Bangladesh is surging the travel industry with new visa-free entry policy for 2 countries, including Bhutan and Gambia

Tuesday, July 2, 2024

Two countries, Bhutan and the Gambia, enjoy visa-free entry to Bangladesh. Citizens of Bhutan can travel to Bangladesh visa-free, benefiting from the strong bilateral relations and historical ties between the two nations. Similarly, Gambian citizens can enter Bangladesh without a visa, reflecting the country’s openness to African nations and its efforts to foster international cooperation and tourism. Tourists visiting Bangladesh can immerse themselves in the local culture, enjoying traditional music, dance, and cuisine. The country’s hospitality industry is expanding, with new hotels and resorts providing luxurious accommodations and modern amenities. Bangladesh is also becoming a popular destination for eco-tourism, with initiatives aimed at preserving its natural landscapes and promoting sustainable travel. Major cities like Dhaka, Chittagong, Sylhet, and Khulna offer diverse experiences, from the bustling markets and historical sites in Dhaka to the serene tea gardens in Sylhet. Top tourist destinations include the Sundarbans mangrove forest, Cox’s Bazar beach, the ancient city of Bagerhat, and the hill tracts of Bandarban and Rangamati. Bangladesh is well-connected by several international and domestic airports, with Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka being the busiest. Bangladesh is surging its travel industry by introducing a new visa-free entry policy for two countries, including Bhutan and Gambia. Other key airports include Shah Amanat International Airport in Chittagong and Osmani International Airport in Sylhet. The national carrier, Biman Bangladesh Airlines, along with private airlines like US-Bangla Airlines and Novoair, facilitate air travel within and outside the country. For travel news enthusiasts, Qatar Airways and Emirates are among the international airlines connecting Bangladesh to the world. Additionally, citizens from Bhutan and Gambia can enter Bangladesh visa-free, enhancing the country’s appeal as a travel destination. Citizens from India visit Bangladesh the most. India shares a long border with Bangladesh, and there are significant cultural and economic ties between the two countries, leading to a high volume of travel. Many Indian citizens visit Bangladesh for tourism, business, and familial connections​.

Bhutan – Bangladeshi citizens can enter Bhutan visa-free for up to 14 days.

Gambia – They can stay in Gambia visa-free for up to 90 days.

TTW Editor in Chief Mr. Anup Kumar Keshan said: “The implementation of Bangladesh visa-free policy for 2 countries, has been a transformative force for the tourism sector. Lots of Indian travellers and tourists visit Bangladesh. In recent years, Indian tourists have consistently been the largest group of foreign visitors to Bangladesh. For instance, in 2019, a substantial portion of the 267,000 international arrivals to Bangladesh came from India. This trend is likely to persist, underscoring the strong cultural and historical ties, as well as robust business and tourism links, between the two neighboring countries.”

Here are the top airports in Bangladesh:

• Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (DAC), Dhaka: The busiest airport in Bangladesh, handling around 30,000 passengers daily, and expected to see a surge in revenue with the new third terminal. It operates approximately 350 flights per day, including international and domestic flights, along with cargo services​.
• Shah Amanat International Airport (CGP), Chattogram: Located in the southeastern part of the country, this airport serves as a major hub for both international and domestic flights and is a key player in the country’s aviation sector​.
• Osmani International Airport (ZYL), Sylhet: Serving the northeastern region, this airport is significant for both passenger travel and cargo transport, contributing to the economic connectivity of the region​.
• Cox’s Bazar Airport (CXB): A popular destination for tourists due to its proximity to the world’s longest natural sea beach, efforts are underway to upgrade it to an international airport​.
• Jashore Airport (JSR): This domestic airport is crucial for regional connectivity, particularly for the southwestern parts of Bangladesh.
• Saidpur Airport (SPD): Serving the northern region, this airport is vital for domestic travel and is under consideration for upgrades to meet increasing demand.

A variety of international airlines connect Bangladesh with the rest of the world, operating from major airports such as Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka, Shah Amanat International Airport in Chattogram, and Osmani International Airport in Sylhet. Here are some of the prominent airlines:

1. Biman Bangladesh Airlines: The national carrier offering both domestic and international flights, connecting major destinations across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.
2. US-Bangla Airlines: A leading private airline with an extensive network of domestic routes and growing international connections, including flights to destinations like Kolkata, Chennai, and Kuala Lumpur​.
3. Novoair: Known for its premium services, Novoair operates primarily within Bangladesh but also offers flights to regional international destinations.
4. Regent Airways: Another private airline providing both domestic and international services, including routes to India, Malaysia, and Thailand.

International airlines operating in Bangladesh include:

1. Qatar Airways: Provides frequent flights between Doha and Dhaka, facilitating connections to global destinations.
2. Emirates: Operates multiple weekly flights from Dubai to Dhaka, connecting passengers to its extensive network across Europe, the Americas, Africa, and Asia.
3. Turkish Airlines: Offers flights from Istanbul to Dhaka, enhancing connectivity between Europe and Bangladesh.
4. Singapore Airlines: Connects Dhaka with Singapore and beyond, offering seamless travel to Southeast Asia and Oceania.
5. Malaysia Airlines: Provides direct flights between Kuala Lumpur and Dhaka, facilitating travel to Southeast Asia.
6. Saudia: Operates flights between Jeddah/Riyadh and Dhaka, catering to the large expatriate community and religious travelers​.

Other notable airlines include Etihad Airways, Thai Airways, China Southern Airlines, Air India, and SriLankan Airlines, each offering regular services to and from Bangladesh, ensuring comprehensive global connectivity.

Cities

1. Dhaka
   • Lalbagh Fort: A 17th-century Mughal fort with beautiful gardens, mosques, and museums.
   • Ahsan Manzil: The Pink Palace, a significant historical site that served as the residential palace and seat of the Dhaka Nawab Family.
   • Sadarghat: A bustling river port on the Buriganga River, offering a glimpse into the daily life of Dhaka.
2. Chattogram (Chittagong)
   • Patenga Beach: A popular beach destination near the city.
   • Foy’s Lake: An amusement park and lake resort offering various recreational activities.
   • Karnafuli River: Ideal for river cruises and exploring the scenic beauty.
3. Sylhet
   • Ratargul Swamp Forest: A freshwater swamp forest and popular destination for boat tours.
   • Jaflong: Known for its tea gardens, stone collection activities, and the stunning views of the hills and river.
   • Hazrat Shah Jalal Mazar Sharif: A major Islamic pilgrimage site.
4. Cox’s Bazar
   • Cox’s Bazar Beach: The world’s longest natural sandy sea beach, stretching 120 kilometers.
   • Himchari National Park: Famous for its waterfalls and scenic views.
   • Inani Beach: Known for its coral stones and clear blue water.
5. Khulna
   • Sundarbans: The largest mangrove forest in the world, home to the Royal Bengal Tiger and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
   • Shat Gombuj Mosque: A historic mosque in Bagerhat, known for its sixty domes and intricate architecture.
6. Rajshahi
   • Puthia Temple Complex: Known for its well-preserved Hindu temples and palaces.
   • Varendra Research Museum: One of the oldest museums in Bangladesh, showcasing archaeological artifacts and historical relics.

Other Notable Places

1. Bandarban
   • Nilgiri Hills: Offers stunning views and a serene environment.
   • Boga Lake: A beautiful high-altitude lake surrounded by hills.
   • Chimbuk Hill: One of the highest peaks in Bangladesh, offering panoramic views.
2. Rangamati
   • Kaptai Lake: The largest man-made lake in Bangladesh, ideal for boating and sightseeing.
   • Sajek Valley: Known for its picturesque landscapes and tribal culture.
3. Bagerhat
   • Sixty Dome Mosque (Shat Gambuj Masjid): A UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most impressive Muslim architectural structures in the Indian subcontinent.
4. Paharpur
   • Somapura Mahavihara: A UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most important archaeological sites in South Asia, representing the Buddhist Vihara.

Top Hotels in Bangladesh

1. Pan Pacific Sonargaon Dhaka
   • Located in the heart of Dhaka, offering luxurious accommodations, state-of-the-art facilities, and exceptional service, ideal for both business and leisure travelers.
2. The Westin Dhaka
   • A luxury hotel known for its modern amenities, extensive dining options, and prime location in the Gulshan area, catering to corporate and leisure guests.
3. Radisson Blu Chattogram Bay View
   • Offers stunning views of the Chattogram Hill Tracts and the Bay of Bengal, with top-notch facilities and services for both business and leisure visitors.
4. InterContinental Dhaka
   • A historic landmark hotel providing a blend of modern comfort and traditional elegance, with excellent facilities for meetings, events, and luxurious stays.
5. Royal Tulip Sea Pearl Beach Resort & Spa, Cox’s Bazar
   • Located by the longest natural sea beach in the world, this resort offers luxurious beachfront accommodations and a wide range of recreational activities​.

Top Touristy Places in Bangladesh

1. Sundarbans Mangrove Forest
   • Location: Khulna Division
   • Highlights: Home to the Royal Bengal Tiger, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
2. Cox’s Bazar Beach
   • Location: Chittagong Division
   • Highlights: The longest natural sea beach in the world.
3. Saint Martin’s Island
   • Location: Bay of Bengal
   • Highlights: Coral island with pristine beaches and clear waters.
4. Srimangal
   • Location: Sylhet Division
   • Highlights: Famous for tea gardens, Lawachara National Park, and the serene Madhabpur Lake.
5. Rangamati
   • Location: Chittagong Hill Tracts
   • Highlights: Kaptai Lake, tribal culture, and scenic hills.
6. Bandarban
   • Location: Chittagong Hill Tracts
   • Highlights: Nilgiri Hills, Boga Lake, and diverse tribal culture.
7. Paharpur
   • Location: Naogaon District
   • Highlights: Somapura Mahavihara, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
8. Bagerhat
   • Location: Khulna Division
   • Highlights: Historic mosque city, including the Sixty Dome Mosque, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
9. Sonargaon
   • Location: Narayanganj District
   • Highlights: Ancient capital of Bengal, folk art museum, and Panam City.
10. Jaflong
    • Location: Sylhet Division
    • Highlights: Stone collection activities, tea gardens, and scenic views of the hills and rivers.

1. Baatighar
   • Location: Chittagong
   • How to Reach: Situated in the Cheragi Pahar area, reachable by local transport such as rickshaws and taxis.
2. Nandan
   • Location: Aziz Super Market, Shahbagh, Dhaka
   • How to Reach: Close to the Dhaka University area, accessible by bus, rickshaw, or taxi.

Museums in Bangladesh

1. Bangladesh National Museum
   • Location: Shahbagh, Dhaka
   • How to Reach: Easily accessible by public buses, rickshaws, and taxis.
2. Ahsan Manzil
   • Location: Sadarghat, Dhaka
   • How to Reach: Accessible by boat from the Sadarghat ferry terminal, or by rickshaw and taxi.
3. Varendra Research Museum
   • Location: Rajshahi
   • How to Reach: Reachable by local transport options like rickshaws, CNGs, and taxis.
4. Liberation War Museum
   • Location: Agargaon, Dhaka
   • How to Reach: Accessible via public buses, taxis, and rickshaws.

Directions

To reach these places, you can use public transport like buses and rickshaws or hire taxis. Most locations are well-known and can be easily found using local transport or ride-sharing services like Uber or Pathao. Additionally, for inter-city travel, you can use buses or trains connecting major cities like Dhaka, Chittagong, and Rajshahi.

Public Bars and Music Scene in Bangladesh

1. 30 Thirty
   • Location: Gulshan, Dhaka
   • Highlights: Known for live music and a vibrant atmosphere.
2. The Courtyard
   • Location: Banani, Dhaka
   • Highlights: Offers live performances and a relaxed bar setting.
3. Old Town Blues Lounge
   • Location: Dhanmondi, Dhaka
   • Highlights: Specializes in blues music with live performances.
4. The Garage
   • Location: Chittagong
   • Highlights: Popular for its live band performances and lively crowd.
5. Sky View Bar
   • Location: Sylhet
   • Highlights: Offers a great view of the city along with live music nights.

Experience the Music Scene

• Live Performances: Enjoy live music at various bars and lounges across Dhaka, Chittagong, and Sylhet.
• Music Festivals: Attend music festivals like Dhaka International Folk Fest and Bengal Classical Music Festival.
• Cultural Centers: Visit venues like Chhayanaut Cultural Center for traditional and classical music performances.

These venues and events provide tourists with a taste of Bangladesh’s vibrant music scene, blending traditional and contemporary styles.

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