Visiting Bangladesh can be a rich and rewarding experience if you’re well-prepared. Here are 15 important things you need to know before or during your visit:

1. Visa Requirements

  • Most travelers will need a visa to enter Bangladesh.
  • You can apply online for a visa or get a Visa on Arrival (VoA) at major airports (for some nationalities).
  • Always check the latest regulations from the Bangladesh immigration website or local embassy.

2. Best Time to Visit

  • October to March is the best time — cool, dry weather and pleasant for travel.
  • Avoid monsoon season (June to September) due to heavy rains and possible flooding.

3. Currency & Payments

  • Local currency: Bangladeshi Taka (BDT).
  • Cash is king, especially in rural areas. Major cities accept cards (Visa/MasterCard).
  • Always carry some cash, and use ATMs of reputable banks like DBBL, Brac Bank, HSBC.

4. Dress Modestly

  • Bangladesh is a conservative, Muslim-majority country.
  • Men should avoid shorts, and women should wear loose-fitting clothing covering arms and legs.
  • A scarf or shawl is useful for women when visiting religious sites.

5. SIM Cards & Internet

  • Buy a local SIM (Grameenphone, Robi, Banglalink) at the airport or city outlets.
  • Data is cheap and fast in urban areas.
  • Use apps like Pathao or Uber for transport in Dhaka and Chittagong.

6. Food is Flavorful — and Spicy

  • Try biriyani, hilsa fish, paratha, and fuchka (pani puri).
  • Most food is spicy; let the server know if you want it less hot.
  • Street food is tempting but be cautious — go where it’s busy and looks clean.

7. Hospitality is Huge

  • Bangladeshis are incredibly welcoming and hospitable.
  • Don’t be surprised if strangers invite you for tea or even a meal.
  • Saying “Dhonnobad” (thank you) goes a long way.

8. Language Barrier

  • Bengali (Bangla) is the official language. English is spoken in urban centers, especially among younger people and in business.
  • Learning a few words like “Salaam” (hello) or “Kemon achhen?” (How are you?) can be helpful and appreciated.

9. Traffic is Chaotic

  • Dhaka is known for some of the world’s worst traffic.
  • Plan extra time for travel — a 5 km trip can take over an hour.
  • Use rickshaws for short distances, or ride-sharing apps for comfort and safety.

10. Stunning Natural Beauty

  • Don’t miss:
    • Sundarbans – largest mangrove forest, home to Bengal tigers.
    • Cox’s Bazar – world’s longest sandy sea beach.
    • Sylhet – tea gardens and rolling hills.
    • Bandarban/Rangamati – hill tracts and tribal culture.

11. Water Safety

  • Tap water is not safe to drink. Always use bottled or filtered water.
  • Avoid ice in drinks unless you’re sure it’s made with clean water.

12. Photography Etiquette

  • Always ask permission before photographing people, especially women.
  • Military sites, airports, and government buildings are usually off-limits for photography.

13. Respect Religious Customs

  • Remove shoes before entering mosques or temples.
  • Avoid public displays of affection.
  • Friday is the weekly holiday — many shops and sites may close or have reduced hours.

14. Health Tips

  • Carry insect repellent — dengue and malaria are concerns in some areas.
  • Bring a basic medical kit — pharmacies may not stock familiar Western brands.
  • Travel insurance is highly recommended.

15. Be Open-Minded & Flexible

  • Things may not go according to plan — schedules can be loose, and infrastructure may lack polish.
  • Go with the flow, and you’ll enjoy the culture, warmth, and hospitality that make Bangladesh unique.