed for wild life conservation from the month of May 01 to July 31, EVERY YEAR.

Bangladesh offers a range of adventure activities, from trekking in the jungle to exploring ancient ruins. Some of the best activities include hiking in the Chittagong Hill Tracts, visiting the Sundarbans mangrove forest, and exploring the HumHum waterfall and Jungle Trekking in Srimangal. Exploring Dhaka city in local style is also an adventure.

The nightlife in Bangladesh is limited, but there are some bars and nightclubs in 4*/5* Hotels  in Dhaka. Bar is available in Dhaka, Chittagong, Sylhet, Rajshahi and Mongla.

When packing for an adventure trip to Bangladesh, it’s important to bring sturdy, comfortable shoes for hiking and exploring, light and breathable clothing for the humid climate, insect repellent, and a good quality camera to capture all the amazing sights.

Bangladesh has a diverse and delicious cuisine, with a mix of spicy and sweet flavors. Some of the must-try dishes include biryani, nehari, mesbani beef, lage rost in star, beauty lassi, chap etc and sweets throughout the country. Be sure to also try some of the delicious street food, such as fuchka, samosas and jhalmuri.

Like any destination, it’s important to take general precautions when traveling in Bangladesh. Be sure to stay up to date on the latest travel advisories, use reputable tour operators, and avoid traveling alone at night(after dark). In case of any emergency, call 999 and local general people are very helpful.

Bangladesh is a predominantly Muslim country, so it’s important to respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly, remove your shoes when entering mosques, and ask permission before taking photos of people. It is not that the all Bangladeshi  women ware hijab but everyone dress moderately and do not expose themselve. If you are a solo female traveler, the general people will help you to get through but will ask 2 questions, a) where you are from /which country ? b) are you married ? it is just a gesture that they are curious and concerned about you that you can reach your destination.

The currency in Bangladesh is the Bangladeshi taka. It’s a good idea to exchange some currency in airport where you will get Bank rate. If you want to exchange from else where you will get BDT 2-3 extra than bank rate. Gulshan, Motijeel in Dhaka has money exchange that offers best rate. Cities like Chittagong, Sylhet, Rajshahi, Khulna, Barishal has many money exchange too but not throughout the country.

The official language of Bangladesh is Bengali, but English is also understood and people can communicate. If needed in countryside, ask any school going children, they can help to communicate.

The most common modes of transportation in Bangladesh include buses, trains, taxis(tuktuk), and rickshaws. You can use Uber (Dhaka and Chittagong) and other apps like Pathao, oBhai to rent car or bike.

Visitors to Bangladesh need a valid passport and visa to enter the country. Most of the European, North American and Oceania countries along with China, Japan, UAE, KSA etc. will get Visa on arrival. Click here to check your country’s Visa on Arrival eligibility.

Visas for Bangladesh can be obtained from the nearest Bangladeshi embassy or consulate. You will need an Invitation Letter (that will be send by a tour operator or business company), Hotel Booking and Return Air Ticket to obtain a visa for Bangladesh. Check the list of visa on arrival country list here. 

Bangladesh is a conservative country, so it is important to dress modestly. Women should cover their shoulders and wear skirts or pants that cover the knees, while men should wear pants and shirts with sleeves which is acceptable even if it is short.

The climate in Bangladesh is tropical, with hot and humid summers and mild winters. It reaches up to 32C – 38C during April to May. June – July is monsoon and other reason are tropical.

Visitors to Bangladesh should take precautions against mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever and malaria, and should be careful to avoid consuming contaminated street food and running water.

Some of the major festivals and cultural events in Bangladesh include Eid al-Fitr, the Bengali New Year, Durga Puja, Shakrain, Rash Festival and the Bishwa Ijtema Islamic congregation.

Credit cards (VISA/Master) are accepted at most of the hotels and restaurants in Bangladesh, but it is always a good idea to have cash on hand. Other brands like American Express, JCB, Dinners Club etc are available but mostly in big cities.

Women traveling alone in Bangladesh should dress modestly and take precautions to avoid unwanted attention. It is also a good idea to avoid walking alone at night and to stay in reputable accommodations.

Some of the best shopping destinations in Bangladesh include the New Market in Dhaka, Bashundhara City Shopping Complex, and the Jamuna Future Park. There are a number of other markets for cheap garments shopping like Bangabazar and Islampur. For souvenir shops you can try AARONG, JATRA, IDEA and there are street vendors in Dhaka University area.

No, it is not safe to drink tap water in Bangladesh. It is recommended to drink bottled water or filtered water.