Bangladesh is located in South Asia and
lies between India and Myanmar and sits on the Bay of Bengal. Locals are known
as Bangladeshis, and the population is approximately 156 million. A Muslim
country, approximately 83% of the residents are Muslim with 16% Hindus.
Ninety-eight percent of all Bangladeshis are Bengali. Bangladesh broke free
from Pakistan in 1971. The climate is sub tropical and winter runs from
December until January, spring lasts from February to March, summer runs from
April to May followed by the monsoon season, which dominates the months of June
and July. Autumn in Bangladesh runs from August to September with late autumn
lasting from October to November. Those planning to visit Bangladesh will
want to take into consideration the monsoon seasons and plan their trips
accordingly. There are six regions or divisions that compose Bangladesh. They
are the Dhaka Division, the Chittagong Division, the Rajshahi Division, the
Khulna Division, the Sylhet Division and the Barisal Division. Popular tourist
attractions include the capital of each division. Dhaka, Chittagong, Rajshahi,
and Barisal are also capital cities of their respective divisions.
Those planning a trip to Bangladesh will
want to familiarize themselves with Bangladesh laws and customs. There is great
wildlife to be seen in the country as much of the land is a marsh jungle with
one of the world’s most expansive mangrove forests. The Royal Bengal Tiger
calls the Bangladesh jungles home. Tourists will need to ensure they have their
visas in order when visiting the country and the process and price varies by
country. Determine beforehand how you will enter the country to make sure you obtain
the most appropriate visa. The majority of tourists enter Bangladesh by plane
and continue to use air travel to visit different regions in the country. It is
recommended to use popular tourist modes of travel rather than those designed
for locals as there may be poor conditions involved and a language barrier. For
example, it is preferable to use a tourist bus line rather than a local bus. As
a travel destination, Bangladesh has a number of sites and attractions that
make it a country worth visiting. With numerous natural environments and a
beautiful landscape along the Bay of Bengal, Bangladesh is a wonderful country
to visit. From ancient Buddhist ruins to the beauty of a lush, tropical
rainforest and the world’s largest mangrove forest, Bangladesh is a beautiful
area just waiting to be explored.
Here are 16 places to visit in Bangladesh.
- National Parliament House – Jatiyo
Sangshad Bhaban
national parliament house
Located in Dhaka City, the National Parliament House is a free attraction that is known as one of architect Louis Kahn’s greatest works. He structure cost $32 million (US) to build and is used by Parliament. - Sundarban
sundarban bangladesh
The Sundarban is a mangrove forest located in Bagerhat. It is free to enter and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Sundarban is home to the beautiful Bengal Tiger as well as many marsh birds, reptiles and crocodiles. Two of the high points is the KATKA Beach and Hiron Point. - Shait-Gumbad Mosque
shait gumbad mosque
Located in Bagerhat and built in 1454, the Shait Gumbad Mosque is the largest mosque built from bricks in all of Bangladesh.
- Ruins of the Buddhist Vihara
Located in Paharpur, the Ruins of the Buddhist Vihara are a UNESCO World Heritage Site that traces back to the seventh century.
- Somapura Mahavira
Located in Paharpur along with the ancient ruins of the Buddhist Vihara is the Somapura Mahavira. The Somapura Mahavira is the largest monastery located south of the Himalayas mountain range. It is often referred to as the “Great Monastery” and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Urban Study Group
urban study group
Those staying in Dhaka City can enjoy this walking tour free of charge. The Urban Study Group is committed to preserving the architectural integrity of the old Dhaka City.
- Cox’s Bazar
Cox’s Bazar is located in Chittagong and is the world’s longest sandy beach measuring 120 km or 74 miles. You’ll enjoy beautiful sandy beaches with Buddhist temples and pagodas while visiting Cox’s Bazar. - Boga Lake
boga lake bangladesh
Located in Chittagong City is Boga Lake. You may visit the lake for free and participate in fun activities such as rafting, canoeing, and taking a cruise.
- The National Memorial
the national memorial of bangladesh
Located in Dhaka City is the National Memorial. It is also referred to as “Jatiyo Sriti Shoudho,” and is a memorial to those who perished in the 1971 Bangladesh liberation war.
- Sonargaon
sonargaon museum bangladesh
Sonargaon is a historic site located in Dhaka City, Bangladesh. The architectures is a good example from the Mogul era.
- New Market
new market bangladesh
Located in Dhaka City is New Market and it is one of the most popular areas where locals and tourists go shopping. It is known for affordable, bargain prices.
- Jhaubon Restaurant
Located in Cox’s Bazar is the Jhaubon Restaurant. Those looking for delicious Bengali food won’t be disappointed. Those visiting Cox’s Bazar should include a meal at the Jhaubon Restaurant.
- Liberation War Museum
The Liberation War Museum is in Dhaka City and honors those who made the ultimate sacrifice in 1971 and perished during the heinous genocide and atrocities that killed approximately three million Bangladeshis. The museum opened on 1996 and celebrates Bangladesh’s liberation from Pakistan.
- Nazimgarh Resort
nazimgarh resort motel
Located in Sylhet City, Bangladesh, the Nazimgarh Resort is known for its beautiful atmosphere and surroundings. The area is known for being relaxing and tranquil.
- Saint Martin’s Island
saint martin's island bangladesh
In the Bay of Bengal and near Cox’s Bazar is Saint Martin’s Island. The Island is called Narical Gingira, which means “Coconut Island.” Saint Martin’s Island is one of the top spots visited by tourists throughout Bangladesh as it features a natural coral island, gorgeous sands dotted with coconut trees and beautiful flora and fauna.
- Bangladesh Silver Wave Tours
dhaka city bangladesh
Silver Wave Tours, located in Dhaka City, offers one of the most popular tours in all of Bangladesh are the Silver Wave Tours. There are a number of tours they operate including Dhaka, Chittagong, Rajshahi, Khulna, Barisal and Sylhet.Though Bangladesh is still in its economic development, there are many notable sights worth visiting. After obtaining its liberation from Pakistan, the country is a Democratic Republic lead by a parliamentary form of government. Those in the United States planning a trip to Bangladesh are encouraged to register with the Smart Traveler Program that notifies the U.S. Embassy of their upcoming trip. It is wise to get visas before arriving in Bangladesh and ensuring that you have all of your paperwork in order before arriving. Before traveling overseas, check to determine a country’s current terror threat. Always make certain the threat is low before traveling to Bangladesh. Tourists should also make certain they are aware of current crime rates and are well informed of tactics that locals may use to defraud tourists from their valuables. Check with your local embassy to determine what safety measures you should take to ensure you remain protected. Those who choose to fly in Bangladesh should check with their local government’s safety assessments of the Bangladesh Civil Aviation Authority. In the past, Bangladesh has not met the International Civil Aviation Organization’s safety standards. Make certain you understand any risks involved when flying. By taking time to prepare and utilizing the best safety standards, you can ensure that your trip to Bangladesh is as safe as it is adventurous and fun.