Bangladesh

Bangladesh Travel Guide 2025: Itinerary, Seasons, Visa & Local Tips

Bangladesh, a land of rivers and resilience, blends natural beauty, ancient heritage, and heartfelt hospitality. From the buzzing lanes of Dhaka to the world’s longest sea beach in Cox’s Bazar, this South Asian gem offers deeply rooted traditions, rich cuisine, and soulful travel experiences.

Quick Facts

Currency

Bangladeshi Taka (BDT)

Language

Bengali (Bangla), English widely spoken in cities

Religion

Islam (majority), Hinduism, Buddhism, Christianity

Visa

Required for most countries; e-visa and visa on arrival available

Time Zone

GMT+6

Best Time to Visit

November to February (cool, dry season)

Visa Requirements for Bangladesh

  • Tourist Visa: Required for most nationalities
  • e-Visa: Available for select countries via https://www.visa.gov.bd
  • Documents Needed: Valid passport (6+ months), passport photo, confirmed itinerary, hotel booking
  • Processing Time: 3–7 business days (e-visa); Visa on arrival available for India, EU, USA citizens

Best Time to Visit Bangladesh in 2025

  • Winter (Nov–Feb): Best time to visit; cool and dry weather
  • Spring (Mar–Apr): Warm, blooming season; ideal for Sundarbans trips
  • Monsoon (Jun–Sep): Lush landscapes but heavy rain and flooding possible
  • Autumn (Oct): Clear skies, Durga Puja festivities, and comfortable travel

Festivals & Cultural Highlights

  • Pohela Boishakh (April): Bengali New Year celebration
  • Durga Puja (October): Grand Hindu festival especially in Dhaka and Chittagong
  • Eid al-Fitr & Eid al-Adha: Countrywide joy, feasting, and family gatherings
  • Language Martyrs’ Day (Feb 21): UNESCO-recognized tribute to Bangla language

Bangladesh 10-Day Itinerary

Day 1–2: Dhaka – Cultural Capital

  • Visit Lalbagh Fort, Ahsan Manzil, and Liberation War Museum
  • Explore Sadarghat and Old Dhaka by rickshaw
  • Try biryani at Haji or Star Kabab and shop at New Market

Day 3–4: Srimangal – Tea Gardens & Tranquility

  • Walk through endless tea estates and pineapple gardens
  • Visit Lawachara National Park for gibbons and birdwatching
  • Enjoy a traditional seven-layer tea

Day 5–6: Sylhet – Spiritual & Scenic

  • Visit Ratargul Swamp Forest and Jaflong near the Indian border
  • See the shrine of Hazrat Shah Jalal
  • Enjoy lush hills and tribal culture

Day 7–8: Sundarbans – Mangrove Majesty

  • Take a guided boat safari to spot Royal Bengal Tigers and crocodiles
  • Visit local fishing villages and boardwalks
  • Overnight in eco-lodges or boats

Day 9–10: Cox’s Bazar – World’s Longest Beach

  • Relax on sandy beaches or take a day trip to Saint Martin’s Island
  • Enjoy fresh seafood and beachside resorts
  • Watch the sun set over the Bay of Bengal

Budget Breakdown (Per Day, Per Person in INR)

Type Budget Traveller Mid-Range Luxury
Accommodation ₹1,000 ₹2,800 ₹7,500+
Food ₹400 ₹1,000 ₹2,000
Transport ₹500 ₹1,200 ₹2,500
Attractions ₹300 ₹700 ₹1,500+
Total ₹2,200 ₹5,700 ₹13,500+

Local SIM Cards & Connectivity

  • Top Providers: Grameenphone, Robi, Banglalink
  • Where to Buy: Dhaka airport kiosks, local mobile shops with passport copy
  • Cost: ₹300–600 for 5–20 GB data packs (valid 28 days)
  • Wi-Fi: Available in hotels, cafes, and shopping centers

Must-Know Travel Tips for Bangladesh

  • Dress modestly, especially in rural or religious areas
  • Use bottled water for drinking and brushing teeth
  • Expect traffic delays in cities; travel early
  • Women travelers are generally safe but may attract attention; wear local attire like salwar-kameez for ease
  • Public transport can be chaotic—use ride apps or hire private cars for longer trips

Final Thoughts: Why Visit Bangladesh?

Bangladesh might not top every tourist list—but it should. With its soulful scenery, heartfelt hospitality, and authentic cultural touchpoints, this is South Asia at its most intimate. Off the beaten path yet deeply enriching, Bangladesh welcomes you with open arms and a chai in hand.

Come curious. Leave inspired. Bangladesh awaits.