Things To Do
in Bangladesh
Bangladesh is a densely populated South Asian country of riverine plains, vibrant cities, and lush green hills in the southeast. Its culture blends centuries of Bengali literature, music, craft traditions and strong culinary identity centered on rice, fish and spicy flavors. The landscape ranges from the Sundarbans mangrove delta — home to the Royal Bengal tiger — to the long sandy beach at Cox's Bazar and misty tea gardens in Sylhet and Srimangal.
Visitors encounter warm hospitality, colorful festivals, and a fast-paced urban life in Dhaka contrasted with tranquil rural waterways.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Upon your arrival in Dhaka, you'll be greeted by the vibrant energy of the city. After checking into your hotel, spend the morning strolling around the streets of Old Dhaka, where the historical architecture and lively markets will immerse you in local culture. Don't miss the chance to try some freshly prepared street food as you wander.
In the afternoon, visit the Lalbagh Fort, a stunning 17th-century Mughal fort that offers a glimpse into the country's past. Explore the lush gardens and learn about its history while capturing beautiful photos of the intricate architecture. Afterward, head to the nearby Ahsan Manzil, the former home of the Nawab of Dhaka.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the Buriganga River. The view of the river at dusk, bustling with boats and life, is a mesmerizing experience. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk along the riverbank, absorbing the sounds and sights of the lively capital.
Travel to Srimangal, the tea capital of Bangladesh, and begin your day with a refreshing nature walk through lush green tea gardens. The morning air is filled with the scent of tea leaves and the sounds of chirping birds, creating a serene atmosphere. Meet local tea workers and learn about the tea-picking process.
Visit the Lawachara National Park in the afternoon, where you can take guided treks through the dense forests to spot unique wildlife. Look out for the endangered hoolock gibbons and experience the tranquility of nature. This enchanting environment is perfect for photography and deep reflection.
As evening approaches, return to your lodge and enjoy a traditional Bengali dinner made from local ingredients. The soulful atmosphere of the countryside will enhance your culinary experience. End the evening with an engaging storytelling session around a bonfire.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-5 |
| ☕Coffee / Tea at a cafe | $0.80-2 |
| 🚕Short taxi / CNG ride | $1-4 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (double) | $30-70 |
| 🚌Intercity bus / local transport | $0.30-10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage, festivals and friendly hospitality
- Dramatic, diverse landscapes from Sundarbans to hills and long beaches
- Affordable travel costs and vibrant local cuisine
- Unique photographic and riverine experiences not found elsewhere
- Heavy traffic and chaotic urban environments (especially Dhaka)
- Monsoon season can disrupt travel and cause flooding
- Limited infrastructure in remote areas and variable accommodation standards
- Language barriers outside tourist hubs (English less common in rural areas)
- "As-salamu alaykum" - Peace be upon you (common greeting)
- "Dhonnobad (ধন্যবাদ) — Dhonnobad" - Thank you
- "Aapni kemon achen? (আপনি কেমন আছেন?)" - How are you?
- "Koto daam? (কত দাম?)" - How much does it cost?
- "Kothay? (কোথায়?)" - Where is...?
- "Shubho sokal / Shuvo shondha" - Good morning / Good evening
- "Doya kore (দয়া করে)" - Please
- "Ami shohayota chai" - I need help
Places to Visit in Bangladesh
Visit one of these nice places.
Tidal waterways, mangrove forests and wildlife — best for dramatic landscape and wildlife photography (book guided boat tours and permits).
Longest natural sea beach in the world — expansive sunset shots, fishing boats, and beach life.
Maze of narrow lanes, colorful rickshaws, colonial buildings, and busy markets — great for street and documentary photography.
Rolling emerald tea terraces, workers picking leaves, and misty mornings — ideal for pastoral landscapes.
Historic Mughal and colonial architecture in Dhaka with ornate details and photogenic facades.
Chaotic riverine life at dawn and dusk with longboats, ferries and vibrant riverside markets.
Sweeping hilltop panoramas, sunrise views above clouds and tribal villages — some trails require local guides.
Colorful boats exchanging produce on rivers; best photographed early morning.
Food in Bangladesh
Bangladesh Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
The country’s most famous fish, usually steamed or cooked in mustard-based gravy. Best tried in season (monsoon) at local homes and traditional restaurants in Dhaka and Chittagong.
Must-Try!
Fragrant layered rice and marinated meat (mutton or chicken) cooked with spices — a celebratory dish commonly found in Dhaka’s pot-rich biryani houses.
Fermented rice served with mashed spiced vegetables or fish — traditional comfort food often eaten at festivals and rustic eateries.
Local version of pani puri — hollow fried shells filled with spiced water and tamarind — widely sold by street vendors in cities and small towns.
Fresh, strong tea served everywhere; visiting a tea garden in Sylhet or Srimangal gives access to high-quality single-estate tea.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling bazaar selling everything from snacks to household goods; try biryani shops and fuchka vendors nearby.
One of South Asia’s largest wholesale markets; early-morning fish market scenes are photogenic and offer fresh-cooked fish stalls.
Fresh seafood grills and simple curry houses along the beach selling pomfret, prawns and lobster during high season.
Historic market famous for assorted street foods and sweet shops — great for evening food walks and trying traditional desserts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Wear modest clothing, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas; women may prefer long skirts, trousers and scarves for comfort and respect.
Be mindful during Ramadan (fasting month) and when entering mosques/temples — remove shoes, dress appropriately and avoid public displays of affection.
As-salamu alaykum (peace) is a common greeting among Muslims; a handshake is common but some may prefer not to touch the opposite gender. Use the right hand for giving/receiving items and eating.
Always ask permission before photographing people, and be cautious photographing military installations or sensitive sites.
Bargaining is expected in bazaars and street markets but do so politely — fixed-price stores rarely haggle.
Safety
Tipping in Bangladesh
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not strictly required; round up in taxis, leave 5–10% in restaurants if service charge not included, and give small amounts to porters or guides. For excellent service, a modest tip is customary.
Cash (Bangladeshi Taka) is widely used, especially in markets and small towns. Credit cards are accepted in larger hotels and restaurants in major cities. Mobile wallets (bKash, Nagad) are popular for local payments. Carry small notes for tuk-tuks and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with temperatures often 30–35°C (86–95°F); afternoons can be oppressively humid, so plan outdoor activities early or late in the day and stay hydrated.
Heavy rains and localized flooding are common; boat travel may be restricted in some areas but the countryside is lush. Carry rain gear and expect travel delays.
One of the best times to visit: clearer skies, moderate temperatures and many festivals (like Durga Puja). Good for photography and outdoor travel.
Cool, dry and pleasant (10–25°C / 50–77°F); ideal for sightseeing, wildlife tours and hill treks. Nights in hill areas can be chilly.
Bangladesh at Night
Hiking in Bangladesh
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
One of Bangladesh’s higher peaks with trekking routes through tribal villages and forests; offers panoramic hill views and sunrise opportunities—best with a local guide.
Scenic hill trails with viewpoints over valleys and tribal settlements; accessible by road and short walks from the main viewpoint.
A multi-day trek to a beautiful cold-water lake surrounded by hills — remote and rewarding, requiring permits/guides.
Popular for sunrise treks with relatively short hiking routes and spectacular sea-of-clouds views in winter.
Some of the highest and most remote peaks in Bangladesh; challenging treks for experienced hikers and often organized with local communities and guides.
Airports
How to reach Bangladesh by plane.
The main international gateway with frequent regional and some long-haul flights; 20–45 minutes from central Dhaka depending on traffic. Taxis, ride-hailing and hotel transfers available.
Serves the port city and southeastern regions; useful for access to Chittagong and the hill districts.
Handles domestic flights and some international (regional) connections; nearest hub for tea gardens and northeastern attractions.
Domestic airport with flights from Dhaka and Chittagong, convenient for beach travel to the world’s longest natural sea beach.
Regional airport serving the southwest; useful for visiting Khulna region and gateway to the Sundarbans by road/boat.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority religious and ethnic group (approximately 90%); Bengali Muslim culture shapes national festivals, cuisine and language.
Hindu communities make up the largest religious minority, contributing to cultural and festival diversity (Durga Puja, etc.).
Ethnic groups in the Chittagong Hill Tracts and northeastern regions (e.g., Chakma, Marma, Tripuri, Khasi) with distinct languages, dress and customs.
Rapid urbanization has created a large young demographic in cities, influencing business, arts, tech and nightlife scenes.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport and national passion — local matches, big international fixtures and street cricket are common.
Widely played and followed, especially in urban and rural communities with lively local tournaments.
Traditional sport with strong cultural roots; Bangladesh hosts national kabaddi events and it is popular in rural areas.
Seasonal and festival-related boat races are common in riverine communities and are a cultural highlight.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist — lentil dals, vegetable curries, and paneer dishes — but many meals include fish or meat. Mention 'shakahari' (vegetarian) and double-check use of fish sauces or shrimp pastes. Major cities have vegetarian and international restaurants.
More challenging: dairy is common in sweets and some curries. Order plain rice with vegetable sides and clarify no ghee or yogurt is used. Larger cities may accommodate vegan requests.
Most meat is halal by default as Bangladesh is majority Muslim; still, if you need certification, look for restaurants that advertise halal meat.
Street food is generally safe if cooked fresh and hot; avoid raw salads and tap water. Drink bottled or treated water.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bangladesh.