Tucked away in the southeastern corner of Asia, Bangladesh is kind of a secret waiting to be unraveled. Rich in history and vibrant culture, stunning natural beauty—this often-overlooked destination literally is paradise to intrepid travelers. But we know what you are thinking, “Isn’t Bangladesh expensive?” or “Is it not hard to travel around?” Fear not, fellow broke backpackers! Not only is Bangladesh an extremely cheap destination, but it is also one of the most hospitable places one could ever have visited. We will take you on a journey in this blog post to show you the best that Bangladesh has to offer, from the very lively streets of Dhaka down to the serenity of the Sundarbans, and how to do it on a broke budget. So, pack your bags, grab your sense of adventure, and get ready to explore one of the most incredible countries in South Asia!
How to get there:
Bangladesh is strategically located in South Asia, making it easily accessible by public transportation from neighboring countries. Here’s a guide to help you reach Bangladesh from all the countries around it:
From India:
- Bus: Take a bus from Kolkata (West Bengal) to Dhaka (Bangladesh) via the Benapole-Petrapole border crossing. Operators like Shyamoli Paribahan and Greenline offer daily services.
- Train: The Maitree Express runs from Kolkata to Dhaka, with a change of trains at the border.
From Nepal:
- Bus: Take a bus from Kathmandu to Dhaka via the Kakarbhitta-Panitanki border crossing. Operators like Sajha Yatayat and Golden Travels offer daily services.
From Bhutan:
- Bus: Take a bus from Phuentsholing to Dhaka via the Burimari-Changrabandha border crossing. Operators like Bhutan Transport Service and Shyamoli Paribahan offer daily services.
From Myanmar:
- Bus: Take a bus from Yangon to Dhaka via the Tamu-Moreh border crossing. Operators like Myanmar Transport Service and Shyamoli Paribahan offer daily services.
Tips:
- Visa Requirements: Check visa requirements for your nationality before traveling.
- Border Crossings: Be prepared for security checks and potential delays at border crossings.
- Local Currency: Exchange currency or use ATMs to access local currency (Bangladeshi Taka).
When to go:
Bangladesh has a tropical climate with three main seasons:
- Summer (March to June): Hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching 35°C (95°F).
- Monsoon (July to September): Heavy rainfall and flooding, with temperatures ranging from 25-30°C (77-86°F).
- Winter (October to February): Mild and dry, with temperatures ranging from 10-20°C (50-68°F).
Best Time to Visit:
- October to February: Ideal time to visit Bangladesh, with comfortable temperatures and minimal rainfall.
- March to April: A good time to visit if you prefer warmer weather, but be prepared for occasional heatwaves.
Avoid Visiting During:
- June to September: Heavy rainfall and flooding make travel challenging.
- Major Festivals and Holidays: Like Eid-al-Fitr and Durga Puja, when prices increase and popular destinations get crowded.
Regional Variations:
- Sundarbans: Best visited during the winter months (October to February) for comfortable temperatures and minimal rainfall.
- Hill Tracts: Best visited during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) for pleasant weather.
Best Itineraries:
4-Day Itinerary:
Day 1: Dhaka City Tour
- Visit Lalbagh Fort, Baitul Mukarram Mosque, and Dhaka University
- Explore Old Dhaka’s streets and try local street food
Day 2: Sonargaon and Panam City
- Visit Sonargaon Folk Art and Craft Museum
- Explore Panam City’s historic architecture
Day 3: Suhrawardy Udyan and River Buriganga
- Relax in Suhrawardy Udyan
- Take a boat ride on River Buriganga
Day 4: Departure
1-Week Itinerary:
Day 1-2: Dhaka City Tour
- Visit Lalbagh Fort, Baitul Mukarram Mosque, and Dhaka University
- Explore Old Dhaka’s streets and try local street food
Day 3-4: Sylhet
- Visit Sylhet’s tea gardens and scenic valleys
- Explore Sylhet City’s markets and cuisine
Day 5-6: Sundarbans
- Take a boat ride through the Sundarbans mangrove forest
- Spot wildlife, including tigers and dolphins
Day 7: Departure
2-Week Itinerary:
Day 1-3: Dhaka City Tour
- Visit Lalbagh Fort, Baitul Mukarram Mosque, and Dhaka University
- Explore Old Dhaka’s streets and try local street food
Day 4-6: Sylhet
- Visit Sylhet’s tea gardens and scenic valleys
- Explore Sylhet City’s markets and cuisine
Day 7-9: Chittagong
- Visit Chittagong’s beaches and port area
- Explore Chittagong Hill Tracts’ scenic hills and villages
Day 10-12: Sundarbans
- Take a boat ride through the Sundarbans mangrove forest
- Spot wildlife, including tigers and dolphins
Day 13-14: Departure
1-Month Itinerary:
Day 1-4: Dhaka City Tour
- Visit Lalbagh Fort, Baitul Mukarram Mosque, and Dhaka University
- Explore Old Dhaka’s streets and try local street food
Day 5-8: Sylhet
- Visit Sylhet’s tea gardens and scenic valleys
- Explore Sylhet City’s markets and cuisine
Day 9-12: Chittagong
- Visit Chittagong’s beaches and port area
- Explore Chittagong Hill Tracts’ scenic hills and villages
Day 13-16: Cox’s Bazar
- Relax on Cox’s Bazar’s beaches
- Visit nearby islands and coral reefs
Day 17-20: Sundarbans
- Take a boat ride through the Sundarbans mangrove forest
- Spot wildlife, including tigers and dolphins
Day 21-30: Explore rural Bangladesh
- Visit villages and experience rural life
- Attend local festivals and events
Remember to stay flexible, and adjust the itinerary according to your preferences and budget or just fuck it all and do your own thing. Happy travels!
Transportation:
Bangladesh has a vibrant public transportation system, offering various options for travelers. Here’s a guide to help you navigate:
1. Buses:
- Local Buses: Affordable, frequent, and extensive network
- Long-Distance Buses: Connects major cities, with various operators like Greenline, Shyamoli, and Hanif
2. Trains:
- Bangladesh Railway: Connects major cities, with various classes (e.g., First Class, Second Class)
3. Rickshaws:
- Cycle Rickshaws: Affordable, eco-friendly, and ideal for short distances
- Auto Rickshaws (CNGs): Faster, more comfortable, and widely available
4. Waterways:
- Ferries: Connects coastal cities and islands
- Launches: Offers overnight journeys on major rivers
5. Tuk-Tuks:
- Tempo: A three-wheeled vehicle, ideal for short distances
Tips and Reminders:
- Bargain: Negotiate fares for rickshaws and tuk-tuks
- Safety: Be mindful of your belongings and personal safety
- Traffic: Be prepared for chaotic traffic conditions
- Language: Learn basic Bengali phrases to communicate with drivers
- Comfort: Be prepared for crowded and uncomfortable journeys
Fares:
- Buses: 10-50 BDT (~ $0.12-$0.60 USD)
- Trains: 100-1,000 BDT (~ $1.20-$12 USD)
- Rickshaws: 20-100 BDT (~ $0.24-$1.20 USD)
- Tuk-Tuks: 50-200 BDT (~ $0.60-$2.40 USD)
Top things to do:
Dhaka:
- Explore Dhaka’s Old Town: Visit Lalbagh Fort, Baitul Mukarram Mosque, and Dhaka University
- Lalbagh Fort: A 17th-century Mughal fort with stunning architecture
- Baitul Mukarram Mosque: One of the largest mosques in the world
- Dhaka University: A historic university with beautiful campus
- Ahsan Manzil: A stunning pink palace
- National Museum: Learn about Bangladesh’s history and culture
- Dhakeshwari Temple: A historic Hindu temple
- Khan Mohammad Mridha Mosque: A beautiful mosque with stunning architecture
- Ramna Park: A scenic park with stunning views
- Bangladesh National Zoo: Home to various animals and birds
Sylhet:
- Discover Sylhet’s Tea Gardens: Visit Sylhet’s scenic tea gardens and valleys
- Sylhet City: Explore markets and try local cuisine
- Jaflong: A scenic spot with waterfalls and hills
- Sreemangal: A town surrounded by tea gardens and hills
- Madhabpur Lake: A scenic lake with stunning views
- Bholaganj: A scenic spot with waterfalls and hills
- Panthumai Waterfall: A stunning waterfall
- Rema-Kalenga Wildlife Sanctuary: Explore the scenic forest
- Lawacherra National Park: A scenic park with stunning views
- Khadimnagar National Park: A scenic park with stunning views
Chittagong:
- Cox’s Bazar Beach: The world’s longest natural sea beach
- Chittagong Hill Tracts: Explore scenic hills and villages
- Kaptai Lake: A large lake with scenic views
- Bandarban: A town surrounded by hills and forests
- Rangamati: A town surrounded by hills and forests
- St. Martin’s Island: A scenic island with stunning beaches
- Moheskhali Island: A scenic island with stunning beaches
- Foy’s Lake: A scenic lake with stunning views
- Chittagong Zoo: Home to various animals and birds
- Patenga Beach: A scenic beach with stunning views
Khulna:
- Sundarbans: The world’s largest mangrove forest
- Mongla Port: A major port city
- Kuakata Beach: A scenic beach with stunning sunrises
- Bagerhat: A historic town with ancient mosques
- Shat Gombuj Mosque: A stunning mosque with 60 domes
- Sundarbans National Park: Explore the mangrove forest
- Khulna City: Explore markets and try local cuisine
- Rupsha River: Take a boat ride on the scenic river
- Labanakhali Wildlife Sanctuary: Explore the scenic forest
- Sundarbans West Wildlife Sanctuary: Explore the scenic forest
Rajshahi:
- Mahasthangarh: An ancient city with historic ruins
- Paharpur: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with ancient Buddhist ruins
- Naogaon: A town with historic mosques and temples
- Chapai Nawabganj: A town with scenic views and historic sites
- Bogra: A town with historic mosques and temples
- Puthia: A town with historic temples and scenic views
- Rajshahi University: A historic university with beautiful campus
- Varendra Research Museum: Learn about Bangladesh’s history and culture
- Bagha Mosque: A stunning mosque with stunning architecture
- Rajshahi Zoo: Home to various animals and birds
Barisal:
- Kuakata Beach: A scenic beach with stunning sunrises
- Barisal City: Explore markets and try local cuisine
- Bakerganj: A town with historic mosques and temples
- Char Kukri Mukri: A scenic spot with stunning views
- Taltoli Beach: A scenic beach with stunning views
- Nijhum Dwip: A scenic island with stunning beaches
- Barisal Museum: Learn about Bangladesh’s history and culture
- Durga Sagar Lake: A scenic lake with stunning views
- Chandpai Wildlife Sanctuary: Explore the scenic forest
- Hijla Wildlife Sanctuary:
Culture
Located in the crossroads of South Asia, Bangladesh boasts a unique cultural heritage shaped by its history, geography, and people. This fascinating nation, born from the struggle for independence in 1971, weaves together diverse influences – Islamic, Hindu, Buddhist, and Western – to create a vibrant cultural fabric.
History and Heritage
Bangladesh’s cultural roots stretch back to the ancient Bengali civilization, with evidence of human habitation dating to the 4th century BCE. Successive rulers, including the Buddhist Pala Empire, Hindu Sena Dynasty, and Islamic Mughal Empire, left indelible marks on the country’s cultural landscape.
The 19th and 20th centuries saw the rise of Bengali nationalism, fueled by the works of iconic writers like Rabindranath Tagore and Kazi Nazrul Islam. This movement played a pivotal role in shaping Bangladesh’s modern identity.
Religion and Spirituality
Islam is the predominant faith in Bangladesh, with approximately 90% of the population identifying as Muslim. However, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Christianity also have significant followings.
The Baul tradition, a mystical Sufi movement emphasizing spiritual harmony and love, is a distinctive aspect of Bangladeshi culture. Baul music and poetry, often performed by wandering minstrels, reflect the nation’s deep connection to spirituality.
Language and Literature
Bengali (Bangla) is the official language, with a rich literary heritage. The works of Rabindranath Tagore, Asia’s first Nobel laureate, and other prominent writers like Kazi Nazrul Islam and Humayun Ahmed have contributed significantly to Bangladesh’s cultural prestige.
Art and Architecture
Traditional Bangladeshi art forms include:
- Nakshi Kantha: intricate embroidery on quilts, often depicting mythological scenes
- Pottery: colorful ceramics crafted in villages like Naogaon and Rangpur
- Wood carvings: delicate designs adorning temples, mosques, and homes
Historic architectural marvels include:
- Lalbagh Fort: 17th-century Mughal fortress in Dhaka
- Ahsan Manzil: 19th-century pink palace in Dhaka
- Paharpur: ancient Buddhist monastery and UNESCO World Heritage Site
Music and Dance
Bangladeshi music encompasses various genres:
- Baul: mystical Sufi melodies
- Rabindra Sangeet: Tagore’s compositions
- Folk: traditional village songs
Classical dances, such as Bharatanatyam and Kathak, share the stage with folk forms like:
- Gambhira: energetic performances accompanied by drums and masks
- Baul dance: spontaneous, spiritual movements
Cuisine
Bangladeshi cuisine, known for its bold flavors and spices, features:
- Rice: staple food
- Fish: abundant seafood from rivers and coastal areas
- Bharta: mashed vegetables or fish
- Mishti Doi: sweet, fermented yogurt
Festivals and Celebrations
Key festivals include:
Independence Day: commemorating Bangladesh’s 1971 liberation
Eid-al-Fitr: Islamic holy festival marking Ramadan’s end
Durga Puja: Hindu celebration honoring Goddess Durga
Pohela Boishakh: Bengali New Year festivities
Food:
Bangladeshi food is awesome, really good, and at a low cost. For a broke backpacker, you can have different types of dishes of your preference without hurting your wallet that much. From spicy curries to flavorful biryani, there’s something to calm every taste bud and wallet size.
Street food is probably going to be the best way to experience Bangladeshi cuisine. From crispy samosas to spicy kebabs, different stalls and vendors sell everything at a fraction of the price paid for the same meal served in a restaurant. And don’t worry about the quality—the street food here in Bangladesh ranks among the best in the world.
For a heartier meal, drop in at a local restaurant, or “hotel” in Bengali. These eateries dole out full-bodied, filling meals at a fraction of the cost of those places that cater to tourists. Do not forget to taste the biryani, curry, or kebabs, all prepared with fresh ingredients and spices. And be sure to sample some of the local sweets like mishti doi or rasgulla.
It’s plain easy to eat on a tight budget in Bangladesh, with meals from 50 to 300 taka ($0.60–$4 USD). Of course, there is also the local tea, offered at tea stalls everywhere for 10–20 taka ($0.15–$0.30 USD) per cup. Bangladeshi food is indeed an experience in eating not to be disappointed with.
Accommodations:
Dhaka:
- Best Hostel: Bangladesh Youth Hostel (starts at $6/night)
- Party Hostel: Dhaka Backpackers (starts at $8/night)
- Most Relaxing Hostel: Hotel Al-Razzaque (starts at $10/night)
- Other Options:
- Hotel 71 (starts at $12/night)
- Hotel Ornate (starts at $15/night)
- Dhaka Hostel (starts at $8/night)
Chittagong:
- Best Hostel: Chittagong Backpackers (starts at $8/night)
- Party Hostel: Chittagong Youth Hostel (starts at $10/night)
- Most Relaxing Hostel: Hotel Momo Inn (starts at $12/night)
- Other Options:
- Hotel Agrabad (starts at $15/night)
- Hotel Well Park Residence (starts at $18/night)
- Chittagong Hostel (starts at $10/night)
Sylhet:
- Best Hostel: Sylhet Backpackers (starts at $10/night)
- Party Hostel: Sylhet Youth Hostel (starts at $12/night)
- Most Relaxing Hostel: Hotel Hill Town (starts at $15/night)
- Other Options:
- Hotel Sylhet Tower (starts at $18/night)
- Hotel Rose View (starts at $20/night)
- Sylhet Hostel (starts at $12/night)
Khulna:
- Best Hostel: Khulna Backpackers (starts at $12/night)
- Party Hostel: Khulna Youth Hostel (starts at $15/night)
- Most Relaxing Hostel: Hotel City Inn (starts at $18/night)
- Other Options:
- Hotel Khulna (starts at $20/night)
- Hotel Royal International (starts at $25/night)
- Khulna Hostel (starts at $15/night)
Rajshahi:
- Best Hostel: Rajshahi Backpackers (starts at $15/night)
- Party Hostel: Rajshahi Youth Hostel (starts at $18/night)
Nightlife:
When the sun goes down, Bangladesh becomes a party destination. It sheds off its conservative tag with pulsating streets in Dhaka and hotspots along the coast in Chittagong-a great mix of urban sparkle and small-town charm.
Dhaka, being the capital, is therefore the centre of nightlife in Bangladesh. The posh areas of Gulshan, Banani, and Dhanmondi call party people via their trendy bars, clubs, and lounges. These areas come alive with neon lights, thumping music, and fashionable crowds; one is resisted by an electrifying atmosphere.
At Radisson Blu Dhaka Water Garden-The Water Garden-in Gulshan, the rooftop bar serves up a view to match every craft cocktail. A short walk away, trendy Twenty 21 Lounge brings chic ambiance and live music, hobnobbing with the city’s elite and expat community.
Club Royale is one of the most happening nightclubs in Banani, generally hosting international DJs and theme parties. Bars are buzzing all over the place, famous ones like La Vie En Rose, have everything possible from karaoke nights to live sports screening. Be it a dancing aficionado or a sports freak, Banani has something for everyone.
Besides Dhaka, there are other cities that have their flavor of nightlife. Chittagong is the second city in Bangladesh, with a rocking party culture. The mouth of the sea at Station Road has pubs, nightclubs, and restaurants where locals and tourists throng to fill the evenings. The scenic beachside location of the city tints its nightlife with romance, which is perfect for a vacationing couple.
Compared to the vibrant night-life, Sylhet is an upper eastern city of natural beauty. The high-end hotels within Sylhet, such as Hotel Star Pacific, which is considered one of the five-star ranking hotels in Sylhet, have rooftop bars overlooking panoramic views out over the Surma Valley. These peaceful retreats provide a perfect setting for unwinding and catching up.
The world’s longest continuous natural sea beach now dons the avatar of a party hub during peak tourist seasons. Starting from beachside bars and restaurants, such as Mermaid Beach Resort, one can get into beach parties, bonfires, and live music extending into the late nights. The relaxed atmosphere coupled with spectacular ocean views makes Cox’s Bazar a place not to be missed if one likes beaches.
Khulna is a southwestern city with a growing nightlife scene, bars popping up, and clubs along the Rupsa River. The hotel bars of this place, like Hotel City Inn, provide amiable ambiance with live music to locals and travelers in town in search of a subdued experience.
Though the nightlife of Bangladesh might not be flamboyant like the rest of Asia, the inimitable combination of urban glitz and small-town charm makes it truly singular. From the classiest of Dhaka socialites to the quirky tourist, everything that can be desired from this after-dark scene is here.
Stylish bars to beachside parties-the nightlife of Bangladesh is just begging to be unraveled. Be part of this movement and uncover those hidden secrets of this vibrant nation which are yet to be identified.
Backpacking Bangladesh costs:
Daily Budget Breakdown for Broke Backpacking in Bangladesh:
- Accommodation: 500-1000 taka ($6-12 USD) per night (hostel or budget hotel)
- Food: 200-500 taka ($2.50-6 USD) per day (street food and local eateries)
- Transportation: 100-300 taka ($1.25-3.75 USD) per day (local buses and rickshaws)
- Attractions: 50-200 taka ($0.60-2.50 USD) per person (entry fees for attractions)
- Other: 100-200 taka ($1.25-2.50 USD) per day (souvenirs, snacks, etc.)
Total daily budget: 1,050-2,200 taka ($13-27 USD)
Weekly Budget Breakdown for Broke Backpacking in Bangladesh:
- Accommodation: 3,500-7,000 taka ($42-84 USD) per week
- Food: 1,400-3,500 taka ($17-42 USD) per week
- Transportation: 700-2,100 taka ($8.50-25 USD) per week
- Attractions: 350-1,400 taka ($4-17 USD) per week
- Other: 700-1,400 taka ($8.50-17 USD) per week
Total weekly budget: 7,050-15,400 taka ($85-185 USD)
Conclusion:
As I leave Bangladesh and my back gets lighter, my heart feels full; I can feel that this enchanted nation has left an indelible mark on my journeys. There was some doubt over the affordability factor in Bangladesh; it turned out to be a backpacker’s paradise-affordable, accessible, and awe-inspiring.
Bangladesh is ideal for any backpacker on a broke budget, as day-to-day expenditures here are within an average of US$10-15. From the busy streets of Dhaka to the tranquil Sundarbans, every minute spent in this South Asian beauty spoke volumes about its not-yet-tapped potential as a destination for monetary conscious travelers.
Warm hospitality, rich cultural heritage, and remarkable natural beauty make Bangladesh a lifetime experience. Be it exploring ancient mosques, tasting delicious street food, or simply soaking in the local atmosphere, days spent in Bangladesh felt like a bottomless memory box.
