Top Ten Tourist Places in Bangladesh: A Journey Through Natural Beauty and Rich Culture
Bangladesh, a country of scenic beauty and rich cultural heritage, is often overlooked as a tourist destination. However, this South Asian gem offers a diverse array of attractions, from lush green landscapes to historical landmarks. In this guide, we'll explore the top ten tourist places in Bangladesh, complete with details on accommodation and transport costs to help you plan your visit.
1. Dhaka: The Bustling Capital
Dhaka, the capital city of Bangladesh, is a vibrant mix of history, culture, and modernity. As one of the top tourist places in Bangladesh, it offers numerous attractions such as the Lalbagh Fort, Ahsan Manzil, and the National Museum. The bustling markets of Old Dhaka, like Sadarghat and Shankhari Bazaar, provide a glimpse into the city's lively atmosphere.
Hotel Expenses: Accommodation in Dhaka ranges from BDT 3,000 (£25) per night for budget hotels to BDT 12,000 (£100) for luxury hotels.
Transport Expenses: Rickshaw rides within the city cost around BDT 50-200 (£0.40-£1.60), while taxi fares start at BDT 100 (£0.80) for short trips.
2. Cox’s Bazar: The Longest Natural Sea Beach
Cox’s Bazar, known for having the longest natural sea beach in the world, is a major attraction among tourist places in Bangladesh. The 120-kilometre stretch of sandy beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and surfing. Nearby, Himchari National Park and Inani Beach offer additional scenic spots to explore.
Hotel Expenses: Hotels in Cox’s Bazar range from BDT 2,500 (£20) per night for budget accommodations to BDT 15,000 (£125) for beachfront resorts.
Transport Expenses: Local transport options like CNG auto-rickshaws cost around BDT 200 (£1.60) for short trips.
3. Sundarbans: The Largest Mangrove Forest
The Sundarbans, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the most unique tourist places in Bangladesh. This vast mangrove forest is home to the elusive Bengal tiger, as well as a variety of wildlife including spotted deer, crocodiles, and various bird species. Guided tours and boat trips offer an adventurous way to explore this natural wonder.
Hotel Expenses: Accommodation in nearby Khulna ranges from BDT 1,500 (£12) per night for budget options to BDT 7,000 (£60) for more comfortable stays.
Transport Expenses: Boat tours into the Sundarbans can cost around BDT 5,000 (£40) per person for a day trip.
4. Srimangal: The Tea Capital
Srimangal, known as the tea capital of Bangladesh, is famous for its lush tea gardens, tropical forests, and wildlife. It’s one of the top tourist places in Bangladesh for nature lovers. Visit the Lawachara National Park, Madhabkunda Waterfall, and take a stroll through the expansive tea estates.
Hotel Expenses: Accommodation in Srimangal ranges from BDT 2,000 (£16) per night for guesthouses to BDT 8,000 (£65) for luxury resorts.
Transport Expenses: Local transport options include CNG auto-rickshaws, costing around BDT 150-300 (£1.20-£2.40) per trip.
5. Chittagong Hill Tracts: A Tribal Heartland
The Chittagong Hill Tracts, comprising Rangamati, Bandarban, and Khagrachari, are renowned for their picturesque landscapes and indigenous cultures. Boating on Kaptai Lake, trekking in Bandarban, and visiting tribal villages are highlights of this region. It's one of the most culturally rich tourist places in Bangladesh.
Hotel Expenses: Accommodation in the Hill Tracts ranges from BDT 1,800 (£15) per night for basic lodgings to BDT 10,000 (£80) for resorts.
Transport Expenses: Hiring a private car for a day trip can cost around BDT 5,000 (£40).
6. Paharpur: The Ancient Buddhist Monastery
Paharpur, home to the Somapura Mahavihara, is one of the largest Buddhist monasteries south of the Himalayas and a UNESCO World Heritage site. This ancient archaeological site is one of the must-visit tourist places in Bangladesh for history enthusiasts.
Hotel Expenses: Nearby hotels in Naogaon or Bogra cost between BDT 1,500 (£12) and BDT 5,000 (£40) per night.
Transport Expenses: Buses from Dhaka to Paharpur cost around BDT 600 (£5) one way.
7. Kuakata: The Daughter of the Sea
Kuakata, known as the “Daughter of the Sea,” offers a panoramic view of both sunrise and sunset over the Bay of Bengal. This serene beach town is one of the top tourist places in Bangladesh for those looking to relax and enjoy natural beauty.
Hotel Expenses: Hotels in Kuakata range from BDT 2,000 (£16) per night for budget stays to BDT 10,000 (£80) for more luxurious options.
Transport Expenses: Buses from Dhaka to Kuakata cost approximately BDT 1,000 (£8) one way.
8. Saint Martin’s Island: The Coral Paradise
Saint Martin’s Island, the only coral island in Bangladesh, is a tropical paradise with crystal-clear waters, colourful corals, and vibrant marine life. It's a popular spot for snorkelling, scuba diving, and leisurely beach walks, making it one of the top tourist places in Bangladesh.
Hotel Expenses: Accommodation on Saint Martin’s Island ranges from BDT 1,800 (£15) to BDT 8,000 (£65) per night.
Transport Expenses: A boat trip from Teknaf to Saint Martin’s Island costs around BDT 800 (£6.50) per person.
9. Bagerhat: The Mosque City
Bagerhat, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is famous for its historic mosques and Islamic architecture. The Sixty Dome Mosque, a 15th-century structure, is the highlight of this ancient city. Visiting Bagerhat is like stepping back in time, making it one of the historical tourist places in Bangladesh.
Hotel Expenses: Nearby hotels in Khulna cost between BDT 1,500 (£12) and BDT 5,000 (£40) per night.
Transport Expenses: Buses from Dhaka to Bagerhat cost about BDT 500 (£4) one way.
10. Jaflong: The Scenic Border
Jaflong, located in Sylhet, is a scenic destination known for its tea gardens, stone collections, and the Dawki River that marks the border with India. It’s one of the picturesque tourist places in Bangladesh, perfect for those who love nature and tranquillity.
Hotel Expenses: Hotels in Sylhet range from BDT 2,000 (£16) per night for budget accommodations to BDT 7,000 (£56) for more upscale options.
Transport Expenses: Local transport, such as CNG auto-rickshaws, cost around BDT 200 (£1.60) for short trips.
Conclusion
Bangladesh is a country rich in natural beauty, cultural heritage, and historical significance. From the bustling streets of Dhaka to the serene beaches of Cox’s Bazar, the top ten tourist places in Bangladesh offer diverse experiences for every traveller. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Bangladesh has it all. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey to discover the hidden treasures of this beautiful country.
The next time you plan a getaway, remember these top tourist places in Bangladesh for an experience of a lifetime. Each destination promises to leave you enchanted, rejuvenated, and longing for more.