🇧🇩 eSIM plans for Bangladesh

Bangladesh rewards travellers who slow down and engage with daily life. Start in Dhaka, where rickshaws crowd the streets and street food stalls sizzle from morning until late. A boat ride on the Buriganga River reveals a different pace. From the capital, head south to the Sundarbans, the world's largest mangrove forest. A guided boat tour here offers the best chance to see Bengal tigers, saltwater crocodiles, and spotted deer. For a quieter experience, explore the riverine villages of the Ganges delta by local ferry. Bangladeshi hospitality is genuine. Accept tea invitations from shopkeepers and homestay offers in rural areas. Learn a few Bengali phrases such as dhonnobad (thank you) and kemon achen (how are you). Respect local customs: remove shoes before entering homes and mosques, and dress modestly outside tourist areas. Travel between December and February for the most comfortable temperatures.

Sundarbans National Park - A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the last stronghold of the Bengal tiger. Only accessible by boat tour. Go between November and February for cooler weather and better wildlife sightings. Book through a registered tour operator from Khulna or Mongla.

Cox's Bazar Beach - The world's longest natural sea beach stretches over 120 kilometres. The main strip near the town is busy. For quieter sand, head south to Inani Beach or Himchari National Park. Rip currents are common; swim only where locals do.

Sixty Dome Mosque (Bagerhat) - One of the most impressive mosques in South Asia, built in the 15th century. Part of a larger UNESCO World Heritage Site called the Mosque City of Bagerhat. Visit early morning to avoid crowds.

Paharpur Buddhist Monastery - The largest Buddhist monastery south of the Himalayas. The red brick ruins date back to the 8th century. Combine with a visit to the nearby Somapura Mahavihara museum.

Ahsan Manzil Palace (Dhaka) - A restored pink palace from the Bengali Nawab era. Overlooks the Buriganga River. Allow two hours for the museum and gardens.

Biryani - Bangladeshi biryani is distinct from its Indian counterpart. It uses fragrant short-grain rice, tender meat (usually chicken or beef), and a generous dose of potatoes. Dhaka's old town has legendary stalls. Look for places with long queues of locals.

Hilsa Fish Curry - The national fish of Bangladesh. Hilsa is bony but prized for its delicate flavour. The most common preparation is shorshe ilish (cooked in mustard seed paste). Best eaten during the monsoon season (June to September) when the fish are at their fattest.

Pitha - Traditional rice cakes, especially popular in winter. Varieties include bhapa pitha (steamed with coconut and jaggery) and chitoi pitha (pan-fried). Street vendors in rural areas sell them fresh.

Bhuna Khichuri - A savoury rice and lentil dish cooked with spices. Eaten for breakfast or lunch on rainy days. Often served with fried eggs or beef.

Fuchka - Crisp hollow shells filled with spicy tamarind water, mashed potato, and chickpeas. A popular street snack. Only eat from stalls with high turnover to ensure freshness.

Bangladesh has a tropical monsoon climate with three main seasons. The cool, dry winter from November to February is the most comfortable period for travel. Daytime temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C. This is the ideal time to visit the Sundarbans and Cox's Bazar Beach. The pre-monsoon summer from March to May is hot and humid, with temperatures reaching 35°C. April and May are the hottest months. Travel during this period is possible but tiring. The monsoon season runs from June to October. Heavy rain floods low-lying areas and disrupts road travel. However, the landscape turns vividly green, and the rivers are full. October is a transition month. Rain eases but humidity remains high. The Sundarbans remain accessible, though some trails may be muddy. For wildlife viewing, the dry season is best because animals gather around shrinking water sources.

Lightweight, breathable clothing - Cotton and linen are your best choices. Long sleeves and trousers protect against mosquitoes and sun. Bangladesh's humidity makes synthetic fabrics uncomfortable.

Mosquito repellent - Essential for evenings and rural areas, especially near the Sundarbans. Choose a repellent containing DEET. A mosquito net is recommended for budget accommodation.

Sun protection - High SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses. The tropical sun is intense even in winter.

Modest clothing for temple visits - Women should carry a scarf or shawl to cover shoulders and head. Men should wear long trousers. Remove shoes before entering mosques.

Water purification - Tap water is not safe to drink. Carry a reusable water bottle with a built-in filter or bring purification tablets. Bottled water is widely available in cities but scarce in remote areas.