Things To Do
in Barishal
Barishal is a vibrant city located in southern Bangladesh, known for its rich cultural heritage and picturesque landscapes. The city is situated on the banks of the Kirtankhola River, adding to its scenic charm. Barishal is famed for its traditional boat races, lively markets, and delicious seafood cuisine.
Visitors to Barishal can explore historic mosques, temples, and lush green parks, making it a colorful destination to experience Bangladeshi culture.
- "Assalamu Alaikum" - Peace be upon you
- "Dhonnobad" - Thank you
- "Kemon aso?" - How are you?
- "Bhalo achi" - I am fine
- "Khobor ki?" - What's the news?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $2 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $10 - $30
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $25
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Kuakata Beach for a breathtaking sunrise. Enjoy a refreshing walk along the shore and soak in the natural beauty.
Head to the ancient Durga Sagar Temple to admire its architecture and tranquil surroundings. Grab lunch at a local eatery to experience authentic Bengali cuisine.
Stroll around the Barishal riverfront to witness the sunset over the water. Enjoy a peaceful evening while trying some street food from local vendors.
Visit the Barishal Zila School, a historical site, to appreciate its colonial architecture. Take some photos to capture the essence of the past.
Explore the local art scene at Barishal Art College and enjoy the vibrant artworks created by talented students. Don't forget to mingle with the artists during your visit.
Attend a cultural performance at a local auditorium and witness traditional dance and music. This will give you a deeper understanding of the local culture.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history
- Beautiful natural scenery, including rivers and wetlands
- Strategic location for trade and commerce
- Growing educational institutions and opportunities
- Friendly and hospitable local community
- Vulnerability to flooding and natural disasters
- Limited infrastructure development in some areas
- Challenges with healthcare facilities and access
- Economic opportunities may be limited compared to larger cities
- Transportation can be difficult during the rainy season
Best Activities in Barishal
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy boating and sightseeing at the picturesque Durga Sagar lake in Barishal.
Visit the historic Guthia Mosque and explore its architecture and surroundings.
Experience the unique floating guava market on the Kirtonkhola river and taste fresh guavas.
Tours
Uncover the best of Barishal with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Barishal
Visit one of these nice places.
This ancient pond offers a tranquil setting with picturesque views, perfect for photography and enjoying the natural beauty of Barishal.
Known for its stunning sunsets and panoramic views of the Bay of Bengal, Kuakata Beach is a popular spot for photography and sightseeing.
The Guthia Mosque, with its impressive architectural features, offers a unique photo opportunity and a chance to explore Barishal's cultural heritage.
Food in Barishal
Barishal Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try dish featuring the iconic Hilsha fish cooked in a rich blend of spices and served with steamed rice. Popular at local restaurants like Pansi Restaurant and Hotel Athena.
Must-Try!
A delectable prawn curry cooked in a creamy coconut milk sauce, best enjoyed at Rupsha Hotel and Restaurant.
A traditional dish of fermented rice served with fried Hilsha fish, often found at street food stalls and local eateries.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Barishal better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant food market offering a wide array of fresh produce, local snacks, and street food delicacies such as fuchka (spicy hollow puri filled with tamarind water) and jhalmuri (spicy puffed rice).
A bustling street lined with food vendors selling diverse regional street foods like jhal-muri, jhinga bhuna (spicy prawn fry), and various kebabs.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Barishal, it is important to show respect towards elders by addressing them with proper titles and using polite language.
Greetings are important in Barishal, and it's customary to greet people with a smile and a nod or a verbal greeting, such as 'Salam' or 'Namaskar'.
Hospitality is highly valued in Barishal, and it is common for people to offer guests food and refreshments as a sign of respect and welcome.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Barishal with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Barishal
Ensure a smooth experience
In Barishal, Bangladesh, tipping is not a common practice. While it is not expected, it may be appreciated in certain upscale restaurants or hotels.
Payment in Barishal, Bangladesh is predominantly done in cash. Credit and debit card usage is not as widespread, especially in smaller shops or restaurants, so it's advisable to carry sufficient cash when visiting the area.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Barishal.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Barishal is during the winter season when the weather is cool and comfortable. This is also the peak tourist season, so you can expect higher prices and crowded attractions. However, the clear skies and pleasant temperatures make it an ideal time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Summer in Barishal is hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching over 30°C (86°F). The monsoon season begins in June, bringing heavy rainfall and potential flooding. This is not the most favorable time to visit due to the oppressive heat and rainy weather.
During the monsoon season, Barishal experiences heavy rainfall and occasional storms. The region becomes lush and green, but outdoor activities may be limited due to the wet weather. Traveling during this time can be challenging, and some attractions may be closed or inaccessible.
Barishal at Night
Hiking in Barishal
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A picturesque hiking spot located near Barishal offering scenic views and a moderate hiking trail suitable for all skill levels.
Though primarily known for its beach, Kuakata also has beautiful coastal trails where visitors can enjoy walking and hiking with ocean views.
The nearby Sundarbans is not a conventional hiking spot, but it offers unique trails through mangrove forests, allowing for adventure and wildlife spotting.
This trail along the Bishkhali River provides a scenic route with opportunities for nature watching and enjoying local flora and fauna.
A small hill located near Barishal that features easy hiking trails, making it accessible for families and beginner hikers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Barishal through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Barishal by plane.
The main international airport in Dhaka, about 145 km from Barishal.
An international airport located in Chittagong, approximately 255 km from Barishal.
An airport with domestic and limited international services, about 130 km from Barishal.
Located in Sylhet, around 275 km from Barishal, operating several international flights.
Located in Saidpur, about 300 km from Barishal, mostly serving domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population speaks Bangla, the national language of Bangladesh.
A significant Hindu population exists in Barishal, contributing to the cultural diversity.
The largest religious group in Barishal, primarily Sunni Muslims.
Various indigenous tribes inhabit the region, each with their distinct languages and cultures.
An influx of migrants from other regions of Bangladesh seeking economic opportunities.
Women play a crucial role in the family and economy, facing challenges in education and employment.
A young demographic accounts for a significant portion of the population, with growing educational aspirations.
The Soul of Barishal
Discover the essence of Barishal through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is the most popular sport in Barishal, with many local teams and a strong following among the youth.
Football is widely played and watched in Barishal, with numerous local clubs and events that bring communities together.
Kabaddi is a traditional team sport that is popular in rural areas of Barishal, often played during village festivals.
Badminton enjoys popularity as a recreational sport in Barishal, with many people playing in their neighborhoods and schools.
Volleyball is commonly played in Barishal, particularly in schools and among youth groups, fostering teamwork and physical fitness.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Barishal.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Barishali cuisine prominently features seafood, several eateries offer delicious vegetarian dishes like mixed vegetable curry, saag bhaji, and dal tadka.
Cafe Rhue and some local eateries provide vegan-friendly options such as lentil soup, vegetable biryani, and coconut-based curries.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can enjoy rice-based dishes like biryani, khichuri, and panta bhat, as well as grilled meats and fresh seafood.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Barishal with these cultural adventures.
