Things To Do
in Khulna

Khulna is the third-largest city in Bangladesh and serves as a vital economic hub, particularly for the shrimp industry. Located in the southwestern region of the country, it acts as a gateway to the Sundarbans, the largest mangrove forest in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city features a rich cultural heritage, with a blend of ancient traditions and modern influences.

Its vibrant markets, historic sites, and scenic waterways make Khulna a unique destination for travelers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the City
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Khulna River, where you can enjoy a boat ride and witness the local life along the waterfront.

afternoon
:

Visit the historic Sixty Dome Mosque, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore the surrounding area for local handicrafts and souvenirs.

evening
:

Dine at a local seafood restaurant to savor the fresh offerings from the nearby Sundarbans.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a day trip to the Sundarbans. Join a guided boat tour to explore the mangroves and spot wildlife, including the famous Bengal tiger.

afternoon
:

Visit a local village within the Sundarbans to learn about the culture and lifestyle of the indigenous communities.

evening
:

Return to Khulna and enjoy a relaxing evening at a riverside café, soaking in the sunset views.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$2-5
Cup of coffee$1
🚌Local bus fare$0.20
🏨Budget hotel per night$10-20
🚖Taxi ride within the city$3-5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Access to the beautiful Sundarbans.
  • Friendly and hospitable locals.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Traffic can be chaotic.
  • Language barrier for non-Bengali speakers.
  • "আপনার নাম কি?" - What is your name?
  • "ধন্যবাদ" - Thank you
  • "কেমন আছেন?" - How are you?
  • "দয়া করে" - Please
  • "মুঝে সহায়তা করুন" - Help me

Places to Visit in Khulna

Visit one of these nice places.

Sixty Dome Mosque

A stunning architectural marvel with intricate designs, perfect for historical photography.

Sundarbans

Capture the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife in this UNESCO-listed mangrove forest.

Khulna Riverbank

The riverbank provides beautiful sunset views and vibrant local life, ideal for candid shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Khulna

Khulna offers a rich culinary experience with a variety of local dishes that reflect the region's cultural diversity and proximity to the sea.

Khulna Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Shorshe Ilish

Hilsa fish cooked in mustard sauce, a classic Bengali delicacy.

Must-Try!

Chingri Malai Curry

Prawns cooked in a creamy coconut sauce, often served with rice.

Panta Bhat

Fermented rice served with fish and green chilies, a traditional rural dish.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Khulna New Market

A bustling market where you can find a variety of fresh produce, seafood, and street food stalls.

Gulshan-e-Iqbal Street Food

Famous for its street food vendors offering snacks like fuchka (pani puri) and chaat.

Climate Guide

Weather

Khulna experiences a tropical monsoon climate with distinct seasons. Winter (November to February) is cool and dry, making it the best time to visit. Spring (March to April) brings warmer temperatures, while the monsoon season (May to October) sees heavy rainfall and high humidity. Summers can be hot and humid, often exceeding 35°C (95°F).

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

Both men and women should dress conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites.

Respect for Elders

Always greet and show respect to elders; it's an important part of the local culture.

Remove Shoes Indoors

It is customary to remove shoes when entering someone's home or certain places of worship.

Safety Guide

Safety

Khulna is generally safe for tourists, but it's advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas and keep valuables secure. Be cautious of traffic, as road conditions can be chaotic. Always stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded markets.

Tipping in Khulna

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Culture

Tipping is common in restaurants, usually around 10% of the bill, but not mandatory.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but some restaurants and shops accept mobile payments; it's advisable to carry cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter (Nov-Feb)

Cooler temperatures, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the Sundarbans.

Spring (Mar-Apr)

Warm weather with blooming flowers, perfect for photography but prepare for occasional rain.

Monsoon (May-Oct)

Heavy rainfall is common; travel may be disrupted but the landscape becomes lush and green.

Summer (Jun-Oct)

Hot and humid; it's advisable to stay hydrated and plan indoor activities during peak heat.

Nightlife Guide

Khulna at Night

Khulna's nightlife is relatively subdued compared to larger cities, but there are a few lively spots. Local tea stalls and cafes become gathering places in the evening for conversations. Some restaurants offer live music and events, especially on weekends. Bars and lounges are limited but offer a relaxed atmosphere for enjoying drinks with friends.

Hiking in Khulna

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sundarbans Trails

Various trails within the Sundarbans allow for guided hikes through the mangroves, offering unique wildlife spotting opportunities.

Kushumba Hills

Located approximately 50 km from Khulna, this area offers scenic trails with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Airports

How to reach Khulna by plane.

Khulna Airport

Located about 10 km from the city center, it serves domestic flights and connects Khulna to Dhaka and other regional cities.

Getting Around

Walkability

Khulna is moderately walkable, especially in the city center where many attractions, markets, and eateries are located close together. However, sidewalks can be uneven and congested, so it's advisable to stay alert while walking. Some areas may require short taxi rides to fully explore the city.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Bengali Muslims

The majority demographic group, they play a significant role in the cultural and social landscape of Khulna.

Hindu Community

A smaller but prominent group that contributes to the cultural diversity of the city, with various temples and festivals.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cricket

Cricket is the most popular sport in Khulna, with many locals playing in parks and organized matches.

Football

Football also enjoys popularity, with local teams competing in various leagues and community matches.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic conditions in Khulna can be hectic, especially during peak hours. Vehicles, rickshaws, and pedestrians often share the road, leading to congestion. Public transportation options include buses and auto-rickshaws, but it's advisable to use taxis for convenience. Always be cautious when crossing streets.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Khulna.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's best to inquire about the ingredients.

Halal Food

All meat dishes are typically halal, but confirm with the restaurant if you have specific dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Khulna vary in quality. There are both public and private hospitals; private hospitals generally offer better services. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For serious health issues, it may be necessary to travel to Dhaka for specialized care.

Discover Bangladesh

Read more in our Bangladesh 2025 Travel Guide.

Bangladesh Travel Guide