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The People's Republic of Bangladesh, abbreviated as Bangladesh, is a South Asian country located north of the Bay of Bengal. A small part of its southeastern mountainous area borders Myanmar, and it is adjacent to India on the east, west and north. There are also a large number of enclaves on the northern border.
The People's Republic of Bangladesh was originally part of Pakistan, known as East Pakistan. It separated from Pakistan and became an independent country in 1971. Bangladesh has experienced rapid economic growth in recent years, but remains a developing country.
The Bengalis are one of the oldest ethnic groups in the South Asian subcontinent. The earliest inhabitants of the Bangladesh region were Australasians. The dense network of rivers provides for extensive river transportation, making flooding very common during the rainy season and frequent tropical cyclones. Mineral resources include natural gas, coal, titanium, and zirconium, and jute is a major source of income for Bangladesh.
Most of Bangladesh has a subtropical monsoon climate, while the coastal areas have a monsoon-type tropical savanna climate, which is hot, humid, and rainy. Bangladesh's year-round season is divided into winter (November-February), summer (March-June), and the rainy season (July-October), with winter being the best time to visit.
Eid al-Fitr is a major festival for Bangladeshi Muslims. Every July, Muslims climb onto crowded trains and sit on the roofs, preparing to go home for Eid al-Fitr. The trains are packed with people inside and outside, making them a paradise for humanistic photography.
Dhaka
Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, lies on the north bank of the Buriganga River in the Ganges Delta. It is the largest city in Bangladesh, serving as the country's political, economic, and cultural center, and one of the major cities in South Asia. Dhaka boasts over 800 mosques, earning it the nickname "The City of Mosques." Dhaka boasts numerous historical sites, including the Bala Katra Palace, built in 1644. The Dhaka Museum also houses a vast collection of Hindu, Buddhist, and Islamic sculptures and paintings, Quranic inscriptions, Arabic and Persian calligraphy, ancient coins, golden Buddha statues, and the world-renowned "Muslim textiles."
Cox's Bazar
A renowned fishing port, it's one of Bangladesh's most important tourist attractions. The fishing industry thrives here, and visitors can immerse themselves in the traditional lives of local fishermen. Cox's Bazar is also renowned for its long, fine sand and picturesque beaches, offering visitors a chance to fully experience the beauty of the South Indian Ocean and the tropical waters.
Recommended travel time: 4-6 days
Bangladesh has a rich cultural heritage influenced by ancient Buddhist, Hindu, and Islamic civilizations. It was part of the Bengal region and played a key role in South Asian history, including the 1971 independence movement.
Bangladesh is in South Asia, bordered by India and Myanmar. Dhaka, the capital, is accessible by international flights, buses, taxis, and rickshaws. Major cities have local transport and ride-hailing services.
Most attractions are open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from November to February, when temperatures are cooler and humidity is lower.
Entrance fees are typically low; for example, Lalbagh Fort costs around BDT 40–50 for foreigners. Tickets are usually purchased on-site; some national parks offer online booking.
Advance booking is not required for most sites, but it is recommended for guided tours, river cruises, and national parks, ideally 1–2 weeks in advance.
Dhaka can be explored in 2–3 days. A trip to Cox’s Bazar requires 2–3 days. Sylhet and the Sundarbans need 2–4 days depending on activities.
Guided tours are available in English and Bengali. Some major sites provide audio guides, mainly in English.
Start in Dhaka for historic sites, then head to Sylhet for tea gardens, visit the Sundarbans for wildlife, and finish at Cox’s Bazar for beach relaxation.
Night visits are rare. Some hotels and resorts offer evening cruises or cultural performances, and city landmarks may be illuminated at night.
Peak tourist season is November–February. For fewer crowds, visit during shoulder seasons in March or October.
Most tourist spots have basic facilities, restaurants, cafes, and small shops nearby, especially in cities and popular tourist regions.
Accessibility varies; urban attractions are mostly accessible, but rural areas, beaches, and mangroves may be challenging for those with mobility issues.
Cash is widely used. Cards and mobile payments are accepted in major hotels, restaurants, and urban shops but less so in rural areas.
Cities like Dhaka and Chittagong have numerous restaurants offering local and international cuisine. Tourist areas often have cafes and beachside eateries.
Vegetarian and halal options are widely available. Vegan options may be limited in rural areas.
Options range from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels in Dhaka, Cox’s Bazar, and Sylhet. Tourist hubs have the most choices.
Souvenirs include handmade textiles, pottery, jute products, traditional jewelry, and local crafts.
Domestic flights, long-distance buses, and trains are available. Private cars or hired taxis are common for flexible travel between cities and tourist areas.