Heatwave dents tourism as Bangladesh awaits monsoon relief

A widespread heatwave sweeping across Bangladesh is taking a toll on travel and tourism activities in many parts of the country, with industry stakeholders now pinning their hopes on the arrival of the monsoon for much-needed relief and a fresh lift in visitor numbers.

According to the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD), heatwaves affected 48 districts on Wednesday, marking the largest geographical spread recorded this year. The heatwave extended across five divisions—Dhaka, Rajshahi, Khulna, Barishal and Rangpur—as well as Chandpur, Noakhali and Brahmanbaria districts.

The intense heat has put a dampener on outdoor tourism, particularly in urban destinations, heritage sites and nature-based attractions where visitors are exposed to long spells of direct sunlight. In many places, the midday lull has become unavoidable, with activity shifting to early mornings and late afternoons.

Meteorologists said temperatures are expected to remain high through Friday, although the intensity and coverage of the heatwave may gradually ease from Saturday. The delayed onset of the southwest monsoon has prolonged hot and dry conditions across much of the country, leaving little respite in sight for now.

Tourism operators say the prolonged spell has kept many domestic travellers at bay, especially during daytime hours. As the saying goes, the heat has quite literally driven visitors indoors.

Popular attractions in Rajshahi, Paharpur, Mahasthangarh, Kuakata, Sundarbans gateway areas and several archaeological and eco-tourism sites have seen a noticeable drop in daytime footfall, as tourists opt for cooler, indoor alternatives instead.

However, industry insiders remain hopeful that demand will bounce back once the monsoon rains set in. There is a growing sense that the sector is simply weathering the storm before a seasonal turnaround.

Meteorologist Md Bazlur Rashid said the monsoon may enter Bangladesh within the next two to three days, although its arrival is later than usual. Widespread rainfall is expected several days after the system establishes itself.

Tourism entrepreneurs believe the onset of rain will breathe new life into nature-based tourism, river destinations and the country’s green landscapes. For many operators, the monsoon is not just a weather shift but a seasonal lifeline.

The delayed monsoon is particularly significant, as June traditionally marks the beginning of Bangladesh’s rainy-season tourism, when destinations such as tea gardens in Sylhet, the wetlands of Sunamganj, and the hill districts of Rangamati and Bandarban begin to draw increasing numbers of visitors.

Meanwhile, tourism authorities have advised travellers to avoid prolonged sun exposure, stay hydrated and plan outdoor activities during cooler morning and evening hours until conditions improve.

Weather officials said scattered rain is possible in parts of Dhaka, Mymensingh and Sylhet divisions, including the capital, but it is unlikely to bring meaningful relief from the prevailing heat.

With temperatures still running above seasonal norms and the monsoon yet to arrive in full swing, Bangladesh’s tourism sector is now watching the skies closely, hoping for the rains that traditionally transform the landscape and usher in the peak season for nature-focused domestic travel.