Things to Do in Bangladesh

About Bangladesh

Where the mighty Ganges delta embraces the Bay of Bengal, Bangladesh unfolds like a living tapestry woven from countless waterways, emerald rice paddies, and the warmest smiles in South Asia. This is a land where the call to prayer mingles with the cries of fishermen casting nets at dawn, where ancient mosques stand sentinel over bustling bazaars fragrant with cardamom and turmeric. In the Sundarbans, Bengal tigers pad silently through the world's largest mangrove forest, while in Old Dhaka, rickshaw bells create a symphony against the backdrop of centuries-old architecture. Here, hospitality isn't just tradition—it's an art form. Tea is offered before questions are asked, and strangers become family over shared plates of fragrant biryani. Bangladesh pulses with an energy that's both timeless and urgently present, where every sunset over the endless waterways whispers stories of resilience, beauty, and an indomitable human spirit that transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Use ride-sharing apps like Uber or Pathao in Dhaka and Chittagong for safe, metered transport. For longer distances, book AC buses through companies like Green Line or Shohagh. River transport via launch boats offers scenic routes but book first-class cabins for comfort and security.

Money: Carry cash in Bangladeshi Taka as card acceptance is limited outside major hotels. Exchange money at authorized dealers or banks—avoid street changers. ATMs are common in cities but may run out of cash during holidays. Budget $30-50 daily for mid-range travel.

Cultural Respect: Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, especially when visiting mosques or rural areas. Remove shoes before entering homes and religious sites. Use your right hand for eating and greeting. Friday prayers see increased crowds—plan accordingly around mosque areas.

Food Safety: Stick to busy restaurants with high turnover and avoid street food initially until your stomach adjusts. Drink bottled or boiled water exclusively. Try local specialties like hilsa fish curry and mishti doi (sweet yogurt) at established venues. Wash hands frequently with soap.

When to Visit

Bangladesh's optimal travel window spans October through March (18-25°C), when humidity drops and rainfall is minimal (less than 50mm monthly). This dry season offers perfect conditions for exploring the Sundarbans, Cox's Bazar beaches, and Sylhet's tea gardens, though expect peak pricing 40-60% higher than off-season rates. December and January are coolest and most comfortable but also most crowded. The monsoon season (June-September) brings dramatic beauty with lush landscapes and temperatures around 28-35°C, but heavy rainfall (200-400mm monthly) can disrupt transport. However, this period offers 30-50% savings on accommodation and fewer crowds. Shoulder seasons (April-May and October-November) provide moderate weather with occasional showers and mid-range pricing. Key festivals include Pohela Boishakh (Bengali New Year, mid-April), Eid celebrations (dates vary), and Durga Puja (September-October). Avoid travel during Eid holidays when transport becomes extremely crowded. Photography enthusiasts should visit during monsoon for dramatic skies and vibrant greenery, while wildlife watchers will find the post-monsoon months ideal for Sundarbans tiger spotting when animals gather near water sources.