Northeastern Bangladesh Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Northeastern Bangladesh? Check out this comprehensive travel guide to help you make the most of your visit, with recommendations for things to see and do, where to stay, what to eat, and more.


Introduction to Northeastern Bangladesh

Northeastern Bangladesh is a region filled with history, culture, and natural beauty. The region is home to some of the most beautiful places in the country, including the Srimangal tea gardens, the Lawachara National Park, and the Madhabpur Lake. Northeastern Bangladesh shares borders with India, Myanmar, and the Brahmaputra River to the north, making it a unique region with a diverse population.

List of Places to Visit in Northeastern Bangladesh

Northeastern Bangladesh is filled with beautiful and interesting destinations. Here are some of the top sites to see:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Mahasthangarh - Known as the oldest archaeological site in Bangladesh, this ancient city dates back to the 3rd century BC and is an important part of the history of the region.

  2. Paharpur Buddhist Monastery - A UNESCO world heritage site, the monastery dates back to the 8th century and is one of the most significant archaeological sites in South Asia.

  3. Bangladesh National Museum - Located in the capital city of Dhaka, this museum houses a vast collection of objects and artifacts related to the history and culture of the country of Bangladesh.

Natural Attractions of Northeastern Bangladesh: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Srimangal Tea Gardens - Home to some of the best tea gardens in the world, the region is filled with lush green plantations and scenic hills.

  2. Lawachara National Park - A beautiful reserve with a diverse range of flora and fauna, this is the perfect destination for nature lovers and bird watchers.

  3. Madhabpur Lake - Known for its stunning beauty and peaceful surroundings, a visit here is a must-do for anyone visiting Northeastern Bangladesh.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Northeastern Bangladesh

Northeastern Bangladesh has a beautiful and challenging terrain, making it perfect for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Some popular hiking/biking routes include:

  1. Lawachara National Park Hike - This trail takes you through the beautiful Lawachara forest reserve, where you can spot beautiful birds and different species of animals.

  2. Srimangal Tea Garden Biking Trail - This beautiful trail takes you through the lush green tea gardens and beautiful hillsides of Srimangal.

Best Things to Do in Northeastern Bangladesh: Activities and Tours

Northeastern Bangladesh is a destination that offers a variety of activities and tours for visitors. Here are some of the top things to do:

  1. Tea Tasting Tour - Take a tour of the tea gardens and experience the unique taste of Northeastern Bangladesh’s tea.

  2. Boat Tour of the Brahmaputra River - Take a relaxing boat ride on the Brahmaputra River, where you can enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding countryside and spot different species of birds.

Week-Long Itinerary for Northeastern Bangladesh

Here is a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to Northeastern Bangladesh:

  1. Day 1: Arrive in Dhaka
  2. Day 2-3: Explore Dhaka city, visit Bangladesh National Museum and Lalbagh Fort
  3. Day 4: Srimangal Tea Garden Biking Tour
  4. Day 5: Lawachara National Park Hike
  5. Day 6: Visit Mahasthangarh and Paharpur Buddhist Monastery
  6. Day 7: Take a boat tour on the Brahmaputra River and visit Madhabpur Lake

Food and Drink Scene of Northeastern Bangladesh

Northeastern Bangladesh is known for its unique and flavorful cuisine, influenced by its diverse population. Some must-try dishes include:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Pitha - A traditional rice cake with different fillings, such as jaggery, grated coconut, and sesame seeds.

  2. Shutki - A spicy and flavorful dried fish dish.

  3. Paratha - A layered flatbread served with different curries and vegetables.

Local Beverages

  1. Cha (Tea) - Northeastern Bangladesh is known for producing some of the best tea in the world, and a cup of tea is a must-try for visitors.

Where to Stay in Northeastern Bangladesh: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Northeastern Bangladesh offers a wide range of accommodation options for visitors, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Here are some recommendations:

  1. La Vista Resort - A beautiful hotel located in Srimangal, with comfortable rooms and stunning views of the surrounding tea gardens.

  2. Hotel Ornate - A budget-friendly option located in Dhaka, offering clean and cozy rooms.

What to Buy in Northeastern Bangladesh: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Tea - Northeastern Bangladesh produces some of the best tea in the world, and a package of tea makes for a perfect souvenir or gift.

  2. Handicrafts - The region is known for producing beautiful handicrafts, such as hand-woven baskets, pottery, and hand-painted silk scarfs.

Local Culture and Customs of Northeastern Bangladesh

Northeastern Bangladesh is a region with a rich and diverse culture, heavily influenced by its proximity to India and Myanmar. Visitors should be aware of the following customs and traditions:

  1. Respect the local clothing customs - The majority of the population wears modest clothing, and visitors are encouraged to dress appropriately, especially in religious sites.

  2. Remove shoes before entering homes and mosques

Best Time to Visit Northeastern Bangladesh

The best time to visit Northeastern Bangladesh is from October to March when the weather is mild and dry. The monsoons start around June and continue till September, making it challenging to travel and explore the region.

Do’s and Don’ts of Northeastern Bangladesh

When visiting the region, it’s important to be mindful of the local customs and traditions. Here are some do’s and don’ts:

Do:

  1. Respect local traditions and dress codes

  2. Try the local cuisine

Don’t:

  1. Disrespect religious sites or customs

  2. Exploit or harm animals

Safety and Health

Northeastern Bangladesh is generally a safe destination for visitors. However, visitors should take the following precautions:

Safety in Northeastern Bangladesh

  1. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in busy areas

  2. Avoid travelling at night

Health in Northeastern Bangladesh

  1. Visitors should consult with their doctors about necessary vaccinations

  2. Drink bottled water and avoid street food

Getting to Northeastern Bangladesh: Transportation Options and Logistics

There are different transportation options available to get to Northeastern Bangladesh, including:

Airports Near Northeastern Bangladesh

  1. Shahjalal International Airport, Dhaka

  2. Osmani International Airport, Sylhet

Bus Stations Near Northeastern Bangladesh

  1. Gabtoli Bus Terminal, Dhaka

  2. Kamlapur Railway Station, Dhaka

Other Options

  1. Private Car Rental

  2. Shared Taxis

How to Get Around in Northeastern Bangladesh

The most popular modes of transportation in Northeastern Bangladesh are:

Local Buses

  1. This is the most affordable way to get around the region, with buses running regularly between different cities and towns.

Taxis

  1. Taxis are readily available in larger cities, but it’s important to negotiate the fare before getting in.

Where to Go Next from Northeastern Bangladesh: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Northeastern Bangladesh is a great starting point to explore other destinations in the region. Some nearby destinations include:

  1. Chittagong - Known for its beautiful beaches and historic attractions

  2. Cox’s Bazar - Home to the longest natural sea beach in the world

Conclusion

Northeastern Bangladesh is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. With its rich history, beautiful natural scenery, and unique culture, it’s a destination that will leave visitors with unforgettable memories. Plan your trip today and get ready to experience the best that Northeastern Bangladesh has to offer.

Ratargul Swamp Forest, the only swamp forest in Bangladesh Ratargul Swamp Forest, the only swamp forest in Bangladesh Entrance of Shah Jalal Mazar in Sylhet Entrance of Shah Jalal Mazar in Sylhet


    Haor Basin
    Srimangal
    Sunamganj
    Sylhet