Attraction in Bangladesh
Ruins of the Buddhist Vihara at Paharpur
UNESCO World Heritage
Somapura Mahavihara at Paharpur is one of the greatest known Buddhist monasteries in the Indian subcontinent and a UNESCO World Heritage Site designated in 1985. Built in the 8th century during the reign of the Pala king Dharmapala, the cruciform central temple is surrounded by 177 monastic cells and decorated with thousands of terracotta plaques depicting Buddhist and Hindu motifs. The complex served as an important centre of Buddhist learning until the 12th century and its architectural style influenced religious buildings as far afield as Cambodia.
Wise
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4.8 ★ App Store·4.8 ★ Google Play
Airalo eSIM
Your phone plan was built for home. This one was built for Bangladesh.
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4.7 ★ App Store·4.6 ★ Google Play
Travel Guide
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Bangladesh
Entry requirements vary by passport. Check the requirements for your specific passport on the Bangladesh page at Yoogo.
Bangladesh uses the Bangladeshi taka (BDT). Cash is the dominant payment method, particularly outside major hotels and upmarket restaurants in Dhaka; ATMs are available in cities but can be unreliable in rural areas, so carrying sufficient taka is advisable.
Bangladesh is generally safe for tourists in its main cities and tourist areas, with petty crime such as pickpocketing being the most common concern in crowded places. Road traffic poses a significant risk given the high rate of road accidents, so choosing reputable transport is worthwhile. Travellers should monitor official government advisories before and during their visit, as conditions can change.
Cycle rickshaws and CNG auto-rickshaws are the standard short-distance transport in cities and towns, while intercity buses and trains connect major destinations. Bangladesh's extensive river network is served by ferries and the iconic Rocket Steamer paddleboat, which runs between Dhaka and Khulna, offering a memorable way to experience the delta landscape.
The most comfortable time to visit is November to February, when temperatures are mild (around 15–25°C), humidity is low, and rainfall is minimal. The monsoon season from June to September brings heavy rain and flooding that can disrupt travel, while March to May can be very hot with temperatures exceeding 35°C.
The official language is Bengali (Bangla), spoken by the vast majority of the population. English is widely understood in Dhaka hotels, tourist sites, and among educated professionals, but knowledge of a few basic Bangla phrases is appreciated by locals in smaller towns and rural areas.
Hepatitis A, typhoid, and tetanus vaccinations are routinely recommended for travellers, and malaria prophylaxis may be advised for those visiting rural or forested regions. Travellers arriving from yellow fever risk countries are required to show proof of yellow fever vaccination. Drinking only bottled or purified water and taking precautions against mosquito bites are important health measures throughout the country.
Tipping is not a deeply embedded custom in Bangladesh and is not expected at local restaurants or markets. In tourist-facing establishments such as hotels and tour operations, a small tip of 5–10 per cent for good service is appreciated but entirely discretionary. Cash tips in small taka notes are the most practical option.