Bangladesh Travel FAQ

With a journalistic eye, an optimistic spirit, and deep respect for Bangladesh’s culture and country, our travel stories and 25 years of experience turn every journey into more than a holiday—it becomes a short diploma in the nation’s life and heritage. Expect authentic village encounters, thoughtful curation, and meaningful connections that last long after you return home.

We offer cultural tours, river cruises, wildlife expeditions, and heritage experiences across Bangladesh. Each tour is designed to provide meaningful connections with local communities.

Absolutely! Our guides ensure a smooth, safe, and enriching experience for first-time travelers, introducing you to the country’s history, traditions, and very friendly people.

We work closely with local communities, homestays, and artisans to create genuine cultural interactions. Every trip supports sustainable tourism and community development.

Yes! We tailor tours based on your interests—whether it’s photography, heritage, wildlife, or culinary experiences.

You can browse our destinations and tours on the website, then proceed to the product page for secure payment. Or drop us a few lines; we will guide you step by step through an easy process in a few clicks…

Yes. A visa is required to enter into Bangladesh. Bangladesh offers Visa on Arrival (VoA) to eligible nationalities for up to 30 days (single entry) when the purpose is tourism, business, investment, or official duty. Final approval is at the discretion of the immigration officer at the port of entry.

Eligibility includes citizens of the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, European countries, Japan, China, Singapore, Malaysia, South Korea, GCC states, and others, as well as travelers arriving from a country where Bangladesh has no diplomatic mission (plus certain categories like Bangladeshi-origin foreigners). You should carry: (a) valid passport (6+ months), (b) return/onward ticket, (c) hotel booking or host/invitation, (d) proof of funds, and (e) visa fee in foreign currency.

Six months beyond the planned stay.

A minimum of one blank page is required.

Yes. Bangladesh runs the Online MRV visa portal for embassy applications and extensions, and a dedicated VoA pre‑application site operated by Special Branch (Bangladesh Police). Travelers can register, upload documents, and print a VoA acknowledgment before arrival.
• Online MRV: https://visa.gov.bd/
• VoA Portal & Instructions: https://voa.specialbranch.gov.bd/public/voa-instructions.html [visa.gov.bd] [voa.specia…nch.gov.bd]

Airports:
• Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (Dhaka)
• Shah Amanat International Airport (Chattogram)
• Osmani International Airport (Sylhet)

find more details here: [caab.aero]

Land borders (India):
The busiest crossing is Petrapole ↔ Benapole, run by the Land Ports Authority of India (LPAI) and Bangladesh Land Port Authority; it handles significant passenger flow and trade. Policies on VoA at land ports can vary—check current rules before travel. [www.lpai.gov.in]

You’ll undergo standard checks: passport, visa/VoA approval (if applicable), and basic travel documentation. If you’ve pre‑applied for VoA via the Special Branch portal, bring the printed Acknowledgement Receipt. Decisions are at the immigration officer’s discretion.

The U.S. State Department notes that amounts ≥ US$10,000 must be declared on entry; you cannot exit with more USD than declared and may not take over BDT 5,000 out without declaration. For baggage rules and allowances, see the National Board of Revenue (NBR) regulations (including Baggage Rules 2024/2016).

The UK FCDO currently advises extra caution nationwide and against all but essential travel to the Chittagong Hill Tracts (Rangamati, Khagrachari, Bandarban) due to security risks.
The U.S. State Department rates Bangladesh Level 3: Reconsider Travel, with Level 4: Do Not Travel specifically for the Chittagong Hill Tracts. Always review the latest advisory before departure.

Dial 999 for police, fire, or ambulance (free from any phone). The service now offers English-language assistance—press ‘2’ after dialing 999. Dedicated desks support English callers.

Many solo travelers enjoy Bangladesh’s hospitality. As with any destination, follow standard precautions: avoid large crowds or political gatherings, use reputable transport (see “Getting Around”), and dress modestly in rural/religious areas. The UK FCDO page includes general guidance for women travelers—review it alongside local advice.

Major operators (Grameenphone, Robi, Banglalink) offer eSIM and physical SIMs. eSIM can be activated in Dhaka and other major cities; physical SIMs require standard biometric/ID verification.
• Grameenphone eSIM: availability & device list https://www.grameenphone.com/esim
• Robi eSIM services (Prepaid/Postpaid): https://www.robi.com.bd/en/sim-services?requestType=ESIM
• Banglalink eSIM activation via customer care: https://banglalink.net/en/postpaid/others/others-esim-offer

Bangladesh’s regulator BTRC operates NEIR, requiring registration/validation of handset IMEIs (especially phones brought from abroad). Travelers can check/ register via the official portal; operators can assist.

Bangladesh experiences periodic dengue and chikungunya waves. Recent embassy health alerts highlight increased traveler awareness. Use repellent, long sleeves, and consider lodging with screens/AC.

The dry/winter season (Nov–Feb) is generally the most pleasant for travel: cooler temperatures, lower humidity, and clearer skies. Monsoon (Jun–Oct) brings lush landscapes and heavy rain, with potential flooding.

Bangladesh uses the Bangladeshi Taka (BDT). ATMs are common in major cities; cards are widely accepted in hotels/airlines and upscale restaurants, though cash is useful for rural areas and small vendors. (Also see customs limits in Q12.)

Bangladesh operates 220V, 50Hz. Sockets commonly accept Type C, D, G, and K. Bring a universal adapter (and check your device voltage).

4G coverage is strong in cities; rural connectivity varies. eSIM plans via Airalo, Nomad, Holafly, etc. can be convenient, but local operator eSIM or SIM usually provides the best value and coverage.

Bangladesh’s domestic network connects Dhaka with regional hubs and tourist areas: Biman Bangladesh Airlines, US‑Bangla Airlines, Air Astra and NOVOAIR operate frequent services to Chattogram, Cox’s Bazar, Sylhet, Jessore, Rajshahi, Saidpur, Barishal, etc.

Yes. Bangladesh Railway runs an e‑ticketing platform for intercity trains. Register and purchase via eticket.railway.gov.bd (Rail Sheba app also available).

Uber operates in Dhaka, Chittagong, Sylhet, and other cities; and Pathao (Bangladesh’s leading super‑app) offers bike, car, and CNG rides with strong local coverage and safety features.

Bangladesh is culturally conservative in many areas. Modest dress is appreciated—cover shoulders/knees in rural or religious settings; remove shoes in mosques/temples; ask permission before photographing people; use your right hand for giving/receiving.

Choose reputable transport (see Q19–Q21), avoid isolated areas after dark, and consider women‑only train compartments where available. Monitor official advisories and follow local guidance; the UK FCDO provides general advice for women travelers alongside its Bangladesh advisory.

• A valid visa from the nearest Bangladesh consulate with the help of your tour operator.

• Loose-fitting, modest attire during the summer and rainy season between mid-March to the end of October. Long sleeves and proper winter clothes during the winter season between November to early March, 

• A hat or scarves or both

• Sunglasses and sunscreen

• A torch (flashlight) in case of a power outage

• A sleeping sheet for low-cost hotels

• Repellent against mosquitoes

• If visiting the Chittagong Hill Tracts, antimalarial and dengue drugs

• WHO-approved full-dose COVID-19 vaccination certificates

• Invitation letter, trip itinerary (including hotel reservation) for taking advantage of VOA

• Some emergency US dollars in cash, as well as a credit card (s)

Bangladesh is an excellent vacation for any child who is old enough to enjoy and appreciate the experience. Most of the trips include long journeys on rough roads, which are not suitable for babies and very young children. Children under the age of 12 will benefit from reduced fares on scheduled airlines, and many lodges will provide a free extra bed for a child sharing a room with parents. Most hotels/ lodges have spacious rooms with double/ double/ twin beds as standard.

A 200 mm zoom lens is the smallest you should use for wildlife photography; a 300-400 zoom is preferable. A 500 mm or larger lens is required for birdwatching in Sundarbans, Lawachara rain forest, and other reserve forests of Bangladesh. A wide-angle (24-105 mm or a prime for portrait) lens is ideal for street and scenic shots. Bring an extra camera, flash batteries, and plenty of memory cards, as these may be expensive and difficult to obtain locally.

• 999 — National Emergency (Police/Fire/Ambulance). English support available (press 2).
• For consular assistance (U.S. citizens), the U.S. Embassy in Dhaka lists foreigner help contacts within Dhaka Metropolitan Police and guidance on using 999.

For transfers and sightseeing, we use a sedan car, 10 -seater minivan / 30-seat minibuses and can any other vehicles according to the requirements of our guests with sufficient time ahead. In addition to the foregoing, all our vehicles are outfitted with all necessary tools and first-aid kits. All our transport drivers are well trained, experienced, dedicated and friendly. 

We partner with local guides, homestays, artisans, and conservation initiatives—so your journey empowers communities and preserves heritage.

• Allow extra time for travel; delays are common on all modes of transportation in Bangladesh.

• Be wary of overcrowded boats; staying on deck is often safer than sleeping below deck.

• Dress modestly, covering arms and legs; women should bring a headscarf when visiting religious sites.

• Bring earplugs; traffic noise can be deafening.

• When eating street food, stick to crowded stalls where you can see the food being prepared fresh.

• Drink bottled water instead of ice and ice cream.

• Avoid public protests and demonstrations because they can turn violent.

• Get the most up-to-date information on the security situation before you travel to Bangladesh.

• Interact with the locals! Bengalis are among the friendliest people on the Indian subcontinent.

• Visa strategy: If you plan longer than 30 days or multiple entries, consider an advance embassy visa via visa.gov.bd for peace of mind.
• Packing: In addition to lightweight clothing and sun/rain gear, bring DEET/PMD repellent and any personal medications. See CDC packing list for a smart checklist.
• Season planning: Winter (Nov–Feb) is ideal for heritage tours and nature; monsoon trips can be magical for river journeys but require flexible itineraries.