Jurisdiction Guide

October to March brings cooler, drier weather, with less risk of flooding. The south can feel humid, but these months avoid the worst of the monsoon everywhere.

Cash is used for small purchases, but cards work in hotels and big stores. Mobile data is cheap, and local SIM cards are easy to buy with a photocopy of your passport. Rideshare apps like Pathao and Uber make city travel easier, though traffic is heavy. English is widely understood in cities but use some Bangla phrases in smaller towns. Tipping isn't expected, but small change is welcome for service staff.

Men greet with a handshake; some women may prefer a nod or verbal greeting. Dress conservatively, especially away from tourist spots, covering arms and legs. Always remove shoes before entering a home or mosque. Ramadan brings changes to restaurant hours, and eating in public during fasting is frowned upon. Avoid public displays of affection.

Petty theft happens in crowded markets and on public transport, keep valuables secure. River travel can be risky in the rainy season. Tap water is unsafe to drink; stick to bottled or filtered water. Traffic rules are loosely followed and accidents are common, so be careful when crossing streets.

Paharpur's ancient Buddhist ruins sit in peaceful fields far from the main cities. Srimangal's tea estates let you cycle or walk quiet trails surrounded by green hills. The mangrove forests of Ratargul, near Sylhet, are best explored during the rainy months by small boat.

Most visitors need a visa, but citizens of many countries can get a visa-on-arrival for 30 days at airports. E-visa is an option for some nationalities. Long-term or work visas require sponsorship from a local employer or institution. No digital nomad visa yet, and visa rules change often, so check before travel.

Domestic flights link Dhaka with Chittagong, Sylhet, and some smaller cities. Train travel is scenic but often delayed; consider first-class for more comfort. Buses run everywhere but quality varies. Ride-hailing apps work in major cities, while rickshaws are handy for short trips. Self-driving is not advised for newcomers.

Try bhuna khichuri (rice-lentil stew) and spicy hilsa fish, the national favorite. Street food like fuchka (crispy shells with spicy filling) is tempting but best eaten at busy stalls for freshness. Tea, with condensed milk and sugar, is offered everywhere. Many dishes use mustard oil and plenty of chili, but vegetarian food is common and tasty. Tap water isn't safe, so stick to bottled drinks.

Bangladesh is quite affordable. Budget travelers spend $15-30 per day, while a mid-range trip with better hotels and dining runs $50-80. Dhaka and Cox's Bazar are pricier than smaller towns. A local meal can cost under $2, and long-distance bus rides are often less than $6.