Bangladesh
is a country that most people skip on their Asian backpacking trip, and
it’s a real shame. Sandwiched between 2 backpacking hotspots, India and
Thailand, I’m surprised that more people don’t take the plunge and
visit a country where the warmth of people can’t fail to impress you.
Ahsan Manzil in Dhaka
Bangladesh is one of the poorest countries in the world, but not a
day will pass without an invite to someone’s house for some tea. Walking
around anywhere in this fascinating country and you’ll feel like a
celebrity, groups of people will follow you around daily and should you
stop and try to ask someone a question, you’ll literally be surrounded
within 60 seconds – it’s a crazy feeling!
If your wandering soul takes you off the beaten track to the shores
of Bangladesh, make sure you squeeze in these five gems during your time
there:
1)
Dhaka: The capital and probably your starting
point for the adventure ahead. If you’ve never visited the subcontinent
you’re in for a treat. If you’re feeling like jumping in at the
deep-end, head over to Old Dhaka and sort out your accommodation – just
don’t expect much luxury! Then you can spend a day or two checking out
Lalbagh Fort, Ahsan Manzil and Para Bibi’s Tomb, or make your way down
to Buriganga river and rent a small boat to see the hustle and bustle of
Dhaka from the water front. One trip to Dhaka, and you’ll never forget
it – I assure you of that!
Lalbagh Fort Dhaka
2) The Sundarbans: Located near
Khulna, the Sundarbans mean it’s safari time! This mangrove forest is
home to over 400 Royal Bengal tigers – you can sort out your safari from
either Khulna or Dhaka. Expect to pay around $30 for everything, which
is a great bargain considering what you may see. No guarantees on the
tigers I’m afraid folks, but always worth the gamble!
Bengal Tiger on Safari
3) Cox’s Bazar: The longest sea
beach in the world! Over 120km long, what more could you ask for!? This
place offers great respite from the madness of Bangladesh, and it’s
dotted with religious sites too. The beaches get quite crowded and
there’s plenty of accommodation to be found upon arrival.
Cox's bazar beach
4) Bagerhat: Accessible from
Khulna or Mongla, Bagerhat offers a couple of impressive Mosques and the
famous tomb of Khan Jahan Ali. Lots of locals make pilgrimages here
daily so expect some organized chaos!
Shat Gambuj Mosque in Bagerhat
5) Nafa-Khum: This one is a
bit of a wild card. You’re already off the beaten track by simply being
in Bangladesh but if you want to really get away from it all, then this
is the place for you. Nafa-Khum is a beautiful waterfall found a 3hours
walk from Remakri, which is found 3 hours by boat from Tindu, which is a
3 hours drive from Thanchi! It may not be the biggest waterfall but
it’s awesome none-the-less and you can swim in the pool, the trek is
beautiful too and you’ll really feel like you’re traveling if you make
it out here!
Nafa-Khum waterfall
There you go folks, five of Bangladesh’s most awesome sites. This
country is not easy to travel in, not by a long shot, but it’s well
worth the effort. This is real backpacking! Happy Travels!
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