Bangladesh is a beautiful country located in South Asia. It has a rich culture and history, and many amazing places to visit. From ancient heritage sites to natural wonders, Bangladesh offers exhilarating experiences for travelers. If you are planning a trip to Bangladesh, be sure to include these 10 popular visiting places in your itinerary:
Introduction
Bangladesh may be a small country, but it is filled with incredible diversity. From the world's largest mangrove forest to ancient Buddhist monasteries, Bangladesh has something to offer every type of traveler. The major attractions span throughout the country, giving you the chance to immerse yourself in various regions and experiences. The hospitality of locals will make you feel right at home during your travels. To help you plan your ideal Bangladesh getaway, here are the top 10 best and most popular places to visit in Bangladesh.
Sundarbans
The Sundarbans is the world’s largest mangrove forest, spanning Bangladesh and India. Located in the fertile Ganges delta, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to Royal Bengal tigers, crocodiles, and a remarkable variety of birds. Take a boat tour along the complex network of rivers and creeks to view wildlife, lush greenery, and local villages. Stay overnight in a resort to maximize your chances of spotting the elusive Royal Bengal tigers. With its mystical scenery and exotic inhabitants, exploring the Sundarbans is an unforgettable adventure.
Cox’s Bazar
Famous for having the world’s longest natural sea beach, Cox’s Bazar is a breathtaking coastal town located along the Bay of Bengal. Spend your days sunbathing, swimming, and savoring fresh seafood along its sandy shoreline. Visit Buddhist temples and climb the hills for stunning vistas over the sea. Tour the fascinating marine drives to spot wildlife and fishing villages. Don’t miss the lively open-air fish market where fishermen sell their daily catch. Cox’s Bazar’s laidback tropical vibe makes it a perfect spot to relax and rejuvenate.
St. Martin’s Island
Escape to the beautiful coral island of St. Martin’s for pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters. This small island near Cox’s Bazar has gorgeous palm-fringed beaches where you can swim, snorkel, or sunbathe in peace. Visit during October to March when the weather is ideal. Stay in beachside cottages and feast on freshly caught seafood. Take a boat trip around the island to spot birds and perhaps even dolphins. The sunset views alone make St. Martin’s Island a tranquil tropical paradise.
Sonargaon
Take a step back in time in Sonargaon, a historic Panam City located about 20 miles outside of Dhaka. Sonargaon used to be the capital of medieval Bengal and you can still see remnants of its past glory. Explore the old Mughal-era monuments, mosques, tombs, and artificial lakes that surround the area. Visit the magnificent Folk Arts Museum with traditional handicrafts and heritage collections. Don’t miss Panam Nagar, an abandoned merchant neighborhood with ornate colonial-era buildings. To complete your trip, enjoy a boat ride on the river and try some delicious Bangladeshi dishes.
Bagerhat
Discover the impressive historic monuments in Bagerhat, an ancient city founded in the 15th century by the Turkish general Khan Jahan Ali. Bagerhat’s star attraction is the Shait-Gumbad Mosque, an elegant Islamic monument with 77 domes. See the striking Sixty Dome Mosque as well as mausoleums and an ancient city gate constructed centuries ago. Take a guided tour of Bagerhat to fully understand the skilled architectural techniques used in building these old Muslim monuments, some of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Bagerhat provides a window into Bangladesh’s past grandeur.
Puthia
One of the largest village complexes in Bangladesh, Puthia contains a unique cluster of historic Hindu temples and shrines. Most impressive is the Govinda Temple with lavish terracotta ornamentation. Visit the various temple ruins covered in intricate designs, making it an architectural marvel. The most popular is the Dol Govinda Temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. Stop by the beautiful Puthia Rajbari, an old palace that belonged to Puthia’s former rulers. Take a stroll along the large pond, surrounded by lush gardens. Puthia offers a glimpse into Bangladesh’s culturally diverse heritage.
Ahsan Manzil
Built in 1872, Ahsan Manzil is one of Dhaka’s most iconic landmarks. Located along the Buriganga River, this pink palace was once the official residential palace of the Nawabs of Dhaka. The building has been meticulously restored and transformed into a museum exhibiting the lifestyle of the Nawabs and 19th century Dhaka. Admire the grand domes, beautiful murals, and exquisite furnishings as you tour the palace. The exterior façade also makes for a wonderful photo. Don’t forget to stroll through the lush gardens surrounding Ahsan Manzil.
Lawachara National Park
Escape from the city bustle by spending time in nature at Lawachara National Park. One of the best parks for wildlife viewing in Bangladesh, it contains fairly undisturbed evergreen and deciduous forest. Keep your eyes peeled for rare animals like the hoolock gibbon, myna, and sambar deer. Go birdwatching to spot the vibrant variety of birds, including parakeets and woodpeckers. You can walk the nature trails, watch wildlife from observation towers, or hike to the beautiful Kamalakhya Waterfalls. Lawachara National Park is perfect for appreciating Bangladesh’s natural riches.
Sajek Valley
Nestled in the hills of the Khasi range in Bangladesh’s Rangamati district, Sajek Valley is a scenic hill station popular for its sprawling lush tea gardens, hills, and waterfalls. Enjoy the sweeping valley views as you hike through the tea estates. Visit the Tribal Cultural Museum to learn about the indigenous communities living in Sajek. Go on river fishing and rafting adventures. Savor the local cuisine of steamed vegetables, fish, and rice. Stay in a traditional Khasi tribal hut for a cultural immersion. With its pristine nature and tribal heritage, Sajek Valley makes for an unforgettable retreat.
Jaflong
Lastly, witness Bangladesh’s natural beauty at Jaflong, a scenic hill resort town in Sylhet District. Situated on the banks of the emerald green Dawki River near the India-Bangladesh border, Jaflong is renowned for its thick bamboo groves, towering stone cliffs, and gushing waterfalls. Go on hikes past tea gardens and orange orchards to fully take in the idyllic landscapes. Visit the hanging bridge and ethnological museum. Don’t forget to get a photograph at the iconic “Landscape Point” with the hills in the background. With plenty of nature activities and sights, Jaflong is a peaceful destination to enjoy the natural splendors of Bangladesh.
Conclusion
From tropical beaches and islands to historic sites, villages, and nature escapes, Bangladesh offers diverse experiences for all travelers. Visit the top destinations like Sundarbans, Cox’s Bazar, and St. Martin’s Island to see the country’s natural beauty. Discover ancient cities like Sonargaon and Bagerhat for a glimpse into its rich cultural history. Marvel at intricate Hindu temples in Puthia and ethnic villages in Sajek Valley. Round out your trip with city landmarks in Dhaka and relaxing hill towns like Jaflong. With amazing landscapes, heritage, culture, and wildlife, Bangladesh is an underrated gem waiting to be explored.