Bangladesh: A Travel Guide To Discover Its Hidden Gems

Bangladesh is a small country located in South Asia, bordered by India and Myanmar. Despite being one of the most densely populated countries in the world, Bangladesh is home to a plethora of natural wonders, bustling cities, and cultural landmarks. This travel guide aims to provide you with a comprehensive list of the top attractions, hidden gems, and budget-friendly tips to make your trip to Bangladesh an unforgettable experience.

Top Attractions

If you’re looking for the must-see attractions in Bangladesh, start with the following:

Dhaka

The capital city of Bangladesh is a vibrant and bustling metropolis that offers a unique blend of old and new. Visit the historic Ahsan Manzil Palace, explore the vibrant markets of Old Dhaka, and take a boat ride on the Buriganga River.

Cox’s Bazar

Cox’s Bazar is known for its stunning 120-kilometer-long beach, making it the longest natural sandy sea beach in the world. It’s a great place to relax, soak up the sun, and enjoy the local seafood.

Sundarbans

The Sundarbans is the largest mangrove forest in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a boat tour to spot tigers, deer, crocodiles, and other wildlife.

Srimangal

Srimangal is known as the tea capital of Bangladesh and is home to some of the best tea plantations in the world. Take a tour of the tea gardens and sample some of the local brews.

Hidden Gems

If you’re looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences in Bangladesh, check out the following hidden gems:

Paharpur

Paharpur is an archaeological site in northern Bangladesh that dates back to the 8th century. It’s home to the ruins of an ancient Buddhist monastery and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Bandarban

Bandarban is a district in southeastern Bangladesh that’s known for its natural beauty. Visit the Chimbuk Hill, the highest peak in the region, and the Boga Lake, a beautiful natural lake in the mountains.

Bagerhat

Bagerhat is a historic city in southwestern Bangladesh that’s home to the Sixty Dome Mosque, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The mosque was built in the 15th century and is one of the most impressive examples of Islamic architecture in the world.

Food Scene

Bangladesh is a foodie’s paradise, offering a wide range of delicious dishes that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Here are some must-try dishes:

Biryani

Biryani is a popular rice dish that’s made with meat, spices, and saffron. It’s a staple in Bangladesh and can be found in almost every restaurant.

Fuchka

Fuchka is a street food snack that’s made with a crispy shell filled with spiced potatoes and chickpeas. It’s usually served with tamarind water and is a must-try for anyone visiting Bangladesh.

Roshgulla

Roshgulla is a sweet dessert that’s made with cottage cheese balls soaked in syrup. It’s a popular dessert in Bangladesh and is a great way to end any meal.

Budget-Friendly Tips

If you’re traveling to Bangladesh on a tight budget, here are some tips to help you save money:

Use public transportation

Public transportation in Bangladesh is cheap and efficient. Use buses, trains, and rickshaws to get around the cities and towns.

Eat street food

Street food in Bangladesh is delicious and affordable. Eat at local food stalls and restaurants to save money on meals.

Stay in budget-friendly accommodations

There are plenty of budget-friendly accommodations in Bangladesh, including guesthouses, hostels, and homestays. Look for accommodations in the city centers to save on transportation costs.

Outdoor Adventures

If you’re an adventure seeker, Bangladesh has plenty of outdoor activities to offer. Here are some of the best:

Trekking in the Chittagong Hill Tracts

The Chittagong Hill Tracts is a region in southeastern Bangladesh that’s known for its rugged terrain and stunning natural beauty. Go trekking to explore the mountains and waterfalls.

Boating on the Shitalakshya River

The Shitalakshya River is a great place to go boating and enjoy the scenic views of the countryside. You can also visit some of the local villages and see how the locals live.

Family-Friendly Activities

If you’re traveling with kids, here are some family-friendly activities to enjoy in Bangladesh:

Visit the Bangladesh National Zoo

The Bangladesh National Zoo is home to a wide range of animals, including tigers, lions, elephants, and monkeys. It’s a great place to spend the day with the family.

Explore the Lalbagh Fort

The Lalbagh Fort is a historic fort in Dhaka that’s great for families to explore. It has beautiful gardens, a museum, and a mosque.

Natural Wonders

Bangladesh is home to some of the most beautiful natural wonders in the world. Here are some must-visit places:

Sajek Valley

Sajek Valley is a beautiful valley in the Chittagong Hill Tracts that’s known for its stunning views and trekking trails. It’s a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Baikka Beel Wetland Sanctuary

Baikka Beel Wetland Sanctuary is a bird lover’s paradise, home to over 200 species of birds. It’s a great place to go birdwatching and enjoy the natural beauty of Bangladesh.

Vibrant Nightlife

Bangladesh has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, nightclubs, and restaurants to choose from. Here are some of the best places to go:

Cloud 9

Cloud 9 is a rooftop bar in Dhaka that offers stunning views of the city. It’s a great place to enjoy a drink and socialize with locals and other travelers.

Club 27

Club 27 is a popular nightclub in Dhaka that’s known for its lively atmosphere and great music. It’s a great place to dance the night away.

Local Markets

Shopping in Bangladesh is a unique experience, with plenty of local markets and bazaars to explore. Here are some of the best:

Dhaka New Market

Dhaka New Market is a great place to buy clothes, electronics, and souvenirs. It’s a bustling market that’s popular with locals and tourists alike.

Kawran Bazaar

Kawran Bazaar is a wholesale market in Dhaka that’s great for buying fresh produce, spices, and other food items. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in the local culture.

Beaches and Mountains

Bangladesh has a diverse landscape that includes both beaches and mountains. Here are some of the best places to visit:

Cox’s Bazar

Cox’s Bazar is the most popular beach in Bangladesh and is a great place to relax and soak up the sun.

Chittagong Hill Tracts

The Chittagong Hill Tracts is a beautiful mountainous region in southeastern Bangladesh that’s great for trekking and exploring the natural beauty of Bangladesh.

Cultural Immersion

If you’re interested in immersing yourself in the local culture, Bangladesh has plenty to offer. Here are some of the best cultural experiences:

Visit a Mosque

Bangladesh is home to some of the most beautiful mosques in the world. Visit the Baitul Mukarram Mosque in Dhaka or the Sixty Dome Mosque in Bagerhat to learn about Islamic architecture and culture.

Take a Cooking Class

Bangladeshi cuisine is delicious and unique. Take a cooking class to learn how to make some of the local dishes and immerse yourself in the local culture.

Art and Music Scene

Bangladesh has a rich art and music scene, with plenty of local artists and musicians to discover. Here are some of the best places to go:

Dhaka Art Summit

The Dhaka Art Summit is a biennial art exhibition that showcases the work of local and international artists. It’s a great place to discover new talent and immerse yourself in the local art scene.