Bangladesh is a lovely country with plenty of places to explore and admire. From the majestic beauty of its landscapes to the rich culture and history, there are many tourist attractions that visitors can enjoy while in Bangladesh. From the Sundarbans, one of the largest mangrove forests in the world, to Cox’s Bazar, the longest unbroken beach in South Asia, these sites will fill your trip with unforgettable memories. In addition to its natural wonders, Bangladesh also has an array of heritage sites such as Shat Gambuj Mosque and Paharpur as well as national monuments like National Memorial and Sonargaon. For those looking for more adventure, activities like trekking at Sajek Valley or exploring Ratargul Swamp Forest can add an extra bit of excitement to your trip. Whatever type of vacation you are seeking, Bangladesh has something for everyone!
- Cox’s Bazar
Cox’s Bazar is a renowned tourist destination in Bangladesh, located on the south-eastern coast of the country. Known for its natural beauty and breathtaking coastline, it is considered one of the longest beaches in the world at a staggering 120 km long. The beach is lined with coconut palms and casuarina trees, giving it an exotic feel. It is home to some rare species of fauna and birds like olive ridley turtles, kingfishers, herons and more.
This region is also a great spot for adventure sports such as para-sailing, scuba diving and surfboarding. The crystal clear waters provide beautiful sights of coral reefs, sea-turtles and dolphins which are truly mesmerizing. There are several other attractions nearby such as Himchhari National Park where you can enjoy nature walks or take a cruise in the Bay of Bengal to explore nearby islands.
The town itself has many artifacts from its past that are worth visiting such as Buddhist temples, Hindu shrines and colonial architectures from the British era. There are also quaint fishing villages to explore along with tribal people who still practice their ancient traditions. For those looking for a relaxing holiday away from it all, Cox’s Bazar offers plenty of opportunities to just sit back and enjoy the sunsets over its golden beaches
- The Sundarbans
The Sundarbans is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest mangrove forest in the world. It is located in the Ganges Delta of Bangladesh, covering an area of approximately 10,000 square kilometres. The Sundarbans also stretches into India, where it occupies an additional 4,200 square kilometres. This region is home to many species of wildlife including Bengal tigers, salt-water crocodiles and various species of birds and fish.
The Sundarbans are known for their unique landscape and intricate waterways, which can be explored by boat tours or on foot. These tours offer visitors a chance to observe the incredible array of plants and animals that inhabit this region, as well as its many archaeological sites. Tourists can enjoy breathtaking views of the mangroves from watchtowers or go on birding expeditions to spot a variety of rare species.
In addition to its natural beauty, visitors can also experience the local culture by visiting nearby villages or traditional fishermen markets. Visitors can even take part in activities such as swimming with dolphins or participating in a traditional fishing expedition with local fishermen.
The Sundarbans is truly one of Bangladesh’s most precious attractions, offering tourists an unforgettable experience that combines unique wildlife and stunning scenery with vibrant local culture.
- The St. Martin’s Island
The St. Martin’s Island is one of the most well-known tourist attractions in Bangladesh. It is a small island located in the Bay of Bengal, about 9 km south of the mainland in Teknaf Peninsula. It is an unspoiled paradise that looks like a miniaturised version of the Caribbean islands, with its white sandy beaches and crystal clear turquoise waters.
The main attraction of this island is its stunning scenery, with picturesque views and spectacular beaches dotted with coconut trees. The largest beach on the island is known as ‘Palong khali’ which means ’empty beach’. The beach has two sides – one side faces towards the open sea and provides splendid views of sunrises and sunsets, while the other side faces towards nearby islands. One can take long strolls along both sides of the beach and enjoy amazing views of nature at its best!
Besides its beautiful beaches, St. Martin’s Island also offers many activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, fishing, swimming and exploring underwater marine life to name a few. There are also plenty of restaurants to explore for local seafood specialties such as lobster, crab or shrimps cooked in various styles or even grilled fish served with rice or bread.
Overall St Martin’s Island definitely makes for a perfect destination for tourists looking for a relaxed holiday away from the hustle and bustle of city life!
- Kuakata
Kuakata is a unique beach destination in Bangladesh, located on the country’s southeastern coast. It is known for its amazing sunrises and sunsets that can be seen over the Bay of Bengal. This beautiful stretch of coastline offers visitors the chance to relax and explore a wide variety of attractions. From exploring the rich culture of the local people to enjoying some of the most stunning scenery in Bangladesh, Kuakata is an ideal destination for tourists.
The beach itself offers plenty of opportunities for relaxation and exploration. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along miles of sandy beaches, swim in crystal-clear waters or go kayaking around nearby islands. For those looking for more active pursuits, there are several boat trips available, including fishing expeditions and dolphin-spotting trips. There is also an abundance of seafood restaurants offering fresh seafood dishes that are sure to tantalize taste buds.
Kuakata has many temples and monuments which offer insight into the local culture and history. The Kalapara Baishya Temple is a popular attraction here, as it provides a glimpse into Hindu culture and tradition with its intricate carvings and statues. Another popular spot is Sattar Kella Mosque, where visitors can enjoy spectacular views from atop its towering minarets while admiring its beautiful architecture.
For those who wish to explore further afield, Kuakata has plenty to offer in terms of natural beauty as well. The nearby Rakhaine Mountain Range provides spectacular views across the sea while also offering opportunities for trekking further inland. Additionally, there are several lakes scattered throughout this area which provide ideal spots for birdwatching or wildlife spotting.
Overall, Kuakata is an ideal destination for tourists who want to experience both relaxation and exploration during their time in Bangladesh. With plenty of beaches, cultural attractions and natural landscapes to enjoy, it’s no wonder why this beach town has become such a popular spot among travelers from all over the world!
- Jaflong
Jaflong is a picturesque hill station located in the Sylhet Division of Bangladesh. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations due to its stunning views of the Piyain River and dense forested areas. The area is known for its rolling hills, rocky riverbanks and steep stairs that lead down to the lush green tea gardens.
The main attraction at Jaflong is its stone-collecting activity. Locals make their living by harvesting stones from the riverbeds and taking them to various factories where they are processed into gravel and other materials used in construction. Visitors can witness this process firsthand as well as explore the area’s many limestone caves and gorges.
Jaflong is also home to several unique plant species such as orchids, rhododendrons, balsam trees, wild figs and more. Birdwatchers will be thrilled with Jaflong’s rich biodiversity; it is home to over 250 species of birds including parrots, woodpeckers, kingfishers, bee-eaters and much more!
During winter months visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the banks of Piyain River or take a boat ride into nearby Kaptai Lake. There are plenty of activities available such as trekking, rock climbing, fishing and exploring local villages. For those looking for souvenirs, there are plenty of shops selling handicrafts made locally. Jaflong also offers some great accommodation options ranging from luxurious resorts to budget hotels.
- Sajek Valley
Sajek Valley is one of the most stunning places in Bangladesh, located in the Rangamati district. It is perched on a high altitude of around 4500 feet and surrounded by mountain ranges covered with clouds and lush green forests. This mountain valley offers a spectacular view of rolling hills, rivers and streams meandering through them. The name ‘Sajek’ literally means ‘sky’ in the local language, due to its lofty elevation.
With its picturesque beauty, Sajek Valley attracts a lot of travelers from all over the world. It is known for its mesmerizing sunrises and sunsets, and for its diverse flora and fauna that thrive in this region. Tourists can explore the local cultural diversity here as there are many indigenous villages located around the valley like Longadu, Kashiabari, Baghaihati etc.
The trekking routes here offer some challenging trails for adventure junkies as it passes through narrow winding roads leading to small tribal settlements along with breathtaking views of ravines and cliffs. Tourists can also enjoy bird watching in Sajek Valley as it is home to various species like parrots, woodpeckers, kingfishers etc. A visit to this place is sure to be an enthralling experience with its rustic charm!
- The Shat Gambuj Mosque
The Shat Gambuj Mosque, located in the city of Bagerhat in Bangladesh, is an iconic example of 15th century Islamic architecture. Built in 1459 by Sultan Mahmud Shah Al-Khulji, it is one of the largest mosques located in Bangladesh and one of the most impressive Islamic monuments from the medieval period. The mosque is composed of 77 domes arranged in seven rows over a rectangular platform which covers an area of about 624 square meters. The walls are made up of terracotta bricks that have been intricately decorated with carved geometric patterns and floral motifs. It also features two corner towers and four entrance gates, all decorated with intricate terracotta designs. Inside the structure there are several hundred graves including those of Sultan Mahmud Shah Al-Khulji and his family members. The mosque is now a protected UNESCO World Heritage site and visited by tourists from around the world who come to marvel at its amazing architecture and decoration.
- Paharpur
Paharpur is one of the most important archaeological sites in Bangladesh. Located on the banks of the River Karatoa, this 7th century Buddhist monastery is considered to be one of the largest and oldest monasteries in South Asia. Also known as Somapura Mahavihara, this UNESCO World Heritage site was built under Dharmapala, a Pala king who ruled during the 8th century AD.
The monastery complex consists of an impressive nine-storied central pyramidal temple surrounded by 177 small stupas and over 200 monastic units within its walls. It was constructed using terracotta bricks and adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures depicting various aspects of Buddhism. The central temple has a square base measuring 335 feet on each side, making it one of the largest single monolithic structures in South Asia.
The brickwork at Paharpur is quite remarkable as it can not only be seen from far away but also up close with its intricate designs and patterns. Many of these were influenced by Hindu, Jain, Buddhist and other religious motifs including lotus petals, garlands, creepers, birds and animals among others. Other interesting features here include two crypts inside the main shrine which contain four seated images of Buddha that are believed to have been installed around 800 AD.
Today, Paharpur serves as an important cultural landmark for visitors coming to Bangladesh from all over the world. It is also home to a large number of artifacts unearthed through excavations done here which contributes greatly to our understanding of ancient Bengali culture.
- National Memorial
The National Memorial is an important monument in Bangladesh, located in the Savar Upazila of Dhaka district. It was built to honor and remember all those who gave their lives during the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971. The memorial is sculpted in the shape of a three-dimensional map of Bangladesh, and it stands at 44 meters (144 ft) high. The interior of the monument has been designed to represent seven rays representing the seven divisions of Bangladesh.
The National Memorial also features a Hall of Remembrance where visitors are encouraged to pay respects to those who died during the war. This hall has a gallery with photographs and documents related to the war, making it an invaluable source for anyone wanting to learn more about this period in Bangladesh’s history. Additionally, there is a museum that houses artifacts from the time period as well as artwork depicting scenes from the war.
The main structure stands atop a large plaza which hosts various ceremonies and functions throughout the year, including Independence Day celebrations and special programs for martyred freedom fighters on December 16th every year. The entire memorial complex is surrounded by lush gardens, allowing visitors to spend some time in peaceful contemplation while surrounded by nature’s beauty.
- Sonargaon
Sonargaon is an ancient, historic city located in Bangladesh. It was the capital of Bengal during the Muslim rule from 1250 to 1538 and is now a popular tourist destination. Sonargaon has many attractions, including historic monuments and archeological sites such as Panam City, Folk Art Museum, and Goaldi Mosque. There are also numerous temples and shrines that were built in the 16th century by the Mughal rulers of Bengal.
The highlight of Sonargaon is the Panam City which was constructed by Sultan Hussain Shah in 1494 AD. The ancient city is filled with ruins, mosques, tombs and other medieval structures that have been preserved over time. Visitors can explore its narrow lanes, observe local life and visit some of the best-preserved buildings around such as Goaldi Mosque, Kalu Beel Mosque and Sheik Isa Tambur’s Tomb.
Sonargaon is also home to many folk artisans who practice traditional craftsmanship and produce beautiful handicrafts like dolls (known as Sonar Kella), pottery, bamboo products, wooden items, muslin fabric (known as Jamdani) etc. The Folk Art Museum showcases unique examples of this craftsmanship which can be purchased from local shops or marketplaces at reasonable prices.
Sonargaon offers an insight into the cultural heritage of Bangladesh and its vibrant art scene which makes it a must-visit destination for any traveler exploring this country.
- Ahsan Manzil
Ahsan Manzil is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Bangladesh. Located in Old Dhaka, this palace was built between 1859 and 1872 and served as the residence of the Nawab family. It is one of the few Mughal-style palaces still standing in Bangladesh and a must-see for anyone visiting Dhaka.
The palace consists of two parts: an exterioir (Imambara) and an interioir (Andar Mahal). The Imambara has a lotus flower design on its roof, which gives it a unique, majestic look. Inside, visitors can explore the different rooms that were once used by the Nawab family including their private chambers, audience halls and courtyards. There are also many artifacts from the period including statues, prints, paintings and furniture that give visitors an insight into how life was during those times.
Ahsan Manzil is home to many historical monuments such as Lalbagh Fort, Lalbagh Kella Mosque, Choto Katra Mosque and Tipu Sultan Mosque – all of which are important landmarks in Old Dhaka. The palace also overlooks scenic views of Buriganga River and provides great photo opportunities for tourists visiting Dhaka.
Ahsan Manzil is open daily from 10 am till 4 pm and entrance fees vary depending on nationality. For Bangladeshi nationals it is 20 BDT while for foreign nationals it ranges from 40 BDT to 150 BDT depending on age group. This beautiful palace should be on everyone’s list when exploring Bangladesh!
- Lalbag Fort
Lalbag Fort is a historic Mughal fort in Lalbagh, Dhaka, Bangladesh. It was built by Prince Muhammad Azam Shah in 1678 AD during his short reign as the Mughal viceroy of Bengal. The fort was later extended by Subahdar Shaista Khan in 1684 AD and served as his residence until 1688 when he went back to Delhi. Located on the banks of the Buriganga River, the fort has three gates – Bagh Darwaza (Garden Gate), Lalkilla Gate and Begum Pori Gate – which are all made of brick with terracotta ornamentation. Inside, there are several buildings, including four corner-towers, a large tank and a baradari pavilion. There also used to be an aquarium constructed by Shaista Khan in 1684 but it is now mostly destroyed. Besides these structures, there is also an impressive collection of Persian inscriptions throughout the fort that provide interesting historical information about its construction and use over time. The fort is now a popular tourist destination in Dhaka and provides visitors with an insight into how Mughal emperors once lived and conducted their affairs in this part of the world.
- Dhakeshwari National Temple
The Dhakeshwari National Temple is one of the most sacred Hindu temples in Bangladesh. Located in Old Dhaka, this ancient temple was built during the 12th century by Ballal Sen, a king of the Sena dynasty. It serves as the main center for religious activities for Hindus residing in Bangladesh. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga and enshrines a variety of religious idols such as Shiva, Hanuman and Krishnan.
The interior of the temple has four courtyards and features an array of ornate sculptures depicting various Hindu gods and goddesses. Inside, there is also a large statue of Lord Vishnu which is believed to be over 800 years old and considered to be the oldest stone sculpture in the country. Visitors can also witness several traditional festivals celebrated annually at the temple such as Durga Puja and Kali Puja.
The Dhakeshwari National Temple also has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. According to legend, it was built around 1160 by King Lakshman Sen who wanted to honor his mother Queen Rani Bhabani who was from Dhaka city. Over time, it became increasingly popular amongst pilgrims from all over India who came here to pay their respects to Goddess Durga. The temple has since been renovated multiple times throughout its history but still maintains its original charm and beauty which attracts thousands of visitors each year.
- National Parliament House
The National Parliament House in Dhaka is an iconic structure that is a must-visit for tourists to Bangladesh. Designed by British architect Louis I. Kahn, it is one of the largest legislative complexes in the world, with a total area of more than 200 acres. Constructed between 1961 and 1982, it serves as the home of both chambers of the Bangladeshi Parliament as well as a national symbol of Bangladeshi democracy. The building’s unique design is characterized by its open plan, sculptural concrete forms, and use of natural materials such as marble, granite and teakwood. Its vast courtyard measures almost 2,000 feet long and 700 feet wide and includes a pond surrounded by lush foliage. Inside the building, visitors can explore multiple chambers including the main chamber Hexagon House, where parliamentary sessions are held; the Prime Minister’s Chamber; various committee rooms; galleries; libraries; and meeting rooms for MPs.
The National Parliament House also houses numerous souvenir shops, restaurants and cafés where visitors can buy local handicrafts or try Bangladeshi cuisine. Additionally, there are several points around the building from which visitors can get breathtaking views of Dhaka city – making it one of the most popular tourist attractions in Bangladesh.
- National Zoo
The National Zoo in Bangladesh is a popular tourist destination for visitors from around the world. Located in Mirpur, Dhaka, this zoo houses over 950 animal species from around the globe. Visitors can expect to see a wide range of animals such as Bengal tigers, Asian elephants, leopards, rhinos and even chimpanzees. The zoo also features a separate enclosure for birds and reptiles.
The zoo has been designed in such a way that it provides an environment which mimics their natural habitat as closely as possible. It has various enclosures like aviaries and open spaces for animals to roam freely. The bird cages also offer plenty of space for small birds and parrots to fly around. Additionally, there are large outdoor ponds where numerous aquatic creatures can be spotted.
In addition to the large mammals and birds found at the National Zoo, visitors will also be able to see smaller creatures such as turtles and frogs. The zoo also offers educational programs for children that involve interactive activities like petting different animals or observing them up close in their habitats.
Visitors can take part in guided tours which provide information about each individual animal species or simply enjoy admiring them from afar. There is also a souvenir shop inside the zoo where one can purchase postcards and other items related to wildlife conservation. The National Zoo is open every day except Tuesdays and admission fees vary depending upon age groups and nationalities of visitors.
- National Botanical Garden
The National Botanical Garden is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Bangladesh. Located in Mirpur, Dhaka, it is home to a large collection of native plants and trees, as well as exotic species from around the world. The garden covers an area of around 100 hectares and has over 10,000 plant species and varieties. This makes it one of the largest botanical gardens in South Asia.
The garden offers visitors a great opportunity to explore nature, with its lush greenery and amazing variety of flora. There are several trails that wind through the park, allowing you to take in all the sights and sounds of nature. The different sections of the park feature various types of vegetation; for instance, the bamboo section presents thick stands of these tall grasses while the cactus beds offer an array of colorful cacti plants.
The National Botanical Garden also features a number of fountains, ponds and water features throughout its grounds, adding to its tranquil atmosphere. There are also numerous birdhouses throughout the park that attract various species of birds such as parakeets, woodpeckers and kingfishers. The park also houses many wild animals like monkeys, deer and even tigers!
The National Botanical Garden is open year-round but is especially beautiful during spring when the flowers begin to bloom. During this time visitors can enjoy watching butterflies flutter around or marvel at the vibrant colors created by different blooms. There are also plenty of activities that families can participate in such as having picnics under shady trees or playing games on designated lawns. It’s definitely an idyllic spot for some leisurely outdoor fun!
- Star Mosque
The Star Mosque in Dhaka is an iconic landmark of Bangladesh, attracting many visitors with its intricate design and history. Built in the early 1800s by Mirza Golam Pir, the mosque is characterized by its star-shaped motifs painted in vibrant shades of blue and white. The ceiling of the mosque is decorated with ornamental stucco tracery and stars that are illuminated during the evening to create a stunningly beautiful visual effect.
The walls are also intricately decorated with floral and geometric patterns, while the floor has five mihrabs – prayer niches that indicate the direction of Mecca. In addition to its unique design, this mosque also features two minarets which were added later for aesthetic purposes. Furthermore, it houses several tombs of notable figures such as Nawab Murshid Quli Khan who was responsible for bringing Bengal into Mughal control.
Visitors can also appreciate the 19th century clock tower that stands proudly outside the mosque, adding to its antiquity and charm. Its exterior is adorned with intricate carvings depicting scenes from Hindu mythology, making it an interesting stop for those interested in architecture and history. In addition to this remarkable structure, visitors can also enjoy other nearby attractions including a small park and pond which provide great opportunities for relaxation and recreation.
18 Kantaji Temple
Kantaji Temple is one of the most famous Hindu temples in Bangladesh. Located in Dinajpur, it was constructed by Maharaja Pran Nath during 1722-1752 AD. This temple is the most renowned architectural and cultural monument in Bangladesh and holds immense cultural significance.
Kantaji Temple is dedicated to Krishna, a Hindu god, and is an example of fine terracotta art. The three storeyed temple consists of a shrine at each corner of its square shape that are surrounded by a large number of small shrines. The walls of the temple are made up of terracotta plaques that depict various scenes from Hindu mythology. These plaques show mythological stories related to Lord Krishna, such as his birth, childhood activities, love life with Radha and other gopis (female companions).
The temple also has four impressive arched entrances leading into its main hall which houses the central deity – Lord Krishna along with his consorts Rukmini and Satyabhama. Inside the hall there are several images depicting Lord Shiva and his family, Vishnu’s incarnations such as Rama, Hanuman, Lakshamana and others.
The roofing system of Kantaji Temple is an example of exceptional craftsmanship as it consists of a series of cascading terracotta slabs decorated with figures, floral designs and decorative elements like animals or birds. It was designed to protect the inner sanctum from rain as well as direct sunlight so that sunlight may not damage the terracotta sculptures on its walls. As you walk around this masterpiece you will be astonished by its intricate designs, vibrant colours and remarkable architecture.
Kantaji Temple has been described as one of the finest monuments in South Asia due to its remarkable architecture, stunning terracotta art work and beautiful sculptures depicting various characters from Hindu mythology. Visit Kantaji Temple for an unforgettable experience!
19 Mahasthangarh
Mahasthangarh is one of the oldest archaeological sites in Bangladesh, dating back to the third century BC. Located in Bogra District, it was once known as Pundranagara or the City of Pundras. It is believed to be the ancient capital of the Buddhist kingdom of Pundravardhana and a major trading center for silk, cotton, and muslin fabrics. The site contains a number of ruins including temples, stupas and monasteries.
The most impressive structure at Mahasthangarh is the citadel, which was used by successive rulers between 3rd century BC and 18th century AD. Built on a raised mound, this fortified palace stands 30 meters high with walls that are up to 1 meter thick. The palace complex includes residential quarters, an audience hall and various courtyards surrounded by gardens. Other important structures include two large temples dedicated to Shiva and Vishnu as well as several smaller Hindu shrines. There are also numerous Buddhist structures scattered around the site such as stupas, monasteries and votive platforms.
The area around Mahasthangarh is also known for its natural beauty with lush green forests, ponds and hills providing a scenic backdrop for visitors exploring the ruins. A visit to this historical site offers an insight into how life must have been centuries ago in this region of Bangladesh.
20 Ratargul Swamp Forest
Ratargul Swamp Forest is a freshwater swamp forest located in the Sylhet Division of Bangladesh. It is the only swamp forest in the country and one of the few freshwater swamp forests in the world. The unique feature of Ratargul is that it is submerged under 10 to 20 feet of water during monsoon season and emerges as land during winter season, making it an ideal place for migratory birds like egrets, kingfishers and other aquatic plants. The best time to visit this natural wonder is during winter season when most of the land has emerged from the water.
The area around Ratargul is mostly made up of evergreen trees, providing a great environment for wildlife. Visitors can also observe different species of reptiles such as Monitor Lizards, Cobras and Pythons among others. There are four watchtowers built on elevated plots inside the forest which provide breathtaking views of the whole area. Boats are also available for hire to explore further into the depths of this mysterious jungle.
The Ratargul Swamp Forest provides an excellent opportunity for bird watching enthusiasts with over 40 species found in this area including Cormorants, Ibisbill and various types of ducks. Tourists can also come across mammals like wild boar, monkeys and deer roaming in this undisturbed habitat. This unique destination attracts many visitors from near and far who come here to experience its spectacular beauty and tranquillity.
Conclusion
To conclude, Bangladesh is a country that offers beautiful tourist attractions to explore. From the longest natural beach in the world, Cox’s Bazar, to the lush green Sundarbans, there’s something for everyone. The St. Martin’s Island is a beautiful coral island with white sandy beaches located in the Bay of Bengal. Kuakata and Jaflong offer stunning views of nature and are great places for adventure or just relaxing. Sajek Valley is perfect for those looking for mountain beauty and amazing sunsets. Visitors shouldn’t miss out on visiting some of the historical sites such as The Shat Gambuj Mosque, Paharpur, National Memorial and Sonargaon which have unique cultural significance. Ahsan Manjil, Lalbag Fort and Dhakeshwari National Temple are spectacular examples of Mughal architecture in Bangladesh. Lastly, don’t forget to visit the National Zoo, Botanical Garden, Star Mosque and Kantaji Temple to get an amazing view of wildlife and ancient religious art. All these places make Bangladesh one of the top travel destinations in South Asia!