A Travel Guide to Bangladesh

Bangladesh is a country in South Asia, bordered by Burma and India. Its climate is tropical with mild winters from October to March, with hot and humid summers from March to June and the humid monsoon season from June to October. The rainy season should be avoided as much of the country is impassible at this time and water borne diseases are rife. The country boasts over 200 species of mammals, including the Bengal Tiger, elephants, mongoose, clouded leopard, jackal and rhesus monkey. Crocodiles, sea turtles, pythons and cobras are also common. Many of the population are landless and are forced to live on the flood plains, with limited access to potable water. There are environmental problems in Bangladesh such as water shortages, river pollution and deforestation, but nevertheless the country is untouched by tourism, with beautiful landscapes and cities to explore. There are many festivals throughout the year. Pahela Baishakh is the Bengali New Year, around mid April, held at Ramna Park in the capital city, Dhaka, with boat races and tournaments, but is also celebrated in a colourful display in most towns and villages. Durga Puja is the biggest Hindu festival, lasting 10 days with a fair at Dhakeswari Temple in Dhaka. Chittagong is the second largest city and an ideal holiday location, with rolling green hills, long sandy beaches and a cool climate. It has an active seaport as well as several museums which display tribal artefacts. In the nearby Hill Tracts the occupants are mostly tribal people, some of whom still hunt with bow and arrow. Sitakunda is 37 km from Chittagong and here the tourist can visit the Buddhist temple with a preserved footprint of the Lord Buddha. Patenga Beach is 22 km from the city and accessible by bus. Secluded and unspoilt, this location is wonderful for a quiet day out. Bangladesh is rich in archaeological sites. Mahasthangarh is the oldest known site in the country and is situated 18 km north of Bogra town along side the River Karatoa. Here, a 5 mile radius is covered with fortifications, ancient ruins and mounds. The local people pay tribute to its 3rd century temples each year with a ceremony of bathing in the river. Dhaka was predominantly a city of Mughals and is rich in a fascinating heritage, with Lalbagh Fort being a popular site to visit. Located in the south west of the city, it overlooks the Buriganga and consists of some grand gateways, monuments and an attractive garden. Shopping in Bangladesh is a joy, with handicrafts, pink pearls, gold and silver products, brass and copper ware, as well as cotton clothing, silk, leather, cane and conch shell decorations at bargain prices, once the visitor has mastered the art of haggling. Dhaka has its own international airport, with car hire facilities. There are many hotels ranging in price in all the major cities and several package tours of the country available. If planning a camping holiday in the country, it is recommended that you seek advice on which tent to purchase.

RANGAMATI: The Pristine Beauty

As everyone knows Rangamati is the most scenic spot to visit in Bangladesh. Rangamati is popularly known as Lake City. It is surrounded by alluring forests, hills and many attractive attractions. This is the best spot for Eco-tourism. Rangamati is situated 77km from Chittagong. It is connected by stream from Kaptai. This is the place where you can visit any time. The most amazing time to visit this place is rainy season. During this time when waterfalls, rivers were in full boom with its amazing scenery, lovely lakes, its immense flora and fauna makes Rangamati one of the favorite tourist spot in Bangladesh. The flora and fauna of Rangamati were spreading along a large area with varied types of plantation. Rangamati is the place where you could spend your time with family and beloved ones while viewing the natural beauty. There are so many attractions like Hanging Bridge, Kaptai Lake, Tribal Cultural Museum, a different variety of tribal’s, lakes, textile products, etc. You can spend time here while fishing, boating also.

Kaptai Lake: The most recognized and prime attraction in Rangamati is Kaptai Lake. Kaptai Lake is surrounded by immense beauty. One can enjoy here boating also. It attracts national as well as international tourists. The lake was created as a result of hydro-electrical project over the Karnaphuli River.

Tribal Museum: It was established in the year 1978. The museum focused on cultural and historical tradition and socio-economic themes. The items includes tribal ornaments, dresses, statues made of wood, bronze and other metals, coins, ivory products, paintings on tribal life etc.

Hanging Bridge: It is the prime spot for tourists. When you cross over the hanging bridge, definately feel the nature`s beauty. While crossing the bridge you could see the greenery of this place. You can also take trip in boats below the bridge.