bangladesh travel advice

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Exercise a high degree of caution in Bangladesh overall due to the threat of terrorism and civil unrest.

Higher levels apply in some areas.

Bangladesh (PDF 754.72 KB)

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Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 999 or go to the hospital.

Call 999 or go to your local police station.

Advice levels

Exercise a high degree of caution  in Bangladesh overall due to the threat of terrorism and civil unrest.

See Safety .

Reconsider your need to travel to the Chittagong Hill Tracts region.

Reconsider your need to travel  to the Chittagong Hill Tracts region due to the threat of kidnapping, politically motivated violence, and the risk of being caught up in clashes between rival groups engaged in conflict. 

• Large gatherings, including public demonstrations, protests and strikes ( hartals) , can turn violent without warning. Communication networks may be disrupted. Avoid protests, demonstrations and rallies and remain aware of your surroundings. 
• Random attacks using low-yield improvised explosive devices (IED) occur in Bangladesh. Bangladesh authorities continue to arrest terrorists in the advanced stages of attack planning. We continue to receive information indicating terrorists may be planning attacks that could occur anywhere, anytime. Be alert at places of worship and during significant national holidays. 
• The Australian High Commission has security measures in place due to the risk of a terrorist attack. Due to safety concerns, Australian officials are not permitted to use public transport (except for rickshaws during daylight hours only).
• Pay close attention to your personal security at all times. Violence and robberies are common. Thieves target passengers on public transport, including rickshaws, taxis and the three-wheel vehicles known as 'CNGs.' Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and snatch-and-grab incidents, is also common. Keep your car doors locked and windows up and your residential doors, windows and gates locked, even if you have a security guard.
• Women may experience unwanted attention, including verbal and physical harassment. Assault, including sexual assault, are risks. Avoid travelling alone at night. 
• The Bangladesh Government monitors access to refugee camps in the Cox's Bazar district of southern Bangladesh. Crime and violent incidents have occurred in the camps and surrounding areas. Humanitarian assistance should be provided through agencies recognised by the Bangladesh Government. If you are providing humanitarian assistance, follow the security advice provided by your humanitarian agency and local authorities. 
• Reconsider your need to travel to the Chittagong Hill Tracts region. Kidnapping and politically motivated violence can occur, and you risk being caught up in clashes between rival groups engaged in conflict. 
• There's been increased active conflict in Myanmar, close to the border with Bangladesh. The situation along the border with Myanmar remains unpredictable and could deteriorate at short notice. 
• Fires are common in Bangladesh's residential and commercial buildings, shopping centres and markets. Remain aware of your surroundings and exit points.
• The monsoon season is from June to September. The cyclone seasons are from May to June and from October to November. During these times, flooding and landslides can happen with little warning. They can disrupt essential services. Be prepared for major emergencies. Keep an emergency kit on hand.

Full travel advice:  Safety

• The standard of medical facilities is poor. Medical facilities outside Dhaka are very limited. You'll probably need to pay up-front. If you're seriously ill or injured, you'll need medical evacuation. Ensure your travel insurance covers this.
• Insect-borne diseases occur, including chikungunya, malaria, dengue, Japanese encephalitis and Zika virus. Ensure your accommodation is insect-proof. Use insect repellent and take steps to avoid mosquito bites, such as wearing clothing covering as much skin as possible. Get vaccinated against diseases prevalent in the region before you travel. Consider taking anti-malarial medication. If you're pregnant, discuss your travel plans with your doctor. 
• HIV/AIDS is a risk. Take precautions if you engage in high-risk activities.
• Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases include cholera, typhoid, nipah virus and hepatitis. Drink only boiled or bottled water. Avoid raw or undercooked food.
• Outbreaks of coetaneous anthrax have occurred in the past and may occur again. Avoid handling raw meat. Only eat fully cooked beef from reliable suppliers.

Full travel advice:  Health

• Don't use or carry illegal drugs. Severe penalties include mandatory sentences for small amounts and the death penalty. Hookah or smoking pipes are common and may be spiked with illegal drugs. Avoid using them.
• Bangladesh has the death penalty for some serious crimes. Corporal punishment (whipping) is a possible sentence.
• Local authorities can demand to see your ID. Always carry a copy of your passport, even if you're a dual national.
• The Bangladeshi Government may consider you a Bangladeshi citizen if you or your parents are of Bangladeshi origin, even if you've never held a Bangladeshi passport, and were born overseas. It's illegal for Bangladeshi citizens to purchase, carry, possess, transport or consume alcohol without a permit.
• Dress and behaviour standards are conservative. Avoid public displays of affection.
• During Ramadan, Muslims must not eat, drink and smoke between sunrise and sunset. Authorities can detain you if you eat, drink or smoke in public during this time. They may even deport you.

Full travel advice:  Local laws

• You need a visa to enter Bangladesh. Arrange it before you travel. Visa-on-arrival facilities may be available, but the process can be time-consuming and apply only to specific categories of incoming passengers. Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact your local  Bangladesh embassy or high commission  for the latest details. 
• If you're working, make sure you get either an Income Tax Clearance Certificate or an Income Tax Exemption Certificate. You'll need to show it when you leave the country.

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  details what we can and can't do to help you overseas.
• For consular help, contact the  Australian High Commission in Dhaka .
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the High Commission's social media accounts.

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

Terrorist attacks are possible.

Monitor the news and other sources for information on any such attacks and avoid these locations.

Australian Government staff in Bangladesh implement security measures because of the threat of terror attack. Security protocols at the Australian High Commission are under constant review.

Australian officials:

• plan and undertake their movements cautiously
• undertake a health and risk assessment for domestic travel
• do not use public transport (with the exception of rickshaws during daylight hours)
• minimise walking alone in Dhaka
• avoid public mass gatherings and other locations that don't have strong security measures in place.

If there's an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe. Avoid the affected area in case of secondary attacks.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

More information:

Criminal violence and armed robberies are common and occur in all large cities. In the past, expatriates have been victims of robbery, pickpocketing and 'snatch and grab' attacks.

Thieves, often armed and operating in teams, can target people travelling in rickshaws, taxis and the three-wheel vehicles known in Bangladesh as compressed natural gas vehicles (CNGs). Petty crime, including theft and purse snatching, is common. The risk of robbery increases after dark, especially on public transport.

Law enforcement agencies have increased the number of checkpoints around Dhaka, particularly in Dhaka's expatriate and diplomatic areas of Baridhara and Gulshan.

Female travellers 

Women may experience unwanted attention and verbal and physical harassment. Assault, including sexual assault, are risks. Avoid travelling alone at night, and take care if you travel in public transportation, rickshaws or compressed natural gas vehicles.

More information: 

• Advice for women travellers 

Reconsider your need to travel to the Chittagong Hill Tracts region. Politically motivated violence and kidnapping can occur, and you risk being caught up in clashes between rival groups engaged in violent crimes, armed robbery and assault.

If you travel to the Chittagong Hill Tracts region:

• apply for permission from the Office of the Deputy Commissioner to visit the Chittagong Hill Tracts
• arrange personal security measures
• check your accommodation has appropriate security measures

The Bangladesh Government monitors access to refugee camps in the Cox's Bazar district of Southern Bangladesh. Crime and violent incidents have occurred in the camps and surrounding areas. Humanitarian assistance should be provided through agencies recognised by the Bangladesh Government. If you are providing humanitarian assistance, follow the security advice provided by your humanitarian agency and local authorities. 

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:  

• Cyber security when travelling overseas

Civil unrest and political tension

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent with little or no warning.

Random attacks with low-yield improvised explosive devices, known as cocktails, happen from time to time in public areas.

International and political developments in the region may cause local protests.

Violence at political events has killed and injured people in recent years. These events included:

• political rallies
• general strikes, also known as hartals
• blockades of rail, road and river transport networks
• high profile criminal trials or sentencing.

Strikes led by political groups can:

• be nationwide or local
• be violent and sometimes lethal
• target public and private transport
• involve both anti-Government protesters and security forces

Blockades of rail, road and river transport networks led by political groups may result in:

• violence that targets public and private transport
• shortages of fuel and other supplies

To protect yourself during periods of unrest:

• avoid crowded areas and large public gatherings
• be alert to possible threats when political tensions are high
• be alert around significant dates and in areas prone to violence
• make a plan for moving between locations
• have an exit strategy from places you visit
• monitor the media and local sources for information on possible unrest

Crowds commemorating significant dates and anniversaries have also been attacked. Dates of national significance include:

• Mother Language Day on 21 February
• Independence Day on 26 March
• Bengali New Year on 14 April
• Eid-al-Fitr
• Eid-ul-Azha 
• National Day of Mourning on 15 August
• Durga Puja in October 
• Victory Day on 16 December

There's been increased active conflict in Myanmar, close to the border with Bangladesh. The situation along the border with Myanmar remains unpredictable and could deteriorate at short notice. Follow the advice of local authorities.

Kidnapping   

Kidnapping occurs across the world with political, ideological, and criminal motives. Foreigners, including Australians, have been kidnapped overseas whilst travelling. Kidnaps can happen anywhere, anytime, including destinations that are typically at lower risk.  

Kidnaps occur in Bangladesh, usually by low-level opportunistic criminals. There is an increased threat of kidnapping in the Chittagong Tracts region.

If, despite our advice, you travel to an area with a high risk of kidnapping, our ability to provide consular assistance in these destinations is limited. 

  To reduce the risk of kidnapping:  

• always be alert to your personal security and surroundings  
• get professional security advice for travel in locations with a heightened kidnap risk  
• check your accommodation has appropriate security measures  
• avoid isolated locations, particularly when travelling alone  
• notify family or friends of planned travel, and share your location   
• avoid talking about your money or business affairs  
• use ATMs in public places and during daylight hours  
• avoid giving personal details to strangers online or over the phone  

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers.  

Ransom payments to kidnappers have funded further terrorist attacks and criminal activity. Paying a ransom to terrorist groups will likely break Australian counter-terrorism financing laws.  

More information:   

• Kidnapping  

Fire safety

Fires are common in residential and commercial buildings, shopping centres and markets in Bangladesh due to unplanned urbanisation, lack of fire safety awareness and limited infrastructure and equipment such as fire extinguishers and fire exits. Remain aware of your surroundings and exit points.

Climate and natural disasters

Bangladesh experiences  natural disasters  and  severe weather , including:

• Earthquakes

Be prepared for a major emergency. Keep an emergency kit.

If a natural disaster happens:

• closely monitor local media and other sources, including the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
• follow the advice of local authorities
• stay in contact with friends and family

Cyclones, flooding and severe weather

The monsoon season is from June to September.

The cyclone seasons are from May to June and from October to November.

During these times,  flooding  and landslides can happen with little warning.

Severe weather can affect services and transport.

The direction and strength of cyclones can change with little warning.

If there's a cyclone or severe storm:

• you may not be able to leave the area
• it could delay or suspend flights
• available flights may fill quickly
• it could affect access to sea ports
• there may not be enough shelter for everyone who stays

To reduce your risk of getting caught in severe weather events:

• stay up to date on weather conditions and forecasts
• check cyclone watches and warnings
• monitor local media and regional weather forecasts

If a cyclone is approaching:

• know your accommodation's evacuation plans
• identify your local shelter

If you're travelling during monsoon or cyclone season, ask your tour operator if the weather will affect your services.

• Joint Typhoon Warning Center
• Surviving cyclones: preparation and safety procedures

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Bangladesh also experiences  earthquakes  and tsunamis.

The  US Geological Service  website has real-time information on earthquakes.

If there's an earthquake:

• follow the advice of your accommodation provider and local authorities
• monitor local media and warnings from local authorities

Move to higher ground if:

• you're in a coastal or low-lying area
• you feel a strong earthquake that makes it hard to stand up
• you feel a weak, rolling earthquake that lasts a minute or more
• you see a sudden rise or fall in sea level
• you hear loud and unusual noises from the sea

Don't wait for official warnings. Once on high ground, monitor local media and weather services.

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you leave. 

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. Options for medical evacuation may be limited. Ensure you discus s your medical coverage with your travel insurer prior to travelling to Bangladesh.

The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Physical and mental health

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare, or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Bangladesh. Take enough legal medicine for your trip. 

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating: 

• what the medication is 
• your required dosage 
• that it's for personal use 

Health risks

Dengue  is a virus carried by mosquitoes. It is endemic in Bangladesh.

Use mosquito repellents and take steps to avoid mosquito bites, such as wearing clothing that covers as much skin as possible and using insect repellent.

Nipah virus  is usually transmitted through contact with an infected person or through infected animals, such as bats, as well as food and materials contaminated with their saliva or urine. Avoid drinking raw date palm sap, which can contain the saliva of fruit bats. 

Chikungunya is a virus spread by mosquitoes.

Malaria  occurs in rural areas. Consider taking medicine to prevent malaria.

Outbreaks of other insect-borne diseases occur in many areas, including:

• Zika virus  
• Japanese encephalitis

If you're pregnant, the Australian Department of Health and Aged Care recommends that you:

• discuss travel plans with your doctor
• consider deferring non-essential travel to Zika virus-affected areas

To protect yourself from illness:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Get vaccinated against Japanese encephalitis.

HIV/AIDS  is a risk.

Take precautions if you engage in activities that may expose you to the virus.

Bird flu (avian influenza)

Human cases of  avian influenza  have been confirmed in Bangladesh.

Outbreaks of coetaneous  anthrax  have occurred in the past and could happen again. Affected people either ate beef or had close contact with diseased animals.

It's safe to eat fully cooked beef and beef products from reliable sources.

• avoid handling raw meat
• only eat fully-cooked beef from reliable suppliers

Other health risks

Other waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases can occur, including:

• Tuberculosis
• COVID-19  

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid uncooked and undercooked food, such as salads
• don't swim in fresh water sources
• always check with local authorities before swimming in waters
• avoid contact with dogs and other mammals

If you're bitten or scratched by an animal, seek medical help straight away.

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

• Infectious diseases

Black henna tattoos

Avoid temporary black henna tattoos. They often contain a dye that can cause serious skin reactions.

Medical care

Medical facilities.

The standard of medical facilities is poor. Medical facilities outside Dhaka are very limited. 

Doctors and hospitals usually need up-front payment before they will treat you. 

If you become seriously ill or injured, you'll need to be evacuated to a place with better facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Penalties for drug offences are severe. They include mandatory jail sentences and the death penalty. Jail sentences are mandatory even in cases that involve just a small amount of illegal drugs.

Law enforcement agencies looking for illegal drugs raid places where teenagers and young people spend time.

Hookah pipes or smoking pipes are common in some bars and cafes. Criminals may spike them with illegal drugs. Avoid using these pipes.

• Carrying or using drugs

Serious crime

The death penalty can apply for crimes including:

• trafficking of children
• hijacking an aircraft
• narcotics trafficking

Authorities use corporal punishment such as whipping as an alternative to jail.

Proof of identity

Local authorities can demand to see identification.

Always carry a copy of your passport with you, even if you're a  dual national .

Same-sex acts are illegal. Penalties include jail sentences.

• Advice for LGBTI travellers

Bangladeshi civil law differs from Australian law. This includes family matters such as:

• child custody
• child support

If you plan to do anything that involves local laws, including business and family matters:

• seek professional advice
• make sure you know your rights and responsibilities under Bangladeshi law

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

The Bangladeshi Government may consider you a Bangladeshi citizen if:

• you're of Bangladeshi origin
• your parents are of Bangladeshi origin

This may be the case even if you've never held a Bangladeshi passport or were born overseas.

This limits the  consular services  we can give if you're arrested or detained.

It's illegal for Bangladeshi citizens to purchase, carry, possess, transport or consume alcohol without a permit.

These laws apply to dual nationals.

• Dual nationals

Local customs

Dress and behaviour standards.

Dress and behaviour standards are conservative.

Public displays of affection aren't socially acceptable. They may attract unwanted public attention, including from law enforcement officials.

Take care not to offend. If in doubt, ask a local.

The Islamic holiday month of  Ramadan  is observed in Bangladesh. Respect religious and cultural customs and laws at this time.

During Ramadan, Muslims must not eat, drink and smoke between sunrise and sunset. If you're not fasting, authorities can detain you if you eat, drink or smoke in public during this time. They may even deport you. Seek local advice to avoid offence or detention.

Explore our Ramadan page to learn more, including dates for Ramadan.

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

You need a visa to enter Bangladesh. Arrange it before you travel. Visa-on-arrival facilities may be available, but the process can be time-consuming, lengthy and apply only to specific categories of incoming passengers. Contact your local  Bangladesh embassy or high commission  for details.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the  Bangladesh High Commission  in Canberra for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Other formalities

I f you're working in Bangladesh, each time you leave, you need to present either:

• an Income Tax Clearance Certificate
• an Income Tax Exemption Certificate
• Bangladesh National Board of Revenue

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

Never hand your passport over to strangers. If hotel staff ask to make a copy of it, make sure they return it straight away.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

More information:   

• LGBTI travellers  

The local currency is the Bangladesh Taka (BDT).

You must declare amounts of more than $US5000 when you enter or exit the country. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

You can use credit cards and ATM facilities in major centres.

Credit card fraud happens. Take care not to expose your PIN. Monitor your bank statements for possible fraud.

Local travel

Driving permit.

You need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive in Bangladesh.

Get an IDP before you leave Australia.

Road travel

Violent protests and demonstrations can occur in Dhaka and other districts. This includes on the main airport road.

These events can cause major traffic delays and disruptions.

Monitor local media. Follow the advice of local authorities.

Driving can be dangerous. Fatalities are common, as are accidents involving pedestrians.

You're more likely to be killed in a car accident in Bangladesh than in Australia.

Dangers include:

• congested roads
• chaotic traffic
• drivers overtaking other vehicles when it's unsafe

Head-on collisions are common.

Risks are higher at night and outside the major cities.

Cars, buses and trucks often drive at high speed either:

• without headlights
• with headlights at full beam

Many rickshaws and compressed natural gas (CNG) operated vehicles are unlit at night and are difficult to see in the dark.  Australian officials in Bangladesh are not permitted to use rickshaws at night.  

Monsoon floods can damage roads and make them impassable.

Traffic accidents, even minor ones, often attract large crowds of onlookers. This can quickly get out of control and turn violent.

Other issues that can increase accident risks and severity include:

• people sitting on the roofs of buses and trains
• severe overcrowding inside vehicles

If you intend to drive in Bangladesh:

• get to know local traffic laws and practices
• check the news for road closures
• keep your car windows and doors closed and locked at all times
• don't drive at night if possible

If you're involved in an accident, immediately contact police and follow their instructions.

• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Australian officials in Bangladesh are not permitted to use motorbikes.

Check whether your travel insurance policy covers you when using a motorbike, quad bike or similar vehicle.

Always wear a helmet.

Australian High Commission staff are instructed not to use taxis or ride-sharing service  due to safety concerns.

If you must use taxis, use only registered taxis and limousines. Try to book these through your hotel.

Public transport

Australian High Commission staff are instructed not to use public transport, with the exception of rickshaws during daylight hours.

Travel by bus may be unsafe due to:

• unqualified and uninsured drivers
• poor vehicle maintenance
• high-speed driving
• overcrowding

Train travel can be unsafe due to:

• broken tracks
• many unauthorised and unmanned crossings
• Transport and getting around safely

Boat travel

Overloading can occur on river craft, including ferries. Boats may also not have life-saving equipment on board. People die in major accidents.

Piracy  occurs in coastal areas.

• International Maritime Bureau piracy reports
• Travelling by boat

Check  Bangladesh's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Only passengers are allowed to enter the main airport passenger terminal at  Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport .

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular help, contact the Australian High Commission in Dhaka.

Australian High Commission, Dhaka

184 Gulshan Avenue  Gulshan 2  Dhaka, Bangladesh Website:  bangladesh.highcommission.gov.au Email: [email protected]     Facebook: Australian High Commission, Bangladesh   X: @AusHCBangladesh   

Check the Australian High Commission website and Facebook page for details about opening hours, appointments and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

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Travel Advisory October 12, 2023

Bangladesh - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued after periodic review with updates to crime, terrorism, kidnapping, and a short-term event.

Exercise increased caution in Bangladesh due to crime, terrorism and the upcoming general election . Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.  

Reconsider travel to:

• Chittagong Hill Tracts Region due to occasional communal violence, crime, terrorism, kidnapping, and other security risks .

Country Summary: Travelers should be aware of petty crimes such as pickpocketing in crowded areas. Crimes such as muggings, burglaries, assaults, and illegal drug trafficking constitute the majority of criminal activity in Bangladesh’s major cities, but there are no indications foreigners are being targeted because of their nationality. These crimes tend to be situational, based on time and location.

Terrorist attacks can happen with little or no warning, with terrorists targeting public areas such as tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, restaurants, places of worship, school campuses, and government facilities.

The next general election is anticipated to occur before January 2024, and political party rallies and other election-related activities have already commenced. Political rallies and demonstrations may be held with increasing frequency or intensity as the general election draws nearer. Travelers to Bangladesh should practice vigilance and remember that demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence.  

Because of security concerns U.S. government employees in Bangladesh are subject to some movement and travel restrictions. The U.S. government may have limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Bangladesh due to these travel restrictions, a lack of infrastructure, and limited host government emergency response resources.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Bangladesh.

If you decide to travel to Bangladesh:

• Avoid demonstrations and political gatherings.
• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt. Get to a safe area and report any criminal incident to local authorities.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program ( STEP ) to receive alerts and so it is easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the State Department on Facebook or Twitter .
• Review the Country Security Report for Bangladesh.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Please review the Traveler’s Checklist .

Chittagong Hill Tracts Region - Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Reconsider travel to the Khagrachari, Rangamati, and Bandarban Hill Tracts districts (collectively known as the Chittagong Hill Tracts) due to occasional communal violence, crime, terrorism, kidnapping, and other security risks . Kidnappings have occurred in the region, including those motivated by domestic or familial disputes, and those targeting religious minorities. Separatist organizations and political violence also pose additional threats to visitors to the region, and there have been recent instances of IED explosions and active shooting. Prior approval from the Government of Bangladesh’s Ministry of Home Affairs Office of Public Safety is required if you plan to travel to these areas.

Please visit our website for information on Travel to High-Risk Areas .

Embassy Messages

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Quick Facts

Six months beyond planned stay.

Yes. Visa on arrival is available for some travelers. Check the Bangladeshi Embassy website for the latest information.

Hepatitis A and Typhoid vaccinations required; Hepatitis B, Japanese Encephalitis, and Rabies vaccinations recommended. There is no risk of Yellow Fever in Bangladesh; however, proof of Yellow Fever vaccination is required if you are traveling from a country with a risk of Yellow Fever and are older than one year of age.

You must declare 5,000 U.S. dollars and above.

You cannot depart with more USD than you declared upon entry. You cannot take more than 5,000 Bangladeshi taka (appx. $58.82 USD) out of Bangladesh without a declaration. More information is available here: Bangladesh Customs, National Board of Revenue (NBR)

Embassies and Consulates

U.S. Embassy Dhaka

Madani Avenue,   Baridhara, Dhaka, 1212   Bangladesh   Telephone:  +(88) (2) 5566-2000  Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +(88) (2) 5566-2000. When you hear the recorded message, press “0” to connect with the Embassy Duty Officer  Fax:  +(88) (2) 5566-2907  Email:   [email protected]   The Consular Section’s American Citizen Services unit operates Sunday through Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. by appointment only. Emergency appointments are available outside of business hours upon request.

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Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Passports and Visas:

• Passports must be valid for six months beyond your planned stay in Bangladesh, have at least one blank page, and have a Bangladeshi visa. You must possess an onward or return ticket.
• We strongly recommend obtaining a visa before traveling.  Although U.S. citizens are eligible to apply for a tourist visa on arrival, there is no guarantee you will receive one. U.S. citizens born outside the United States may be subject to increased scrutiny or further requirements at the port of entry. Recently, some U.S. citizens have been denied entry into Bangladesh despite believing they had fulfilled the requirements for a visa on arrival.  Visit the  Embassy of Bangladesh  website for visa information.         
• Short term travelers can be denied entry if they cannot demonstrate sufficient financial liquidity.
• Visas must be in a valid passport. In country, you may obtain a replacement visa at the  Department of Immigration and Passports . Replacing a visa, which is required in order to exit the country, may take three to four business days.
• 1 to 14 days = 200 Bangladeshi taka per day + 160 U.S. dollars (or equivalent in Bangladeshi taka) processing fee payable at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka.
• 15 to 30 days = 500 Bangladeshi taka per day + 160 U.S. dollars (or equivalent in Bangladeshi taka) processing fee payable at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka.
• 31 to 90 days: Fine adjudicated and processed at Department of Immigration and Passport Office, 7th Sher-E-Bangla Nagar, Agargaon, Dhaka. Over 90 days: Potential prosecution by the Department of Immigration and Passport Authority under Article 31 of the Foreigners Act of 1946.
• For further information, visit the  Bangladeshi Immigration Police website.

Exit Taxes:

• When traveling by air, all foreigners except children under the age of two must pay a departure tax. While often included when air tickets are purchased, it may be collected at the airport at the time of departure. The amount varies depending on the destination.
• If departing by road in a private vehicle, you must obtain a road exit permit by contacting the Director General, South Asia Wing,  Ministry of Foreign Affairs .

U.S.-Bangladesh Dual Nationals:

• If you are a U.S.-Bangladeshi dual national, you and your immediate family members are eligible for a “No Visa Required for Travel to Bangladesh” seal. Your nearest Bangladeshi Embassy or Consulate can issue this seal in your U.S. passport.
• If you hold both U.S. and Bangladeshi citizenship, you may not be immediately recognized as a U.S. citizen by the local authorities and may initially be treated as a Bangladeshi citizen.
• Read more information about dual nationality on our website.
• Bangladeshi customs authorities may enforce strict regulations concerning temporary import or export of items such as currency, household appliances, alcohol, cigarettes, and weapons.
• Bangladesh does not allow the exchange of local currency (Bangladeshi taka) for U.S. dollars (cash and traveler’s checks) unless the customer has a ticket for travel outside Bangladesh.
• Contact the Bangladeshi Embassy or Consulates for specific information regarding customs requirements. Please also see our  Customs Information .

HIV/AIDS: Some HIV/AIDS entry restrictions exist for visitors to and foreign residents of Bangladesh. Please verify this information with the  Embassy of Bangladesh  before traveling.

Safety and Security

The U.S. government assesses that there remains a credible terrorist threat against foreigners in Bangladesh.  U.S. citizens in Bangladesh should take precautions, remain vigilant, and be alert to local security developments.

There has been no significant terrorist attack in Bangladesh since March 2017, but the country remains a target of several foreign terrorist organizations.  Since 2015, ISIS-affiliated terrorists have conducted over 30 attacks that targeted foreigners, religious minorities, and local police/security services.  In March 2017, ISIS claimed responsibility for at least three bombings in multiple locations in Bangladesh, including two suicide attacks that targeted security forces near Dhaka’s Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport.  The third bombing transpired during a police raid against suspected terrorists, killing seven onlookers and injuring 40.  In July 2016, ISIS attacked a Dhaka restaurant frequented by Westerners, killing 20 hostages, including a U.S. citizen.  If you observe high-profile police activity, depart the area immediately. 

Al-Qa’ida in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) retains a presence in Bangladesh; the group last carried out attacks in 2015 and 2016 that killed several secular bloggers, publishers, and human rights activists; a U.S. citizen was among the victims.

The following groups, including several on the U.S. government’s list of designated Foreign Terrorist Organizations, are active in Bangladesh:

• Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS), known locally as Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB or “Neo-JMB”)
• Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS), known locally as Ansar al-Islam
• Lashkar-e-Tayyiba
• Indigenous sectarian groups

U.S. government personnel in Bangladesh live, work, and travel under strict security guidelines and are prohibited from:

• Traveling on foot (walking, running) and biking outside of designated areas and times;
• Traveling via non-registered rickshaws outside designated areas and times;
• Traveling via commercial ride-share services, public buses, or compressed natural gas autorickshaw (CNG);
• Visiting public establishments outside of designated areas and times without prior notification; and
• Attending widely-publicized large gatherings, including events at international hotels,.
• Tourism:  The tourism industry is nascent, unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are often not identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders are generally unable to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs are particularly severe.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the  Department of Justice  website.

• Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Bangladesh are severe, including long jail sentences, heavy fines, or even death.
• You may be taken in for questioning if you do not have your passport with you, or if you take pictures of certain buildings, such as military facilities, embassies, police stations, shipyards, traffic inspection facilities, or airports. This list is not meant to be exhaustive. You should exercise caution when photographing government facilities in general.
• Driving under the influence is illegal and could result in immediate incarceration.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

Drones:  All forms of Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS), colloquially known as “drones,” are highly regulated and restricted in Bangladesh and are subject to import and flight restrictions. Failure to obtain import and/or flight permission can result in detention and/or arrest, as well as confiscation of the RPAS. Visit the  Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh  website for the latest RPAS regulations.

Forced Marriage:  A marriage must be entered into with the full and free consent of both individuals. We can provide help and advice if you are being forced into a marriage against your will. Please refer to our  information on forced marriage . All travelers to Bangladesh, including Bangladeshi citizens, should maintain possession of their passports and return plane tickets to ensure independence to travel.

Registration for Renters:  The Bangladesh Government requests biodata and other personal information from all residents. This registration is mandatory for renters but is voluntary for homeowners and foreigners. Dual nationals, former Bangladesh nationals, and “No Visa Required” seal holders are considered Bangladeshi for registration purposes.

Property Disputes: 

• Land disputes are common in Bangladesh and are extremely difficult to resolve through legal channels.
• We cannot protect personal property and cannot take sides in a legal dispute.
• If you wish to purchase property in Bangladesh be aware of the risks including those of not being physically present to oversee your property.

Natural Disasters: 

• Heavy flooding occurs during the monsoon season (June to October), and 30 percent of the country may be under water. Lightning strikes are common during the monsoon season and outdoor activity should be avoided during storms.  Landslides can also occur during heavy rains, particularly in the hill tracts area of the Bandarban district in the southeast.
• Cyclones occur most frequently in the pre-monsoon (April and May) and post-monsoon (October and November) seasons and could include wind speeds of up to 150 km/hr and storm surges of up to 5 meters.
• Bangladesh is at severe risk from tornadoes.

Bangladesh is in a zone 2B earthquake fault region, with a moderate probability of damaging ground motion. The overwhelming majority of structures in Bangladesh would not withstand a moderate earthquake. Although earthquakes are more likely to occur in the north of the country, destruction from an earthquake is expected to be most acute in urban areas. Post-earthquake disaster relief capabilities are extremely limited.

You should make contingency plans for travel in Bangladesh. Leave emergency contact information with family members outside of Bangladesh and enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ). General information about natural disaster preparedness is available from the  U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)  and at  Ready.gov . For more information on disaster preparedness, please visit:

• U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)
• FEMA: Earthquakes
• FEMA for Kids: Emergency Preparedness
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Earthquake Preparedness
• Ready.gov: Tornadoes
• Travel.state.gov: Crisis and Disaster  Abroad

Fire Safety:  Fires in residential and commercial buildings are not uncommon in Bangladesh, and first responders' capacity to control flames is limited. Many multi-story residential buildings and shopping malls lack proper fire extinguishers, emergency exits, among other fire safety features. Stay aware of your surroundings and emergency exits.

Women Travelers:  See our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Faith-Based Travelers:  See our following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report  – see country reports
• Human Rights Report  – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

LGBTQI+ Rights:  Consensual same-sex sexual activity is criminalized in Bangladesh and penalties include up to life imprisonment. See our  LGBTQI Travel Information  page and section 6 of our  Human Rights report  for further details. In 2016, AQIS specifically targeted and killed two prominent members of the Bangladesh LGBTQI+ community in their apartment because of their human rights activism and sexual orientation.

Persons with Mobility Issues:  Public transportation, sidewalks, many buildings, and most public areas are not wheelchair accessible.

For emergency services in Bangladesh, dial 999.

Ambulance services are widely available, but training and availability of emergency responders may be below U.S. standards.  

COVID-19 Testing:  PCR and/or antigen tests are available for U.S. citizens in Bangladesh. The government of Bangladesh has provided a list of recommended COVID-19 testing facilities for international passengers  here . Those wishing to get tested will have to pay for their own COVID-19 test.  Results are often delivered via text message and are, in most cases, linked to a QR code.

COVID-19 Vaccines:  The COVID-19 vaccine is available for U.S. citizens to receive in Bangladesh. The Government of Bangladesh started its national COVID-19 vaccination program in January 2021. The program includes AstraZeneca, Pfizer/BioNTech, Moderna, Janssen (Johnson and Johnson), Sinopharm, and Sinovak vaccines. The Government of Bangladesh is now offering COVID-19 vaccines to those who do not have a Bangladesh national ID (NID) or a locally registered birth certificate, including all foreign nationals. Individuals who have yet to receive a vaccine are encouraged to call the Bangladesh Health hotline at 16263 to identify the nearest vaccine center.  Please carry a passport or another form of government-issued identification and be ready to provide a Bangladeshi mobile phone number.

Those who do not have an NID or locally registered birth certificate may not register for a vaccine via the surokkha.gov.bd vaccine portal, and as a result, would be unable to receive a Bangladeshi vaccine certificate with a QR code. Anyone vaccinated at a vaccine center, however, will receive a handwritten vaccine card to carry as proof of vaccination against COVID-19.  

Those interested in obtaining a booster dose may follow the procedure described above and should be ready to present proof of previous vaccination against COVID-19. Individuals become eligible for a booster dose four months after their last dose is administered. This information is also available at the Directorate General for Health Services website .

If any U.S. citizen wishes to register through the Surokkha website to get the QR coded vaccine certificate, they should follow the instructions below and provide the U.S. Embassy in Dhaka with all the required information so that we can forward it to the Bangladesh Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the purpose of vaccination against COVID-19.

Visit the FDA’s website to learn more about FDA-approved vaccines in the United States.

We do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas.

Medical Insurance: Make sure health insurance plans provide coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on overseas insurance coverage.

We strongly advise supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Medical Care: Though quality of care is below U.S. standards, most common illnesses can be treated locally. U.S. citizens often travel outside Bangladesh for routine surgical procedures and complicated medical treatment.

• A centrally coordinated medical emergency response system is not available. A list of hospitals and doctors in Dhaka can be found on the U.S. Embassy website.
• Bangladesh has no prohibitions on specific medications. Always carry prescription medication in original packaging with a doctor’s prescription.
• The sale of counterfeit medications has been reported, but medications from major pharmacies and hospitals are generally reliable.

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

•  In the past few years, a large number of both Chikungunya and Japanese Encephalitis cases has been reported. You should consider the Japanese Encephalitis vaccine for prevention.
• Dengue is endemic in Bangladesh and during the 2019 summer season, increased cases are being reported as compared to the last 5 years. Should you develop symptoms of fever, headache, rash, or muscle/joint aching, you should seek medical attention early in your illness.
• Malaria is reported in 13 districts in the northeast and southeast regions of Bangladesh. If planning travel there, you should consult with your physician regarding taking medication for malaria prophylaxis.
• The CDC also considers Bangladesh an area with risk of Zika infection, though it is uncommon. Pregnant women, travelers with a pregnant partner, and women considering becoming pregnant should speak to their healthcare provider about possible Zika risk before travel.

Prevention is key:

• Regular use of insect repellent and long garments is recommended as protection against mosquito-borne illness.
• Water supplies in Bangladesh are non-potable. Bottled drinking water is generally safe for consumption.
• Foodborne illnesses are common. Wash, soak in sanitizing solution, peel, and thoroughly cook all food to minimize chemical, bacterial, and parasitic contamination.

Air quality in Dhaka is consistently poor and especially hazardous from November to March. We recommend avoiding prolonged outdoor exposure during these months. N95 filtration masks/respirators that are NIOSH certified are helpful, but you need to have a good fit and seal when using them. Current Dhaka air quality can be found here .

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:

• Bangladeshis drive on the left, the opposite of U.S. driving patterns.
• Roads are extremely crowded, are poorly maintained, often lack shoulders, have sharp drop-offs, and have barriers that are not sign-posted.  Roadways often contain a mix of human and vehicular traffic, occasionally traveling against the flow of traffic.
• Drivers are often unlicensed, aggressive, and poorly trained. Many vehicles, particularly large trucks and buses, are poorly maintained. Larger vehicles generally take the right-of-way.
• Speed limits and other traffic laws are not commonly posted and are rarely observed by motorists. Vehicles often run red lights and merge directly into traffic without stopping.
• Drivers use car horns or flash their high-beam headlights to announce their presence in all areas of Bangladesh day or night.

Road accidents, including fatal head-on collisions, are common in Bangladesh. When traveling by road:

• Exercise extreme caution when crossing streets, even in areas frequented by pedestrians.
• Use seatbelts if available and wear helmets on motorcycles and bicycles.
• Do not travel by road without an experienced local driver or guide.
• Exercise particular vigilance along intercity highways, as banditry and carjacking have been known to occur.
• Monitor local news for any reports of road disturbances, as protestors and demonstrators often use road blockage as a means of publicizing their grievances.

If a serious accident occurs, or if a driver hits a pedestrian or livestock, crowds quickly gather, and the behavior of the crowd is often unpredictable. The vehicle and its occupants may be at risk of being attacked in such circumstances depending on who the crowd believes is at fault and what damage has occurred. Such attacks may pose significant risk of injury or death to the vehicle’s occupants or of damage to the vehicle. It is unsafe to remain at the scene of an accident of this nature. Seek shelter at the nearest police station.

Please refer to our  Road Safety page  for more information. We also suggest that you visit Bangladesh’s  National Tourism Organization  website.

Public Transportation:

• The U.S. Embassy prohibits U.S. government officials and their family members from using buses, trains, motorcycles, rickshaws, and compressed natural gas autorickshaws (CNGs) due to high accident rates and crime issues.
• The Bangladeshi passenger rail system is antiquated and overburdened. Some political activists target rail lines during civil unrest by hurling explosives and removing rail ties from the tracks, making trips unusually dangerous and frequently causing cancellations. Even in peaceful times, foreigners are often the center of attention at many train stations because of the relatively atypical presence of foreign travelers on rail in the country.

Aviation Safety Oversight:

The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) current determination is that the Government of Bangladesh’s Civil Aviation Authority does not provide safety oversight of its air carrier operators in accordance with the minimum safety oversight standards established by the International Civil Aviation Organization. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel: The U.S. Coast Guard has concerns about the security practices in the ports of Bangladesh. Until those concerns can be addressed, the Coast Guard advises that Mariners and passengers on commercial vessels traveling through the ports of Bangladesh should exercise increased caution.

Mariners planning travel to Bangladesh should also check for  U.S. maritime advisories and alerts  within the MARAD website . Information may also be posted to the  U.S. Coast Guard homeport website  and the  NGA broadcast warnings website . Select “broadcast warnings” from within the NGA site.

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Bangladesh .  For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Bangladesh travel advice

Latest updates: Editorial change

Last updated: June 5, 2024 06:24 ET

On this page

Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, bangladesh - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Bangladesh due to the threat of terrorism, political demonstrations, nationwide general strikes and violent clashes.

Chittagong Hill Tracts region - Avoid all travel

Avoid all travel to the Chittagong Hill Tracts region due to politically motivated violence, kidnappings and sporadic ethnic clashes.

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Chittagong Hill Tracts region

There is a serious risk of politically motivated violence, kidnapping and sporadic ethnic clashes in this region.

Violent clashes occur between indigenous communities that are organized under opposing political groups. The clashes result from their desire to obtain political control over specific geographic areas.

These groups also engage in extortion and drug, money and weapons smuggling.

If you decide to visit the Chittagong Hill Tracts region despite this advisory, you must contact the Chittagong Divisional Commissioner’s Office at least 10 days before you arrive.

Chittagong Divisional Commissioner’s Office

Southern Bangladesh

Many Rohingya refugees have entered southern Bangladesh, especially in the Ukhia and Teknaf sub-districts, in the south of Cox’s Bazar district. Bangladeshi authorities regulate access to these areas.

If you provide any humanitarian assistance in this region, make sure to do so through an established humanitarian agency that is registered with Bangladeshi authorities.

Stay informed on the ongoing situation.

Cox’s Bazar

Public infrastructure in the Cox’s Bazar area has severely degraded over the few past years. Resources such as basic food and potable water are limited.

There is a threat of terrorism throughout the country, especially in Dhaka. Extremists have carried out attacks using improvised explosive devices and suicide bombers. Westerners have been targeted. Although such incidences have been less frequent since 2020, smaller attacks and attempted attacks still occur.

Further attacks are likely. Targets could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners
• police stations

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.

Be particularly vigilant during religious holidays. Limit your attendance at events where a large number of people, including foreigners, may gather. These include:

• sporting events
• public celebrations
• hotels and conference centres

 Terrorists have used such occasions to mount attacks.

Civil unrest

Demonstrations, blockades, nationwide general strikes—known as hartals—and politically motivated violence have occurred. These incidents are likely to reoccur.

During strikes, demonstrations or election periods, avoid:

• Road 86 (north of Gulshan Circle 2)
• the Road 79–Gulshan Avenue intersection

Large gatherings often occur in those areas, making it difficult to pass safely.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

More about mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Demonstrations

Sudden violent demonstrations and clashes can take place on Friday afternoons following Jumma prayers.

Previous violent demonstrations have resulted in several hundred deaths. Attacks using explosive devices have occurred in crowded public places, hotels, movie theatres and railway stations. Law enforcement officials have deployed crowd control measures such as tear gas and rubber bullets.

During blockades, protesters have set fire to vehicles and damaged railway tracks, leading to derailments and injuries.

• Avoid travelling during blockades, as attacks may occur
• Prepare to have sufficient food, water and fuel available, as there may be shortages

General strikes

General strikes can effectively shut down all businesses and disrupt transportation, including in the diplomatic/expatriate areas. Passengers at Hazrat Shah Jalal International Airport may be stranded without transportation.

You may also have difficulty finding essential supplies such as fuel.

There is a high incidence of violence during these events.

During a general strike:

• avoid travelling within Dhaka, outside the Baridhara and Banani areas
• avoid all travel outside Dhaka

Politically motivated violence

Attacks have occurred at political rallies in several cities, including:

Certain groups have used explosive devices and firearms during confrontations between rival political factions, demonstrators and police.

Be vigilant in Dhaka around:

• the National Parliament House and the Bangladesh Secretariat
• the Baitul Mukarram National Mosque
• the University of Dhaka
• the Mirpur, Motijheel, Naya Paltan, Purana Paltan and Shahbag districts
• the commercial district of Kawran Bazar

Violent crime

Violent crime, such as armed robberies and rapes, occurs.

Kidnappings for ransom have also occurred, though they rarely involve foreigners.

Religious minorities have been the targets of attacks. These minorities include:

• secular writers, including some foreigners

Petty crime

Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, purse snatching and mugging, are common, particularly in tourist areas.

• Avoid walking in public alone or after dark
• Avoid showing signs of affluence
• Do not wear jewellery
• Ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• Decline help from anyone who approaches you at the airport with an offer to arrange transportation or assist with luggage

Women’s safety

Women travelling alone may face some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.

• Avoid travelling alone, including on public transportation, especially at night
• Don’t go to the police station by yourself

Advice for women travellers

Forced marriage

Forced marriages affecting foreigners take place. Sometimes, the affected person doesn’t know about or consent to the marriage.

Some Canadians could be forced into marital arrangements and detained against their will. They could be subjected to:

• intimidation
• violence by family members

Once you’re abroad, your family members may retain your passport to prevent you from returning to Canada. Keep digital or physical copies of your travel documents in a safe place.

If you’re in Canada

If you’re in Canada and you believe that you’re being forced to travel overseas to marry, call your local police for assistance.

If you’re abroad

If you’re abroad and you believe that you’re being forced to marry, contact the nearest office of the Government of Canada. You may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre .

Useful links

• General information and advice about forced marriage
• Her own way – a woman’s safe-travel guide

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs, especially in Dhaka.

When using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention if others are handling your cards
• use ATMs located in public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Overseas fraud

Essential services and tourist facilities

Planned power cuts occur daily in most parts of the country and can last for many hours.

Water supplies are also inconsistent. Several areas of the country can go for days without any water.

Be aware that tourist facilities are inadequate throughout the country.

Road safety

Road conditions and road safety are poor throughout the country. Road travel is dangerous, particularly after dark. Many vehicles operate without headlights or with full high beams.

Traffic in urban areas is extremely congested and chaotic. Road accidents causing injuries or death are common. Crowds, which can turn hostile, often gather around the scene of such accidents.

In you are involved in a serious accident where you could be deemed at fault:

• immediately make your way to a police station
• lock your doors and windows and call police if you cannot move your vehicle

Public transportation

Safety standards for public transportation, including buses, trains and ferries, are poor.

Thieves are present on trains, ferries and long-distance buses. They also target rickshaw, CNG (motorized rickshaw) and taxi passengers, particularly around dusk.

Be extremely cautious if using public transportation.

• Avoid travelling alone and after dark
• Use only registered taxis booked through a hotel

Buses are generally in poor condition. They are often involved in accidents.

Rail travel is slow and derailments occur. Trains are often overcrowded. Lock your compartment if you travel by train at night,

Ferry accidents are common due to poor safety practices or extreme weather conditions.

If you choose to travel by ferry:

• make sure the vessel you are boarding is carrying appropriate safety equipment and that life jackets are provided for all passengers and accessible at all times
• don’t board vessels that appear overloaded or unseaworthy
• verify the safety standards of ferries with your tour operator

Pirate attacks and armed robbery against ships occur in coastal waters. Mariners should take appropriate precautions.

Live piracy report - International Maritime Bureau’s Piracy Reporting Centre

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Bangladeshi authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months at the time of arrival in Bangladesh.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: required Business visa: required Student visa: required

You should obtain a visa before travelling to Bangladesh. While you can apply for single-entry tourist and business visas upon arrival, which are valid for stays of up to 30 days, there is a risk of you being denied entry into the country.

Other entry requirements

Customs officials may ask you to show them a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.

You must carry all documents pertaining to the purpose of your visit. If you're travelling for business, you must also produce:

• a hotel booking confirmation
• a letter of invitation or letter of offer from a local company providing details regarding the purpose and duration of your stay

Exit requirements

If you enter Bangladesh on a business visa, you'll have to provide local authorities with an Income Tax Clearance Certificate or an Income Tax Exemption Certificate upon departure.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizens can obtain a “No Visa Required” stamp on their passport. However, it may limit the ability of Canadian officials to provide consular services.

If you entered Bangladesh with this stamp, make sure it’s transferred to any new passport you obtain while in the country.

Recognition of dual citizenship

• Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
• Dengue: Advice for travellers - 6 May, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever   is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from or have transited through an airport of a country   where yellow fever occurs.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.
• Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
• Contact a designated  Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre  well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada * It is important to note that  country entry requirements  may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest  diplomatic or consular office  of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

Japanese encephalitis is a viral infection that can cause swelling of the brain.  It is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Risk is very low for most travellers. Travellers at relatively higher risk may want to consider vaccination for JE prior to travelling.

Travellers are at higher risk if they will be:

• travelling long term (e.g. more than 30 days)
• making multiple trips to endemic areas
• staying for extended periods in rural areas
• visiting an area suffering a JE outbreak
• engaging in activities involving high contact with mosquitos (e.g., entomologists)

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Typhoid is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Travellers going to countries in South Asia should speak to a health care professional about getting vaccinated.

Malaria  is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.   There is a risk of malaria in certain areas and/or during a certain time of year in this destination. 

Antimalarial medication may be recommended depending on your itinerary and the time of year you are travelling. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.    Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times:  • Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.  • Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows. • Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.  • Wear permethrin-treated clothing.    If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living. 

In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.  

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Cholera is a risk in parts of this country. Most travellers are at very low risk.

To protect against cholera, all travellers should practise safe food and water precautions .

Travellers at higher risk of getting cholera include those:

• visiting, working or living in areas with limited access to safe food, water and proper sanitation
• visiting areas where outbreaks are occurring

Vaccination may be recommended for high-risk travellers, and should be discussed with a health care professional.

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

• In this country,   dengue  is a risk to travellers. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue.

Zika virus is a risk in this country. 

Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.

During your trip:

• Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
• Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.

If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to this destination with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel. 

For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Human cases of avian influenza have been reported in this destination. Avian influenza   is a viral infection that can spread quickly and easily among birds and in rare cases it can infect mammals, including people. The risk is low for most travellers.

Avoid contact with birds, including wild, farm, and backyard birds (alive or dead) and surfaces that may have bird droppings on them. Ensure all poultry dishes, including eggs and wild game, are properly cooked.

Travellers with a higher risk of exposure include those: 

• visiting live bird/animal markets or poultry farms
• working with poultry (such as chickens, turkeys, domestic ducks)
• hunting, de-feathering, field dressing and butchering wild birds and wild mammals
• working with wild birds for activities such as research, conservation, or rehabilitation
• working with wild mammals, especially those that eat wild birds (e.g., foxes)

All eligible people are encouraged to get the seasonal influenza shot, which will protect them against human influenza viruses. While the seasonal influenza shot does not prevent infection with avian influenza, it can reduce the chance of getting sick with human and avian influenza viruses at the same time.

There is a risk of Nipah virus infection in this country. Nipah virus infections can range from asymptomatic (no symptoms) to severe illness and death.

Nipah virus is spread to people from animals (such as fruit bats) but it can also be spread through contaminated food or close contact with someone who is ill.

Travellers to areas where Nipah virus is found should:

• avoid consuming date palm sap products, including raw date palm juice
• thoroughly wash and peel fruit before consumption
• wash hands regularly with soap and water
• discard fruit with signs of bites or fruit that has been found on the ground
• avoid contact with fruit bats and areas where they are known to roost

For more information on preventing Nipah virus infection, visit Nipah virus: Prevention and risks .

There is no vaccine or medication that protects against Nipah virus infection.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

Medical services and facilities

Health care is inadequate. You will likely need medical evacuation to Singapore or Thailand in case of serious illness or injury.

You may have to pay in advance, in cash, to obtain medical services.

Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can face life imprisonment or a death sentence.

Alcohol consumption

Bangladeshi citizens, including dual citizens, may not consume, possess, transport or buy alcohol without a permit.

Muslims may not consume alcohol. Muslims who do face detention or other penalties.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

In 2024, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around March 10.

In public, between sunrise and sunset, refrain from:

Business transactions are considerably slower during Ramadan.

Dress and behaviour

To avoid offending local sensitivities:

• dress conservatively
• behave discreetly
• respect religious and social traditions

Women in particular should avoid wearing shorts and sleeveless garments.

Public displays of affection are not socially acceptable.

Photography

It’s illegal to take pictures of:

• government offices
• military establishments or officials
• official residences
• demonstrations

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Bangladeshi law prohibits sexual acts between individuals of the same sex.

Other related offences include being in a same-sex marriage and promoting homosexuality.

Those convicted can face life imprisonment.

2SLGBTQI travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Bangladesh.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Bangladesh.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Bangladesh, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Travellers with dual citizenship

Local authorities may consider your child as a Bangladeshi citizen if you are Bangladeshi, regardless of their place of birth or if your child has formally obtained Bangladeshi citizenship. 

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Bangladesh.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Bangladesh by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Bangladesh to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

Identification

Local authorities may ask you to verify your identity.

Carry a photocopy of your passport and visa at all times.

Property disputes

Property disputes, including those between family members, are common and can turn violent.

Contact a local lawyer if you find yourself in such a situation.

Traffic drives on the left.

You must carry an International Driving Permit.

International Driving Permit

The currency is the taka (BDT).

When entering or leaving the country, you must declare any funds exceeding US$5,000 or 5,000 taka, or their equivalent.

You must have a ticket for travel outside Bangladesh if you want to exchange taka for U.S. dollars.

You cannot leave the country with more U.S. dollars than you declared upon arrival.

Climate change

Climate change is affecting Bangladesh. Extreme and unusual weather events are becoming more frequent. Monitor local news to stay informed on the current situation.

Earthquakes and tsunamis

Bangladesh is located in an active seismic zone.

Bangladeshi authorities usually issue tsunami warnings immediately following a large earthquake.

A tsunami can occur within minutes of a nearby earthquake. However, the risk of tsunami can remain for several hours following the first tremor. If you're staying on the coast, familiarize yourself with the region's evacuation plans in the event of a tsunami warning.

In the event of an earthquake:

• monitor local media for the latest information
• follow the instructions of local authorities
• Earthquakes – What to Do?
• Tsunami alerts – U.S. Tsunami Warning System

Monsoons and cyclones

The rainy (or monsoon) season extends from June to October. Every year during the monsoon season, a third of Bangladesh's territory is seriously affected. Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged.

Bangladesh's coastline is also subject to cyclones. Heavy rain can cause flooding throughout the country, resulting in significant casualties and extensive damage to infrastructure.

If you decide to travel to Bangladesh during the rainy season:

• know that you expose yourself to serious safety risks
• be prepared to change your travel plans on short notice, including cutting short or cancelling your trip
• stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• stay away from disaster areas
• carry emergency contact information for your airline or tour operator
• follow the advice and instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders
• Tornadoes, cyclones, hurricanes, typhoons and monsoons
• Bangladesh Meteorological Department
• Large-scale emergencies abroad

Air pollution

Smoke haze and other types of air pollution can be extremely hazardous in urban areas and cities such as Dhaka. It's typically at its worst in winter. In rural areas, air quality can be affected by agricultural burning.

Monitor air pollution levels, which change quickly, especially if you suffer from respiratory ailments or have pre-existing medical conditions.

During periods of high air pollution:

• limit your activities outdoors
• monitor local media

Air pollution in Bangladesh – World Air Quality Index

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

• 999 (from a cell phone only)
• 10921 to reach the helpline for women and children experiencing violence

If you’re outside of Dhaka and don’t have a cell phone, research and carry contact information for local police and medical facilities.

From any phone, dial:

• police: 88 017 133 98311 / 8802 951 4400
• firefighters: 8802 955 5555 / 8802 955 6666 / 8802 955 6667

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the High Commission of Canada to Bangladesh, in Dhaka, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

Bangladesh is south Asia's greenest jewel – a country braided with rivers, with a rich culture waiting to be explored by pioneering travellers.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Kantanagar Temple

Rajshahi & Rangpur

Set amidst gorgeous countryside, the vault-roofed rouge sandcastle of Kantanagar Temple, also known locally as Kantaji, is a stunning piece of religious…

Somapuri Vihara

The hulking 20m-high remains of a 1300-year-old red-brick stupa form the central attraction of the vast monastery complex at Somapuri Vihara. Shaped like…

Shait Gumbad Mosque

Built in 1459 (the same year Khan Jahan Ali died), the famous Shait Gumbad Mosque is the largest and most magnificent traditional mosque in the country…

Varendra Research Museum

This gem of a museum is tucked away in an unassuming building on a quiet street, but can easily take up half a day of your time. Founded in 1910 with the…

Natore Rajbari

One of the oldest rajbaris in Bangladesh (dating from the early 1700s), the magnificent but dilapidated Natore Rajbari was once the nerve-centre of…

Lowacherra National Park

Srimangal & Around

This wonderful patch of tropical semi-evergreen forest, around 8km east of Srimangal, provides some lovely forest walks and also your best chance of…

Tajhat Palace

The flamboyant and delightfully maintained Tajhat Palace is arguably one of the finest rajbaris in Bangladesh. The palace was constructed in the 19th…

Khania Dighi Mosque

About 750m beyond the turn-off for Darasbari Mosque, turn right at the bus stand and keep walking for around 250m until you see a sign directing you off…

Latest stories from Bangladesh

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Quick Facts

Best Time To Go

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What To See & Do

What To Eat

Where To Stay

Trip Planning

Welcome traveler!

We're Andre & Lisa, adventurers and experienced budget travelers.

We have over two decades of travel experience and  since 2018 have led a full-time nomadic lifestyle.

L earn more  about us !

Thank you for visiting and we hope you find value in our destination pages! ​We thoroughly research and curate all content ourselves and everything you find on this site is put together by only the two of us.

BANGLADESH TRAVEL GUIDE

Bangladeshis are renowned for their hospitality and warmth – they’ll invite you home and treat you to their delectable cuisine. They are passionate about food, football, cricket, theatre and music – and if you’re wondering about the strange combination, their social ambit is wide and they are a broad-minded nation. Bangladesh is among the few Asian nations where religions coexist in harmony. However, don’t be fooled by the smooth and urbane capital city, Dhaka – the smaller cities and villages are simple and well behind modern times.

Capital: Dhaka (Dacca)

Currency: taka (BDT)

Area: 147,570 km2

Population: 161,4 million (2018)

Language: Bengali (official) English (recognised, has some national status)

Religion: Muslim 90%, Hindu 9%, other 1%

Electricity: 220V/50Hz(US Type A, Europlug, Type D, Type G, and Danish Plug)

DO YOU NEED A VISA FOR

Bangladesh.

<<VISA RESULT>>

<< Visa Details >>

For the latest requirements or for application click

Let iVisa take the pain out of travel planning and assist you with Electronic visas, Travel Authorizations, Visas on Arrival, and even Paper Visas. They can also help with Health Declarations and Embassy Registrations. If you're from the US, they provide a One-Stop Shop to renew your Passport securely and error-free.

POSTS ON BANGLADESH

SEASONS AT A GLANCE

Most destinations have different times of the year when they’re more or less popular with tourists. 

Peak Season

Shoulder Season

Off Peak Season

BEST TIME TO VISIT BANGLADESH

Bangladesh has three main seasons: the hot season, the monsoon season, and the cool season.

The hot season lasts from March to May, with temperatures reaching up to 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) in some areas.

The monsoon season runs from June to September, and is characterized by heavy rains and flooding.

The cool season lasts from October to February, with temperatures ranging from 15-25 degrees Celsius (59-77 degrees Fahrenheit). This is considered the best time to visit Bangladesh.

The best time to visit Bangladesh is between October and March, as the weather is generally dry and cool during this time. The monsoon season, which runs from June to September, can cause heavy rains and flooding in some areas.

BEST TIME FOR:

Bangladesh claims to have the world's longest unbroken stretch of beach of 120km, with beautiful views of both sunrise and sunset. However, being a conservative and predominantly Muslim country, you won't find people sunbathing here due to the strict cultural restrictions.

LOOKING FOR ALTERNATIVES

To bangladesh, find your perfect destination.

Advanced, real-time destination filter by visa required, region, health risk, travel budget, country value, tourist seasons, best weather and activity or sport.

BANGLADESH TRAVEL COSTS

The cost of traveling to Bangladesh can vary depending on a number of factors, including the time of year, your travel itinerary, and your accommodation and transportation choices. However, it is generally considered to be a budget-friendly destination.

Accommodation options range from budget-friendly guesthouses and hostels, to mid-range hotels, to more upscale resorts. Prices for budget accommodation can start as low as $5-10 per night, while mid-range hotels can cost around $20-30 per night.

Food and transportation are also relatively inexpensive in Bangladesh. A meal at a local restaurant can cost as little as $2-3, and local transportation, such as buses and rickshaws, can also be very cheap.

Overall, it is possible to travel to Bangladesh on a budget of around $25-30 per day, including accommodation, transportation, food, and activities. However, if you want to travel in more comfort or luxury, the cost can be higher.

A sample budget for visiting Bangladesh could be as follows:

• Accommodation : $10-15 per night for a budget-friendly guesthouse or hostel, $20-30 per night for a mid-range hotel.
• Food : $3-5 per meal at local restaurants, $1-2 for street food.
• Transportation : $1-2 for a local bus or rickshaw ride, $30-50 for a full-day taxi rental.
• Activities : $5-10 for entrance fees to tourist sites, $15-20 for guided tours.

It's important to note that this is just an estimate, and the actual cost of traveling to Bangladesh may vary depending on individual preferences, travel itinerary, and other factors.

Also, it's worth to mention that this budget does not include flights and VISA costs. The cost of flights to Bangladesh can vary depending on the time of year and your departure location, and obtaining a visa for Bangladesh can cost around $50-60.

VALUE RANK:

Find discount flights to, travel tips for bangladesh.

Here are some travel tips for Bangladesh:

• Be prepared for the heat and humidity : Bangladesh can be very hot and humid, especially during the summer months. Make sure to wear light, breathable clothing and bring plenty of water with you.
• Respect local custom s: Bangladesh is a conservative Muslim country, and it's important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites, and be mindful of your behavior and actions.
• Be prepared for transportation challenges : Public transportation in Bangladesh can be crowded and chaotic, and road conditions can be poor. Be prepared for delays and plan extra time for travel.
• Be mindful of health and safety : Bangladesh can have health hazards and safety concerns, such as poor air quality in big cities and diseases like dengue fever, Malaria and Cholera. It's important to take necessary precautions and to be aware of current health and safety conditions before and during your trip.
• Learn some basic Bengali : While English is widely spoken in Bangladesh, learning some basic Bengali phrases can go a long way in helping you navigate the country and connect with locals.
• Be flexible : Bangladesh is a developing country and things might not always go as planned. Be prepared to be flexible and adapt to unexpected situations.
• Be open-minded : Bangladesh is a fascinating and diverse country with a rich culture and history. Be open-minded and willing to experience new things to make the most of your trip.

BANGLADESH TRAVEL TIPS

Regions & highlights of bangladesh.

Bangladesh is divided into seven main regions:

• Dhaka : This region includes the capital city of Dhaka, which is considered the cultural and economic heart of the country. Highlights of this region include visiting the Old Dhaka, which is known for its vibrant street markets and traditional architecture, and the Bangladesh National Museum, which houses a vast collection of art and artifacts from the country's history.
• Chittagong : This region is home to the port city of Chittagong, which is the second-largest city in the country. Highlights of this region include visiting the Chittagong War Cemetery, which is a memorial to the soldiers who fought and died in World War II, and the Cox's Bazar, which is a long sandy beach that is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country.
• Sylhet : This region is known for its tea gardens and natural beauty, including the Lawachara National Park and the Madhabpur Lake. This region is also famous for the shrine of the famous Sufi saint Hazrat Shah Jalal.
• Rangpur : This region is known for its natural beauty, including the Rangamati Hill District, which is home to the indigenous Chakma people, and the Rangamati Buddhist Temple, which is a popular tourist destination.
• Rajshahi : This region is known for its historical sites, including the Mahasthangarh, which is an ancient city dating back to the 3rd century BC, and the Puthia Temple Complex, which is a group of Hindu temples dating back to the 17th century.
• Khulna : This region is known for its natural beauty, including the Sundarbans, which is the largest mangrove forest in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Royal Bengal Tiger is the main attraction.
• Barisal : This region is known for its natural beauty, including the Kuakata beach, which is a popular tourist destination, and the Andharmanik waterfall, which is one of the highest waterfalls in Bangladesh.

It's worth to mention that Bangladesh is a country with a lot of diversity, and there are many other places to visit and explore beyond these main regions.

SIGHTS & HIGHLIGHTS OF BANGLADESH

What to see and do in bangladesh.

Bangladesh has a rich culture and history, as well as natural beauty, making it a great destination for travelers. Here are some of the best things to see and do when visiting Bangladesh:

Visit the capital city of Dhaka : Dhaka is the cultural and economic heart of the country and offers a lot to see and do, including visiting the Old Dhaka, where you can explore the vibrant street markets and traditional architecture, and the Bangladesh National Museum, which houses a vast collection of art and artifacts from the country's history.

Explore the Sundarbans : The Sundarbans is the largest mangrove forest in the world, and it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's home to the Bengal tiger and a variety of other wildlife, and it's a great place for nature lovers and bird watchers.

Take a trip to Cox's Bazar : The Cox's Bazar is a long sandy beach that is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. It's a great place for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.

Visit the Rangamati Hill District : This is an area of beautiful natural beauty and is home to the indigenous Chakma people. The Rangamati Buddhist Temple is also a popular destination.

Explore the ancient city of Mahasthangarh : This ancient city dates back to the 3rd century BC and is known for its well-preserved ruins and rich history.

Visit the Puthia Temple Complex : This is a group of Hindu temples dating back to the 17th century, which is known for its intricate carvings and beautiful architecture.

Take a cruise on the Buriganga River : The Buriganga River is an important waterway in Dhaka and taking a cruise on it will give you a great perspective of the city and its history.

Visit the Dhaka University area : The Dhaka University area is a great place to explore the city's student culture and see historic buildings like the Dhaka University Central Mosque, which is considered one of the most beautiful mosque in Bangladesh.

Visit the shrine of Hazrat Shah Jalal : This is a famous Sufi saint and it's located in Sylhet division. It's an important pilgrimage site for many Bengalis.

Visit the tea gardens : Bangladesh is famous for its tea gardens, particularly in Sylhet division. Visiting the tea gardens is a great way to experience the country's rural culture and learn about the tea-making process.

Visit the capital city of Dhaka : Dhaka is the cultural and economic heart of the country and offers a lot to see and do, including visiting the Old Dhaka, where you can explore the vibrant street markets and traditional architecture, and the Bangladesh National Museum, which houses a vast collection of art and artifacts from the country's history.

Explore the Sundarbans : The Sundarbans is the largest mangrove forest in the world, and it's a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's home to the Bengal tiger and a variety of other wildlife, and it's a great place for nature lovers and bird watchers.

Take a trip to Cox's Bazar : The Cox's Bazar is a long sandy beach that is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. It's a great place for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.

Visit the Dhaka University area : The Dhaka University area is a great place to explore the city's student culture and see historic buildings like the Dhaka University Central Mosque, which is considered one of the most beautiful mosque in Bangladesh.

Visit the shrine of Hazrat Shah Jalal : This is a famous Sufi saint and it's located in Sylhet division. It's an important pilgrimage site for many Bengalis.

Visit the tea gardens : Bangladesh is famous for its tea gardens, particularly in Sylhet division. Visiting the tea gardens is a great way to experience the country's rural culture and learn about the tea-making process.

WHAT TO EAT IN BANGLADESH

Bangladesh has a rich and diverse culinary tradition, with a variety of delicious dishes to try. Here are some popular foods to eat when visiting Bangladesh:

• Rice and curry : Rice and curry is a staple food in Bangladesh, and you'll find a wide variety of curries to choose from, including chicken, fish, and vegetable curries.
• Biryani : This dish is a type of rice-based dish that is flavored with spices and often includes meat or vegetables.
• Dhakai paratha : Dhakai paratha is a type of flatbread that is popular in Bangladesh. It's made from flour, water, and a little oil, and it's often served with curries or dal.
• Fuchka : Fuchka is a popular street food in Bangladesh, it's a type of fried snack that is filled with a spiced potato mixture and served with tamarind chutney.
• Pitha : Pitha is a type of sweet or savory rice cake that is popular in Bangladesh. Some of the most popular types include chitoi pitha, which is a sweet rice cake stuffed with coconut and jaggery, and vapa pitha, which is a savory rice cake stuffed with lentils.
• Fish dishes: Bangladesh is a country surrounded by water and fish is an important part of the diet. Some of the most popular fish dishes include ilish mach, which is a type of Hilsa fish, and rui mach, which is a type of carp fish.
• Sweets: Bangladesh has a variety of sweet dishes, including rasgulla, which is a spongy sweet made from cottage cheese and jaggery, and kulfi, which is a type of frozen dairy dessert.
• Street food: Bangladesh has a wide variety of street food available, including samosas, pakoras, and jhal muri, a puffed rice snack with a variety of toppings.

It's worth to mention that Bangladesh is a country with a lot of diversity, and there are many other dishes to try beyond this list.

LGBTQ IN BANGLADESH

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WHERE TO STAY IN BANGLADESH

When visiting Bangladesh for the first time, choosing the right area or region to stay in is crucial for experiencing the country's diverse culture, history, and natural beauty. Here are some recommendations along with accommodation suggestions for each category: budget, mid-range, and luxury.

Where to stay in Dhaka:

Dhaka, the capital city of Bangladesh, serves as the cultural and economic heart of the country, offering a vibrant mix of historic landmarks, bustling markets, and authentic culinary experiences, making it an ideal base for exploring Bangladesh's urban life and heritage.

Budget:   Hotel 71  - Affordable accommodations with modern amenities, located in the heart of Dhaka's commercial district.

Mid-range:   Amari Dhaka  - A contemporary hotel offering comfortable rooms, multiple dining options, and a rooftop pool with panoramic city views.

Luxury:   Pan Pacific Sonargaon Dhaka  - A luxurious hotel featuring elegant rooms, fine dining restaurants, spa facilities, and extensive conference and event spaces.

Where to stay in Cox's Bazar :

Cox's Bazar is home to the world's longest natural sea beach, offering breathtaking views of the Bay of Bengal, serene surroundings, and a relaxed beach vibe, making it an ideal destination for beach lovers and relaxation seekers.

Budget:  Hotel Sea Crown  - Affordable beachfront accommodations with basic amenities and easy access to Cox's Bazar Beach.

Mid-range:   Long Beach Hotel Cox's Bazar  - A beachfront hotel offering spacious rooms, multiple dining options, and recreational facilities such as a pool and spa.

Luxury:   Royal Tulip Sea Pearl Beach Resort & Spa  - A luxurious beach resort featuring lavish rooms, upscale dining options, a private beach, and indulgent spa treatments.

Where to stay in Sundarbans :

The Sundarbans, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the largest mangrove forest in the world, known for its rich biodiversity, stunning landscapes, and unique wildlife experiences, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

Budget:   Sundarbans Tiger Roar Resort  - Affordable eco-friendly accommodations located near the Sundarbans, offering basic amenities and guided tours of the forest.

Mid-range:   Sundarbans Jungle Lodge  - A rustic lodge offering comfortable rooms, delicious local cuisine, and guided excursions into the Sundarbans.

For hassle-free bookings, use platforms like   Booking.com  for competitive rates or   Holiday Swap  for unique homes worldwide. Ensure to book in advance, especially during peak seasons, and align your preferences with nearby activities such as surfing, snorkeling, or cultural exploration.

CHOOSE ANOTHER DESTINATION

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FLIGHTS Find a cheap flight by using  Sky scanner  or  Momondo . These are our favorite  flight search engines. They index other travel websites and airlines across the globe to easily find you the best deal.

ACCOMMODATION

Booking.com is our number one resource for researching and booking accommodation. In addition to Booking.com , we have found  Agoda.com to consistently returns the cheapest rates in Southeast Asia. For longer stays, find unique homes worldwide on Holiday Swap , the most affordable travel platform that allows you to book homes anytime, anywhere in only a few clicks.

TRANSPORT ​

DiscoverCars.com is a leader in online car rental bookings; we compare car rental deals from many companies so that you can choose which is best for your trip.  12Go   connects the world door-to-door, from transfers to flights, under the same user-friendly ticket.

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• COUNTRY INFORMATION
• LATEST NEWS
• OUTBREAK SURVEILLANCE
• TOPICS IN BRIEF
• FACTSHEETS & RESOURCES
• WORLD OVERVIEW

Capital City: Dhaka

Official Languages: Bengali (Bangla)

Monetary Unit: Bangladesh taka (Tk)

• General Information
• Vaccine Recommendations
• Other Risks

TRAVEL RESTRICTIONS ARE IN PLACE FOR THIS COUNTRY

There are entry requirements for anyone who plans to travel to England from this country. Please check here for further information. Advice may vary in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

The information on these pages should be used to research health risks and to inform the pre-travel consultation.

Due to COVID-19, travel advice is subject to rapid change. Countries may change entry requirements and close their borders at very short notice. Travellers must ensure they check current Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) travel advice in addition to the FCDO specific country page (where available) which provides additional information on travel restrictions and entry requirements in addition to safety and security advice.

Travellers should ideally arrange an appointment with their health professional at least four to six weeks before travel. However, even if time is short, an appointment is still worthwhile. This appointment provides an opportunity to assess health risks taking into account a number of factors including destination, medical history, and planned activities. For those with pre-existing health problems, an earlier appointment is recommended.

All travellers should ensure they have adequate travel health insurance .

A list of useful resources including advice on how to reduce the risk of certain health problems is available below.

• Food and water hygiene
• Insect and tick bite avoidance
• Personal safety
• Sexually transmitted infections
• Sun protection

Details of vaccination recommendations and requirements are provided below.

All travellers

Travellers should be up to date with routine vaccination courses and boosters as recommended in the UK . These vaccinations include for example measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine and diphtheria-tetanus-polio vaccine.

Country-specific diphtheria recommendations are not provided here. Diphtheria tetanus and polio are combined in a single vaccine in the UK. Therefore, when a tetanus booster is recommended for travellers, diphtheria vaccine is also given. Should there be an outbreak of diphtheria in a country, diphtheria vaccination guidance will be provided.

Those who may be at increased risk of an infectious disease due to their work, lifestyle choice, or certain underlying health problems should be up to date with additional recommended vaccines. See the individual chapters of the 'Green Book' Immunisation against infectious disease for further details.

Certificate requirements

Please read the information below carefully, as certificate requirements may be relevant to certain travellers only. For travellers further details, if required, should be sought from their healthcare professional.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in Bangladesh, however, there is a certificate requirement.
• Under International Health Regulations, proof of vaccination against yellow fever is required from travellers aged 1 year or over arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission and for travellers having transited through an airport of a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.
• According to World Health Organization (WHO), from 11 July 2016 (for all countries), the yellow fever certificate will be valid for the duration of the life of the person vaccinated. As a consequence, a valid certificate, presented by arriving travellers, cannot be rejected on the grounds that more than ten years have passed since the date vaccination became effective as stated on the certificate; and that boosters or revaccination cannot be required. 
• View the WHO list of countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.
• There is no risk of polio in this country. However, proof of polio vaccination may be necessary for some travellers. Please check the World Health Organization: International Travel and Health for latest country specific information.

Most travellers

The vaccines in this section are recommended for most travellers visiting this country. Information on these vaccines can be found by clicking on the blue arrow. Vaccines are listed alphabetically.

Hepatitis A

Hepatitis A is a viral infection transmitted through contaminated food and water or by direct contact with an infectious person. Symptoms are often mild or absent in young children, but the disease can be more serious with advancing age. Recovery can vary from weeks to months. Following hepatitis A infection immunity is lifelong.

All travellers should take care with personal, food and water hygiene.

Hepatitis A vaccination

As hepatitis A vaccine is well tolerated and affords long-lasting protection, it is recommended for all previously unvaccinated travellers.

Hepatitis A in brief

Tetanus is caused by a toxin released from Clostridium tetani bacteria and occurs worldwide. Tetanus bacteria are present in soil and manure and may be introduced through open wounds such as a puncture wound, burn or scratch.

Travellers should thoroughly clean all wounds and seek medical attention for injuries such as animal bites/scratches, burns or wounds contaminated with soil.

Tetanus vaccination

• Travellers should have completed a tetanus vaccination course according to the UK schedule.
• If travelling to a country or area where medical facilities may be limited, a booster dose of a tetanus-containing vaccine is recommended if the last dose was more than ten years ago even if five doses of vaccine have been given previously.

Country-specific information on medical facilities may be found in the 'health' section of the FCDO foreign travel advice pages.

Tetanus in brief

Typhoid is a bacterial infection transmitted through contaminated food and water. Previous typhoid illness may only partially protect against re-infection.

Vaccination is recommended for most travellers, particularly travellers visiting friends and relatives, those in contact with an infected person, young children, frequent or long-stay travellers visiting areas where sanitation and food hygiene are likely to be poor, and laboratory personnel who may handle the bacteria for their work.

Typhoid vaccination

• Oral and injectable typhoid vaccinations are available.

Typhoid in brief

Some travellers.

The vaccines in this section are recommended for some travellers visiting this country. Information on when these vaccines should be considered can be found by clicking on the arrow. Vaccines are listed alphabetically.

Cholera is a bacterial infection transmitted by contaminated food and water. Cholera can cause severe watery diarrhoea although mild infections are common. Most travellers are at low risk.

Cholera in Bangladesh

Cholera is presumed to occur in this country.

Cholera vaccination

This oral vaccine is recommended for those whose activities or medical history put them at increased risk. This includes:

• aid workers.
• those going to areas of cholera outbreaks who have limited access to safe water and medical care.
• those for whom vaccination is considered potentially beneficial.

Cholera in brief

Hepatitis b.

Hepatitis B is a viral infection; it is transmitted by exposure to infected blood or body fluids. This mostly occurs during sexual contact or as a result of blood-to-blood contact (for example from contaminated equipment during medical and dental procedures, tattooing or body piercing procedures, and sharing of intravenous needles). Mothers with the virus can also transmit the infection to their baby during childbirth.

Hepatitis B in Bangladesh

2% or more of the population are known or thought to be persistently infected with the hepatitis B virus (intermediate/high prevalence).

Travellers should avoid contact with blood or body fluids. This includes:

• avoiding unprotected sexual intercourse.
• avoiding tattooing, piercing, public shaving, and acupuncture (unless sterile equipment is used).
• not sharing needles or other injection equipment.
• following universal precautions if working in a medical/dental/high risk setting.

A sterile medical equipment kit may be helpful when travelling to resource poor areas.

Hepatitis B vaccination

Vaccination could be considered for all travellers, and is recommended for those whose activities or medical history put them at increased risk including:

• those who may have unprotected sex.
• those who may be exposed to contaminated needles through injecting drug use.
• those who may be exposed to blood or body fluids through their work (e.g. health workers).
• those who may be exposed to contaminated needles as a result of having medical or dental care e.g. those with pre-existing medical conditions and those travelling for medical care abroad including those intending to receive renal dialysis overseas.
• long-stay travellers.
• those who are participating in contact sports.
• families adopting children from this country.

Hepatitis B in brief

Japanese encephalitis.

Japanese encephalitis (JE) is a viral infection transmitted to humans by the bite of an infected mosquito. These mosquitoes usually bite between dusk and dawn, mainly in rural areas; especially where there are rice fields, swamps and marshes. Mosquitoes become infected by biting JE infected animals (particularly pigs) or birds.

Travellers are at increased risk of infection when visiting rural areas. Short trips (usually less than a month) especially if only travelling to urban areas, are considered lower risk.

Japanese encephalitis in Bangladesh

JE occurs in this country, transmission is considered to be May to October. Cases may be reported outside these months. 

All travellers should avoid mosquito bites particularly between dusk and dawn.

Japanese encephalitis vaccination

• Vaccination is recommended for those whose activities put them at increased risk (see above).
• Vaccination could be considered for those on shorter trips if the risk is considered to be sufficient e.g. those spending time in areas where the mosquito breeds such as rice fields, marshlands, or pig farming areas.

Japanese encephalitis in brief

Rabies is a viral infection which is usually transmitted following contact with the saliva of an infected animal most often via a bite, scratch or lick to an open wound or mucous membrane (such as on the eye, nose or mouth). Although many different animals can transmit the virus, most cases follow a bite or scratch from an infected dog. In some parts of the world, bats are an important source of infection.

Rabies symptoms can take some time to develop, but when they do, the condition is almost always fatal.

The risk of exposure is increased by certain activities and length of stay (see below). Children are at increased risk as they are less likely to avoid contact with animals and to report a bite, scratch or lick.

Rabies in Bangladesh

Rabies is considered to be a risk in this country. Bats may also carry rabies-like viruses.

• Travellers should avoid contact with all animals. Rabies is preventable with prompt post-exposure treatment.
• Following a possible exposure, wounds should be thoroughly cleansed and an urgent local medical assessment sought, even if the wound appears trivial.
• Post-exposure treatment and advice should be in accordance with  national guidelines .

Rabies vaccination

A full course of pre-exposure vaccines simplifies and shortens the course of post-exposure treatment and removes the need for rabies immunoglobulin which is in short supply world-wide.

Pre-exposure vaccinations are recommended for travellers whose activities put them at increased risk including:

• those at risk due to their work (e.g. laboratory staff working with the virus, those working with animals or health workers who may be caring for infected patients).
• those travelling to areas where access to post-exposure treatment and medical care is limited.
• those planning higher risk activities such as running or cycling.
• long-stay travellers (more than one month).

Rabies in brief

Tuberculosis.

TB is a bacterial infection most commonly affecting the lungs but can affect any part of the body. When a person with TB in their lungs or throat coughs or sneezes they could pass TB on to other people. TB is curable but can be serious if not treated.

The BCG vaccination helps to protect some people, particularly babies and young children who are at increased risk from TB.

Tuberculosis in Bangladesh

This country has reported an annual TB incidence of greater than or equal to 40 cases per 100,000 population at least once in the last five years ( further details ).

Travellers should avoid close contact with individuals known to have infectious pulmonary (lung) or laryngeal (throat) TB.

Those at risk during their work (such as healthcare workers) should take appropriate infection control and prevention precautions.

Tuberculosis (BCG) vaccination

BCG vaccine is recommended for those at increased risk of developing severe disease and/or of exposure to TB infection. See UK Health Security Agency Immunisation against infectious disease, the 'Green Book '.

For travellers, BCG vaccine is recommended for:

• unvaccinated, children under 16 years of age, who are going to live for more than 3 months in this country. A tuberculin skin test is required prior to vaccination for all children from 6 years of age and may be recommended for some younger children.
• unvaccinated, tuberculin skin test-negative individuals at risk due to their work such as healthcare or laboratory workers who have direct contact with TB patients or potentially infectious clinical material and vets and abattoir workers who handle animal material, which could be infected with TB.

There are specific contraindications to BCG vaccine. Health professionals must be trained and assessed as competent to administer this vaccine intradermally.

Following administration, no further vaccines should be administered in the same limb for 3 months.

The BCG vaccine is given once only, booster doses are not recommended.

Tuberculosis in brief

Malaria is a serious illness caused by infection of red blood cells with a parasite called Plasmodium. The disease is transmitted by mosquitoes which predominantly feed between dusk and dawn.

Symptoms usually begin with a fever (high temperature) of 38°C (100°F) or more. Other symptoms may include feeling cold and shivery, headache, nausea, vomiting and aching muscles. Symptoms may appear between eight days and one year after the infected mosquito bite.

Prompt diagnosis and treatment is required as people with malaria can deteriorate quickly. Those at higher risk of malaria, or of severe complications from malaria, include pregnant women, infants and young children, the elderly, travellers who do not have a functioning spleen and those visiting friends and relatives.

Travellers should follow an ABCD guide to preventing malaria:

A wareness of the risk – Risk depends on the specific location, season of travel, length of stay, activities and type of accommodation. B ite prevention – Travellers should take mosquito bite avoidance measures. C hemoprophylaxis – Travellers should take antimalarials (malaria prevention tablets) if appropriate for the area (see below). No antimalarials are 100% effective but taking them in combination with mosquito bite avoidance measures will give substantial protection against malaria. D iagnosis – Travellers who develop a fever of 38°C [100°F] or higher more than one week after being in a malaria risk area, or who develop any symptoms suggestive of malaria within a year of return should seek immediate medical care. Emergency standby treatment may be considered for those going to remote areas with limited access to medical attention.

• There is a high risk of malaria in the Chittagong Hill Tract districts of Bangladesh: atovaquone/proguanil OR doxycycline OR mefloquine recommended.
• There is a very low risk in the rest of Bangladesh (including Chittagong city which is outside the Chittagong Hill Tracts district): awareness of risk and bite avoidance recommended.

Antimalarial recommendations map

• Choose between  static map  and  interactive map  by selecting a tab below.
• Click on static map to open in a new window.
• Please  refresh the page  to reload interactive map if some shaded areas in the legend are missing.
• interactive map

There is a high risk of malaria in Chittagong Hill Tract districts Antimalarials recommended: atovaquone/progunil or doxycycline or mefloquine

There is a very low risk in the rest of Bangladesh Awareness and bite avoidance recommended

The map is intended as a guide and should be used with the recommendations above. Please note the shading along the coast may cover sections of the sea to ensure the full coast line and close by islands have the correct risk shading.

Map instructions

You can only interact with the country of Bangladesh on this map; maps are best viewed in full screen mode.

Click on this icon to view map in full screen [then press Esc on keyboard to return].

Zooming in and out of the map

If your mouse has a scroll wheel, zoom in or out by holding Ctrl (Cmd on a Mac) and turning the wheel. Pulling the scroll wheel towards you zooms out, pushing it away zooms in.

If your mouse does not have a scroll wheel, point (with the mouse) to the area on the map that you want to zoom in or out of, then click on + or – icon

Looking around the map

Hold down the left click button on your mouse and move the mouse from side to side or up and down – this will allow you to pan around the map.

Pop-up boxes

These will appear if you click on an area and indicate low or high risk. Close by clicking 'x' in the pop-up box.

Type in the name of place you wish to view in the box. Spelling is important.

Recommended antimalarials

The recommended antimalarials for Bangladesh are listed below. They are recommended for certain areas only (see description of risk areas above). If these are not suitable please seek further specialist advice.

Please note, the advice for children is different, the dose is based on body weight and some antimalarials are not suitable.

Atovaquone/Proguanil

Atovaquone 250mg/Proguanil 100mg combination preparation:

• start one to two days before arrival in the malaria risk area
• for adults, one tablet is taken every day, ideally at the same time of day for the duration of the time in a malaria risk area and daily for seven days after leaving the malaria risk area
• take with a fatty meal if possible
• for children paediatric tablets are available and the dose is based on body weight (see table below)

Doxycycline

Doxycycline 100mg:

• adults and children over 12 years of age take 100mg daily, ideally at the same time of day for the duration of the time in a malaria risk area and daily for four weeks after leaving the malaria risk area
• take with food if possible; avoid taking this drug just before lying down
• not suitable for children under 12 years of age

Mefloquine 250mg:

• this drug is taken weekly, adults take one 250mg tablet each week
• start two to three weeks before arrival in the malaria risk area and continue weekly until four weeks after leaving the malaria risk area
• for children the dose is based on the body weight (see table below)
• Malaria in brief
• Malaria factsheet
• Children's antimalarial dose table
• Malaria prevention guidelines for travellers from the UK

There are some risks that are relevant to all travellers regardless of destination. These may for example include road traffic and other accidents, diseases transmitted by insects or ticks, diseases transmitted by contaminated food and water, sexually transmitted infections, or health issues related to the heat or cold.

Some additional risks (which may be present in all or part of this country) are mentioned below and are presented alphabetically. Select risk to expand information.

Biting insects or ticks

Insect or tick bites can cause irritation and infections of the skin at the site of a bite. They can also spread certain diseases.

Diseases in South Asia

There is a risk of insect or tick-borne diseases in some areas of South Asia. This includes diseases such as chikungunya , Crimean-Congo haemorrhagic fever , leishmaniasis , scrub typhus and West Nile virus .

• All travellers should avoid insect and tick bites day and night.
• There are no vaccinations (or medications) to prevent these diseases.

Further information about specific insect or tick-borne diseases for this country can be found, if appropriate on this page, in other sections of the country information pages and the insect and tick bite avoidance factsheet .

Dengue is a viral infection spread by mosquitoes which mainly feed during daytime hours. It causes a flu-like illness, which can occasionally develop into a more serious life-threatening illness. Severe dengue is rare in travellers.

The mosquitoes that spread dengue are more common in towns, cities and surrounding areas.

Dengue in Bangladesh

There is a risk of dengue in this country.

• Travellers should avoid mosquito bites particularly during daytime hours.
• A dengue vaccine is licensed in the UK for the prevention of dengue disease in individuals from 4 years of age. The Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) and World Health Organization are in the process of reviewing the product information. Recommendations on the use of this vaccine will be published in due course.

Dengue in brief

Seasonal influenza is a viral infection of the respiratory tract and spreads easily from person to person via respiratory droplets when coughing and sneezing. Symptoms appear rapidly and include fever, muscle aches, headache, malaise (feeling unwell), cough, sore throat and a runny nose. In healthy individuals, symptoms improve without treatment within two to seven days. Severe illness is more common in those aged 65 years or over, those under 2 years of age, or those who have underlying medical conditions that increase their risk for complications of influenza.

Seasonal influenza in Bangladesh

Seasonal influenza occurs throughout the world. In the northern hemisphere (including the UK), most influenza occurs from as early as October through to March. In the southern hemisphere, influenza mostly occurs between April and September. In the tropics, influenza can occur throughout the year.

All travellers should:

• Avoid close contact with symptomatic individuals
• Avoid crowded conditions where possible
• Wash their hands frequently
• Practise ‘cough hygiene’: sneezing or coughing into a tissue and promptly discarding it safely, and washing their hands
• Avoid travel if unwell with influenza-like symptoms
• A vaccine is available in certain circumstances (see below)*

*In the UK, seasonal influenza vaccine is offered routinely each year to those at higher risk of developing of severe disease following influenza infection, and certain additional groups such as healthcare workers and children as part of the UK national schedule (see information on vaccination ). For those who do not fall into these groups, vaccination may be available privately.

If individuals at higher risk of severe disease following influenza infection are travelling to a country when influenza is likely to be circulating they should ensure they received a flu vaccination in the previous 12 months.

The vaccine used in the UK protects against the strains predicted to occur during the winter months of the northern hemisphere. It is not possible to obtain vaccine for the southern hemisphere in the UK, but the vaccine used during the UK influenza season should still provide important protection against strains likely to occur during the southern hemisphere influenza season, and in the tropics.

Avian influenza

Avian influenza viruses can rarely infect and cause disease in humans. Such cases are usually associated with close exposure to infected bird or animal populations. Where appropriate, information on these will be available in the outbreaks and news sections of the relevant country pages. Seasonal influenza vaccines will not provide protection against avian influenza.

Avian influenza in brief

Outdoor air quality.

Poor air quality is a significant public health problem in many parts of the world. Exposure to high levels of air pollution over short time periods (e.g. minutes/hours/days) and longer time periods (e.g. years) is linked to many different acute and chronic health problems. These effects are mainly on the respiratory (lungs and airways) and cardiovascular (heart function and blood circulation) systems.

Current information on world air quality is available from the world air quality index project .

Travellers with health problems that might make them more vulnerable to the effects of air pollution who are travelling to areas of high pollution should:

• discuss their travel plans with their doctor, and carry adequate supplies of their regular medication.
• take sensible precautions to minimise their exposure to high levels of air pollution.
• check local air quality data and amend their activities accordingly.
• take notice of any health advisories published by the local Ministry of Health and Department for Environment, and follow the guidance provided.

It is unclear if face masks are beneficial at reducing exposure and may make breathing more difficult for those with pre-existing lung conditions. Those who choose to use one should make sure that the mask fits well and know how to wear it properly.

Outdoor air quality in brief

Zika virus (ZIKV) is a viral infection spread by mosquitoes which predominantly feed during daytime hours. A small number of cases of sexual transmission of ZIKV have also been reported. Most people infected with ZIKV have no symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they are usually mild and short-lived. Serious complications and deaths are not common. However, ZIKV is a cause of Congenital Zika Syndrome (microcephaly and other congenital anomalies) and neurological complications such as Guillain-Barré syndrome.

Zika virus in Bangladesh

There is a risk of Zika virus in this country. Details of specific affected areas within this country are not available, but information on current outbreaks where available will be reported on our outbreak surveillance database.

Pregnant women should discuss the suitability of travel and the potential risk that Zika virus may present with their health care provider.

• All travellers should avoid mosquito bites particularly during daytime hours.
• There is no vaccination or medication to prevent Zika virus infection.
• Women should avoid becoming pregnant while travelling in this country, and for 2 months (8 weeks) after their last possible Zika virus exposure* (see below if male partner has travelled).
• If a woman develops symptoms compatible with Zika virus infection, it is recommended she avoids becoming pregnant for a further 2 months following recovery.
• Women who visited this country while pregnant, or who become pregnant within 2 months after their last possible Zika virus exposure*, should contact their GP, obstetrician or midwife for further advice, even if they have not been unwell.

Please note screening of returning travellers without Zika virus symptoms is not available on the NHS. Couples planning pregnancy in the very near future should consider whether they should avoid travel to a country or area with risk of Zika virus, rather than delay conception for the recommended period (see below) after travel. This particularly includes couples in assisted fertility programmes.

Prevention of sexual transmission

Couples should follow guidance on prevention of sexual transmission of Zika virus and avoid conception as follows:

• If both partners travelled, for 3 months after last possible Zika virus exposure*
• Male traveller only, for 3 months after last possible Zika virus exposure*
• Female traveller only, for 2 months after last possible Zika virus exposure*

See further information for pregnant women, their partners and couples planning pregnancy .

*Last possible Zika virus exposure is defined as the later of either the date of leaving a country or area with risk for Zika virus transmission, or the date on which unprotected sexual contact with a potentially infectious partner took place.

See detailed guidance on factors to consider when assessing the risk of Zika virus.

Zika virus in brief

COVID-19 disease is caused by the coronavirus SARS-CoV2. The main symptoms of COVID-19 are a new continuous cough, a high temperature, and a loss of, or change in, normal sense of taste or smell. Symptoms range from mild to life-threatening. Older people and  those with underlying health problems  are more likely to develop severe disease.

COVID-19 is spread through close contact with people who have the virus. It is mainly transmitted from person to person by breathing in droplets produced when someone infected with the virus breathes, speaks, coughs or sneezes. It is also spread by touching the infected droplets on surfaces, then touching the eyes, nose or mouth.

COVID-19 vaccines provide high levels of protection against severe illness, hospitalisation, or dying from the virus. Vaccination against COVID-19 reduces, but does not eliminate the risk of infection, so social distancing and personal and respiratory hygiene remain important interventions, particularly during overseas travel.

Travellers should always check the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) travel advice and their  country-specific pages  for the latest COVID-19 travel advisories which may include information on travel restrictions, quarantine, COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements. This includes considering the recommendations and requirements for any transit countries.

Travellers should be aware that COVID-19 case numbers in individual countries/areas can increase rapidly, and healthcare capacity and country requirements can change at short notice.

COVID-19 in Bangladesh

Most countries worldwide present a risk of exposure to COVID-19. The risk of COVID-19, public health policy, and travel advice or restrictions may change quickly, therefore travellers should ensure they have access to up to date information on COVID-19 and be prepared for rapid changes in guidance both before and during travel.

All travellers should check the FCDO travel advice and carefully consider their personal situation and risks of COVID-19 before travel to this country. This is particularly important in those at higher risk from COVID-19 who may wish to seek medical advice before travel.

Individuals entering or returning to the UK may be required to follow additional  UK border measures .

If travelling to this country, travellers should:

• Consider the risk at all destinations including any transit countries, and the risk during travel itself.
• Check with the airline/tour operator about preventive measures in place to reduce risk during travel.
• Follow the latest guidance on social distancing and face coverings, including any local requirements and maintain good hand, respiratory, and personal hygiene at all times. This may be particularly important if staying with friends and family.
• Ensure they are up to date with their COVID-19 vaccination courses and boosters as recommended in the UK vaccination programme.

See  guidance on factors to consider when assessing the risk of COVID-19 for travellers .

If travellers develop COVID-19 symptoms while abroad, they should:

• Follow local guidelines on self-isolation, testing and avoiding travel.
• Contact their travel insurance provider.
• Seek medical advice if needed.

COVID-19 in brief

Nipah virus: information for travellers and health professionals

Information on risks and prevention for travellers and health professionals

Changes to the Country Information pages: Zika

UK Health Security Agency and NaTHNaC have reviewed and updated country-specific Zika information and prevention advice

Malaria: a reminder for travellers over the winter holiday season

Advice for travellers and health professionals about malaria

Using information collated from a variety of sources, we regularly review and update information on overseas disease outbreaks and other health issues that may affect the UK traveller.

Please note that not all cases of disease or outbreaks are reported ; some diseases may only be reported if they occur outside of the usual recognised risk area or season, or they have been reported in greater than usual numbers.

Further information on the Outbreak Surveillance section.

Nipah virus in Bangladesh

Since 1 January 2024, and as of 9 February 2024, 2 laboratory-confirmed fatal cases of Nipah virus (NiV) have been reported from the Dhaka division of Bangladesh.

As of 24 September 2023, a total of 187,725 cases, including 909 deaths, had been reported in the country. This makes it the largest outbreak of dengue ever reported in Bangladesh. The outbreak has brought additional pressure on the health system.

Foreign travel advice

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Information on how to stay safe and healthy abroad. About us.

• Destinations
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Bangladesh (Asia)

Advice for all destinations, vaccinations and malaria risk.

Review both the Vaccination and Malaria sections on this page to find out if you may need vaccines and/or a malaria risk assessment before you travel to this country.

If you think you require vaccines and/or malaria risk assessment, you should make an appointment with a travel health professional:

• How to make an appointment with a travel health professional

A travel health risk assessment is also advisable for some people, even when vaccines or malaria tablets are not required.

• Do I need a travel health risk assessment?

Risk prevention advice 

Many of the health risks experienced by travellers cannot be prevented by vaccines and other measures need to be taken.

Always make sure you understand the wider risks at your destination and take precautions, including:

• food and water safety
• accident prevention
• avoiding insect bites
• preventing and treating animal bites
• respiratory hygiene
• hand hygiene

Our advice section gives detailed information on minimising specific health risks abroad:

• Travel Health Advice A-Z

Other health considerations

Make sure you have travel insurance before travel to cover healthcare abroad.

Find out if there are any restrictions you need to consider if you are travelling with medicines .

Know how to access healthcare at your destination: see the GOV.UK English speaking doctors and medical facilities: worldwide list

If you feel unwell on your return home from travelling abroad, always seek advice from a healthcare professional and let them know your travel history.

Vaccinations

• Confirm primary courses and boosters are up to date as recommended for life in Britain - including for example, seasonal flu vaccine (if indicated), MMR , vaccines required for occupational risk of exposure, lifestyle risks and underlying medical conditions.
• Courses or boosters usually advised: Diphtheria; Hepatitis A; Tetanus; Typhoid.
• Other vaccines to consider: Hepatitis B; Rabies.
• Selectively advised vaccines - only for those individuals at highest risk: Cholera; Japanese Encephalitis.

Yellow fever vaccination certificate required for travellers aged 1 year or over arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission  and for travellers having transited for more than 12 hours through an airport of a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission.

Notes on the diseases mentioned above

Risk is higher during floods and after natural disasters, in areas with very poor sanitation and lack of clean drinking water.

• Diphtheria :  spread person to person through respiratory droplets. Risk is higher if mixing with locals in poor, overcrowded living conditions.

Risk is higher where personal hygiene and sanitation is poor.

Risk is higher for long stays, frequent travel and for children (exposed through cuts and scratches), those who may require medical treatment during travel.

• Japanese Encephalitis :  spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. This mosquito breeds in rice paddies and mainly bites between dusk and dawn. Risk is highest for long stay travellers to rural areas, particularly if unable to avoid mosquito bites.
• Tetanus :  spread through contamination of cuts, burns and wounds with tetanus spores. Spores are found in soil worldwide. A total of 5 doses of tetanus vaccine are recommended for life in the UK. Boosters are usually recommended in a country or situation where the correct treatment of an injury may not be readily available.
• Typhoid :  spread mainly through consumption of contaminated food and drink. Risk is higher where access to adequate sanitation and safe water is limited.

Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease transmitted by mosquitoes.You cannot be vaccinated against malaria.

Malaria precautions

• Malaria risk is present throughout the year. The risk is highest in the Chittagong Hill Tract districts of Bandarban, Rangamati and Khagrachari. In Cox Bazaar district the risk is not high enough to warrant antimalarial tablets for most travellers, however, it may be considered for certain groups who may be at higher risk (see below under Low risk with additional advice).
• There is low to no risk all other areas including Dhaka City.
• Malaria precautions are essential. Avoid mosquito bites by covering up with clothing such as long sleeves and long trousers especially after sunset, using insect repellents on exposed skin and, when necessary, sleeping under a mosquito net.
• Check with your doctor or nurse about suitable antimalarial  tablets.
• See malaria map – additional information can be found by clicking on the Regional   Information icon below the map.
• High risk areas: atovaquone/proguanil OR doxycycline OR mefloquine is usually advised.
• Low risk with additional advice: antimalarial tablets are not usually recommended, however, they can be considered for certain travellers who may be at higher risk e.g. longer stay in rural areas, visiting friends or relatives, those with medical conditions, immunosuppression or those without a spleen. Atovaquone/proguanil OR doxycycline OR mefloquine  is advised for those at risk.
• Low to no risk areas: antimalarial tablets are not usually advised.
• If you have been travelling in a malarious area and develop a fever seek medical attention promptly. Remember malaria can develop even up to one year after exposure.
• If travelling to an area remote from medical facilities, carrying standby emergency treatment for malaria may be considered.

Other Health Risks

Dengue fever.

There is a risk of exposure to coronavirus (COVID-19) in this country.

Please be aware that the risk of COVID-19 in this country may change at short notice and also consider your risk of exposure in any transit countries and from travelling itself. 

• The 'News' section on this page will advise if significant case increases or outbreaks have occurred in this country.

Prior to travel, you should:

• Check the latest government guidance on the FCDO Foreign travel advice and country specific pages for travel to this country and the rules for entering the UK on return.
• Ensure you are up to date with UK recommendations on COVID-19 vaccination.
• You can check this in the FAQ's.
• If you are at increased risk of severe COVID-19 you should carefully  consider your travel plans  and consider seeking medical advice prior to making any decisions.

For further information, see  Coronavirus disease (COVID-19)  and  COVID-19: Health Considerations for Travel  pages.

Zika Virus Infection

This country has been categorised as having a risk of Zika (ZIKV) virus transmission.

ZIKV is mainly spread through mosquito bites. The mosquito responsible most commonly bites during daylight hours and is common in towns and cities. 

The illness is usually mild but infection during pregnancy may lead to babies being born with birth defects. There is no vaccine currently available against ZIKV.

Advice for All Travellers

You should practice strict mosquito bite avoidance at all times. Do not travel without adequate travel insurance . Seek pre-travel health advice from a travel health professional 6 to 8 weeks in advance of travel.

Additional recommendations for pregnant travellers or those planning pregnancy

If you are planning pregnancy in the very near future you should consider whether you should avoid travel to this country.

• contact your GP, obstetrician or midwife for further advice, even if you have not been unwell or had any symptoms of ZIKV infection
• use barrier methods of contraception during and after travel and for the duration of your pregnancy, even in you have not been unwell or had any symptoms of ZIKV infection
• If you develop symptoms of ZIKV infection, it is recommended that you avoid becoming pregnant for a further 2 months following your recovery
• 2 months afterwards if you are female
• 3 months afterwards if you are male or if both partners travelled

These measures reduce the chance of sexual transmission of ZIKV and/or the risk of ZIKV infection in pregnancy.

For further information, see Zika virus infection page.

• 27 May 2024 - Cholera in Asia
• 23 May 2024 - Advice on Dengue Fever if Travelling Abroad
• 66 additional items in the news archive for this country

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Introducing Bangladesh

About bangladesh.

• Images of Bangladesh
• History, language & culture
• Weather & geography
• Doing business & staying in touch

Plan your trip

• Travel to Bangladesh
• Where to stay

While you’re there

• Things to see & do
• Shopping & nightlife
• Food & drink
• Getting around

Before you go

• Passport & visa
• Public Holidays
• Money & duty free

Book your flights

• Chittagong Shah International Airport
• Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport

Bangladesh travel guide

India’s sleepy eastern cousin, Bangladesh slumbers gently under monsoon skies at the mouth of the Jamuna River, one of the world’s great deltas. Formerly East Pakistan, this intriguing backwater gained independence in 1971 after a civil war that still plays a major role in the national psyche.

An influx of tourists was predicted following independence, but this has yet to materialised, meaning visitors have Bangladesh’s many and varied attractions to themselves. Those attractions range from Mughal palaces and gleaming mosques to palm-fringed beaches, tea-plantations and jungles full of snarling Bengal tigers.

Bangladesh’s frenetic capital, Dhaka, was once the main port for the whole of Bengal, and its rickshaw-crammed streets present a faded mirror to Kolkata across the border. Dhaka is a city of rain-washed colonial buildings, gaudy film posters, docksides thronging with boats and the constant cacophony of car horns and rickshaw bells. It can be a shock for the senses, but the blow is softened by friendly, inquisitive locals and delicious Bengali cuisine.

South of Dhaka, the Jamuna River breaks down into a tangle of jungle-choked waterways as you enter the Sundarbans, one of the last refuges of the Bengal tiger. Here, as elsewhere in Bangladesh, the best way to get around is by river – legions of boats ply every waterway, from tiny coracles to the paddleboat ‘rockets’ that chug between Dhaka and Kulna.

The south of Bangladesh is something else again; tropical beaches give way to forested hills that hide a host of Buddhist and animist tribes. Then there’s Sylhet, in the heart of tea plantation country, where foreign remittances have built a miniature version of England amidst the monsoon hills.

Above all else, Bangladesh is place to leave the mainstream travel map. Let the crowds mob the beaches of Goa and the forts of Rajasthan; in Bangladesh, you won’t have to queue to be amazed.

143,998 sq km (55,598 sq miles).

162,910,864 (UN estimate 2016).

1,173.3 per sq km.

President Mohammad Shahabuddin Chuppu since 2023.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Wajed since 2009.

Travel Advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Areas where FCDO advises against all but essential travel

Your travel insurance could be invalidated if you travel against FCDO advice. Consular support is also severely limited where FCDO advises against travel.

Chittagong Hill Tracts

FCDO advises against all but essential travel to the Chittagong Hill Tracts, an area made up of the districts of:

• Khagrachari

Find out more about why FCDO advises against travel .

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide as well as support for British nationals abroad which includes:

• advice on preparing for travel abroad and reducing risks
• information for women, LGBT+ and disabled travellers

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Bangladesh set and enforce entry rules. If you are not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Bangladesh High Commission London .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Bangladesh.

Passport validity requirements

When you apply for a visa to visit Bangladesh, your passport must have:

• at least 6 months remaining validity
• at least 2 blank pages

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet the requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Checks at border control

Make sure you get your passport stamped.

Make sure you get a stamp in your passport when you arrive. You must show immigration officers this arrival stamp when you leave Bangladesh.

Visa requirements

You must have a visa to travel to Bangladesh, unless you have a ‘no visa required’ stamp in your UK passport.

At Bangladeshi border control, you may also need to show a return or onward ticket.

If you are working in Bangladesh, you must get an Income Tax Clearance Certificate or an Income Tax Exemption Certificate before leaving Bangladesh. You get application forms from the National Board of Revenue, Bangladesh .

Applying for a visa

Apply for a visa from the Bangladesh High Commission London .

If you plan to use Bangladesh as a hub to visit other countries in the region, make sure you get a multiple-entry visa.

Depending on your circumstances, you may be able to apply for a visa when you arrive at Dhaka airport . You must have a return ticket to apply for a visa on arrival. Visas on arrival are:

• single entry
• valid for 15 to 30 days
• not guaranteed – Bangladeshi immigration officers issue them at their discretion

If your visa expires while you are in Bangladesh, you can apply for a visa extension from the Department of Immigration and Passports . You may get a fine for overstaying.

British-Bangladeshi nationals

British nationals of Bangladeshi origin may be able to apply for a ‘no visa required’ stamp from the Bangladesh High Commission in London.

Contact the Bangladesh High Commission in London if you have questions.

Air passengers in transit

If you are in transit to another country, you do not need a Bangladesh visa as you will not pass through Bangladeshi border control – this is sometimes called ‘staying airside’.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Bangladesh guide .

Depending on your circumstances, these may include a:

• yellow fever vaccination certificate
• polio vaccination

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that can be brought into and taken out of Bangladesh . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Taking money into or out of Bangladesh

You may need to declare foreign currency or Bangladeshi taka, depending on the amount you are travelling with. See Bangladesh Customs’ rules on bringing money into or out of Bangladesh .

You can cash travellers’ cheques at banks and airports. ATMs are available in most urban areas and accept UK cards. There are fewer ATMs in rural areas.

You should also read FCDO ’s overall travel advice and regional risks advice .

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. You should remain vigilant at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad .

Terrorism in Bangladesh

Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Bangladesh.

Attacks could target the following locations:

• crowded areas and places where foreign nationals are known to gather
• religious buildings
• political rallies

There have been occasional attacks against minority religious communities and targeting police and security forces. These have included improvised explosive device ( IED ) attacks in major cities. Some groups have also targeted people who they consider to have views and lifestyles contrary to Islam.

Significant events include:

• 2017 – Daesh claimed responsibility for bombings in multiple locations, including targeting a security check post near Dhaka Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport
• 2016 – there was an attack claimed by Daesh at the Holey Artisan Bakery in the Gulshan 2 district of Dhaka, which resulted in the death of 20 hostages, including foreign nationals, and 2 police officers
• 2015 to 2016 – groups affiliated to Al Qaeda in the Indian Sub-continent ( AQIS ) claimed responsibility for murders in Dhaka and Sylhet targeting human rights activists and secular bloggers

The Bangladeshi authorities continue to disrupt planned attacks. Increases in security force presence and restrictions on movement may be put in place at short notice. You should remain aware of your surroundings, particularly in and around police buildings. Avoid large gatherings and other locations with a police or security presence. Follow the advice of local authorities.

Political situation

Bangladesh has a long history of political violence.

National elections took place on 7 January. Political rallies and demonstrations may continue to take place. These can quickly turn violent and lead to clashes with law enforcement. During demonstrations and strikes (‘hartals’), there can be arson, violence and vandalism in towns and cities across the country and, on occasion, resulting in fatalities. Attacks against property and public transport are possible. There can also be disruption to local and regional transport services.

Avoid large gatherings (including demonstrations and rallies) and political buildings. If you see a demonstration starting, move to a place of safety.

Follow updates in local media and get email notifications when this travel advice is updated. Bangladesh TV (BTV) has English-language news.

Robbery and violence

Criminal gangs operate in Dhaka and other cities. Thieves often work in pairs on motorcycles or motorised rickshaws known as ‘CNGs’.

Potential threats include armed robbery, violent crime and rape.

Passengers using rickshaws or travelling alone in taxis are vulnerable, particularly at night. Avoid using public transport if you’re alone.

Protecting your belongings

Be aware of pickpockets and bag-snatchers. Do not carry large amounts of money, use a mobile phone or wear jewellery in the street.

Visiting police stations

There have been reports of officials abusing their authority. Make sure someone goes with you if you visit a police station.

Dhaka and Sylhet airports

Risks at Dhaka and Sylhet airports include:

• theft, including passport theft
• taxi drivers overcharging or robbing customers

You should:

• avoid touts offering to carry your bags
• keep documents and belongings safe
• arrange taxis in advance

Kidnapping and hostage taking

Kidnappings of children and businessmen for ransom are common. These crimes do not appear to be particularly directed at foreigners.

Be aware the UK government policy is to not make substantive concessions to kidnappers .

Laws and cultural differences

Local customs reflect the fact Bangladesh is mainly an Islamic country.

Personal ID

Local officials may ask you for ID.

Carry photocopies of the personal details page in your passport and Bangladeshi visa. Keep the originals somewhere safe and leave copies with friends or relatives in the UK.

Both men and women should dress modestly to avoid causing offence. Women are advised to cover their shoulders and legs when in public.

Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims.

Get advice on respecting Ramadan when you arrive from your tour guide, hotel or business contacts.

• check opening hours of shops and restaurants
• follow local dress codes – clothing that does not meet local dress codes may cause more offence at this time, both for women and men
• be aware that fasting can cause tiredness, particularly during the later afternoon and early evening

Dual Bangladeshi-British nationals

If you’re a dual British-Bangladeshi national, the Bangladeshi government will consider you to be a Bangladeshi citizen, even if you:

• have never had a Bangladeshi passport
• were born outside Bangladesh

This may limit the help the British government can offer you. For more information on Bangladeshi nationality, check with the Bangladesh High Commission London .

The Bangladesh Police Expatriate Help Cell offers services to expatriates, including dual nationals.

Alcohol laws

You may need a liquor permit to drink alcohol in Bangladesh. A liquor permit allows you to drink alcohol in government-licensed bars. Check the requirements at your local district office and apply for a permit if necessary.

Illegal drugs penalties

There are severe penalties for possessing and trafficking illegal drugs. Some drug-related offences are punishable by the death penalty or life imprisonment.

Prison sentences and conditions

If you break local laws, you may get a prison sentence, served in a local prison. Delays and inefficiency in the judicial system can result in long detentions until court hearings eventually take place. Prison conditions are far below UK standards.

British nationals detained in Bangladesh have the right to request that the British High Commission in Dhaka is notified about their situation and British High Commission officials can gain access to them.

Family law and property disputes

Family law in Bangladesh is very different from UK law. Take particular care when, for example, child custody is an issue.

The British High Commission in Dhaka cannot help British nationals of Bangladeshi origin with land or property problems.

FCDO has a list of English-speaking lawyers in Bangladesh .

LGBT+ travellers

Same-sex relations are illegal in Bangladesh.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers .

Transport risks

Road travel.

If you are planning to drive in Bangladesh, see information on driving abroad .

You need an international driving permit ( IDP ) and a UK driving licence to drive in Bangladesh. You cannot buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel.

Bangladesh has a high rate of road accidents. Take great care when travelling by road, including by public transport, and when crossing streets. Cycle rickshaws are not safe – they offer little protection if there is an accident.

Ride hailing apps like Uber are available in Bangladesh. To make sure you get in the right car safely:

• wait in a safe location, not out on the street
• match the car’s registration plate, make and model
• ask the driver to state your name
• check the driver’s photo
• share your journey details and consider enabling GPS tracking on your phone so trusted contacts can see your location

In Bangladesh:

• driving standards are poor
• many drivers do not hold the correct licence or road worthiness certificates for their vehicles
• mandatory vehicle safety checks are often ignored
• a large number of rickshaws use the roads and ignore traffic laws

Driving at night is especially dangerous as many drivers do not use headlights or use full-beam headlights. There is also a risk of robbery if you travel between towns after dark. Avoid travelling alone at night.

The risks of travelling by bus include:

• extremely poor maintenance and driving standards
• frequent traffic collisions, some resulting in deaths
• rape, sexual assaults and other crimes, sometimes committed by the bus crew

Avoid travelling by bus alone and at night.

Private hire vehicles

Police are often unable to verify private hire drivers’ details, as driving records are often inaccurate.

When you’re travelling through an airport, allow enough time to complete check-in and security procedures, as both you and your baggage will need to go through security screening checks, including X-ray checks.

In 2019, an attempted hijacking took place of a Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight from Dhaka to Dubai via Chittagong. The Bangladesh Civil Aviation Ministry has completed its investigation into the incident. Extra security measures are in place.

Rail travel

The rail network is extensive but old and generally considered slow.

Rail travel risks include:

• frequent fatal accidents
• flood-damaged bridges and culverts in dangerous condition
• crime, including theft and sexual assault

On some trains, you may be able to lock first-class compartment doors. Make sure the door is locked if you’re travelling at night.

For information see Bangladesh Railways .

Sea and river travel

River and sea ferry risks include:

• dangerous overcrowding, particularly during religious holidays and other festivals
• falsified safety certificates on some vessels
• missing or inappropriate safety and survival equipment
• lack of communication equipment
• criminal gangs targeting vessels

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Monsoon season.

The monsoon season runs from June to September and can cause widespread flooding and travel disruption.

If travelling, you should check:

• access routes
• weather updates from the Bangladesh Meteorological Department
• the advice of local authorities

Tropical cyclones

There is a risk of tropical cyclones in Bangladesh. See extreme weather and natural hazards advice that includes what to do if you’re caught in a storm.

Check weather reports from the Bangladesh Meteorological Department and the World Meteorological Organisation .

Bangladesh can be affected by tsunamis and the government of Bangladesh can issue tsunami warnings. Monitor local news and follow any advice given by local authorities.

Earthquakes

Around half of Bangladesh, including the cities of Moulvibazar and Sylhet, is in a high-risk earthquake zone. Other areas, including Dhaka, are at moderate risk. Tremors and earthquakes, usually minor ones, happen occasionally.

See earthquake advice from the US Federal Emergency Management Agency .

This section has safety advice for regions of Bangladesh. It only covers regions where FCDO has specific advice.

You should also read FCDO ’s overall travel advice and safety and security advice .

Chittagong City and other districts of Chittagong Division are not included in the travel warning.

Security in the Chittagong Hill Tracts is a cause for concern. There are regular reports of violence and other criminal activity, particularly in more remote areas.

If you plan to visit the Chittagong Hill Tracts, you must give the Bangladesh authorities 10 days’ notice.

• Chittagong Divisional Commissioner’s Office (Telephone: 031 615 247)
• Chittagong Deputy Commissioner’s Office (Telephone: 031 619 996)

Myanmar border

There are ongoing reports of increasing violence and fighting in Myanmar (Burma), close to the Bangladesh border. The situation in border areas near Myanmar remains unpredictable, and may deteriorate at short notice. You should monitor local news outlets closely. 

Continuing violence has resulted in hundreds of thousands of Rohingya refugees crossing into the south-east of Bangladesh.

Most of the refugees are in the subdistricts of Ukhia and Teknaf in the southern part of Cox’s Bazar district. The Bangladesh authorities control access to these areas.

There are regular reports of insecurity, protests and violence.

Teknaf has the highest level of drug-related gang violence across Bangladesh, including:

• murders and shooting incidents between the gangs and police
• drug seizures, including large amounts of yaba (a mixture of caffeine and methamphetamine)
• kidnappings

Violence has increased in the refugee camps. There is no sign that foreign nationals are being targeted.

If you plan to visit Ukhia and Teknaf, you should:

• use caution
• consult the local authorities – you may need permission to travel there
• work through humanitarian agencies recognised by the Bangladesh government if you want to provide assistance

India border

Take particular care near the border with India. There are regular reports of individuals being killed for illegally crossing the border. There are occasional skirmishes between the Indian and Bangladeshi border guards, including exchanges of gunfire.

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance and access to money for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Dial 999 and ask for an ambulance.

If you suspect a heart attack, ask for a ‘cardiac ambulance’.

It may be faster to travel to the nearest hospital yourself if you have a vehicle.

Contact your insurance company promptly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccinations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip check:

• the latest information on vaccinations and health risks in TravelHealthPro’s Bangladesh guide
• where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

Risks include:

• dengue fever, a mosquito-borne disease that can occur year-round but is more widespread during the rainy season, May to September
• other mosquito-borne diseases, including malaria, chikungunya and Zika virus
• severe air pollution, especially from November to March

Dengue cases are increasing, including in Dhaka. See insect bite avoidance advice on TravelHealthPro .

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro .

The NHS has information on whether you can take your medicine abroad .

You should carry any medical papers or prescriptions and be prepared to answer questions if stopped by police.

Healthcare facilities in Bangladesh

Medical facilities in Bangladesh are poor. Routine tests and X-rays are unreliable.

FCDO has a list of English-speaking doctors in Bangladesh .

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health . There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro .

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in Bangladesh

Telephone: 999 (ambulance, fire, police)

Expatriate Help Cell

Contact your travel provider and insurer.

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans , including:

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from FCDO

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

• finding English-speaking lawyers , funeral directors and translators and interpreters in Bangladesh
• dealing with a death in Bangladesh
• being arrested in Bangladesh
• getting help if you’re a victim of crime
• what to do if you’re in hospital
• if you’re affected by a crisis , such as a terrorist attack

Contacting FCDO

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.

You can also contact FCDO online .

Help abroad in an emergency

If you are abroad and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the nearest British embassy, consulate or high commission .

FCDO in London

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)

Find out about call charges

Risk information for British companies

The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating overseas on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.

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Bangladesh Healthy Travel Packing List

Pack items for your health and safety.

• You may not be able to purchase and pack all of these items, and some may not be relevant to you and your travel plans. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.
• This list is general and may not include all the items you need. Check our Traveler Information Center for more information if you are a traveler with specific health needs, such as travelers who are pregnant, immune compromised, or traveling for a specific purpose like humanitarian aid work.
• Remember to pack extras of important health supplies in case of travel delays.

Prescription medicines

• Your prescriptions
• Travelers' diarrhea antibiotic
• Suture/syringe kit Kit is for use by local health care provider & requires a letter from your doctor on letterhead stationery
• Altitude sickness medicine
• Medicine to prevent malaria

Medical supplies

• Glasses Consider packing spare glasses in case yours are damaged
• Contact lenses Consider packing spare contacts in case yours are damaged
• Needles or syringes (for diabetes, for example) Requires a letter from your doctor on letterhead stationery
• Suture kit Kit is for use by local health care provider & requires a letter from your doctor on letterhead stationery
• Diabetes testing supplies
• Epinephrine auto-injectors (EpiPens)
• Medical alert bracelet or necklace

Over-the-counter medicines

• Antihistamine
• Motion sickness medicine
• Cough drops
• Cough suppression/expectorant
• Decongestant
• Medicine for pain and fever Examples: acetaminophen, aspirin, or ibuprofen
• Mild laxative
• Mild sedative or other sleep aid
• Saline nose spray

Supplies to prevent illness or injury

• Hand sanitizer or wipes Alcohol-based hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol or antibacterial hand wipes
• Water purification tablets See CDC recommendations: Water Disinfection .
• Water purification tablets May be needed if camping or visiting remote areas
• Insect repellent Select an insect repellent based on CDC recommendations: Avoid Bug Bites
• Permethrin Permethrin is insect repellent for clothing. It may be needed if you spend a lot of time outdoors. Clothing can also be treated at home in advance.
• Bed net For protection against insect bites while sleeping
• Sunscreen (SPF 15 or greater) with UVA and UVB protection. See Sun Exposure .
• Sunglasses and hat Wear for additional sun protection. A wide brim hat is preferred.
• Personal safety equipment Examples: child safety seats, bicycle helmets
• Latex condoms

First-aid kit

• 1% hydrocortisone cream
• Antifungal ointments
• Antibacterial ointments
• Antiseptic wound cleanser
• Aloe gel For sunburns
• Insect bite treatment Anti-itch gel or cream
• Bandages Multiple sizes, gauze, and adhesive tape
• Moleskin or molefoam for blisters
• Elastic/compression bandage wrap For sprains and strains
• Disposable gloves
• Digital thermometer
• Scissors and safety pins
• Cotton swabs (Q-Tips)
• Oral rehydration salts
• Health insurance documents Health insurance card (your regular plan and/or supplemental travel health insurance plan) and copies of claim forms
• Proof of yellow fever vaccination If required for your trip, take your completed International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis card or medical waiver
• Copies of all prescriptions Make sure prescriptions include generic names. Bring prescriptions for medicines, eye glasses/contacts, and other medical supplies.
• Family member or close contact remaining in the United States
• Health care provider(s) at home
• Lodging at your destination
• Hospitals or clinics (including emergency services) in your destination
• US embassy or consulate in the destination country or countries

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Travel In Bangladesh: A Complete Travel Guide For Bangladesh.

• By Sarah Steiner
• Updated On April 20, 2024

Bangladeshi care and hospitality is outstanding. At the time of writing this we haven’t even left Bangladesh and already I am feeling a pang of sadness knowing we will move on soon. If you are thinking about travel in Bangladesh and wondering whether to take the leap and book that trip or not…

Book it now.

Travel in Bangladesh is unique.  It’s not easy nor a mainstream destination to travel.  But if getting off the beaten track is the kind of travel you like, that is exactly what makes Bangladesh so special. 

Here is our complete travel guide for Bangladesh including all of the details of where we stayed in each city, how to get around Bangladesh, how to (and whether to) travel in Bangladesh with kids and a whole bunch of other tips to make your Bangladesh adventure as smooth as possible… 

• About Bangladesh
• Need-to-know history
• Best time to visit
• Visas  
• Money and ATM’s
• Our itinerary in Bangladesh
• Places to see – Dhaka – Barisal – Bagerhat – Mongla – Sreemangal – Sylhet – Cox’s Bazar – Chittagong – Ekduaria Village
• Travel in Bangladesh with kids
• Health and safety
• What to wear  
• Transportation

Connectivity and WIFI

• SIM cards  
• Accommodation options
• Where we stayed
• Tour or independent travel?

About Bangladesh; first just quickly

• Full name:  People’s Republic of Bangladesh
• Capital:  Dhaka
• Language:  Bengali (Bangla) 
• Main Religion:  Islam
• Currency:  Bangladeshi Taka (code: BDT; symbol: Tk)
• Population:  167,000,000
• Time Zone:  National Standard Time (UTC+6)
• Calling Code:  +880
• Drives On:  Left
• Credit Cards:  Visa/MC/AmEx accepted
• Emergency Number:  Ambulance/Police 999
• Outlets:   Plug Type C, D, G and K (220 V / 50 Hz)

And a little bit of history about Bangladesh 

On our first day out in Dhaka we learnt some very interesting history about Bangladesh.  

Our guide told us that his grandfather was born in India; his father was born in Pakistan; and he was born in Bangladesh.  But they were all born  in the same village …

Until 1947, Bangladesh was part of India.  The region that is now marked out as the country of Bangladesh was known as ‘East Bengal’. 

In 1947 India gained independence from British colonial rule and the sub-continent was partitioned into India, Pakistan and Bangladesh.  The partition led to the largest migration crisis in history with over 14 million people becoming refugees.  Many Hindu families moved from Pakistan to India and Muslims from India to Pakistan. 

Bangladesh was known at this time as ‘East Pakistan’ and was governed from Islamabad (in ‘West Pakistan’) – something that was unpopular with many Bangladeshis and ultimately spurred the struggle for Bengali rights. 

In 1971 Bangladesh (with the support of India) fought Pakistan for independence in what was known as the Bangladesh Liberation War and became the independent country that is Bangladesh today. 

Best time to visit Bangladesh

The best time visit Bangladesh is during the ‘cool season’ (effectively considered winter in Bangladesh) from November to February.  Days are warm averaging a comfortable 25°C and nights are cooler. 

From March onwards the days get rapidly hotter and monsoon generally arrives sometime in June.  

But hey; we ignored the suggested best time to visit Bangladesh and travelled for a month during May with a few (welcomed) afternoon rain showers and otherwise great (hot) weather. 

Bangladesh requires all foreigners to obtain permission, specifically a visa, to enter its territory unless exempted.  Visas for Bangladesh are issued by Bangladesh diplomatic missions located throughout the world.  Or, if application, on arrival in Bangladesh.

The following countries are specifically listed as countries whose citizens may obtain Bangladesh visa on arrival for the purpose of tourism:

• All European Union member states, Australia, Bahrain, Canada, China, Iceland, Indonesia, Japan, Kuwait, Liechtenstein, Malaysia, New Zealand, Norway, Oman Qatar, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Korea, Switzerland, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States. 

In addition, citizens of the following countries are known to require a visa:

• Algeria, Belize, Brazil, Egypt, Hong Kong, India, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Kenya, Lebanon, Libya, Macao, Mauritius, Mexico, Morocco, Myanmar, Nigeria, Pakistan, Paraguay, Philippines, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Syria, Thailand, Tunisia, Uzbekistan, Vietnam, Yemen.  

The Visa On Arrival fee must be paid only in cash in US dollars or Euros when entering Bangladesh.   And the cost per person is $51 USD or €51 EUR, with all taxes included. 

Standard tourism visas (and VOAs) are single-entry for 30 days.   

However it can be extended for an additional 30 days. Applicants can apply for the extension of the Visa On Arrival up to a week before visa expiry but not sooner. Visa extensions are available at the Department of Immigration and Passports located in Shere-E-Bangla Nagar, West Agargaon, Dhaka City.

• Check: Definitely do your research and make sure you confirm your visa eligibility for travel to Bangladesh with plenty of time before you fly.  

Currency and cash in Bangladesh

Bangladeshi Taka (BDT) is the currency of Bangladesh.  

There are banknotes of 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1000 BDT (although 2 and 5 taka notes are rare).   

At the time we travelled (May 2022) these are the exchange rates for Bangladesh:

• 100 BDT = 1.16 USD
• 1000 BDT = 11.59 USD
• 10000 BDT = 115.88 USD

ATM’s and money

All ATMs we tried offer an English menu.  And more than that, in the big cities they also offer a few minutes of peace (and air conditioning) inside away from the bustle and chaos… 

These bank ATM’s accept international cards: 

• AB Bank Limited
• Dutch-Bangla Bank
• Premiere Bank 
• One Bank 

And note the ATM’s were not working at the arrivals hall of the airport when we landed in Dhaka.  (None of them!).  We exchanged some USD to purchase a SIM card and found an ATM close to our hotel the next day. 

Language for travel in Bangladesh

Bengali (or Bangla )  is the official language in Bangladesh and is the 8 th  most-spoken language in the world.

Globally there are over 230,000,000 speakers of Bengali.  

English is not widely spoken in Bangladesh.  And even train and ticket numbers are commonly written in Bangla.  Outside of the cities it can be tricky to find someone to translate.  But those who can speak English (even if it’s patchy) always come forward to help. 

Bangladeshis are hospitable and will try their best to help regardless of barriers to verbally communicate.  

The most common greeting you will hear is the traditional Islamic greeting ‘ Asalaam Aleikum’ .  Hindus use the Bengali greeting ‘Nomoshkar’.  And admittedly it can be tricky to distinguish religion at first glance (not all Muslim women cover their hair, and some Hindu women do). But play it safe with a smile and you will be happily received.  

Useful Bangla words to learn

• Hello:  Assalamu alaikum/Nomoshkar
• How are you?  Kemon achen? Kemon acho? 
• I am well:  Ami bhalo achi 
• What is your name?  Apnar naam kee? 
• Which country?  Kona desa ( desh )
• Thank you:  Dhonnobad
• Thanks a lot:  Onek dhonnobad
• Yes:  Hae
• No:  Na
• Water:  Pani
• Good morning:  Shubho shokal
• Goodbye:  Khuda hafez / Allah hafez 

The phrase you will get most used to hearing is ‘ Kona desh?’.    Which country?   ‘Desh’ means land/country (as in, Bangla desh ).  And trust me; you will quickly begin to pick up on people asking you that…

Once you tune in you will hear that phrase  more than any other Bangla words around you.   (Tourists are not common – not in the city; not anywhere really – and everyone wants to know where you are from).

Men commonly shake hands and further respect is expressed with a hand over heart.  [Note though that women and men rarely shake hands with one another so don’t extend a handshake first as a traveling female]. 

And a further note without regard to the upcoming challenge of language barriers…  More so be prepared and ready for the stares/ staring /stares and selfie requests… 

Our itinerary for travel in Bangladesh

Contemplating an itinerary for travel in Bangladesh is like opening a can of worms.  The direction you can take in this country are endless.  But the tricky thing is that many routes around Bangladesh end up stopping back in at Dhaka.  (I told you Dhaka is ceremoniously like the beating heart of this incredible country). 

Here’s our slightly jumbled but brilliant itinerary for Bangladesh. 

• Dhaka  > launch >  Barisal 
• Barisal  > minivan  >  Mongla
• Mongla  > minivan  >  Morrelgonj
• Morrelgonj  > launch >  Dhaka
• Dhaka  > train >  Sreemangal
• Sreemangal  > train >  Sylhet
• Sylhet  > flight >  Cox Bazaar
• Cox Bazaar  > bus >  Chittagong
• Chittagong  > train >  Dhaka 
• Dhaka  > minivan >  Ekduaria
• Ekduaria  > minivan >  Dhaka 

Where to go in Bangladesh (the places we reckon you  need  to see) 

Now for the most important part of this travel guide for Bangladesh.  

This is the best part. 

Geographically Bangladesh is a large country and distances between cities are great.  We spent one month travelling in Bangladesh and the following are the highlights that we found (and would recommend you see too). 

Dhaka (the capital city)

Dhaka is the beating heart of Bangladesh.  It is as if the waterways of Bangladesh stem out from Dhaka like the veins taking life to the far reaches of the country…

And I’m not going to lie. 

Dhaka is not for the faint hearted. 

But it is incredible. 

Our itinerary around Bangladesh with kids saw us stop and stay  four times in Dhaka .  (I told you it was jumbled!).  But we used the bustling capital city as our base to explore different directions of the country…

Things to do in Dhaka

• Visit Old Dhaka:  The heart of the city and what was once was the 17 th  century Mughal capital of Bengal.
• Go shopping at New Market:  The place I recommend to purchase a salwar kameez/panjabi to wear.
• Lalbagh Fort:  A beautiful and historic (unfinished) fort from the Mughal era. 
• Ashan Manzil:  Designated as a national museum and known as the Pink Palace this was once the residence of the Nawabs of Dhaka. 
• Shadeed Minar:  Martyr’s Monument built to honour those who lost their lives in 1952 during the Bengali Language Movement. 
• Tara Masjid Mosque:  Small but beautiful mosque renowned for the striking blue stars made of mosaic. 
• See the Armenian Church:  Built by the Armenian community that was present in Bangladesh in the 1700s and 1800s(!).  

Transportation from Dhaka

• Train to Sreemangal: 6 hours
• Train to Khulna: 9 hours
• Train to Chittagong: 8 hours
• Bus to Sreemangal: 6 hours
• Bus to Chittagong: 10 hours
• Launch ferry to Barisal: Overnight 

Sreemangal – Travel in Bangladesh

A small(er) town north of Dhaka that is easy to reach by train from the city.  The highlight of Sreemangal is definitely the renowned 7 and 8-layered tea…

Things to do in Sreemangal

• Drink layered tea:  A must-do in Sreemangal.  Get a rickshaw to the nearby Adi Nilkantha Tea Cabin and meet Mr. Gour who invented this colorful layered style of tea. 
• Visit a school:  It’s easier to meet people in a smaller town and Sreemangal has plenty of schools (that will likely invite you in as you walk past).  
• Dine at the London Restaurant:  We determined this another icon of Sreemangal and enjoyed tandoori chicken, naan and salad at this busy restaurant. 

Sylhet 

This city and the surrounding division is famous for TEA.  Over 90% of Bangladesh’s tea is produced in Sylhet.  

Sylhet city is 250km northeast of Dhaka and is the north-eastern division in Bangladesh.  (And interestingly when looking at it on a map it is almost entirely surrounded by India with border on the north, south and east of Sylhet division).  

Things to do in Sylhet

• Tea plantations:  This is what Sylhet is famous for. Hire a driver and head just out of the city to Malnicherra Tea Estate.
• Ali Amjad’s Clock Tower:  If you arrive by train you might catch a glimpse of this iconic clock as you cross the river from the station.  
• Hazarat Shahjalal Mazar Sharif:  Beautiful shrine attracting thousands of people from different parts of the country, irrespective of religion and caste, every day.
• Keane Bridge:  Built in 1936 this bridge is called the gateway to Sylhet city.  

Transportation from Sylhet

• Train to Dhaka: 7 hours
• Train to Sreemangal: 2.5 hours
• Flight to Dhaka: 35 mins 
• Bus to Dhaka: 8+ hours

Barisal is one of the major rice production centres of Bangladesh known for the production of Balam rice (and for its fish export – one of the main sights to see is the fish market).  But Barisal is also well known now for it’s unique floating vegetable and timber markets…

Things to do in Barisal

• Fish market:  This is a bustling highlight of Barisal and not to be missed (if you don’t mind the bustle and/or the fish market smell!). 
• Floating vegetable market:  As far as tourism-draws in Bangladesh this is a big one and a beautiful morning out seeing an entirely different way of living. 
• Floating timber market:  Not far from Baitha Katha vegetable markets and stretches for kilometres. 
• Korapur Miah Bari Mosque:  Three-domed mosque thought to have been built in the late 18 th  century. 

Transportation from Barisal

• Launch ferry to Dhaka: Overnight
• Taxi to Bagerhat: 3 hours
• Taxi to Mongla: 4 hours
• Bus to Khulna: 5-6 hours 

Khulna and Bargerhat

The city of Khulna on the west of Bangladesh is essentially a gateway city to the Sundarbans and the small mosque-filled city of Bagerhat.  

Things to do in Khulna

• Take a ferry over the river:  Like most of Bangladesh seeing the cities by river adds a different perspective (and is a cheap alternative).
• Visit the UNESCO 60-Domed Mosque:  The largest mosque in Bangladesh remaining from the sultanate period. 
• See the mausoleum of Khan Jahan Ali:  An interesting smaller site with a significant religious influence in Bangladeshi history.   

Transportation from Bagerhat

• Taxi to Barisal: 3 hours
• Bus to Khulna: 1 hour
• Taxi to Mongla: 1.5 hours

Transportation from Khulna

• Bus to Bagerhat: 1 hour
• Train to Dhaka: 9 hours 
• Bus to Dhaka: 7 hours
• Bus to Mongla: 2 hours

Mongla and Sundarbans

Sundarbans is the world’s largest mangrove forest that spans Bangladesh and the south of West Bengal in India. 

Things to do in Mongla

• Sundarbans river cruise:  Take a boat up the rivers and canals of the largest mangrove forest in the world.   
• Harbaria Eco Park:  Walk the boardwalk through the mangroves and feed deer at the animal conservation and breeding centre on the main island.  
• Mongla village day tour:  Another highlight of Mongla was the chance to see smaller villages within the district (and especially by 3-wheel electric rickshaw). 

Cox’s Bazar

Cox’s Bazar is the home of the longest natural sea beach in the world.  And it’s a beautiful spot to see in the late afternoon golden hour as the sun sets over the Bay of Bengal. 

Things to do in Cox’s Bazar

• Cox’s Bazar Beach:  Join the crowds and marvel at the beautiful sunset (and eat some candy floss) on the longest beach in the world. 
• Himchori Waterfall:  A shallow but beautiful waterfall located in the National Park not far from main beach in Cox’s Bazar. 
• Inani Beach:  Part of Cox’s Bazar beach, Inani has unique black and coral stones cover the shore line during the rainy and summer seasons. 
• Star Kabab:  We’ve added this as a must-eat in Cox’s Bazar… Highly recommend for a tasty (and friendly) dinner. 

Transportation from Cox’s Bazar

• Bus to Chittagong: 5 hours
• Flight to Dhaka: 50 mins

Chittagong is a large port city on the south-eastern coast of Bangladesh and is second-largest city in the country.  It is another very busy city and like Dhaka, the streets are filled with masses of cycle and auto-rickshaws.  There isn’t much in the way of tourists sights to see but Chittagong is a useful gateway to the Hill Tracts area or south to Cox’s Bazar. 

And for us, Chittagong was a bit more special as we celebrated my birthday.  (I had never previously imagined my birthday at an amusement park in Chittagong but there we were!). 

Things to do in Chittagong

• Shishu Amusement Park:  Located in the heart of the city this is a small (and old) amusement park for children with around 15 simple rides. 
• Take a boat ride from Saderghat:  Similarly to Dhaka it’s easy to get a cheap wooden boat across the river and beautiful to see at sunset. 
• Visit the ship breaking yards:  Not easy to do – after child labour was exposed at the yards – rather it’s easier to see the ship yards from a distance by boat. 
• Get ice cream sundaes : Not technically a sight of Chittagong but one we have to share. Sub Zero is near opposite Shishu Park and does a great oreo sundae… 

Ekduaria Village

It’s hard to decide, but for us the opportunity to stay in and be part of a small village in rural Bangladesh is perhaps the most memorable week of our trip.  

The cities are bustling and the towns have a lot going on.  But seeing day to day life in a rural village is the kind of travel you can’t imagine until you get there. 

I am going to dedicate an entire blog (or two, or more) to sharing our experience in Ekduaria Village, but for now here are some of the highlights… 

Things to do in Ekduaria Village

• Milk a cow:  Meet the local farmers and collect milk for breakfast (walk back through the village with your tin of fresh, warm milk). 
• Harvest vegetables:  From the backyard garden and collect pumpkins, squash and okra from the farm 
• Drink tea with locals:  At the market chai stand or in people’s homes (this is Bangladeshi hospitality).
• Wander the small streets:  And talk to people along the way (don’t worry about the language barrier; there’s much to talk about even without words). 
• Go and watch a soccer game:  The local high school field is the place to be for an energetic inter-village match
• Cook in a mud-kitchen:  Learn how to make paratha, curry, rice-pancakes and much more. 
• Offer to help:  Go and help the farmers with some of their daily chores (they will laugh but you will love it!).  

As we awaited the return of confirmed travel visas for Bangladesh we let slip to a few of our close friends that we were planning a trip to Bangladesh – with kids.  

After the initial eye-bulging return stare of said friends and family, the first question was always of safety.  Is Bangladesh safe?!  

Now, having been and travelled Bangladesh – and  survived  thrived – our summary is not of safety concerns… But those of health. 

There’s no two ways about it.  Health and hygiene are legitimate concerns for travel in Bangladesh.  

Dhaka is one of the most polluted (and obviously the most populous) cities in the world.  And hygiene standards are low. 

Like low, low.  Really low. 

There is only so much you can do as prevention in these circumstances.  

• Carry a basic-but-sensibly-stocked  medical kit . You can read details of everything we carry in our medical kit here.  Rehydration sachets are (reflectively)  recommended  essential in Bangladesh… 
• Always  wash your hands before and after eating  (and/or carry hand sanitiser).  Bangladeshi custom is to eat with your hands so this is even more important. 
• Drink bottled water .  As above, it’s contradictory to all that we try to uphold in sustainable travel but worth it to be safe and  prevent all  prevent diahhroea where possible.  
• Avoid  ice, salads and fruit washed in water .  You don’t know where the water came from (and it’s likely not filtered). 
• Avoid  mosquito bites .  Especially in the golden hour of sunset, wear long trousers and use mosquito repellent. And if available/offered, sleep under a mosquito net.  

Food in Bangladesh 

Bangladesh is a land of rice.  

And I would say also a land of BBQ meat, bhaji, jackfruit and flatbreads.  

But the most exciting part about food in Bangladesh? Bangladeshis use their hands to eat.  

It is definitely something of a practised art form to eat entirely sans cutlery.  But a few days into it you will find yourself ignoring the especially sought out fork and joining the local way. 

The right hand is used to scoop food into your mouth and it is considered bad etiquette to eat with your left hand.  Rather, the left hand should be used to hold the plate or assist with serving.  

Every eatery no matter how big or small will have a ‘wash room’ or handwashing station.  (Albeit you may need to scoop the water from a bucket).  But get into it and give it a go.  There is a whole list of delicious tastes and dishes that await you! 

• Biryani:  Rice and marinated meat cooked in lots of spices
• Kabab:  BBQ chicken roasted to perfection 
• Bhaji:  Roasted vegetables in a light curry flavour (served at any time of day)
• Kichuri:  Rice and lentils seasoned with turmeric and ghee
• Morog Polao  (chicken Pilaf): Rice cooked with stock (= amazing!)
• Haleem:  Spicy lentil soup
• Shingara : AKA  samosa  (pastry filled with spiced potatoes, onions, peas)
• Parata:  Bengali wheat-flour flatbread often served at breakfast
• Luchi:  Deep-fried flatbread with the perfect puff! 
• Mishti  (sweet): Dahl dessert made with milk and sugar
• Borhani:  Thick, frothy yoghurt-like drink
• Jilapi/Jalebi:  Deep-fried, sweet snack (crystalised sugar) 

Food in Bangladesh with kids

• Chai:  Always sweet and pretty standard in taste 
• BBQ Chicken:  Our kids loved the chicken kabab and BBQ chicken in Bangladesh! 
• Dal:  Lentil, peas and beans made into a thick stew. (Sounds unappetising but an easy meal to eat with rice).  And it’s gentle on small tummies. 
• Biryani:  This well-known rice dish is always fairly standard
• Paratha:  Flat bread that has been deep fried (say no more)
• Naan:  Always reliable as a simple meal base
• Sweet lassi:  Traditional yoghurt-based drink (like a milkshake)
• Falooda:  Ice cream dessert made with rose syrup, custard and pieces of jelly

And fruit and drinking coconuts!  We arrived just at the beginning of mango season which was delicious.  And we ate far more than our fair share of jackfruit in the village.

Drinking water

Tap water is not safe to drink in Bangladesh.  And unfortunately, finding filtered water to refill your drink bottle is not easy. 

If you have a steripen or UV water filter definitely bring this for your trip as it’s not a nice feeling to buy plastic bottles of drinking water in a country that is seriously struggling with plastic/pollution… 

Best to play it safe.  And watch out for cups/cutlery that is dripping from being washed in unsanitary water. 

Are there supermarkets and/or recognisable shops in Bangladesh? 

This is probably about the time I have to confess we even ordered takeaway chicken and chips one evening from Food Panda.  In other words; in the city, Bangladesh isn’t far behind with takeaways and food delivery services.  

However, many of the big brands (McDonalds, Starbucks etc) are not in Bangladesh.  

Agora  is a popular supermarket chain and stores can be found in the main cities. 

What to wear for travel in Bangladesh

I love this part of travel Bangladesh. The country is obviously populous (200,000,000 obvious) but oh Bangladesh, you are oh-so-colourful…

Bangladesh is a majority Islamic country and there are expectations for what to wear for travel in the cities and especially in the rural areas.  

For women long pants are always expected.  In the cities is ok(ish) to wear a smart, short-sleeved top. But I would recommend out of the city at least ¾ sleeves.  

I found the best clothing for Bangladesh was the local style of (brightly coloured) salwar kameez.  This is the typical Bangladeshi 3-piece costume of loose trousers, long (below your bottom) tunic-style top and scarf draped across your chest or over your head.  

The salwar kameez is made from fabric that is cool to wear and is addictively colourful.   

For men, advice is similarly conservative but with slightly more flexibility.  Men in shorts  can  be spotted on occasion. But being realistic, it’s not a common sight.  Long pants/trousers and a shirt for men is recommended (and expected, really). 

And for kids – especially young kids – it’s more relaxed.  Our boys enjoyed trying the local style of  Panjabi  (particularly as locals had never seen boys with long hair before!). 

Bangladeshi costumes you will see day-to-day:

• Salwar kameez  (f): long tunic top and loose trousers
• Orna  (f): scarf to drape over shoulders or neck (part of the salwar kameez costume)
• Saree  (f): the main traditional women’s costume of Bangladesh most commonly seen on women in the villages
• Lungyi  (m): males sarong-like skirt made from tubular length of fabric
• Panjabi  (m): long, loose shirt.  
• Fatua  (m): short version of the Panjabi (short, loose shirt) 
• Gamcha  (m): a colourful, cotton towel (spun by local handloom) often worn around the neck by workers to be used as a body towel 

Transportation in Bangladesh

Transport and travel in Bangladesh can be as tricky as you make it.

There is road travel (taxis, buses, vans), train travel (express trains and a new metro to come), river travel (the most traditional means of travel in Bangladesh) and rickshaws (pedal and auto).

Don’t try and over complicate things haggling for a best price (especially over a few cents). You will draw a crowd regardless but even more so if you’re trying to negotiate with a driver. And don’t be afraid to walk away. They know how much it should cost and you don’t need to be ripped off just because you’re a foreigner.

Getting around by auto rickshaw (CNG) – travel in Bangladesh

Bangladesh has electric and CNG auto rickshaws that are easy to flag down and take for short to medium distances in the cities and towns.  

For a 2km distance it costs around 100Tk (USD $1.15).  Just be sure to negotiate and confirm the price before you climb in.  

Getting around by cycle rickshaw – travel in Bangladesh

This is by far the most authentic mode of transport in Bangladesh.  It only costs a few taka for a short distance by cycle rickshaw (just not so easy for us as a family of four – we need to get two!).  

Train travel in Bangladesh

Bangladesh is well known for train travel.  It’s likely you will have seen images of hundreds of people riding on the roof of trains… 

Well, we did see people on the rooftops (and heard big thumps as they leapt on the roof above us from one carriage to the next!).   But the police are trying reduce the number of people riding on the top and fortunately we didn’t see quite as many as anticipated.  

It’s relatively easy to book a train ticket at the main railway station in Dhaka.  The most challenging part of booking is battling the traffic in a taxi to get there.  If you don’t have hours to spare you can contact a guide (like  trip2bangladesh.com ) ahead of time to book the ticket for you (we did this for our first train from Dhaka to Sylhet) and have it dropped to your hotel. 

Boat travel in Bangladesh

Long-distance water travel in Bangladesh is by  launch.   These are huge river ferries (what we would call a ferry back home).  But in Bangladesh, ferries are the term for short-distance river travel from one side of the river to the other.  Like the one we took across the Padma river (this is the main channel of the greater Ganges River in Bangladesh).  

Launch travel is a bucketlist experience in Bangladesh and absolutely the most traditional means of transport in the country.  

Overnight launches depart from Dhaka in the evening and arrive in Barisal before sunrise. 

Here are some of the class options and pricing for a one-way overnight launch in Bangladesh: 

• VIP Cabin : 10,000 Tk
• 1st Class Cabin: (A/C, shared toilet): 2500 Tk
• Economy (seats, shared toilet): 800 Tk
• 3rd Class (floor space only): 280 Tk 

Bus travel in Bangladesh

Bus travel is a cheap way to move between cities.  There’s no need to pre-book far in advance as there are  squillions hundreds of buses departing frequently in any given direction. 

It was easy to purchase tickets the day before from a small travel agent in Cox’s Bazar for the 5 hour journey to Chittagong.  (Transport and tour agent stalls line the streets in the tourist area here).  Tickets for the AC bus cost 500 Tk each ($6 USD). 

Budget  for travel in Bangladesh

As a traveller, first thoughts are that Bangladesh will be a cheap country to travel in.  And daily – for food, necessities and transport – it is. 

• Cup of cha (tea): 10 Tk / USD 0.15c
• Water (1L): 40 Tk / 0.45c 
• Canned drink: 40 Tk
• Drinking coconut: 100 Tk
• Daal: 50 Tk
• Tandoori chicken: 200 Tk
• Restaurant lunch (for 4: 600 Tk
• Auto-rickshaw (2km): 100 Tk
• Uber/taxi (5km): 450 Tk
• Passenger boat (across river): 10 Tk
• AC bus (5 hours): 500 Tk
• Barber shop shave: 100 Tk
• 15GB data (for 7 days): 160 Tk

I must admit we were (pleasantly) surprised by connectivity and wifi options in Bangladesh.  Albeit hotel accommodation is not really cheap (for a family) but every place we stayed had free and unlimited wifi.  

We were disconnected from 3G and 4G data on some of the bus and train rides but not in a way that caused any disruption worth writing further about. 

Getting a SIM card for travel in Bangladesh 

The three biggest communications operators in Bangladesh are: 

• Grameenphone

Grameenphone has a counter selling SIM cards as you exit customs at the airport in Dhaka (even for a night time flight).  

When we landed in Dhaka there were not ATM’s working but I exchanged $20 USD and was able to buy two SIM cards with Grameenphone for 600 Tk each including 12GB of data. 

It’s easy to top up (they call it ‘recharge’) your card at many small street shops.  Just get familiar with the Grameenphone logo and keep an eye out for it.  

If you handover your phone the shopkeeper will top it up the old-fashioned way by calling in to Grameenphone and recharging your desired amount to your account.  You can then choose from a list of data or calling packages. 

Data prices are cheap (like cheap, cheap) and come up under ‘My Offers’ on the service provider app: 

• 100 minutes, 30 days: 65 Tk
• 20 GB, 7 days: 179 Tk
• 13 GB, 30 days: 220 Tk
• 6 GB, 3 days: 76 Tk

Whether to travel in Bangladesh independently or pre-book tours and transport? 

No doubt you’ve started googling and are wondering how to put together the pieces of the puzzle that is an itinerary for Bangladesh.  But quite frankly there isn’t a lot of information out there.

Looking at the map before we left, we split our travel in Bangladesh into different legs (in different directions). We made contact with owner, Ontu of tour company  TripToBangladesh  to gauge prices for transport and to pre-book the first overnight launch and day tour for the Sundarbans. 

For the remainder we travelled independently (by bus, plane and train) and booked two of our three train journeys after we arrived. 

I can highly recommend Ontu for his caring and very professional manner to help with making any tour and/or transport bookings for Bangladesh.  

To stay in Ekduaria Village contact host Jafar Tuhin of Taabu Ekduaria directly on  +880 1969-404414 .  Jafar is an incredible host, with fluent English and very easy to be around.  We arrived as guests and left as friends. 

Useful contacts for travel in Bangladesh

• Trip2Bangladesh Contact person: Ontu WhatsApp:  +8801784399339 Email: [email protected]
• Taabu Ekduaria Host and guide: Jafar Tuhin  WhatsApp: +880 1969-404414

Jafar is an enthusiastic and knowledgeable guide for city tours of Dhaka and the neighbouring ancient city of Sonargaon too. I highly recommend a day tour of Old Dhaka including the sights, bazars and fascinating huge ship breaking yards. Contact him directly – you will not be disappointed!

Accommodation options for travel in Bangladesh

In a country that is shamelessly renowned for being a budget destination, I would say that for us the cost of accommodation in Bangladesh came as a surprise. 

I’m not going to pretend we found budget accommodation and roughed our way around the country.  Because we didn’t.  But cost-wise it wasn’t what we expected. 

We booked a hotel to arrive to for the first few nights (Hotel 71) and the family room allocated to four pax was well above our budget for fulltime travel. 

As we found our feet and figured out how it all worked here we realised that as a family, accommodation options offered the greatest disparity in our budget.  

In Dhaka, Sylhet and Chittagong there seemed to be 4 or 5 star hotel options at $130+ USD per night.   Or  you had to be roughing it in a guesthouse/apartment that we could barely even find online… 

In the smaller cities like Sreemangal and Cox’s Bazar it is easier to find lower-cost accommodation.  

But even as normally strict-budget travellers I can tell you we were unashamedly thankful for an albeit expensive-but-clean room, air-conditioning and a hot shower in the cities.   Pick your battles?

Everything we booked in Bangladesh we managed to book ahead of time online through booking.com.  We booked the first few nights prior to arriving.

Where we stayed in Bangladesh

• Dhaka:   Hotel 71  
• Barisal:   Hotel Grand Park
• Mongla:   Hotel Pashur
• Dhaka:   Hotel Tropical Daisy  
• Sreemangal:   Green Leaf Guest House
• Sylhet:   Hotel Mira Garden
• Cox’s Bazar:   Laguna Beach Hotel  
• Chittagong:   Well Park Residence Boutique Hotel
• Dhaka:   Hotel 71
• Ekduaria Village: Taabu Ekduaria Village Homestay

Read the reviews on booking sites and use Google Maps to check out accommodation and locations before you book.  

Thank you, Bangladesh.

Well that ends our huge guide for travel in Bangladesh.  

If you are looking for a destination that will give you culture, colour, adventure, taste and wonder then I recommend travel in Bangladesh. 

Please leave us a comment with any further questions and we’ll get back to you. 

We had a truly, genuinely fantastic time traveling in Bangladesh. And now that I’ve dried my tears on leaving Ekduaria Village after an incredible week of Bangladeshi hospitality, I know for sure it is going to be one of those countries that sticks with us, and close to our heart for a long time to come…

More about travel planning for Bangladesh and beyond…

These are the companies we use while traveling fulltime as a family and that we would recommend to anyone planning and booking travel. 

• Booking.com  – The best all-around accommodation booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation and it’s easy to filter and sort into price and availability with all the extras you are looking for personally. (We love the flexible cancellation policy!). 
• Hostelworld – The largest inventory of hostel accommodation in the world. 
• Skyscanner   – This is by far our favourite flight search engine. They are able to search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites often miss. We book all our flights through Skyscanner.  
• GetYourGuide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions offered all around the world including everything from walking tours, to street-food tours, cooking classes, desert safari’s and more!
• SafetyWing  – A global travel insurance that covers people from all over the world while outside their home country. You can buy it short or longterm; and even if you are out of the country. 
• World Nomads   – Travel insurance tailored for longterm travel and nomads (including those who have already left home). 

Read more about travel in Bangladesh and South Asia

• Train Travel in India: A Complete Guide.
• The Sacred River Ganges: Two days in Varanasi.
• Crossing the Wagah Border from India to Pakistan. 
• Pakistan: A complete guide to travel in Pakistan. 
• Money in India: Using ATM’s, withdrawing and carrying your money safely.
• How to use a squat toilet: Everything you didn’t want to ask…
• Our complete packing list for travel in India. 

Wondering about itineraries?  Questions about schooling?  See our Family Travel Guides and FAQ here . 

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15 thoughts on “Travel In Bangladesh: A Complete Travel Guide For Bangladesh.”

Hello, I benefited greatly from your blog post while making my holiday plans. Thanks to the information you provided, I was able to make more informed decisions and my holiday was much more enjoyable. Your suggestions and experiences have been really valuable to me. Thank you very much for your effort. It is truly a wonderful thing to have an experienced and knowledgeable companion like you. I will continue to follow your articles while making other holiday plans. I wish you good work, Best regards. We run a travel agency in Rize, Turkey. If you come here one day, we would be proud to host you… https://www.rizetours.com/

I’m planning a trip to India with my kids and after reading your blog I’m now wanting to also head to Bangladesh as well. I’m a bit undecided at the moment though as it would need to be at the end of September (around school holidays) so I’m worried about the amount of rain.

I see that a lot of the Sundarbans tours are for a couple of nights but you guys only did a day trip? Do you think a day was enough to get a nice feel for it? I think I’d prefer the day trip option.

Is it worth visiting both Sreemangal and Sylhet or are they similar?

I’m very interested in staying in Ekduaria Village for a couple of nights, I think it would be great for my boys.

Cheers Brendan

Hi Brendan awesome to hear that! And yes we have lots of info for Sylhet and Sreemangal and great contacts for the Sundarbans and Exduaria. Could you send us a message and it would be easier to send details directly to you there. An incredible place! Bangladesh is an amazing experience.

Thank you for the wealth of valuable information. There is one point that flies in contrast with the Consulate general of Bangladesh’s website, the US travel.gov website, and every other website I have searched for, that is Visa on Arrivals are currently (as of Jan 2024) in effect, at least for the US.

Perhaps your contention that VoA are not available is dependent upon your nationality as a Kiwi?

I wanted to get your thoughts on this matter before I head out on Jan. 23rd from Miami.

One other question comes to mind, I have found various local standards regarding the condition of currency in different countries. I remember back 30 years ago when I was in India bills could have large holes in them due to the custom of stapling stacks together and ripping bills off one by one, but tears along the edges were not accepted. As such, torn bills were commonly given to unsuspecting foreigners. Is there anything to be aware of regarding acceptance of Bangladeshi currency?

Hi, I am a solo (middle aged) female traveller heading to Dhaka for a wedding in Feb 2023. I would like to travel alone through Bangladesh for a few weeks after – do you think this is doable or is it going to be so hard that it’s not worth the effort. I have tried to find a tour to join but can’t find anything running which I can join. Are there local tours I can join or do you think I can manage to get around as a solo blonde, white, western woman!? I have travelled solo previously and enjoy it, but I’m a little older now and have heard that it is very difficult in Bangladesh.

Love the blog – it’s the first I’ve seen of Bangladesh which has been really helpful, Helen

Hi Helen great to hear from you! If you would like to find us on Facebook or email I can give you more details – but I highly recommend contact Jafar, a fantastic Guide based near Dhaka (it was Jafar’s village we stayed a week in!). And on your first day do a day tour of Dhaka to find your feet and get your bearings in Bangladesh – we had a truly, truly amazing time and would love to return! The other Guide we have listed; Ontu is from Barisal and can help with booking tours or trains or transport as well. It makes a huge difference to have great contacts as it is a huge country! We can highly recommend both of those great guides. Wishing you a fantastic time! And if you have any further questions please message us, Sarah.

I am really happy to have found your blog. I am planning a trip to Bangladesh in early 2024, from late January to mid-February. I was originally going to India, but diplomatic relations between India and Canada are strained. India has stopped issuing visas to Canadian citizens… So, here I am planning a trip to Bangladesh. My primary goal when I travel is photography. I am working on a book project that includes 15 years of traveling through different countries. I wish to visit the city of Chittagong to explore the ship graveyard and everything around it. I read on your blog that access can be challenging. Is it possible to get close to it? Thank you for your blog; it is very well-documented. Best regards, Louis P. Instagram @parlimages

Hi Louis we had an incredible time in Bangladesh! I highly recommend sending Jafar a message (on his WhatsApp number above) and getting in touch. He would be the best person to ask. From what I understand the yards in Chittagong are closed to tourists and especially photographers. But I really recommend a tour with Jafar when you arrive as a great way to find your feet and get a good understanding to start with in Bangladesh. An amazing country!

I’m traveling to Bangaldesh as a female solo traveler (for work, but will still be solo for most of the trip) so thank you very, very much for this honest and comprehensive travel guide and description. I’ve lived in Singapore for many years and travelled throughout most of SEA, yet Bangladesh seems next level. I was happy to read your blog to get an insight on what to expect. Unfortunately, I won’t make it to most of the places you’ve been and I also probably won’t make it on a boat or train ride (due to work and corporate compliance…), but all your information on food, hygiene, what to wear etc. helped me a lot. Thanks!!

Thanks very much Shumona! Wishing you a fantastic trip 🙂

Great blog post. Heading there this December with a friend and always nice to read a REAL review to get the low down from a foreigners POV. Fine work

Hi Iain and thanks very much! Have a brilliant time in Bangladesh. We really enjoyed the adventure and am sure you will too! 🙂

I’m traveling to Bangaldesh as a female solo traveler (for work, but will still be solo for most of the trip) so thank you very, very much for this honest and comprehensive travel guide and description. I’ve lived in Singapore for many years and travelled throughout most of SEA, yet Bangladesh seems next level. I was happy to read your blog to get an insight on what to expect. Unfortunately, I won’t make it to most of the places you’ve been and I also probably won’t make it on a boat or train ride (due to work and corporate compliance…), but all your information on food, hygiene, what to wear etc. helped me a lot. Thanks!!

Hi Sarah! This is amazing to read and thank you very much for taking the time to write that. Wishing you a fantastic time in Bangladesh! It is somewhere very special. And even with limited time I am confident you will have maximum experiences! Have a brilliant time! Sarah.

Wow! This travel guide for Bangladesh is incredibly comprehensive and informative. It’s evident that you had an amazing experience exploring the country. The unique culture, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality of the Bangladeshi people shine through your words. I’m inspired to visit Bangladesh myself after reading about your adventures. Thank you for sharing this detailed guide and providing valuable insights into the history, attractions, transportation, and even local customs. Your enthusiasm and love for the country are contagious. Safe travels to all those planning to visit Bangladesh – book your trip now and embark on a one-of-a-kind adventure! You may love to know about Everest Base Camp Trek Guide which is an exhilarating and challenging trekking adventure that takes you through the majestic Khumbu region of Nepal.

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Travel Vaccines and Advice for Bangladesh

Bangladesh is one of Asia’s most culture-rich destinations. The country is characterized by centuries of Hindu, Buddhist and, today, Muslim traditions.

The region has nearly 800 rivers, most of which run the full length of the country and spill out into the Bay of Bengal. Travel by boat is more common than travel by vehicle or any other means.

Bangladesh is relatively traveller-free area which lends to the country’s authenticity. In most cities, the influences of tourism have yet to take hold. This is also partially due to the country’s poverty.

Unfortunately, this beautiful country has seen disease outbreaks and terrorist activity. Some of the most recent attacks have involved tourists. Experts advise against travel to Bangladesh unless a trip is mandatory.

On This Page: Do I Need Vaccines for Bangladesh? Is a Visa Required for Bangladesh? What Is the Climate in Bangladesh? How Safe Is Bangladesh? Tour the Time-Tested Old Dhaka What Should I Take to Bangladesh? Embassy of the United Kingdom in Bangladesh

Do I Need Vaccines for Bangladesh?

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Bangladesh. The National Travel Health Network and Centre and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Bangladesh: COVID-19 , hepatitis A , hepatitis B , typhoid , cholera , yellow fever , Japanese encephalitis , rabies and tetanus .

See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunisations:

• COVID-19 – Airborne – Recommended for all travellers
• Hepatitis A – Food & Water – Recommended for most travellers to the region, especially if unvaccinated.
• Hepatitis B – Blood & Body Fluids – Recommended for travellers to most regions.
• Tetanus – Wounds or Breaks in Skin – Recommended for travelers to most regions, especially if not previously vaccinated.
• Typhoid – Food & Water – Jab lasts 3 years. Oral vaccine lasts 5 years, must be able to swallow pills. Oral doses must be kept in refrigerator.
• Cholera – Food & Water – Recommended for travel to most regions.
• Yellow Fever – Mosquito – Required if travelling from a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.
• Japanese Encephalitis – Mosquito – Recommended depending on itinerary and activities. Recommended for extended travel, recurrent travellers and travel to rural areas. Present throughout country. Most cases from May to October.
• Rabies – Saliva of Infected Animals – High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-stay travellers and those who may come in contact with animals.

See the tables below for more information:

Dengue , malaria and chikungunya are present in Bangladesh. Be sure to bring and use repellents and netting. Antimalarials may be recommended, depending on your trip itinerary.

See our vaccinations page to learn more about these infections and vaccines. Ready to protect yourself? Book your travel health appointment today by calling or schedule online now .

Is a Visa Required for Bangladesh?

Visas are required for entry to Bangladesh. These can be obtained before your trip or on arrival. On arrival visas are for one month and are for official duty, business, investment and tourism. Passports must be valid for the duration of your stay. Proof of yellow fever vaccination may be required if you are travelling from a region where yellow fever is present.

Sources: Embassy of Bangladesh and GOV.UK

What Is the Climate in Bangladesh?

Although the rivers are beneficial for travel, they also bring humidity. The country has a subtropical monsoon climate with high temperatures and high humidity. Bangladesh has three prominent seasons: hot, humid summers, a rainy fall and cooler, dry winters.

Because climate varies by region, be sure to pack for your itinerary. A few regional differences include:

• Khulna – At the southwest end of the country near the Sundarbans, Khulna has hot summers, cool winters and year-round off and on rainfall.
• Dhaka – In the middle of the country, the capital has a tropical wet climate and harshly-dry winters.
• Rangpur – At the northern tip of the country, this region has the most rainfall. Expect consistent monsoons and high levels of humidity.

How Safe Is Bangladesh?

Travel to Bangladesh is rewarding, but you should take precautions. Some of the most recent terrorist attacks targeted foreigners.

In some areas, tourists are sometimes seen as a nuisance. Be aware of your surroundings and consider using a licenced guide.

Petty crime such as pick-pocketing is also common. Travellers should exercise caution at all times. Avoid travelling at night and never travel alone.

Tour the Time-Tested Old Dhaka

Dhaka is the country’s largest and most bustling city. A tour to Old Dhaka is well worth the trek. A tour guide who understands the culture, history and food of the area that has been centuries in the making. Be sure to stop by ancient sites such as the Hindu Dhakeswari Temple or one of the handful of local mosques.

What Should I Take to Bangladesh?

Unless travelling in winter, tourists should prepare for rain and humidity. Be sure you have everything you need for your trip.

• Clothing – A light jumper for cooler nights plus long sleeves and trousers to avoid mosquitoes. Modest clothing is recommended for visits to religious sites.
• Rain Gear – A kagoul or rain jacket that is lightweight and can be packed on day excursions.
• Insect Repellent or Netting – Mosquito-borne diseases are common in southeast Asia. Be sure to bring repellents, netting and similar items.

Embassy of the United Kingdom in Bangladesh

If you are in Bangladesh and have an emergency (for example, been attacked, arrested or someone has died) contact the nearest consular services. Contact the embassy before arrival if you have additional questions on entry requirements, safety concerns or are in need of assistance.

British High Commission Dhaka United Nations Road Baridhara P O Box 6079 Dhaka – 1212 Dhaka Bangladesh Telephone: +880 2 55668700 Emergency Phone: +88 02 55668700 Fax: +880 2 9843437 Email: [email protected]

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The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) advise against all but essential travel to:

• The Chittagong Hill Tracts. This does not include the city of Chittagong or other parts of Chittagong Division. See Chittagong Hill Tracts

The FCDO advises against all but essential travel to:

• the remainder of Bangladesh based on the current assessment of COVID-19 risks

Travel to Bangladesh is subject to entry restrictions

• On arrival, all foreign nationals need to produce a medical certificate issued within 72 hours of travel indicating the passenger is COVID-19 negative
• Those arriving from the UK are required to complete 14 days of quarantine at a government facility or government approved hotel. From 16 January arrivals will be required to undertake a test after four days. Those testing negative for COVID-19 will be allowed to complete the remainder of the 14 day period through ‘home quarantine’. Those testing positive for COVID-19 will be transferred to a designated government hospital where their remaining quarantine period will be assessed. People staying in a government approved hotel, government facility or hospital will need to cover the costs of those stays
• For those arriving from locations other than the UK, health officials at the point of entry to Bangladesh will assess whether you are able to self-quarantine for 14 days or need to be taken to a government facility or government approved hotel

See Entry requirements for more information before you plan to travel.

Preparing for your return journey to the UK

If you’re returning to the UK from overseas, you will need to:

Check our advice on foreign travel during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and sign up for email alerts for this travel advice.

If you’re planning travel to Bangladesh, find out what you need to know about coronavirus there in the Coronavirus section .

During the COVID-19 pandemic, it is more important than ever to get travel insurance and check it provides sufficient cover. See the FCDO ’s guidance on foreign travel insurance .

Up to 150,000 British nationals visit Bangladesh every year. Most visits are trouble free.

Terrorists are very likely to try to carry out attacks in Bangladesh. The threat extends across the country. There have been several IED attacks targeting police and security forces in Dhaka, Khulna, Chittagong and Sylhet. There is a risk that future attacks could target public gatherings, including religious gatherings and political rallies, crowded areas, places with a police or security presence and locations where foreign nationals are known to gather. You should minimise your exposure to these areas, consider your movements carefully and follow any specific advice of the local authorities. See Terrorism

Political rallies with the potential for disorder or clashes between groups and with law enforcement agencies may take place. Across Bangladesh you’re advised to avoid large gatherings, including those for religious gatherings, festivals and political rallies. See Political violence

Severe air pollution is a major hazard to public health, especially during the winter months. Dhaka is currently experiencing extremely high levels of pollution. See Air pollution

Travel in Bangladesh during the monsoon season (June to September) can be hazardous. See Monsoon season

Tropical cyclones and flooding can affect parts of the country. You should monitor the Bangladesh Meteorological Department for updates, and follow the advice of local authorities. See Tropical cyclones

Bangladesh lies in a zone of seismic activity. See Earthquakes

Mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever occur all year round. There’s been a significant increase in the number of cases of dengue fever across Bangladesh, including in Dhaka. You should take steps to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes. See Health

UK health authorities have classified Bangladesh as having a risk of Zika virus transmission. For information and advice about the risks associated with Zika virus, visit the National Travel Health Network and Centre website .

If you’re abroad and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the nearest British embassy, consulate or high commission . Consular support is limited in parts of Bangladesh where we advise against all but essential travel.

The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating overseas on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.

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FCDO travel advice for Bangladesh. It includes safety and security, insurance, entry requirements and legal differences.

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