BANGLADESH TRAVEL GUIDE
Bangladeshis are renowned for their hospitality and warmth – they’ll invite you home and treat you to their delectable cuisine. They are passionate about food, football, cricket, theatre and music – and if you’re wondering about the strange combination, their social ambit is wide and they are a broad-minded nation. Bangladesh is among the few Asian nations where religions coexist in harmony. However, don’t be fooled by the smooth and urbane capital city, Dhaka – the smaller cities and villages are simple and well behind modern times.
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BANGLADESH QUICK FACTS
Capital: Dhaka (Dacca)
Currency: taka (BDT)
Area: 147,570 km2
Population: 161,4 million (2018)
Language: Bengali (official) English (recognised, has some national status)
Religion: Muslim 90%, Hindu 9%, other 1%
Electricity: 220V/50Hz(US Type A, Europlug, Type D, Type G, and Danish Plug)
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BANGLADESH
BANGLADESH PUBLIC HOLIDAYS
21 February, Martyrs’ Day/International Mother Language Day
26 March, National Day
14 April, Bangla New Year
1st Monday in July, Bank Holiday
15 August, National Mourning Day
7 November, National Revolution and Solidarity Day
16 December, Victory Day
Also, Buddha Purnima (Visakaha Day), Durga Puja, and Islamic holidays and festivals.
FESTIVALS IN BANGLADESH
BEST TIME TO VISIT BANGLADESH
Bangladesh has three main seasons: the hot season, the monsoon season, and the cool season.
- The hot season lasts from March to May, with temperatures reaching up to 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) in some areas.
- The monsoon season runs from June to September, and is characterized by heavy rains and flooding.
- The cool season lasts from October to February, with temperatures ranging from 15-25 degrees Celsius (59-77 degrees Fahrenheit). This is considered the best time to visit Bangladesh.
The best time to visit Bangladesh is between October and March, as the weather is generally dry and cool during this time. The monsoon season, which runs from June to September, can cause heavy rains and flooding in some areas.
BANGLADESH WEATHER SYNOPSIS
Bangladesh has a humid, warm climate influenced primarily by monsoon and partly by pre-monsoon and post-monsoon circulations and frequently experiences severe local storms and tornadoes. Average temperatures are 26.1⁰C but can vary between 15⁰C and 34⁰C throughout the year. The warmest months coincide with the rainy season (March-September), while winter (December-February) receives less rainfall. Bangladesh is one of the wettest countries of the world, with most areas receiving at least 1500 mm and others receiving as much as 5800 mm of rainfall per year. Rainfall is driven by the Southwest monsoon, which originates over the Indian Ocean and carries warm, moist, and unstable air, beginning approximately during the first week of June and ending in the first week of October. Major climate drivers in Bangladesh include the Easterly Trade Winds, the Southwest monsoon, and the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO).
BANGLADESH TOURIST SEASONS
Most destinations have different times of the year when they’re more or less popular with tourists.
Peak Season
Shoulder Season
Off Peak Season
JANUARY
HOT
COLD
MODERATE
DRY
WET
FEBRUARY
HOT
COLD
MODERATE
DRY
WET
MARCH
HOT
COLD
MODERATE
DRY
WET
APRIL
HOT
COLD
MODERATE
DRY
WET
MAY
HOT
COLD
MODERATE
DRY
WET
JUNE
HOT
COLD
MODERATE
DRY
WET
JULY
HOT
COLD
MODERATE
DRY
WET
AUGUST
HOT
COLD
MODERATE
DRY
WET
SEPTEMBER
HOT
COLD
MODERATE
DRY
WET
OCTOBER
HOT
COLD
MODERATE
DRY
WET
NOVEMBER
HOT
COLD
MODERATE
DRY
WET
DECEMBER
HOT
COLD
MODERATE
DRY
WET
HOT MONTHS:
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MODERATE MONTHS:
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COLD MONTHS:
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WET MONTHS:
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DRY MONTHS:
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SPORT & ACTIVITIES
SNOW SPORT IN BANGLADESH
HIKING & CYCLING IN BANGLADESH
The best time for outdoor activities in Bangladesh is during the drier months of October to April, as it can really pour with rains during the months of May to September.
BEACH OPTIONS IN BANGLADESH
Bangladesh claims to have the world's longest unbroken stretch of beach of 120km, with beautiful views of both sunrise and sunset. However, being a conservative and predominantly Muslim country, you won't find people sunbathing here due to the strict cultural restrictions.
SURFING IN BANGLADESH
Although not a surfing destination in itself, Bangladesh does receive fairly consistent swell between April and November. If you're looking for small, warm water beach breaks and a rather unique and offbeat surf scene, then you will enjoy the uncrowded surf spots that Bangladesh offers the adventurous surfer.
KITESURF IN BANGLADESH
If you're desperate for some wind sports on the water in Bangladesh, check out Coxs Bazar at Laboni Beach, but don't have any high expectations!
For more details on kite surfing in Bangladesh expand this section!
HEALTH RISKS IN BANGLADESH
Be aware of possible health risks in
Bangladesh
Yellow fever - The yellow fever virus is found in tropical and subtropical areas of Africa and South America. The virus is spread to people by the bite of an infected mosquito. There is no medicine to treat or cure an infection. To prevent getting sick from yellow fever, use insect repellent, wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, and get vaccinated.
Zika Virus - Zika is spread mostly by the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito. These mosquitoes bite during the day and night. Zika can be passed from a pregnant woman to her fetus. Infection during pregnancy can cause certain birth defects. There is no vaccine or medicine for Zika.
Malaria - Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease caused by a parasite that commonly infects a certain type of mosquito which feeds on humans. People who get malaria are typically very sick with high fevers, shaking chills, and flu-like illness. Although malaria can be a deadly disease, illness and death from malaria can usually be prevented.
Dengue - Dengue is spread mostly by the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito. These mosquitoes bite during the day and night. About one in four people infected with dengue will get sick. For people who get sick with dengue, symptoms can be mild or severe.
BANGLADESH TRAVEL COSTS
The cost of traveling to Bangladesh can vary depending on a number of factors, including the time of year, your travel itinerary, and your accommodation and transportation choices. However, it is generally considered to be a budget-friendly destination.
Accommodation options range from budget-friendly guesthouses and hostels, to mid-range hotels, to more upscale resorts. Prices for budget accommodation can start as low as $5-10 per night, while mid-range hotels can cost around $20-30 per night.
Food and transportation are also relatively inexpensive in Bangladesh. A meal at a local restaurant can cost as little as $2-3, and local transportation, such as buses and rickshaws, can also be very cheap.
Overall, it is possible to travel to Bangladesh on a budget of around $25-30 per day, including accommodation, transportation, food, and activities. However, if you want to travel in more comfort or luxury, the cost can be higher.
A sample budget for visiting Bangladesh could be as follows:
- Accommodation: $10-15 per night for a budget-friendly guesthouse or hostel, $20-30 per night for a mid-range hotel.
- Food: $3-5 per meal at local restaurants, $1-2 for street food.
- Transportation: $1-2 for a local bus or rickshaw ride, $30-50 for a full-day taxi rental.
- Activities: $5-10 for entrance fees to tourist sites, $15-20 for guided tours.
It's important to note that this is just an estimate, and the actual cost of traveling to Bangladesh may vary depending on individual preferences, travel itinerary, and other factors.
Also, it's worth to mention that this budget does not include flights and VISA costs. The cost of flights to Bangladesh can vary depending on the time of year and your departure location, and obtaining a visa for Bangladesh can cost around $50-60.
BANGLADESH TRAVEL TIPS
Here are some travel tips for Bangladesh:
- Be prepared for the heat and humidity: Bangladesh can be very hot and humid, especially during the summer months. Make sure to wear light, breathable clothing and bring plenty of water with you.
- Respect local customs: Bangladesh is a conservative Muslim country, and it's important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites, and be mindful of your behavior and actions.
- Be prepared for transportation challenges: Public transportation in Bangladesh can be crowded and chaotic, and road conditions can be poor. Be prepared for delays and plan extra time for travel.
- Be mindful of health and safety: Bangladesh can have health hazards and safety concerns, such as poor air quality in big cities and diseases like dengue fever, Malaria and Cholera. It's important to take necessary precautions and to be aware of current health and safety conditions before and during your trip.
- Learn some basic Bengali: While English is widely spoken in Bangladesh, learning some basic Bengali phrases can go a long way in helping you navigate the country and connect with locals.
- Be flexible: Bangladesh is a developing country and things might not always go as planned. Be prepared to be flexible and adapt to unexpected situations.
- Be open-minded: Bangladesh is a fascinating and diverse country with a rich culture and history. Be open-minded and willing to experience new things to make the most of your trip.
SIGHTS & HIGHLIGHTS OF BANGLADESH
Bangladesh is divided into seven main regions:
- Dhaka: This region includes the capital city of Dhaka, which is considered the cultural and economic heart of the country. Highlights of this region include visiting the Old Dhaka, which is known for its vibrant street markets and traditional architecture, and the Bangladesh National Museum, which houses a vast collection of art and artifacts from the country's history.
- Chittagong: This region is home to the port city of Chittagong, which is the second-largest city in the country. Highlights of this region include visiting the Chittagong War Cemetery, which is a memorial to the soldiers who fought and died in World War II, and the Cox's Bazar, which is a long sandy beach that is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country.
- Sylhet: This region is known for its tea gardens and natural beauty, including the Lawachara National Park and the Madhabpur Lake. This region is also famous for the shrine of the famous Sufi saint Hazrat Shah Jalal.
- Rangpur: This region is known for its natural beauty, including the Rangamati Hill District, which is home to the indigenous Chakma people, and the Rangamati Buddhist Temple, which is a popular tourist destination.
- Rajshahi: This region is known for its historical sites, including the Mahasthangarh, which is an ancient city dating back to the 3rd century BC, and the Puthia Temple Complex, which is a group of Hindu temples dating back to the 17th century.
- Khulna: This region is known for its natural beauty, including the Sundarbans, which is the largest mangrove forest in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Royal Bengal Tiger is the main attraction.
- Barisal: This region is known for its natural beauty, including the Kuakata beach, which is a popular tourist destination, and the Andharmanik waterfall, which is one of the highest waterfalls in Bangladesh.
It's worth to mention that Bangladesh is a country with a lot of diversity, and there are many other places to visit and explore beyond these main regions.
Bangladesh has a rich culture and history, as well as natural beauty, making it a great destination for travelers. Here are some of the best things to see and do when visiting Bangladesh:
- Visit the capital city of Dhaka: Dhaka is the cultural and economic heart of the country and offers a lot to see and do, including visiting the Old Dhaka, where you can explore the vibrant street markets and traditional architecture, and the Bangladesh National Museum, which houses a vast collection of art and artifacts from the country's history.
- Explore the Sundarbans: The Sundarbans is the largest mangrove forest in the world, and it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's home to the Bengal tiger and a variety of other wildlife, and it's a great place for nature lovers and bird watchers.
- Take a trip to Cox's Bazar: The Cox's Bazar is a long sandy beach that is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. It's a great place for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.
- Visit the Rangamati Hill District: This is an area of beautiful natural beauty and is home to the indigenous Chakma people. The Rangamati Buddhist Temple is also a popular destination.
- Explore the ancient city of Mahasthangarh: This ancient city dates back to the 3rd century BC and is known for its well-preserved ruins and rich history.
- Visit the Puthia Temple Complex: This is a group of Hindu temples dating back to the 17th century, which is known for its intricate carvings and beautiful architecture.
- Take a cruise on the Buriganga River: The Buriganga River is an important waterway in Dhaka and taking a cruise on it will give you a great perspective of the city and its history.
- Visit the Dhaka University area: The Dhaka University area is a great place to explore the city's student culture and see historic buildings like the Dhaka University Central Mosque, which is considered one of the most beautiful mosque in Bangladesh.
- Visit the shrine of Hazrat Shah Jalal: This is a famous Sufi saint and it's located in Sylhet division. It's an important pilgrimage site for many Bengalis.
- Visit the tea gardens: Bangladesh is famous for its tea gardens, particularly in Sylhet division. Visiting the tea gardens is a great way to experience the country's rural culture and learn about the tea-making process.
WHAT TO EAT IN BANGLADESH
Bangladesh has a rich and diverse culinary tradition, with a variety of delicious dishes to try. Here are some popular foods to eat when visiting Bangladesh:
- Rice and curry: Rice and curry is a staple food in Bangladesh, and you'll find a wide variety of curries to choose from, including chicken, fish, and vegetable curries.
- Biryani: This dish is a type of rice-based dish that is flavored with spices and often includes meat or vegetables.
- Dhakai paratha: Dhakai paratha is a type of flatbread that is popular in Bangladesh. It's made from flour, water, and a little oil, and it's often served with curries or dal.
- Fuchka: Fuchka is a popular street food in Bangladesh, it's a type of fried snack that is filled with a spiced potato mixture and served with tamarind chutney.
- Pitha: Pitha is a type of sweet or savory rice cake that is popular in Bangladesh. Some of the most popular types include chitoi pitha, which is a sweet rice cake stuffed with coconut and jaggery, and vapa pitha, which is a savory rice cake stuffed with lentils.
- Fish dishes: Bangladesh is a country surrounded by water and fish is an important part of the diet. Some of the most popular fish dishes include ilish mach, which is a type of Hilsa fish, and rui mach, which is a type of carp fish.
- Sweets: Bangladesh has a variety of sweet dishes, including rasgulla, which is a spongy sweet made from cottage cheese and jaggery, and kulfi, which is a type of frozen dairy dessert.
- Street food: Bangladesh has a wide variety of street food available, including samosas, pakoras, and jhal muri, a puffed rice snack with a variety of toppings.
It's worth to mention that Bangladesh is a country with a lot of diversity, and there are many other dishes to try beyond this list.
LGBTQ IN BANGLADESH
WHERE TO STAY IN BANGLADESH
When visiting Bangladesh for the first time, it's a good idea to stay in the capital city of Dhaka. Dhaka is the cultural and economic heart of the country and offers a lot to see and do. It's also a good base for exploring other parts of the country.
There are a variety of accommodation options in Dhaka, from budget-friendly guesthouses and hostels to mid-range hotels and upscale resorts. It's best to stay in a safe and central location, such as in Gulshan, Baridhara, or Banani area, which are considered some of the most affluent and developed areas in Dhaka. The neighborhoods have a lot of restaurants, cafes and shopping centers, and it's also easy to access other parts of the city.
If you're interested in more of a rural experience, you can also consider staying in a homestay or eco-lodge in the Rangamati Hill District, or in the Sundarbans. This is a good way to experience the local culture and nature.
It's worth to mention that Bangladesh is a country with a lot of diversity, and there are many other places to stay and explore beyond the capital city. You can also consider staying in Chittagong, Sylhet, Rangpur, Khulna, and other cities depending on your itinerary.
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