JOURNEY THROUGH BANGLADESH

This program in Bangladesh is a result of my month-long trip around the country. I have carefully selected some of the most exciting places that showcase the authentic beauty of this country. While Bangladesh may not have many globally or locally renowned landmarks or monuments, the entire country itself is a significant landmark. Travelers come to Bangladesh for the authenticity that still exists in most parts of the country.

We will start the trip in Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh. In the city, we will make a special visit to Sadarghat, one of the world's largest river ports. We will explore the old city and the Hindu quarter, where the Hindu population is concentrated in a predominantly Muslim Dhaka. To observe traditional shipbuilding, we will take a boat to the shipyard on the other side of the Buriganga River.

Next, we will travel by private minibus to Sreemangal, the tea capital of Bangladesh. Over the course of four days, we will tour the tea plantations, explore rural areas, visit the tea museum, and indulge in plenty of tea. We will also have the opportunity to visit settlements of the Tripura, Garo, and Khasi tribes, immersing ourselves in their authentic culture and traditions that have remained unchanged for centuries. Rural Bangladesh, which is rarely explored by travelers, boasts exceptional raw and natural beauty. Additionally, we will learn about the cultivation and processing of betel leaves and visit pineapple and rubber plantations. Finally, we will make a stop at the beautiful Madhobpur Lake and explore numerous rural markets and settlements in the area.

During the second part of the trip, we will visit the city and region of Barisal, considered the best place to experience rural and idyllic Bangladesh. We will explore the surrounding villages, go boating on the canals, visit and photograph fishing villages, and appreciate the extraordinary Bengali nature.

The trip will conclude in Dhaka, from where we will fly back to our home countries.

Important information: The country is not dangerous, although occasional reports of unrest exist. Such reports become more frequent during elections, mainly in Dhaka and the big cities. The itinerary includes places with suitable infrastructure (good quality hotels) and safe locations that are frequently visited by tourists.

All photos and videos were taken by me.

This program offers an overview of the key aspects of the trip. If you require customized solutions based on your specific case and circumstances, please contact us via email. We can arrange flight tickets from any location worldwide to the trip's starting point. Furthermore, we can handle hotel transfers and any necessary documents. Our team will provide assistance throughout the entire organization process. Feel free to reach out to us without hesitation via email!

Day 1: Arrival in Dhaka

This morning, we will arrive in Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh. The group will fly from Istanbul airport. If group members have different flights, transfers to the hotel will be arranged for each participant based on their flight time. Our first group meeting will take place at the hotel in Dhaka, where we will discuss the upcoming trip, provide instructions, and allow time for questions and answers. More information about the hotel, meeting time, and location will be provided.

Today, we will take a walk through Old Dhaka, where the city's most monumental and exciting buildings are located. We'll stroll through Hindu Street, the heart of the Hindu community in the city.

In the afternoon, we will visit Sadarghat, one of the world's most impressive river ports and Dhaka's main attraction. We'll spend enough time there to enjoy the thousands of boats and ships, as well as the hustle and bustle of people arriving and departing. We'll also take a boat ride to some local shipyards. We'll spend the night in Dhaka.

Day 2: Srimangal

After having breakfast at the hotel, we will drive to Srimangal, the tea capital of Bangladesh, located approximately four hours from Dhaka. In the afternoon, we will take a city tour and visit the local markets, perfect places to meet the locals. We will spend the night in Srimangal.

Day 3: The Tea Plantations

We will spend the entire day on the tea plantations that make this region famous worldwide. During our visit, we will explore several plantations, meet tea farmers, and enjoy the authentic rural atmosphere. At the tea museum, located in a small village, we will learn more about the production cycle of tea. On the way, we will stop at small settlements where most tea workers live.

We will also pass by rubber plantations where our local guide will tell us about rubber production, which is considered another essential activity in the region. We will spend the night in Srimangal.

Day 4: The Local Tribes - Tripura, Garo, and Khashi

Today, we will visit the villages of the local tribes Tripura, Garo, and Khashi. We will have the opportunity to learn about their traditions and customs, and immerse ourselves in an authentic and extraordinary atmosphere. We will take a short trek between the villages through the jungle. Additionally, we will learn about the local culture of betel use and cultivation.

Rural Bangladesh is rarely explored by travelers, but it offers exceptional rugged and natural beauty. The villagers are very hospitable. In the evening, we will return to Srimangal.

Day 5: More Time with the Tribes, Madhobpur Lake, and Pineapple Plantations

Today, we will continue our trip through the region and visit more tribal settlements. We will stop at the charming Madhobpur Lake and spend some time at a pineapple plantation, where we can learn about pineapple cultivation. Of course, tasting the sweet fruit is also part of the experience. We will spend the night in Srimangal.

Day 6: Transfer to Barisal; Barisal City Walk

In the morning, we will drive to Barisal, the capital of rural Bangladesh. After checking into the hotel, we will take a walk around the city, visit the harbor, and take a boat ride on the numerous canals that crisscross the city. The rivers, rice fields, farms, outdoor markets, and overall atmosphere provide a unique experience.

Day 7: Rural Barisal

On this day, we will dive deep into the countryside and visit small fishing villages, farms, and vast rice fields. The whole area is idyllic and quiet, as if time had stopped in the middle of the last century. In the fishing villages, we will learn about the traditional way of fishing, try to fish with the locals, and learn all about the fish in Bangladesh, which is one of the most essential foods here.

Day 8: Return to Dhaka; Flight back home

In the morning, we will depart for Dhaka airport. The trip will take 4 to 5 hours, leaving us with enough time for lunch and further sightseeing in Dhaka before arriving at the airport for the evening flight. If any group members have different return flights, transfers will be arranged accordingly.

My stories from Bangladesh

Bangladesh is a fantastic travel destination, especially if you venture away from the popular areas. Tourists are still rare in the country, making it an ideal destination for adventurous travelers and photographers.

The best part about Bangladesh is its people. During my month-long trip, I was struck by their natural friendliness and curiosity, as well as the simplicity of their daily lives and their eagerness for information and contact with the wider world. They were always happy to be photographed, which was a blessing for a photographer.

Visitors immediately notice the interest they attract wherever they go. People gather around, staring curiously. They are not aggressive, just curious, and it's important to embrace that.

Unfortunately, poverty, slums, and deprivation are undeniable in developing countries. Nevertheless, despite obvious hardships, people in Bangladesh continue to smile, and the resilience of children is incredible.

The crime rate is comparable to other countries and mainly involves household and street crime. The low level of petty and domestic crime should not discourage you from visiting Bangladesh.

Occasionally, the country experiences strikes or "hartals," mainly during elections or other political events. During these times, public transport, banks, and offices remain closed, and the urban infrastructure may deteriorate due to poor organization. However, these strikes are typically announced well in advance and can be easily avoided.

Please email us if you would like more information about this trip or to sign up. We will respond as soon as possible and keep you updated on the organisation and all other details. If you are a group of at least 5 or 6 people (maximum 8), we can discuss dates that work for your group. You can also sign up for future trips. To join the list, simply send us your names. That's it!