Things To Do
in Sylhet
Sylhet is a picturesque city located in the northeastern part of Bangladesh, known for its lush green landscapes and rolling tea gardens. The city is also renowned for its religious diversity, with mosques, temples, and shrines coexisting harmoniously. Sylhet is famous for its unique cuisine, including dishes like Pitha (rice cakes) and Shatkora (a citrus fruit).
Visitors to Sylhet often explore its scenic natural attractions like Ratargul Swamp Forest and Lalakhal.
- "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: $3 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.20 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $25
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Jaflong, where you can enjoy the stunning views of the hills and tea gardens. Take a boat ride on the Dawki River and admire the crystal-clear waters.
In the afternoon, explore the famous Ratargul Swamp Forest, an enchanting freshwater swamp forest that is ideal for a serene boat tour. You will be amazed by the diverse flora and fauna.
Wind down your day by visiting the local markets in Sylhet city. Enjoy traditional Bangladeshi snacks and shop for souvenirs.
Begin your morning at the lush tea gardens of Srimangal, known as the 'Tea Capital' of Bangladesh. Enjoy a guided tour and learn about the tea picking process.
After lunch, visit the Lawachara National Park for a chance to see wildlife and experience the rich biodiversity of the area. Don't forget to take a short hike to the beautiful waterfalls.
In the evening, visit a local tea house to taste different types of tea. Relax and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with unique traditions and festivals.
- Stunning natural beauty, including tea gardens, hills, and waterfalls.
- Famous for its tea production, contributing to the local economy.
- A welcoming and hospitable local population.
- Rich biodiversity and eco-tourism opportunities.
- Limited infrastructure in some areas, affecting transportation and accessibility.
- Frequent flooding during monsoon season can disrupt daily life.
- Challenges in public health and sanitation in rural areas.
- Economic opportunities may be limited compared to larger cities.
- Environmental concerns due to deforestation and urbanization.
Best Activities in Sylhet
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the lush tea gardens and learn about the tea production process in Sylhet.
Enjoy a cycling tour through the scenic area of Sreemangal, known as the tea capital of Bangladesh.
Embark on a trek to the stunning Madhabkunda waterfall, the largest waterfall in Bangladesh, surrounded by lush greenery.
Tours
Uncover the best of Sylhet with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Sylhet
Visit one of these nice places.
Famous for its beautiful landscapes, tea gardens, and views of the rolling hills and the crystal-clear water of the Piyain River.
Known for its unparalleled natural beauty, especially during the monsoon season, offering stunning photo opportunities.
Offers picturesque views of lush green tea gardens and the surrounding hilly landscapes, making it a perfect spot for photography.
Food in Sylhet
Sylhet Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fermented rice soaked in water, usually accompanied by fried fish and pickles. Best enjoyed at local homes or traditional eateries like Ruposhi Bangla Restaurant.
Must-Try!
Deep-fried savory pastries filled with minced meat, onions, and aromatic spices, commonly found in street stalls around Jaflong.
Tender, marinated meat grilled to perfection, available at popular eateries such as Panshi Restaurant and Hotel.
A zesty beef curry prepared with distinctive citrusy shatkora fruit, a specialty at Hazrat Shahjalal (R) Biryani.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a treasure trove of street food delights, offering an array of snacks like samosas, jhalmuri (spicy puffed rice), and delectable sweets like roshogolla and chamcham.
A paradise for street food enthusiasts, featuring local favorites such as phuchka (spiced filled hollow puris), chotpoti (chickpea curry snack), and various kebabs.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Sylhet, it is important to show respect for elders by using proper language and gestures. It is common to greet elders first and to listen to their advice with attentiveness.
In Sylhet, it is respectful to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or attending social gatherings. Both men and women are expected to cover their shoulders and knees.
Hospitality is highly valued in Sylhet, and guests are often treated with great respect. It is customary to accept food and drinks when offered as a sign of politeness and appreciation.
Safety
Tipping in Sylhet
Ensure a smooth experience
In Sylhet, Bangladesh, tipping is not common practice in most situations. However, in upscale restaurants and hotels, a service charge may be added to the bill. It's always advisable to check the bill before adding any extra tip.
Cash is the preferred method of payment in Sylhet, Bangladesh. Credit and debit cards are becoming more widely accepted, especially in larger establishments. It's always best to carry sufficient cash when visiting smaller shops and markets as they may not accept cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Sylhet is during the winter season when the weather is cool and pleasant. Expect clear skies and comfortable temperatures, making it ideal for exploring the natural beauty of the region.
During the summer season, Sylhet experiences hot and humid weather. Visitors can expect high temperatures and occasional rainfall, making it suitable for those who enjoy outdoor activities despite the heat.
The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall to Sylhet, creating lush green landscapes and vibrant natural surroundings. However, visitors should be prepared for wet conditions and potential travel disruptions during this time.
Sylhet at Night
Hiking in Sylhet
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful freshwater swamp forest located near Gowainghat, Ratargul offers serene hiking trails amidst lush greenery and rich biodiversity.
Jaflong is known for its stunning views and hilly terrains. It also features trails along the Dawki River, perfect for a scenic hike.
Famous for tea gardens and forests, Sreemangal has multiple hiking trails through the picturesque landscape, ideal for nature enthusiasts.
Located in the Moulvibazar district, this national park is home to diverse flora and fauna, with several hiking paths through dense evergreen forests.
A lesser-known hiking spot, Bichanakandi offers beautiful hills and rocky landscapes along with the opportunity to enjoy local waterfalls.
Aiports
How to reach Sylhet by plane.
The primary international airport serving Dhaka, the capital city of Bangladesh, located approximately 240 km from Sylhet.
The second-largest international airport in Bangladesh, located in Chittagong, approximately 360 km from Sylhet.
The nearest international airport to Sylhet, serving domestic and limited international flights.
The main international airport serving Delhi, India, located approximately 1,400 km from Sylhet.
Another mention of the international airport in Dhaka, significant for travelers in the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Sylhet, Bengalis make up the majority of the population, known for their cultural and linguistic heritage.
A smaller ethnic group primarily residing in the eastern parts of Sylhet, the Manipuri people have their own unique traditions and language.
An indigenous community in Sylhet, the Khasia people are known for their matrilineal society and cultivation of betel leaves.
An ethnic group that inhabits the khasi hills and is distinct for their cultural practices and traditional dances.
Another indigenous group found in Sylhet, they retain distinct customs and cultural practices from their ancestral roots.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is the most popular sport in Sylhet, enjoyed by people of all ages, with local tournaments and matches being a common sight.
Football has a strong following in Sylhet, with many local teams and clubs participating in various leagues and friendly matches.
Badminton is widely played in Sylhet, both recreationally and competitively, with many clubs and schools promoting the sport.
Volleyball is popular in rural areas of Sylhet, often played in schools and local communities, fostering teamwork and cooperation.
Kabaddi is a traditional and popular sport in Sylhet, often played in villages and during cultural festivals, showcasing agility and skill.
Table tennis is gaining popularity among the youth in Sylhet, with several clubs providing facilities for practice and competition.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sylhet.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Sylhet is known for its meat-rich cuisine, several restaurants and street food vendors offer delicious vegetarian options like dal, vegetable curries, and lentil-based snacks. Ruposhi Bangla Restaurant and Zinda Bazar Market are great places to find vegetarian and vegan choices.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can opt for rice-based dishes such as panta bhat and biryanis, ensuring a delectable and safe dining experience. Additionally, exploring fresh fruit markets can provide a variety of gluten-free snacks and treats.