Bangladesh - Traveller information

Local laws and conventions: Local laws reflect the country’s Muslim beliefs and should be respected at all times, especially during the holy month of Ramadan or when visiting religious sites.

During Ramadan, when Muslims fast between sunrise and sunset, visitors should avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public, as it is likely to cause offence. Women travellers should wear trousers or long skirts and should dress modestly at all times.

There are severe penalties for possession and trafficking of illegal drugs and some drug-related offences are punishable by death.

It is not acceptable to photograph local people or their property without first seeking their permission.

Dress is usually informal for men, though modesty must be maintained by both sexes.

For business meetings, exchange of business cards is customary. The best time to visit on business is October to March. Office hours are Sun–Thur 0900–1700.

Immigration and customs: Passports must be valid for three months from the intended date of departure. Visa requirements vary and should be checked well in advance of travel. Visitors are advised to carry photocopies of their passport and travel documents, and to keep the originals in a safe place.

A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required by all those arriving from infected areas.

Travel within the country: Traffic drives on the left and car hire is available with an international driving permit.

The rail network is slow and old, though upgrading is currently taking place. The main train line is between Dhaka and Chittagong, and there are a number of daily services.

Domestic flights are also available and connect Dhaka with most of the other main towns. A ferry operates from Dhaka to Khulna four times a week.

There are inexpensive bus services which connect most of the towns and villages. In urban areas buses are generally overcrowded, but cycle-rickshaws are widely available. Taxis are the best and safest means of travelling short distances.

Travel health: Medical facilities are poor outside the capital and visitors are advised to take out comprehensive health insurance that includes medical evacuation.

Humidity and pollution in downtown Dhaka, especially at certain times of the year, can cause breathing problems. There is a risk of malaria in areas outside Dhaka and dengue fever is prevalent; visitors must take adequate precautions to protect themselves at all times, and pack insect repellent and suitable clothing to discourage mosquito bites. Tuberculosis and Hepatitis B and E are also present.

Drinking water must be boiled or sterilised.

Money: Hotel bills must be paid in a major convertible currency or with travellers cheques. Money can be changed in banks but many local shops offer better exchange rates. Credit cards are not generally accepted outside the capital. ATMs are only available in the major cities. Travellers cheques can be cashed at banks and airports. Banking hours are Sun–Wed 0900–1500 and Thur 0900–1300. Some banks may open on a Saturday.

There were 207,662 tourist arrivals in 2006.