The Basics
Country: Bangladesh
Where is it?: Bangladesh is in southern Asia, bordering the Bay of Bengal, between Burma and India.
Why do people go here?: Even though it’s very crowded and poor, Bangladesh has much to offer the intrepid traveler.
What are the main entry points?: Bangkok and Kolkata and the main entry points by plane. Overland there are a few crossing from India but check for advice first. There is no crossing via Myanmar
Currency used: Taka
Country Code for Phones: 880
Area codes for Major Cities: Dhaka 2
Religion: Muslim 83%, Hindu 16%, other 1%
Population: 162 million
Ethnic Groups: Bengali 98%, tribal groups, non-Bengali Muslims
Government: Parliamentary Republic
Languages: Bangla (official, also known as Bengali), English
Travel Information
Major Cities: Dhaka
Attractions: Cox’s Bazar, Sundarbans National Park, Somapuri Vihara
Accommodation: Bangladesh Hostels
Tourism Office locations and links: Bangladesh Tourism Office
Off-the-Beaten-Path: St Martin Island
Health Issues: Cholera, Hepatitis, Malaria, Meningococcal Meningitis
Tips for Visiting
When to go: Early October to the middle of February is the best time to visit Bangladesh
Specific Events/Holidays: The Festival of Colours: March, Durga Puja: October
Getting Around: There are multiple ways to explore Bangladesh. Trains are the most efficient and safe. Buses are okay, but there is a high amount of accidents in the country
Good to know: Traveling by boat is a great way to see the country.
Cheapest airport to fly into: The cheapest airports to fly into Bangladesh are Zia International Airport and Amanat International Airport.
Need more information?: Check out the Bangladesh travel guide for more on what to see, where to stay, and how to get there.
