Bangladesh may look small on the map, but it offers a surprising range of travel experiences.

You can relax beside the sea in Cox’s Bazar, watch clouds move across the hills in Sajek, cruise through the Sundarbans or walk between the tea gardens of Sreemangal. The country also has ancient monasteries, historic mosques, colourful old cities and peaceful wetlands.

Many of these destinations are connected to Dhaka and other major cities by bus. You can use bdtickets to check available routes, compare bus options and book your seat online before travelling. The platform supports popular routes to destinations such as Cox’s Bazar, Sylhet, Chattogram and Khagrachari.

Here are 15 of the best places to visit in Bangladesh.

Quick Guide to the Best Tourist Places in Bangladesh

Destination	Best for	Recommended stay
Cox’s Bazar	Beaches and family holidays	3 to 4 days
Sundarbans	Wildlife and nature cruises	3 to 4 days
Sajek Valley	Clouds and mountain views	2 to 3 days
Bandarban	Hills, waterfalls and adventure	3 to 5 days
Sylhet	Rivers, tea gardens and nature	3 days
Sreemangal	Tea estates and quiet retreats	2 to 3 days
Saint Martin’s Island	Island scenery and clear water	1 to 2 days
Kuakata	Sunrise and sunset	2 days
Rangamati	Lakes and hill culture	2 to 3 days
Dhaka	History, food and city life	2 to 3 days
Sonargaon	Heritage and day trips	1 day
Bagerhat	Historic mosques	1 to 2 days
Paharpur	Ancient Buddhist heritage	1 day
Mahasthangarh	Archaeology and history	1 day
Tanguar Haor	Wetlands and boat journeys	2 to 3 days

1. Cox’s Bazar

Cox’s Bazar is the best-known beach destination in Bangladesh.

Its long sandy coastline gives travellers plenty of room for walking, watching the sunset and enjoying the sea. Laboni, Sugandha and Kolatoli are the busiest beach points. They are close to hotels, restaurants and shopping areas.

Travel farther south and the scenery begins to change. Himchari offers hills and coastal views. Inani is known for its open shoreline and rocky sections. Patuartek provides a quieter experience along Marine Drive.

A three-day trip is enough to visit the main attractions. Four days will give you more time for Marine Drive, Maheshkhali or a relaxed day beside the sea.

The official Bangladesh tourism portal lists Cox’s Bazar, Inani, Himchari, Maheshkhali and Sonadia among the major destinations in the region.

Best things to do

Watch the sunset from the main beach
Travel along Marine Drive
Visit Himchari and Inani
Shop at the Burmese Market
Try fresh seafood
Take a day trip to Maheshkhali

Best time to visit

November to February offers cooler weather and a lower chance of rain. This is also the busiest season.

Getting there

You can check and book bus tickets to Cox’s Bazar through bdtickets. Book both your onward and return seats early during weekends, school holidays and public holidays.

2. The Sundarbans

The Sundarbans is one of the most extraordinary natural destinations in Bangladesh.

It is a vast mangrove landscape filled with rivers, canals, mudflats and forest islands. The Bangladesh section is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is home to rich wildlife, including spotted deer, crocodiles, monkeys, birds and the Royal Bengal tiger. Tiger sightings are rare and should never be expected as part of a normal tour.

Travellers usually explore the forest by boat. Multi-day tours may include narrow creek cruises, watchtowers, forest walks and visits to places such as Kotka, Kachikhali, Hiron Point or Harbaria. The exact itinerary depends on the operator, tides, permits and forest conditions.

The journey is not only about wildlife. Quiet mornings on the river, changing tides and the sound of the forest are major parts of the experience.

Best things to do

Cruise through narrow forest canals
Watch deer and birds from the boat
Visit approved forest trails and watchtowers
Experience sunrise over the rivers
Learn about mangrove plants and local communities

Best time to visit

November to February is generally the most comfortable period. The weather is cooler and river journeys are easier to enjoy.

Travel tip

Book through an experienced operator that arranges forest permits, trained guides, meals and safety equipment. Do not enter restricted forest areas without permission.

3. Sajek Valley

Sajek is one of the most popular hill destinations in Bangladesh.

It is known for cloud-covered mornings, winding mountain roads and wide views across green hills. Travellers usually stay around Ruilui Para and visit nearby viewpoints, local communities and Konglak Para.

The weather can change quickly. A cloudy morning may become clear within a short time. You may also arrive during a famous cloud season and see very few clouds. Keep your expectations flexible.

October and November provide a good balance of green scenery and manageable weather. Winter is cooler and clearer. The monsoon offers dramatic clouds but also creates a higher risk of road disruption.

Most travellers reach Sajek through Khagrachari, even though Sajek is located in Rangamati District. The official tourism portal lists Sajek among the major hill destinations in the Chattogram region.

Best things to do

Watch the sunrise
Walk around Ruilui Para
Visit Konglak Para
Enjoy the views from your resort
Try local food
Photograph the hills and clouds

Best time to visit

October to November is best for most travellers. December to February is better for cool weather.

Getting there

You can book a Dhaka to Khagrachari bus ticket through bdtickets. After reaching Khagrachari, hire a local jeep or Chander Gari for the journey to Sajek.

4. Bandarban

Bandarban is a strong choice for travellers who want hills, forests, rivers and outdoor adventure.

Popular places near Bandarban town include Nilachal, Nilgiri, Meghla and the Golden Temple. More remote areas offer waterfalls, mountain trails and river journeys.

Destinations such as Boga Lake, Keokradong, Nafakhum and Debotakhum require more planning. You may need a guide, local permission and suitable transport. Some routes are physically demanding and are not ideal for every traveller.

Conditions in the hill districts can change due to weather, road damage or local restrictions. For example, Bandarban tourist spots were temporarily closed during heavy rainfall in July 2026 because of safety risks. Always check the latest district administration notices before travelling.

Best things to do

Watch the sunset from Nilachal
Visit Nilgiri
Explore the Sangu River
See the Golden Temple
Trek with an experienced local guide
Visit waterfalls when conditions are safe

Best time to visit

October to February is usually the most comfortable period. Waterfalls may be stronger during the rainy season, but trails and roads can become dangerous.

Travel tip

Do not travel to remote trails without confirming current access. Carry identification and follow instructions from local authorities.

5. Sylhet

Sylhet is one of the greenest and most scenic regions of Bangladesh.

The wider Sylhet area offers rivers, stone-covered landscapes, tea gardens, swamp forests and religious sites. Jaflong is known for its river, stones and views towards the hills across the border. Lalakhal is popular for boat rides and its changing water colours.

Ratargul Swamp Forest offers a very different experience. During the wet season, visitors travel through the flooded forest by small boat. Water levels vary throughout the year, so the scenery depends on the season.

Bholaganj Sada Pathor is another popular stop. Travellers visit for the river, white stones and nearby hill views. The official national tourism portal lists Ratargul, tea gardens and other Sylhet-region natural attractions among Bangladesh’s destinations.

Best things to do

Visit Jaflong
Take a boat ride at Lalakhal
Explore Ratargul Swamp Forest
Visit Bholaganj Sada Pathor
See Shah Jalal and Shah Paran shrines
Try Sylheti food

Best time to visit

October to February is best for comfortable sightseeing. The monsoon creates greener landscapes and higher water levels, but flooding may affect travel.

Getting there

You can search for a Dhaka to Sylhet bus ticket on bdtickets. The route generally takes several hours, depending on traffic, operator and departure point.

Sreemangal

Sreemangal is ideal for travellers who want a peaceful break from busy city life.

The area is known for tea estates, forest trails, lakes and quiet countryside. A slow drive through the tea gardens is often enough to make the journey memorable.

Lawachara National Park is one of the main attractions. Visitors can walk along forest trails with a local guide and look for birds, monkeys and other wildlife.

Madhabpur Lake is another peaceful stop. Its water, surrounding hills and tea gardens make it suitable for an easy afternoon trip.

Sreemangal is also known for its seven-layer tea. The colourful drink is popular with visitors, although the experience is more about the presentation than traditional tea culture.

Best things to do

Walk through Lawachara National Park
Visit tea estates
Explore Madhabpur Lake
Watch birds at Baikka Beel
Try local tea
Visit nearby communities respectfully

Best time to visit

October to March is comfortable for forest walks. The tea gardens appear especially green during and after the rainy season.

Travel tip

Ask before entering private tea estates. Some gardens do not permit visitors in production areas.

7. Saint Martin’s Island

Saint Martin’s is Bangladesh’s best-known island destination.

Visitors travel there for blue-green water, coral stones, coconut trees and a slower coastal atmosphere. The island is small enough to explore by walking, cycling or local transport.

Sunrise and sunset are major attractions. Travellers also enjoy fresh fish, beach walks and views towards Chhera Dwip. Access to sensitive sections may depend on tides and environmental rules.

Tourism is now tightly regulated. Under the 2025 to 2026 rules, the island was open only from November through January. Visitor numbers were capped, and overnight stays were limited to December and January. The island closed to tourists from February through October. Regulations may change in future seasons, so verify the latest rules before planning.

Best things to do

Walk around the island
Watch sunrise and sunset
Try fresh seafood
Explore the shoreline during low tide
Cycle through the village areas
Visit Chhera Dwip only when permitted

Best time to visit

The tourism season is limited. Check current government-approved travel dates before booking transport or accommodation.

Responsible travel tip

Do not remove coral stones or shells. Avoid loud music, bright lights and plastic waste. The island has a fragile ecosystem.

8. Kuakata

Kuakata is a peaceful beach destination in southern Bangladesh.

It is often called the Daughter of the Sea. Its open coastline provides opportunities to watch both sunrise and sunset from the wider beach area, depending on the season and weather.

Kuakata is generally quieter than central Cox’s Bazar. This makes it a good choice for couples, families and travellers who prefer a slower beach holiday.

Nearby attractions include Gangamati Forest, Fatrar Char, Buddhist temples and local communities. Boat trips may be available, but conditions depend on weather and tides.

Best things to do

Watch the sunrise
Return for sunset
Explore Gangamati
Visit local Buddhist sites
Take a boat trip when conditions are safe
Enjoy fresh coastal food

Best time to visit

November to February is the most comfortable period.

Travel tip

Kuakata becomes busy during long weekends and public holidays. Book transport and accommodation early.

9. Rangamati and Kaptai Lake

Rangamati is known for green hills, calm water and the large Kaptai Lake.

Boat trips are the main attraction. Travellers can visit small islands, lakeside communities and viewpoints surrounded by forested hills. The hanging bridge is one of the best-known landmarks near the town.

The area also offers local markets, Buddhist sites and opportunities to learn about the region’s different communities. Visitors should be respectful when photographing people, homes or religious activities.

A two-night stay gives you enough time for a relaxed lake journey and local sightseeing.

Best things to do

Cruise on Kaptai Lake
Visit the hanging bridge
Explore Shuvolong
Eat at a lakeside restaurant
Visit local markets
Learn about regional crafts and culture

Best time to visit

October to March offers comfortable weather. Heavy monsoon rain may affect road and boat travel.

Travel tip

Check current local access instructions before visiting the Chittagong Hill Tracts. Travel conditions can change with little notice.

10. Old Dhaka

Dhaka is not only a place to begin or end a trip. It is a destination on its own.

Old Dhaka is filled with historic buildings, crowded streets, traditional food and river activity. Lalbagh Fort offers a look at Mughal-era architecture. Ahsan Manzil stands beside the Buriganga and reflects a different part of the city’s history.

You can also visit Armenian Church, Star Mosque, Sadarghat and Dhakeshwari Temple. Each area shows a different side of Dhaka.

Food is a major part of the experience. Popular dishes include kacchi biryani, bakarkhani, kebabs, lassi and traditional sweets.

Best things to do

Visit Lalbagh Fort
Explore Ahsan Manzil
Walk through Shankhari Bazar
See the Buriganga from Sadarghat
Try traditional Old Dhaka food
Take a guided heritage tour

Best time to visit

November to February is more comfortable for walking. Start early to avoid the worst traffic and midday heat.

Travel tip

Old Dhaka can be confusing for first-time visitors. A local guide or planned walking route can save time.

11. Sonargaon and Panam City

Sonargaon is one of the easiest heritage trips from Dhaka.

The area once held great political and commercial importance. Today, travellers visit Panam City, the Folk Arts and Crafts Museum and nearby historic buildings.

Panam City contains a street lined with old merchant houses. The weathered buildings create one of the most recognisable heritage scenes in Bangladesh.

The Folk Arts and Crafts Museum offers a wider introduction to traditional design, tools, clothing and rural culture.

Sonargaon can be covered in one day. Leave Dhaka early to avoid traffic.

Best things to do

Walk through Panam City
Visit the Folk Arts and Crafts Museum
See Goaldi Mosque
Explore nearby historic structures
Try local food on the return journey

Best time to visit

October to March is best for walking outdoors.

Travel tip

Do not climb on fragile buildings or touch damaged architectural details.

12. Bagerhat

Bagerhat is one of the most important heritage destinations in Bangladesh.

The Historic Mosque City of Bagerhat is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It preserves the remains of a medieval Muslim settlement near the northern edge of the Sundarbans.

The Sixty Dome Mosque is the main attraction. Despite its common English name, visitors often notice that the building has more than sixty visible domes. The structure is known for its thick walls, rows of columns and calm interior.

Other sites include the Nine Dome Mosque, Singair Mosque, Khan Jahan Ali’s tomb and historic ponds.

Bagerhat works well as a separate heritage trip or as an addition to a Sundarbans journey.

Best things to do

Visit the Sixty Dome Mosque
See Khan Jahan Ali’s tomb
Explore smaller historic mosques
Walk around the old settlement
Combine the trip with Khulna or Mongla

Best time to visit

November to February offers cooler conditions for walking.

Travel tip

Dress respectfully and remove your shoes where required.

13. Paharpur

Paharpur is one of the best destinations in Bangladesh for archaeology and ancient history.

The Ruins of the Buddhist Vihara at Paharpur are recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The site was once a major Buddhist monastery and learning centre. Its large central structure and surrounding cells reveal the scale of the original complex.

Visitors can walk around the ruins and view terracotta plaques, foundations and excavated structures. A nearby museum displays objects found during archaeological work.

Paharpur is in Naogaon District. It can be combined with a wider northern Bangladesh trip that includes Rajshahi, Bogura or Natore.

Best things to do

Walk around the ancient monastery
Study the terracotta details
Visit the site museum
Take architectural photographs
Combine the visit with other northern heritage sites

Best time to visit

October to March is more comfortable because the archaeological area is open and exposed to the sun.

Travel tip

Carry water, a hat and sunscreen. There is limited shade in parts of the site.

14. Mahasthangarh

Mahasthangarh is one of the oldest known urban archaeological sites in Bangladesh.

Located near Bogura, the site contains the remains of an ancient fortified settlement. Visitors can see old walls, raised mounds, religious structures and archaeological areas spread across a large landscape.

The site museum provides useful context about the objects and settlements discovered in the region.

Mahasthangarh is a good destination for students, families and anyone interested in early Bengal history.

Best things to do

Explore the fortified area
Visit the museum
See Govinda Bhita
Walk around historic mounds
Combine the trip with Bogura city

Best time to visit

November to February provides the most comfortable walking weather.

Travel tip

The attractions are spread across different locations. Hiring a local vehicle makes the visit easier.

15. Tanguar Haor

Tanguar Haor is one of the most beautiful wetland destinations in Bangladesh.

Located in Sunamganj, it changes dramatically with the seasons. During the monsoon, large areas fill with water and the landscape begins to resemble an inland sea. Travellers often explore by houseboat.

The dry season provides a different experience. Water levels fall, local villages become easier to reach and migratory birds may appear during winter.

A houseboat trip may include watchtowers, village stops, clear-water areas and views towards the Meghalaya hills. Routes depend on water levels, weather and local conditions.

Best things to do

Stay on a houseboat
Watch sunrise over the water
Visit nearby villages
See birds during winter
Enjoy views of the northern hills
Photograph changing wetland landscapes

Best time to visit

June to September is popular for full-water houseboat journeys. November to February is better for birdwatching and cooler weather.

Travel tip

Choose a boat with life jackets, clean sleeping arrangements and a clear safety plan. Avoid travelling during severe storms.

Which Place Should You Visit First?

Choose Cox’s Bazar for a classic beach holiday.

Choose Sajek or Bandarban for hills and mountain roads.

Choose Sylhet or Sreemangal for greenery, rivers and tea gardens.

Choose the Sundarbans for wildlife and boat-based adventure.

Choose Saint Martin’s Island for an island experience during the approved tourism season.

Choose Dhaka, Sonargaon, Bagerhat or Paharpur if you enjoy history and architecture.

Choose Kuakata for a quieter beach trip.

Choose Rangamati or Tanguar Haor if you want to spend time on the water.

Best Time to Travel Around Bangladesh

The best overall travel period is usually November to February.

The weather is cooler and rainfall is lower. This makes road journeys, city walks and outdoor sightseeing more comfortable.

However, this is also the busiest season. Hotels and bus tickets can fill quickly during weekends and public holidays.

The monsoon lasts roughly from June to September. It creates greener hills, fuller waterfalls and dramatic wetland scenery. It can also bring flooding, landslides and transport disruption.

Before traveling during the rainy season, check:

Weather forecasts
Road conditions
District administration notices
Boat service updates
Local tourism restrictions
Your hotel’s operating status

Recent heavy monsoon weather has caused serious flooding and road disruption in several southeastern and northeastern districts, which shows why checking conditions before departure is important.

How to Travel Around Bangladesh by Bus

Bus travel is one of the most practical ways to visit major destinations across Bangladesh.

Popular intercity routes include:

Instead of visiting several counters, you can use bdtickets to search routes, check schedules and book your bus ticket online. Availability depends on the route, operator and date.

Before confirming your booking, check:

Boarding point
Departure time
Bus type
Seat position
Arrival point
Baggage rules
Operator instructions
Cancellation policy

Book your return ticket at the same time when travelling during Eid, winter holidays, long weekends or school breaks.

Suggested 10-Day Bangladesh Travel Plan

Day 1: Explore Dhaka

Visit Lalbagh Fort, Ahsan Manzil and Old Dhaka. Try traditional food in the evening.

Day 2: Visit Sonargaon

Take a day trip to Panam City and the Folk Arts and Crafts Museum. Return to Dhaka at night.

Days 3 and 4: Travel to Sreemangal

Explore tea gardens, Lawachara National Park and Madhabpur Lake.

Day 5: Continue to Sylhet

Visit local religious sites and explore the city.

Day 6: Jaflong or Ratargul

Choose Jaflong and Lalakhal or spend the day around Ratargul and Bholaganj.

Day 7: Return to Dhaka

Rest or explore another part of the capital.

Days 8 to 10: Cox’s Bazar

Travel overnight by bus. Visit the main beach, Himchari, Inani and Marine Drive.

This itinerary offers a mix of history, tea gardens, rivers and beaches. Travellers with more time can add Sajek, the Sundarbans or northern heritage sites.

Essential Travel Tips for Bangladesh

Book transport and hotels early during peak periods.

Carry cash when visiting remote areas. Cards and mobile payments may not work everywhere.

Keep your identification with you.

Use life jackets during boat journeys.

Do not enter forests, remote trails or protected areas without a guide or permission.

Dress respectfully at religious and community sites.

Ask before photographing local people.

Avoid leaving plastic, bottles or food packets behind.

Check the weather before hill, island and wetland trips.

Follow local authority instructions when travel restrictions are announced.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the number one tourist place in Bangladesh?

Cox’s Bazar is the country’s best-known leisure destination. However, the best place depends on whether you prefer beaches, hills, wildlife or history.

Which places are best for a family trip?

Cox’s Bazar, Sreemangal, Sylhet, Kuakata and Rangamati are good family options. Consider travel time and accessibility when travelling with children or older family members.

Which places are best for couples?

Sajek, Sreemangal, Cox’s Bazar, Kuakata and Tanguar Haor are popular for couples.

Where can I see mountains in Bangladesh?

Sajek, Bandarban, Rangamati and Khagrachari offer the country’s main hill landscapes.

What are the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Bangladesh?

Bangladesh has three inscribed World Heritage properties: the Sundarbans, the Historic Mosque City of Bagerhat and the Ruins of the Buddhist Vihara at Paharpur.

Can I visit Saint Martin’s Island throughout the year?

No. Tourism access is currently seasonal and regulated. Check the latest government instructions because travel dates, visitor limits and overnight rules can change.

Can I book intercity bus tickets online?

Yes. You can use bdtickets to search available bus routes and book tickets online for many destinations across Bangladesh.

Final Thoughts

The best places to visit in Bangladesh offer much more than one type of holiday.

You can spend a quiet morning in a tea garden, cross a hill road covered in clouds or watch the sun disappear over the Bay of Bengal. You can also explore ancient monasteries, medieval mosques, busy old cities and vast wetlands.

Choose two or three destinations that match your interests. Do not try to cover the whole country in one rushed trip.

Once your dates are confirmed, visit bdtickets to check available bus routes and reserve your seats online. Booking early can make your journey smoother and give you more time to enjoy the destination.