Hi friends ! Are you ready to go to Bangladesh ? You are most welcome. After august 2024 Bangladesh entered into a new era. Especially for the traveler.

Now Bangladesh is politically stable and safe not only for foreigners but Bangladeshi Peoples also. Law and order situation is under control. 

Little background of Bangladesh

It was formerly known as East Bengal during the British period. Bangla is the fourth most spoken language in the world. West Bengal, Assam, and Tripura — parts of India — are also Bangla-speaking states.

Villagers mainly rely on agriculture and business for their livelihood. People are passionate about food, cricket, local music, farming, and hospitality. It’s a 100% raw country for travelers, and the people are incredibly welcoming.

The capital is Dhaka, and Chittagong is the business capital. The currency is Taka (BDT). The country covers an area of 147,570 square kilometers, with a population of 161.4 million as of 2018.

The majority are Muslim, with 8% Hindu and 2% from other religions. Bangla is the official language, and English is widely used as a second language.

In this Bangladesh Travel Guide, we’ll highlight key information to help you understand the country before your journey.

Eligible For VISA on Arrival (VOA)

• Citizens of countries where Bangladesh does not have an embassy/Mission.
• Citizens of countries who issue LP/VOA for Bangladeshi Travelers.
• Foreign Investors, exporters, and individuals attending govt organized seminars in bangladesh On condition of document of BEPZA, BGMEA, BOI or relevant organization.
• Persons who are black listed or banned by his country are not permitted for VOA.
• People of EU countries like Business officials, investors, tourists, members of defense, Bangladeshi origin Spouses and children of foreign citizens.
• Stuff of foreign embassies, UN and others.

Note: please use the same port for both entry and departure. Duration maximum 30 days for single entry. Foreign citizens must show their related documents.

Mobile Phone Connection

Any international SIM card is not working here. Here are popular telecom companies to stay connected like Grameen Phone, Robi, Bangla Link and Teletalk. Buy any one using your passport and fingerprint.

It also can provide you with the internet on your mobile phone. If you want to travel to a rural area then Grameen Phone and Robi is the best option. They cover the city area also.

To buy a SIM Card you need:

• Your 2 copy passport size photo.
• Your passport
• And Biometric fingerprint for registration.

Where to Buy a SIM Card ?

• Dhaka Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport
• Chittagong Shah Amanat International Airport.
• And operators outlet and service centers. Use your google map nearby using the operator’s name to find the SIM card.
• Grameen Phone also has an eSIM card. If your phone configuration is fit for this you can try it.

Money and Currency

The official currency of Bangladesh is the Bangladeshi Taka, abbreviated as BDT with the symbol (৳). Both coins and banknotes are in circulation.

Coins are available in 1 and 5 taka, while banknotes come in 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1000 taka denominations.

You’ll need to carry taka for most purchases. In some tourist areas, hotels, and airports, USD and EURO may be accepted.

However, banks, airports, and hotels are the most reliable places to exchange currency and often offer the best rates. Local currency exchange services are also available.

ATMs and bank cards are widely used in major cities and tourist destinations. VISA and MasterCard (both debit and credit) are accepted in many modern retail stores.

For greater convenience, you can also use mobile payment apps like bKash, Nagad, and Rocket. These apps are widely used by both small and large businesses across the country and can make your daily spending much easier.

Extra Tips from the Bangladesh Travel Guide:

• Banks are closed on Fridays and Saturdays (weekend in Bangladesh).
  
• Always carry some cash for transportation and small purchases.
  
• Avoid accepting or exchanging damaged banknotes.
  
• The approximate exchange rate is $1 = 120 BDT (subject to change).
  
• Compare exchange rates before converting your money.
  
• Avoid street exchange brokers to prevent scams.
  

Travelers can carry up to $5,000 USD without a declaration. For larger amounts, you’ll need to follow customs procedures.

Mobile Banking Services

Compared to most countries, mobile banking services are far more widespread in Bangladesh. Even in remote villages where traditional banking services are unavailable, mobile banking is easily accessible. With these services, you can deposit and withdraw money without needing a bank branch or ATM booth.

So, if you’re visiting Bangladesh, don’t forget to set up mobile banking services like bKash, Nagad, or Rocket. These platforms can be even more helpful than your debit or credit cards during your trip.

To open an account with bKash, Nagad, or Rocket, you’ll need:

1. A recent photo
   
2. Your passport
   
3. A local Bangladeshi mobile number
   

If you have the bKash, Nagad, or Rocket app installed on your phone, you can create an account yourself and start making transactions instantly.

As highlighted in this Bangladesh Travel Guide, mobile banking is one of the easiest ways to handle your money while exploring the country.

Safety and Securities

In general, Bangladesh is a safe place for foreign visitors. General people like foreigners and if you get in any trouble they will be willing to help you. But here we also have some bad guys.

Pickpockets and thriftiness are common here. Drudge and any type of arms is not permitted to carry. Incase to visit Chittagong, hill tracts need permission from the local police station. 

So in general case:

• Avoid going out alone after sunset.
• Avoid dark places when you walk in the street.
• Keep your mobile phone even if you are on the bus. They can take it using the bus window.
• Seek people help if you face any trouble.
• Call 999 the national emergency number.
• Keep a duplicate copy of your important document in a safe place.

In the case of public transportation, remember to negotiate the fare before riding in a Rickshaw or CNG. The best practice is to use mobile applications like Uber or Pathao to rent and transform.

Traffic conditions vary over the situation.  In the early morning and after lunch you may avoid heavy traffic jams. Now in Dhaka city expressway is available from farmgate to airport.

To avoid heavy traffic use it any time. Consider the speed when you travel so that it may not be the cause of an accident

Safety of health and hygiene:

• Drink safe and mineral water, don’t use tap water. It may cause diarrhea.
• Be careful about street food. Before eating, he maintains hygiene and clearness.
• Use mosquito before sleep nets to avoid malaria or dengue.
• You can use a face mask to avoid dusty air in the city area.
• Here we have countless numbers of hotels to get lunch or dinner. Find the prominent one to get fresh food.
• Ensure travel insurance.
• Call 199 for ambulance and fire service.

Choose a trusted Tourist guide. Avoid political gathering and rallies. Be aware about weather any time it can be changed.

Cultural norms

Bangladesh has a unique cultural identity. People are generally welcoming and generous. Religions have a great contribution to develop Bangladeshi culture which is quite different from Europe and America. Here we point out some norms which can help you to communicate with anyone.

• People show respect to elderly person and show love and affection to youngsters.
• They called Elderly people using relational names. Like uncle, anty, brother, sister not using direct names.
• Generally Fathers and mothers are living together with children.
• Show respect for every religion when you talk with others.
• wear modest clothes, cover your shoulders when going outside.
• Should not wear Half pants and sando genji when going outside.
• Ask permission before taking anyone’s picture.
• In general women are not showing their beauty and face in public.

National holidays

• 21 February – international Mother language day
• 26 February – Shab-e-Barat*.
• 26 March – The Independence and National day.
• 05 April – Jumatul Bida.
• 14 April – Bangla New Year (Noboborsho).
• 01 May – May Day.
• 16 December – Victory Day
• 25 December – Christmas Day

Bangladesh Natural Wonders – Must-visit Places.

• Tanguar Haor – Shumanganj, Shylate. Best time – June to September & November to January.
  
  
• Niladri Lake – same location. Another name of Kashmir of Bangladesh. Best time: November to January.
  
  
• Sajek Valley – rangamati chittagong. Another name is Heaven in the Hills. Best time June to September for rain and cloud view.
  
  
• Sundarbans – Khulna. The world’s biggest natural mangrove forest. Best time: November to January.
  
  
• Cox’s Bazar – chittagong. The world’s longest natural sea beatch.Best time: November to January.
  
  
• Saint Martin Island – Teknaf, Cox’s Bazar. Best for nature and sea foods. Best time: November to February.
  
  
• Sada Pathor – Volagonj, Shylate. Best for natural wonder White Stones. Best time: October to November.
  
  
• Ratargul Swamp Forest – Gowainghat, Sylhet. A natural wonder. Best time: July to October.
  
  
• Bichanakandi – Sylhet. Lake with mountain. Best time June to November.
  
  
• Debota Khum – Ruma, Bandarban. Best for trekking and adventure. Best time: June to Novembers.
  
  
• Kuakata Sea Beach – Daughter of the Sea.
  
  
• Water lily village – Uzirpur, Barisal. Specially renowned for naturally grown lilies. Best Time: July to September.
  
  
• Srimangal – Sylhet. The capital of Tea
  
  
• Jaflong – Sylhet. Where nature, lake water, river and mountain work together to beautify the places. Best time: June to September.

Where to stay

In 2025 Bangladesh will get tremendous advancement in tourism sectors. In the last 20 years major changes have happened here. If you find luxury travel it’s available here. Even If you are a low cost traveler, Bangladesh is the best place for you. Here we discuss city wise luxury, budget and mid range hotel facility in Bangladesh. Features can vary over the resort.

Where to Stay in Dhaka

Luxury :

Here are the Luxury and 5 star category Hotels in Dhaka. Cost per night averages $250 to $300 USD. here you can find an unlimited pool, spa, fitness center, multiple dining options and luxury room or suite.

1. Radisson Blu Dhaka Water Garden- Near airport.
2. The Westin Dhaka – Gulshan, Dhaka.
3. InterContinental Dhaka – Kawran Bazar, Dhaka.

Mid-Range:

Lucrative environment, affordable, comfort room, free wifi, Family-friendly, complimentary breakfast, business-friendly location and  great service. $50 to $80 per night.

1. Nascent Gardenia Residence
2. Hotel Shuktara

Budget :

In Central Location of the city, have a great return of money, suitable room, some have free wifi, 24/7 front desk service. $30 to $50 per night.

1. Hotel 71
2. Hotel Afford Inn

Where to Stay in Cox’s Bazar ?

Luxury :

Cost per night averages $150 to $200 USD. Here you can find an unlimited pool, Spa, gym, and wellness centre, multiple dining options, Beachfront location, luxury room or suite with Ocean view, rooftop restaurant and cafe, International cuisine and business conference facilities.

1. Royal Tulip Sea Pearl Beach Resort & Spa
2. Sayeman Beach Resort

Mid-Range:

beachfront access, free wifi, comfort room with A/C, in-house restaurant, gym and fitness, swimming pool, $50 to %80 dollar per night.

1. Hotel Sea Crown
2. Ocean Paradise Hotel & Resort

Where to Stay in Shylate ?

In Shylate the Luxury Hotel or resort rate is under $100 per night with all facilities. Hotels like Nirvana Inn, Hotel Noorjahan Grand provide great service and maintain 3 star category facilities.

You can manage accommodation for less than $70 at hotels like  Hotel Valley Garden, Hotel Mira Garden with all modern facilities and comforte. Shylate city also has less than $20 per night hotel accommodation.

So those who need budget hotels can try Bottom Hill Palace and Farmis Garden.

Where to Stay in Sundarbans ?

In Sundarbans you have limited options to stay. The high class facilities provide Mangrove Heaven resort per night for less than $60 dollars. 

Same hotel gives basic facilities within $30 dollars per night. Tiger park eco resort can be the  best option for a budget tour.

List of Don’t-Miss Foods

1. Doi Chira: A well-known Bangladeshi dish famous for its flavor. Doi Chira is made from flattened rice, yogurt, and banana, making it perfect for hot weather.
   
   
2. Winter Pitha-Puli: A traditional winter delicacy. More than 100 varieties of pitha-puli are available in Bangladesh. The main ingredients include rice flour, milk, sugar, and coconut.
   
   
3. Date Tree Juice: A special juice collected from date trees only during the winter season. Some enjoy it as a refreshing drink, while others use it to make pitha-puli or payesh (rice pudding).
   
   
4. Bakor Khani: A traditional snack bread from Old Dhaka, similar to biscuits, with origins dating back 400 years to the Mughal era. It was named after a Mughal general. Made from flour, ghee, milk, sugar, and a mix of spices, it comes in two varieties: sugary and plain.
   
   
5. Fuchka: A popular street food made with potato, pickles, eggs, and other ingredients. It has a tangy, spicy flavor and is especially popular at picnic spots and tourist destinations.
   
   
6. Kacchi Biryani:A famous dish deeply connected to Old Dhaka and its rich history. Renowned for its taste and aroma, its preparation varies from chef to chef.

   
   It is made with meat, spices, rice, mustard oil, and other ingredients. The most famous brands include Haji Biryani and Nanna Biryani.
   
   

7. Halim: A popular dish across South Asia, Halim in Old Dhaka is a flavorful stew made with a blend of lentils, grains, and meat. It is both a comfort food and a festive delicacy.
   
   
8. Tea: Tea is an essential part of daily life in Bangladesh. Sylhet, the “tea capital,” is a tourist destination known for its scenic tea gardens.
   
   Bangladesh produces over 100 types of tea, but visitors should not miss iced tea, masala tea, lemon tea, and the famous seven-layer tea.

Conclusions

Welcome to Bangladesh!

If you love traveling and discovering new places, you’re in for something special. Bangladesh is full of natural beauty and hidden gems that are just waiting to be explored.

The best time to visit is during the cooler months, from November to January, but tourist spots across the country stay lively and welcoming all year round.

This Bangladesh Travel Guide invites you to experience a country where the rivers, waters, soil, trees, sea, birds, fresh air—and especially the people—will leave a lasting impression on your heart.