Nine Attractive and Scenic Places of Bangladesh
These destinations will not only enrich your travel experience, but will also help you understand the country’s history, culture and natural beauty more closely
Bangladesh, with its natural beauty and cultural diversity, is an outstanding destination for travel lovers. Across different corners of the country there are numerous attractive and scenic places that offer travellers a unique experience. From the foothills of the Himalayas to the world's largest natural sea beach of Cox’s Bazar, from the hilly areas of Chattogram to the forests of the Sundarbans—each place has its own distinct features and beauty.
In this article, we present 9 most attractive tourist spots in Bangladesh and detailed information on how to reach there easily. These destinations will not only enrich your travel experience, but will also help you understand the country’s history, culture and natural beauty more closely. Let us take a look at the top 9 tourist destinations in Bangladesh and how to travel to them.
1. Cox’s Bazar: The world’s longest sea beach
Cox’s Bazar, located on the south-eastern coast of Bangladesh, is an extraordinary sea beach. It is the longest natural sea beach in the world, stretching about 120 km. The flowing blue waters, golden sands and peaceful surroundings make it an ideal destination for tourists. Watching the sunset on the beach in the evening is truly unmatched. There are numerous restaurants and coffee shops beside the beach where you can enjoy local food. “Hotel Astar Eco” and “Long Beach Hotel” are among the main hotels in the city, offering facilities for different types of travellers.
How to travel from Dhaka to Cox’s Bazar and cost
By bus
Route: Dhaka to Cox’s Bazar.
Cost: A one-way bus ticket usually costs between TK 1,200–2,000, depending on the type of bus (non-AC, semi-AC, AC).
Travel time: About 12–15 hours.
By flight
Route: Dhaka to Cox’s Bazar.
Cost: A one-way flight ticket usually costs between Tk 5,000–8,000, depending on special offers or the season.
Travel time: About 1 hour.
By train
Route: Dhaka to Chattogram, then Chattogram to Cox’s Bazar.
Cost: Train ticket from Dhaka to Cox’s Bazar may cost between Tk 695–1,325.
Travel time: Dhaka to Chattogram by train about 6–7 hours, then Chattogram to Cox’s Bazar by bus about 4–5 hours.
General guidelines
Bus information: Various bus services operate from Dhaka to Cox’s Bazar, such as Shyamoli, Hanif and others.
Flight information: Airlines such as Biman Bangladesh Airlines, US-Bangla Airlines and Novoair operate flights from Dhaka to Cox’s Bazar.
2. The Sundarbans: The world’s largest mangrove forest
The Sundarbans, located in south-west Bangladesh, is the world’s largest mangrove forest, covering about 10,000 sq km. This forest is mainly known as the Sundarbans Tiger Reserve and is world-famous as a habitat for tigers. The current tiger population in the Sundarbans is around 100–120, making it one of the world’s most important wildlife conservation areas. The forest provides a safe shelter for many species of wildlife. While visiting the Sundarbans, you can explore the forest by boat along the waterways. Local guides provide detailed information about the forest.
How to travel from Dhaka to the Sundarbans and cost
By bus
Route: Dhaka to Khulna.
Cost: A one-way bus ticket usually costs between 700–1,200 taka, depending on the type of journey (AC or non-AC).
Travel time: About 7–8 hours.
By train
Route: Dhaka to Khulna.
Cost: A one-way train ticket usually costs between Tk 500–1,000, depending on the class.
Travel time: About 8–10 hours.
From Khulna to the Sundarbans
Route: You must travel by boat from Khulna to reach the Sundarbans.
Cost: Boat hire usually costs between Tk 1,000–3,000, depending on the type of trip and group size.
Travel time: About 2–3 hours.
General guidelines
You need to be prepared for inland water transport from Khulna to the Sundarbans.
Travel agencies: There are many tour operators offering package services for visiting the Sundarbans. Contacting them can help you plan properly.
3. Saint Martin’s: The only coral island in Bangladesh
Saint Martin’s is the only coral island in Bangladesh and is a highly popular tourist destination. Its clear blue waters and natural beauty captivate visitors. The island’s coral surroundings create a peaceful environment where tourists can swim and enjoy the sunset. For accommodation in Saint Martin’s, there are several well-developed hotels such as “Ofuronto” and “Saint Martin Resort”.
How to travel from Dhaka to Saint Martin’s and cost
By bus
Route: Dhaka to Cox’s Bazar.
Cost: One-way bus ticket usually costs between Tk 1,200–2,000, depending on the type of bus (non-AC, semi-AC, AC).
Travel time: About 12–15 hours.
Cox’s Bazar to Teknaf
Route: Cox’s Bazar to Teknaf.
Cost: One-way bus ticket costs about Tk 200–400.
Travel time: About 1.5–2 hours.
Teknaf to Saint Martin’s
Route: Travel by boat from Teknaf to Saint Martin’s Island.
Cost: Boat or launch fare usually costs between Tk 1,000–2,000, depending on the season and service type.
Travel time: About 1.5–2 hours.
General guidelines
Boat or launch tickets for Saint Martin’s should be booked in advance, especially during the tourist season.
Season: Winter (November to March) is the best time to visit Saint Martin’s, as the sea remains relatively calm.
Weather: During the monsoon, boat services may be limited due to rough seas, so it is advisable to check the weather report before planning.
4. Paharpur: Ancient Buddhist monastery
Paharpur, located in north-west Bangladesh, is an ancient Buddhist monastery established in the 7th century. It has been recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Various structures of the monastery, such as stupas and monks’ residences, testify to ancient Buddhist civilisation. About 20,000 tourists visit every year. Through local guides, you can learn about its history and cultural significance. You can travel to Naogaon from Dhaka by bus or train.
There are various ways to travel from Dhaka to Paharpur. Detailed information is given below:
How to travel from Dhaka to Paharpur and cost
By bus
Route: Dhaka to Paharpur (tourists also visit Paharpur Monastery and other places such as Dinajpur).
Cost: One-way bus ticket usually costs between Tk 500–800, depending on the type of bus (non-AC, semi-AC, AC).
Travel time: About 7–8 hours.
By train
Route: Dhaka to Dinajpur, then Dinajpur to Paharpur.
Cost: Train ticket from Dhaka to Dinajpur usually costs between Tk 500–800, depending on class. From Dinajpur to Paharpur, bus or auto-rickshaw fare is approximately Tk 300–500.
Travel time: Dhaka to Dinajpur by train about 8–10 hours, then Dinajpur to Paharpur by bus or auto-rickshaw about 1–1.5 hours.
General guidelines
It is advisable to book train tickets in advance, especially during weekends or holiday seasons.
Bus information: Various bus services operate from Dhaka to Dinajpur, such as Shyamoli, Hanif and others.
Additional options: From Dinajpur to Paharpur, you can use local buses, auto-rickshaws or private cars.
5. Rangamati: The city of hills and lakes
Rangamati, located in south-eastern Bangladesh, is a beautiful hilly area. Kaptai Lake, the hills and the lifestyle of indigenous communities attract tourists. Kaptai Lake is the largest man-made lake in Bangladesh and is ideal for cruises and picnics. For accommodation, there are hotels such as “Rangamati Paradise” and “Pine View Resort”.
How to travel from Dhaka to Rangamati and cost
By bus
Route: Dhaka to Rangamati.
Cost: One-way bus ticket usually costs between Tk 1,200–2,000, depending on the type of bus (non-AC, semi-AC, AC).
Travel time: About 8–9 hours.
By train (Dhaka to Chattogram) and then bus to Rangamati
Route: Dhaka to Chattogram, then Chattogram to Rangamati.
Cost:
Dhaka to Chattogram train: One-way ticket usually costs between Tk 500–1,000, depending on class.
Chattogram to Rangamati bus: One-way ticket usually costs between Tk 300–500.
Travel time: Dhaka to Chattogram by train in about 6–7 hours, then Chattogram to Rangamati by bus in about 3–4 hours.
General guidelines
Train tickets should be booked in advance, especially during weekends or holiday seasons.
Bus information: Various bus services operate from Dhaka to Rangamati, such as Shyamoli, Hanif and others.
Bus schedule: Buses to Rangamati usually operate in the morning and afternoon, so it is advisable to check schedules in advance.
6. Sonargaon: The ancient capital of Bengal
Sonargaon was an ancient capital of Bangladesh and carries historical significance. There are various historical structures such as the Golden House and temples. Visiting Sonargaon allows you to see a part of Bengal’s history and culture. “Sonargaon Resort” and “Hotel Sonargaon” are among the main hotels here.
How to travel from Dhaka to Sonargaon and cost
By bus
Route: Dhaka to Sonargaon.
Cost: One-way bus ticket usually costs between 200–400 taka.
Travel time: About 1.5–2 hours.
By private car
Route: Dhaka to Sonargaon.
Cost: Private car hire costs Tk 2,000–3,000 taka, depending on the type of vehicle and duration of use.
Travel time: About 1–1.5 hours.
By rickshaw or auto-rickshaw
Route: From various places in Dhaka city to Sonargaon by rickshaw or auto-rickshaw.
Cost: Approximately Tk 800–1,500, depending on type and distance.
Travel time: About 1.5–2 hours.
General guidelines
Bus information: Various buses on the Dhaka–Chattogram route operate towards Sonargaon.
Car hire: Contact local drivers or rental agencies to confirm fares.
Rickshaw information: It is advisable to agree on the fare in advance, especially when travelling from bus stands or railway stations.
7. Kuakata: The town of sunrise and sunset
Kuakata is a beautiful beach town in Bangladesh where you can see both sunrise and sunset from the same place. Its clear environment and pure sea water attract tourists. Main hotels include “Sundive Hotel” and “Kuakata Palace”.
How to travel from Dhaka to Kuakata and cost
By bus
Route: Dhaka to Kuakata.
Cost: One-way bus ticket usually costs between Tk 1,250–2,000, depending on the type of bus (non-AC, semi-AC, AC).
Travel time: About 12–15 hours.
By private car
Route: Dhaka to Kuakata.
Cost: Private car hire costs Tk 15,000–25,000 taka, depending on the vehicle type and rental agency.
Travel time: About 10–12 hours.
General guidelines
Bus information: Various bus services operate from Dhaka to Kuakata, such as Shyamoli, Hanif and others. It is advisable to check schedules and book tickets in advance.
Private car: Confirm the fare with local drivers or rental agencies.
Season: During the tourist season (winter), it is better to book bus tickets in advance due to heavy crowds.
8. Mahasthangarh: The first capital of Bangladesh
Mahasthangarh is the oldest city in Bangladesh and was established as the first capital. There are ancient temples, Buddhist monasteries and other historical structures. Many tourists visit every year to learn about ancient Bengal’s history and culture.
Details of travel from Dhaka to Bogura Mahasthangarh:
How to travel from Dhaka to Bogura Mahasthangarh and cost
By bus
Route: Dhaka to Bogura.
Cost: One-way bus ticket usually costs between Tk 500–800, depending on the type of bus (non-AC, semi-AC, AC).
Travel time: About 7–8 hours.
By train
Route: Dhaka to Bogura.
Cost: Train ticket usually costs between Tk 400–700 taka, depending on class.
Travel time: About 8–10 hours.
By private car
Route: Dhaka to Bogura.
Cost: Private car hire costs Tk 8,000–12,000, depending on vehicle type and duration.
Travel time: About 5–7 hours.
From Bogura to Mahasthangarh:
Transport: Bus, rickshaw or auto-rickshaw from Bogura town.
Cost: One-way fare usually costs between Tk 100–200.
Travel time: About 30 minutes to 1 hour.
General guidelines
Bus information: Various bus services operate from Dhaka to Bogura, such as Shyamoli, Hanif and others. Check schedules and book tickets in advance.
Train information: It is better to book train tickets in advance, especially during weekends or holidays.
Private car: Confirm the fare with local drivers or rental agencies.
9. Sajek Valley: The queen of hills
Sajek Valley is one of the most beautiful hilly areas in Bangladesh, offering stunning natural scenery. Hills, clouds and rivers combine to create a picturesque landscape. The lifestyle of the indigenous communities is also a special attraction. “Sajek Valley Resort” and “Sajek Hill Resort” are among the main hotels in the area.
To reach Sajek Valley from Dhaka, the journey must be made in stages. As there is no direct transport, you must first travel to Khagrachhari and then to Sajek Valley. Details are given below:
How to travel from Dhaka to Sajek Valley and cost
Dhaka to Khagrachhari
By bus:
Route: Dhaka to Khagrachhari.
Cost: One-way bus ticket usually costs between Tk 1,200–2,000, depending on the type of bus (non-AC, semi-AC, AC).
Travel time: About 8–10 hours.
By private car:
Route: Dhaka to Khagrachhari.
Cost: Private car hire costs Tk 15,000–25,000, depending on vehicle type and duration.
Travel time: About 7–8 hours.
Khagrachhari to Sajek Valley
By jeep:
Route: Khagrachhari to Sajek Valley.
Cost: One-way jeep hire usually costs between Tk 2,000–3,000, depending on passenger number and vehicle type.
Travel time: About 2–3 hours.
General guidelines
Bus information: Various bus services operate from Dhaka to Khagrachhari, such as Shyamoli, Hanif and others. Check schedules and book tickets in advance.
Jeep information: Local jeep services are used from Khagrachhari to Sajek Valley. Contact tour operators or local rental agencies to confirm fares.
Season: Winter (November to March) is the best time to visit Sajek Valley, as the weather remains calm and tourist crowds are smaller.
Conclusion
These tourist destinations in Bangladesh carry a unique reflection of our natural beauty and history. Each place offers a special experience that proves the country’s diverse culture and natural splendour. These places are a matter of pride for us and provide visitors with a priceless experience.
- All the photos used in this article have been taken from Wikipedia
Read More: Why Bangladesh Struggles to Attract Tourists
Tourism Struggles Ahead of Ramadan in Bangladesh
Bangladesh–India–Tripura bus service resumes after 18-month suspension
How Political Unrest Crushed Bangladesh's Tourism & Aviation Industry
Why Bangladesh Struggles to Attract Tourists
A Year of Rapid Change in Bangladesh’s Aviation Industry
Some Heritage Sites and Monuments of Bangladesh
Nine Attractive and Scenic Places of Bangladesh
Narayanganj's Murapara Zamindar Bari: A Unique Example of Architectural Style
Bangladesh’s Aviation Drive Could Reshape Future of Tourism
Bangladesh-India Relations Show Signs of Recovery
New Bangladesh Govt Brings Light of Hope to Indian Tourism Sector
Bangladesh Resumes Visa Services in India
Bangladesh in the Eyes of an Indian Traveller
International Arbitration Board orders CAAB to Pay Tk1,650cr to ADC
Prime Minister Holds Meeting on Dhaka Airport’s Third Terminal
Old Dhaka’s Iftar: A Timeless Cuisine of Flavours and Heritage
New Airport Cargo Facility Lies Idle Amid Export Slowdown
Russia Unbound: Tours, Visas, and Travel Tips for Bangladeshi Nationals
Travel Alert Issued Following Killing of Cartel Leader in Mexico
