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25 Things to Know Before Visiting Bangladesh

As I plan my trip, I’m learning so much about the country. It’s important to dress conservatively, avoid drinking tap water, and be aware of potential protests in Dhaka. Also anyone visiting must remember that bargaining is expected when shopping in bazaars.

Rickshaws are everywhere, so I’ll use them for short trips around cities. I should also pack mosquito repellent to prevent malaria. The spicy Bengali cuisine, especially biryani and curry dishes, is supposed to be excellent. With its vibrant cities, forests, beaches, and friendly people, Bangladesh seems like an incredible place to experience. I can’t wait to immerse myself in this fascinating culture.

1. It’s the Land of Six Seasons

Bangladesh is known as the land of six seasons due to its tropical monsoon climate. The six seasons are summer, rainy, autumn, late autumn, winter, and spring. The seasons each have distinct temperatures, rainfall, and agricultural cycles that impact daily life.

When visiting Bangladesh, it’s beneficial to understand the seasonal variations, as they affect weather, availability of produce in markets, festivals, and more. The six seasons provide an ever-changing backdrop to explore Bangladesh’s natural beauty and cultural traditions tied to its land and climate in a unique way not found in many other countries.

2. You Need Visa to Travel to Bangladesh

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Most foreign nationals need a visa to travel to Bangladesh. It’s essential to check visa requirements and apply in advance, as visas are not issued on arrival at land borders. Visas can be obtained at Bangladeshi embassies abroad prior to arrival or on arrival at major airports for some nationalities.

Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from date of arrival. Visa types include tourist, business, and transit visas. Visa on arrival costs USD 51 and tourist visas $51-171 USD depending on validity. Having a proper visa is mandatory to avoid issues and ensure you can enter Bangladesh smoothly.

3. Must Know the Currency and Money in Bangladesh

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Bangladesh’s currency is the Bangladeshi Taka (BDT). It’s advised to carry some local currency, as credit card acceptance is limited. ATMs are available in cities to withdraw cash in taka. Have some small bills for taxis, food, etc. US dollars and other foreign currencies can be exchanged at banks and authorized money changers in big cities.

Know current exchange rates and do not exchange at the airport. When shopping, bargain politely – haggling is common in bazaars. Be aware of counterfeit notes. It’s good to have a mix of cash, debit/credit cards, and mobile payment apps available when visiting Bangladesh.

4. Means of Transport Used Around Bangladesh

Transportation in Bangladesh varies by location but key options exist. In Dhaka, use the metro rail, buses, or cheap rideshares for getting around congested city traffic. For long distances between cities, domestic flights, trains, buses, and ferries are available. Buses connect most towns but can be overcrowded.

Trains are also very cheap. For rural areas, local transport like rickshaws, tempos, and green CNG auto-rickshaws are convenient. Luxury buses and river cruises cater to tourists. Have flexibility with transport plans, as roads are hazardous. Consider hiring a car and driver for convenience. Know routes and schedules to pick the best transport around Bangladesh.

5. Be Prepared To Take Picture with Locals

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When visiting Bangladesh, be prepared that locals may eagerly ask to take pictures with you. This is especially common in rural areas that don’t see many foreign tourists. Bangladeshis are generally very friendly and hospitable. Humor them politely – it’s a cultural experience. You may also be asked many questions about where you are from.

If you prefer not to be photographed, gently say no thank you and keep walking. Ask permission before photographing locals yourself. Overall, keep an open mind and don’t be surprised if you attract attention. Going with the flow will lead to good experiences connecting with welcoming Bangladeshis.

6. There are Fewer Tourist Scams

Compared to other South Asian countries, Bangladesh has relatively few tourist-targeted scams to worry about. Common travel scams like rigged meters, bait-and-switch gems, or false guides are not as prolific. However, always still be cautious of theft and use common sense precautions with valuables.

Only take registered taxis and tutor rickshaws, and negotiate fares up front. Be wary if offered deals that seem too good to be true. Don’t give money to children or beggars encouraging scams. Research reputable tour companies. Overall, Bangladesh’s comparative lack of major tourist scams makes travel easier, but it’s still wise to be informed and take basic safety measures.

7. Be Prepared for Unpaved Roads and Squat Toilets

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When traveling in Bangladesh, be prepared for poor road conditions and lack of modern sanitation in many areas. Outside Dhaka, many roads are unpaved, pot-holed, and hazardous. Accommodations may also lack Western-style toilets. Squat toilets are common. Bring toilet paper as it may not be provided. Washrooms overall have less hygiene standards.

Have reasonable expectations, wear comfortable shoes, and bring hand sanitizer. Bangladesh is still developing its infrastructure, so flexible standards are needed. With preparation, these realities are manageable for an authentic Bangladesh experience. Focus on the rewards of warm people and vibrant culture.

8. Create Environmental Awareness

When visiting Bangladesh, it’s important to be mindful of our impact on the environment. Bangladesh’s ecosystems are under threat from pollution, waste, resource exploitation, and climate change effects like rising sea levels. Support eco-friendly and community-focused organizations. Avoid plastics and dispose of waste properly. Conserve resources like water.

Consider offsetting your carbon footprint from flights. Seek sustainable accommodations. Interact respectfully with wildlife and nature. Promote green spaces. Any efforts to travel sustainably will help protect Bangladesh’s natural beauty for future generations. We all must create awareness to preserve this country with tremendous yet fragile natural gifts.

9. Where to Stay in Bangladesh

When visiting Bangladesh, your accommodation options include hotels, resorts, homestays, and guesthouses. In Dhaka, stay in luxury hotels like the Pan Pacific Sonargaon or more budget places in Banani area. In old Dhaka, the historic Nimtoli area has guesthouses with local flavor. Outside cities, resorts like Kuakata Sea Beach and luxury tent camps offer nature immersion.

For cultural insight, try homestays in villages. Consider location, amenities, and read reviews when booking. For easy transport and sightseeing access, stay in walkable central areas. Experience Bangladesh’s renowned hospitality by making accommodations part of your cultural encounter.

10. What Language Do They Speak in Bangladesh

Bangladesh’s official and most widely spoken language is Bengali, also known as Bangla. It’s a native language for 98% of the population. Bengali uses its own script derived from Sanskrit. English is widely spoken as a second language among the educated and in government, business, tourism and urban areas. So you can get by speaking English in major cities and tourist spots, especially with younger people.

However, learning a few Bengali phrases to use with locals can go a long way in interactions. Key phrases cover greetings, thanks, asking prices or directions, numbers, etc. Knowing even a small amount of the lyrical Bengali language will enhance your cultural experience in Bangladesh.

11. The Religion of Bangladeshis

Bangladesh is predominantly Muslim, with Islam being the state religion. About 90% of the population practices Islam, with the majority being Sunni Muslims. However, Bangladesh upholds freedom of religion, so minority religious groups have a strong presence too. About 8% of people are Hindu, mainly in rural areas, and follow various Hindu traditions.

Smaller numbers of Buddhists and Christians also live in Bangladesh, mostly in tribal communities. People overall are observant of Islamic customs. Be respectful by dressing modestly and avoiding public displays of affection. Understanding the central role of Islam in daily Bangladeshi life is key for any visitor.

12. What Are Key Tourist Attractions of Bangladesh

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Bangladesh has many diverse tourist attractions to discover. In Dhaka, key sites are the National Parliament House, Liberation War Museum, and enormous Lalbagh Fort. The port city of Chittagong has ancient mosques and hill forests. Bogra has ancient Buddhist ruins and monasteries. The Sundarbans mangrove forest offers wildlife spotting by boat.

Cox’s Bazar has uninterrupted beaches and seafood. The Buddhist temples of Paharpur are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hiking in hill tribes and tea plantations in Sylhet provides natural scenery. Experiencing the rivers and Bengal heritage round out top attractions. Bangladesh’s history, landscapes, architecture, and culture create memorable sights.

13. The Best Time to Visit Bangladesh

The best time to visit Bangladesh is during the dry winter months between November to February. This period has lower humidity, cooler temperatures, and less rain ideal for sightseeing. October is shoulder season. The summer months starting in March bring oppressive heat and are uncomfortable for travel.

The monsoon hits from June to September, with very heavy rains especially flooding rural regions, so it’s better to avoid Bengal during the wet season if possible. To experience festivals, travel in November for Diwali or April during Pohela Boishakh, the Bengali New Year. Aim for winter travel to make the most of Bangladesh’s vibrant culture and scenery.

14. How Much it Will Cost To Visit

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Bangladesh offers an affordable travel experience compared to many destinations. Daily costs on a budget could be:

• Hotel – $10-30 per night for budget lodging, $50+ for upscale
• Meals – $2-5 per meal at local restaurants
• Transportation – $0.50 for shared taxis, $10-30 for intercity buses or trains
• Activities – $2-20 entrance fees for attractions, $30-50 for day tours

With modest spending, expect around $30-50 per person daily. Opting for mid-range choices, budget $60-100 per day. Big costs are tours and domestic flights. Traveling luxuriously could run over $200 per day. With some planning, Bangladesh provides an intriguing, budget-friendly destination to discover the country’s cultural treasures.

15. Call Rate is Very Cheap and the Phone Network is Stable

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When visiting Bangladesh, take advantage of the country’s cheap call rates and stable phone networks. Local SIM cards can be purchased inexpensively from operators like Grameenphone or Robi and used for very low-cost local and international calling and mobile data. Calls to North America or Europe may cost only a few cents per minute. 3G/4G service is available in cities for fast internet.

WiFi can also be found at many cafes and hotels. The reliable networks make staying connected easy whether calling home, using maps or ride-shares, or posting photos of your Bangladesh adventure. For extended stays, purchasing a local SIM is highly economical to make calls and maximize your connectivity.

16. The Working Hours of the Country

Bangladesh follows the Sunday to Thursday work week, with Friday and Saturday as the weekend. The standard government and business working hours are from 9am to 5pm, Sunday to Thursday. However, private companies may have variable hours. Shops are generally open from 10am to 8pm daily. Restaurants may be open early until 11pm.

Mosques and some shops and restaurants will be closed for 1-2 hours on Friday afternoons for Jummah prayers. Ramadan also impacts working hours. Government offices and banks will have reduced hours. Know the weekly schedule and timings as you plan your days for conducting business, shopping, dining, etc. Adjusting to Bangladesh’s working hours will allow you to plan effectively and avoid finding places unexpectedly closed during your visit.

17. Whether Money Changers are Available Everywhere

Money exchange services are fairly widespread in Bangladesh, but may not be available everywhere a traveler goes. The major cities like Dhaka, Chittagong, and Sylhet will have plenty of authorized money changers, banks, and exchange booths at major hotels. So getting local currency upon arrival or exchanging money back before departure is convenient in the large urban areas.

However, once a traveler gets outside of the major metropolitan areas, access to money changers becomes more limited. Smaller towns and rural areas may not have any official currency exchange services. There are also fewer ATMs in remote areas, so getting cash out can be difficult with foreign bank cards.

So it’s a good idea when visiting Bangladesh to get most of the needed domestic currency while in the major cities at the start of your trip. Or withdraw extra cash if relying on ATMs. Having some smaller bills or taka coins for remote areas is wise. One should not assume money changers or ATMs will be easily found everywhere across the country. Doing some research ahead of time on locations will help ensure you have access to necessary currency during your stay.

18. Where to Travel in Bangladesh

Bangladesh offers diverse travel experiences from bustling cities to remote villages. Dhaka has historic sites, cuisine, and urban energy. Chittagong is a port city with beaches, hills, and Islamic relics. For nature, the Sundarbans has tiger-spotting boat cruises through lush mangroves. Cox’s Bazar boasts uninterrupted sandy beaches and seafood. The Buddhist ruins of Paharpur are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Tea estates and forests await in Sylhet. Small villages showcase Bengal culture and hospitality through homestays. Cruise the rivers of rural Bangladesh for an immersive experience. Consider interests, time, and desired experience when planning where to go in this colorful country with amazing sights.

19. The Safety of the Country

Bangladesh is generally safe for tourists who take normal precautions for travel. Violent crime rates are low, especially towards foreigners. However, petty theft does occur at crowded sites, so secure belongings. Use hotel safes. Avoid showing expensive items like cameras and jewelry. Never accept food or drinks from strangers.

Road safety is a concern, so only use registered transports like BRTC buses between cities. Dhaka and Chittagong have areas considered unsafe at night. Check government travel advisories and stay current on news. Overall, Bangladesh is hospitable with few risks if you take basic safety measures, use caution in risky areas, and avoid political gatherings.

20. The Cuisine of the Bangladesh

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Bangladeshi cuisine consists of spicy curries, dals, vegetable dishes, and fresh seafood. Signature ingredients include mustard oil, dhals, and shrimp paste. Rice and flatbreads like naan are staples. Fish like hilsa are popular in coastal areas. Local specialties to try include biryani, kebabs, bhuna khichuri (spiced rice and lentils), and shondesh sweet. Chittagong is known for crab curries.

Breakfast includes paratha flatbreads, eggs, and lentils. Drinks like lassis and tea are ubiquitous. With influences from India and Central Asia, Bangladeshi food provides a vibrant culinary introduction to the country through its curries, street snacks, sweets, and chai culture.

21. Weather and Climate Change of the Place

Bangladesh has a tropical monsoon climate with distinct seasons that travelers should understand. The hot, humid summer from March to June sees temperatures reach 38C. Monsoon season from June to September brings very heavy rain and flooding, especially in rural areas. The driest and coolest winter is from December to February with temperatures between 10C to 20C.

Climate change is severely impacting Bangladesh through rising sea levels, erosion, floods, cyclones, and other effects like salinity intrusion and biodiversity loss. The country is on the frontlines of climate change threats. Being aware of weather patterns, seasons, and the climate reality can help travelers prepare and visit more responsibly.

22. Culture and Etiguette of Bangladesh

Before visiting Bangladesh, understanding its culture and etiquette is essential. Respect elders by using polite language and accepting gifts with both hands. Dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites. Remove shoes before entering homes or places of worship. Greet people with a slight nod or handshake.

Avoid using the left hand for eating or passing items, as it’s considered unclean. Be mindful of religious sensitivities and refrain from public displays of affection. Always express gratitude and show interest in Bangladeshi customs and traditions.

23. The Appropriate Dressing in Bangladesh

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Dressing in Bangladesh requires modesty and respect for cultural norms. For men, lightweight cotton shirts and trousers are suitable, while women should opt for conservative attire such as salwar kameez or saris, covering shoulders and legs. Avoid tight or revealing clothing to maintain decorum.

When visiting mosques or religious sites, both men and women should cover their heads and remove shoes. Adhering to these customs shows respect for Bangladeshi traditions and fosters positive interactions with locals during your visit.

24. You Should Only Use Bottle Water for Drinking

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Using bottled water for drinking is crucial when visiting Bangladesh to avoid waterborne illnesses. Tap water may not be safe due to inadequate sanitation infrastructure. Purchase sealed bottled water from reputable sources to ensure cleanliness.

Additionally, use bottled water for brushing teeth and washing fruits and vegetables. Avoid ice cubes in drinks unless you’re certain they were made from purified water. Prioritizing bottled water consumption is vital for maintaining good health and preventing gastrointestinal issues during your stay in Bangladesh.

25. Religious Sites Available

Bangladesh boasts numerous religious sites representing its diverse culture. Explore Dhakeshwari Temple, one of the oldest Hindu temples, or visit the revered Buddhist site, Mahasthangarh. Experience the tranquility of Baitul Mukarram Mosque, the largest mosque in the country.

Discover the historical significance of Lalbagh Fort and the striking architecture of Sixty Dome Mosque in Bagerhat. Respect local customs when visiting these sites, dressing modestly and removing shoes before entering. Embracing Bangladesh’s religious heritage enhances your cultural experience while visiting.