Things To Do
in Sylhet

Sylhet is a picturesque region in northeastern Bangladesh, renowned for its tea gardens and rolling hills. The area is rich in culture, boasting a diverse population and numerous historical sites. Sylhet is also famous for its natural beauty, including waterfalls and lush landscapes, making it a popular destination for domestic and international tourists.

With its unique blend of tradition and modernity, Sylhet offers visitors a charming experience in every corner.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Sylhet City
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Sylhet Tea Garden, where you can learn about tea production and enjoy the serene views. Next, head to the Jaflong area, known for its natural beauty and the Dawki River.

afternoon
:

Visit the historic Hazrat Shah Jalal Mazar Sharif, a shrine dedicated to the saint of Sylhet. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and explore the local bazaar for unique souvenirs.

evening
:

Conclude your day with a stroll around the Ratargul Swamp Forest, where you can appreciate the sunset over the water. Enjoy dinner at a local eatery with traditional Sylheti dishes.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Nature
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike to the Sreemangal tea gardens, renowned for their breathtaking scenery. Take a guided tour to learn more about the tea picking process.

afternoon
:

Head to the Lawachara National Park for a nature walk, where you may spot unique wildlife and enjoy the lush green surroundings. Pack a picnic to enjoy in the park.

evening
:

Return to Sylhet and visit a local café for dinner, sampling more traditional dishes. End the day with a visit to a local cultural performance or music venue.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at Local Restaurant$2 - $5
Cup of Tea$0.50 - $1
🚖Taxi Fare (within city)$1 - $3
🛍️Souvenir$1 - $10
🏨Budget Hotel (per night)$15 - $30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and tea gardens
  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites
  • Delicious and unique local cuisine
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Public transportation can be less reliable
  • Language barrier may be an issue for some travelers
  • "আপনার নাম কি?" - What is your name?
  • "ধন্যবাদ" - Thank you
  • "কেমন আছেন?" - How are you?
  • "বাড়ি কোথায়?" - Where is your home?
  • "কত টাকা?" - How much is this?

Places to Visit in Sylhet

Visit one of these nice places.

Ratargul Swamp Forest

A beautiful freshwater swamp forest, perfect for capturing nature's tranquility.

Sreemangal Tea Gardens

Stunning hills covered in lush tea fields, ideal for landscape photography.

Jaflong

A scenic river area with views of hills and tea gardens, providing picturesque backdrops.

Culinary Guide

Food in Sylhet

Sylhet's culinary scene is a delightful mix of traditional Bangladeshi flavors with unique local twists, offering a variety of dishes that highlight the region's rich culture.

Sylhet Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Panta Bhat

Fermented rice served with green chilies, onions, and fried fish, often enjoyed during festivals.

Must-Try!

Shorshe Ilish

Hilsa fish cooked in mustard sauce, a traditional dish popular among locals.

Muri Ghonto

A savory rice and fish dish, typically made with the head of the fish, providing a rich flavor.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Sylhet Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, spices, and local street food like fuchka (pani puri) and chotpoti.

Shahjalal University Street Food

A vibrant street scene with numerous stalls offering local snacks and quick meals, popular among students.

Climate Guide

Weather

The climate in Sylhet is characterized by a tropical monsoon pattern. Winters are mild and dry, while summers are hot and humid. The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall, making the region lush and green. Average temperatures range from 10°C (50°F) in winter to 35°C (95°F) in summer, with high humidity levels during the rainy season.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

Wear modest clothing, especially when visiting religious sites.

Respect for Elders

Show respect towards elders, using appropriate greetings and gestures.

Remove Shoes Indoors

It is customary to remove shoes before entering someone's home.

Safety Guide

Safety

Sylhet is generally considered safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid isolated areas at night, keep personal belongings secure, and be cautious of traffic when walking. It’s advisable to stay informed about local customs and regulations.

Tipping in Sylhet

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is appreciated in restaurants; a 10% tip is standard if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted; however, some larger restaurants and hotels may accept credit cards.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter (November - February)

Cool and dry weather, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Spring (March - May)

Mild temperatures with blooming flowers, great for hikes and exploring nature.

Monsoon (June - October)

Heavy rainfall can occur, so be prepared for wet conditions; however, the scenery is lush and vibrant.

Autumn (September - October)

Transitioning weather with clear skies, perfect for photography and enjoying local festivals.

Nightlife Guide

Sylhet at Night

Sylhet offers a laid-back nightlife scene with a variety of options including cafes, tea houses, and a few local bars. While not overly vibrant, the atmosphere is friendly and inviting. Live music and cultural performances can often be found, providing an authentic experience of local entertainment.

Hiking in Sylhet

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sreemangal Trails

Offers several hiking paths through tea gardens and forests, suitable for all levels.

Lawachara National Park Trails

Features well-marked trails through the park, ideal for nature lovers and bird watchers.

Airports

How to reach Sylhet by plane.

Sylhet Osmani International Airport

Located about 12 km from the city center, it serves both domestic and international flights, providing easy access to and from Sylhet.

Getting Around

Walkability

Sylhet is fairly walkable, especially in the city center where most attractions are within walking distance. However, be cautious of traffic and uneven sidewalks. For longer distances, local rickshaws or taxis are available.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Bengali Muslims

The majority demographic in Sylhet, known for their rich cultural traditions and hospitality.

Indigenous Communities

Various indigenous groups inhabit the hilly areas, contributing to the region's cultural diversity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cricket

The most popular sport in Sylhet, with many local teams and matches, especially during the cricket season.

Football (Soccer)

Another beloved sport, with local leagues and a strong community following.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Sylhet can be congested during peak hours, especially in the city center. Public transportation options include buses, auto-rickshaws, and taxis, but these can vary in reliability. It is advisable to plan for extra travel time during busy periods.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Sylhet.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask for details on ingredients.

Halal Food

Sylhet predominantly serves halal food, making it suitable for Muslim travelers.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Sylhet range from local clinics to hospitals. Major hospitals provide basic medical services, but for serious conditions, it may be advisable to travel to Dhaka. Travelers should have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Bangladesh

Read more in our Bangladesh 2025 Travel Guide.

Bangladesh Travel Guide