Treasures of Bangladesh

Welcome to Bangladesh! On arrival in Dhaka, you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours at leisure.Dhaka is chaotic and loud. Running to its own rhythm, the city runs high on energy. Initially, it can be overwhelming – the traffic, the smog, the heat, but once you look beyond the surface level disarray, the city’s charm will encapsulate you with its charismatic colours and rich culture. From clanky rickshaws to bobbing boats in the never-ending thread of waterways, a blend of Mughal and British monuments will shine through showcasing the history. The cities spiritual side will begin to appear in the form of temples and mosques. The local street scene of funky art and foodie scenes will emerge, giving you a glimpse at the huge potential this country tucked on the shores of West Bengal can offer the traveller prepared to delve a little deeper.Depending on your arrival time, you may wish to visit the Liberation War Museum (closed on Sundays), which preserves the memory of Bangladesh’s 1971 war for independence from Pakistan. The museum features four galleries covering the country’s early history, the Language Movement of 1952, the rise of Bengali nationalism, and the nine-month-long War of Liberation.You can also catch an outside view of the National Parliament Complex, designed by the renowned architect Louis I. Kahn. This architectural masterpiece covers 200 acres and symbolises Bangladeshi culture and heritage, earning the prestigious Aga Khan Award for Architecture in 1989.Overnight – The Way Dhaka or similar

After breakfast, depart for Sreemangal, the tea capital of Bangladesh. En route, visit Rupshi village to witness the traditional Jamdani weaving. This handloom-woven fabric, primarily used for Saris, is made from cotton and was historically known as Muslin. The process is intricate, relying entirely on the weaver’s skill and memory. Each motif is crafted without mechanical assistance, sketches, or written patterns, showcasing a truly unique Bangladeshi art form. Next, visit the Murapara Jamindar Palace, built in 1889 by Ramratan Banerjee, the founder of the Murapara Jamindari.Depart from Murapara Jamindar Palace and travel to Sreemangal (164km,4hrs), arriving in the afternoon. You’ll be greeted by rolling hills of lush tea plantations, dense forests teeming with birdlife, and tribal villages nestled in the valleys. After checking in and freshening up at the resort, consider visiting the Monipuri village market for vibrant handicrafts made by tribal women. Cap off the day with a unique 7-layer tea at a roadside stall while chatting with the locals. (B,L)Overnight – Grand Sultana Tea Resort and Golf, Sreemangal or similar

Wake up in paradise. After breakfast, spend the day exploring the lush Lawachara tropical rainforest. This national park is home to rare species like the Capped Langur, Loris, Ape Monkeys, and the Hoolok Gibbon. Keep an eye out for the world’s largest butterflies, including the Birdwing and Ornithoptera, with wingspans reaching 6–8 inches! Bird enthusiasts will also be thrilled to spot over 286 species of colourful local birds.Take a trail to the Khasia village, located just on the outskirts of the forest, where you can experience their unique lifestyle and learn about their agricultural practices. Next, visit a tea processing centre (if operational) to observe the intricate tea-making process, followed by a trip to a Garo village, where you’ll discover their fascinating lifestyle and ancient traditions.If time allows, we will head to Madhabpur Lake, surrounded by tea and pineapple gardens. Sreemangal is renowned for having the world’s largest tea gardens and is a haven for migratory birds in winter, as well as vibrant orange and pineapple plantations. (B,L)Overnight – Grand Sultana Tea Resort and Golf, Sreemangal or similar

Start your day with a relaxing walk through Sreemangal’s lush tea gardens. Enjoy observing the vibrant local birdlife and watch the local women plucking tea leaves. Feel free to chat with them or try your hand at tea plucking.You will then travel to Sonargaon (185km,5hrs) via the renowned Asian Highway. As you travel, take in the picturesque landscape of green croplands, bustling wayside markets, and charming forested villages inhabited by both indigenous and local communities. Sonargaon, once the ancient capital of Bengal during the Turkish Sultanate period in 1280 AD, was a prominent administrative, commercial, and maritime hub. It was the seat of medieval Muslim rulers and governors of Eastern Bengal, including Sultan Fakhruddin Mubarak Shah, Isa Khan, and the Baro-Bhuyan Confederacy. Historic travellers like Ibn Battuta and Ma Huan described Sonargaon as a thriving trade centre.Explore Panam Nagar, one of the world’s most endangered historic sites and great archaeological and artistic significance. Known as the Dead City, Panam Nagar features over 50 buildings from the late 19th century. The site has suffered from damp, biological damage, and insect damage. It was listed on the World Monuments Watch List of 100 Most Endangered Sites by the New York-based World Monument Fund in 2006. (B,L)Overnight – Royal Resort, Sonargaon or similar

Start your day with a drive to Cumilla, a journey of approximately 75 km. Here, you’ll explore the remarkable archaeological sites of Salban Vihara, situated in the Mainamati Lalmai hill range. This area was a prominent centre of Buddhist culture from the 8th to 12th century, under the Chandra and Deva dynasties. You’ll discover over 50 excavated sites, featuring rare terracotta plaques, bronze and black stone statues, and Votive Stupas.Enjoy a hearty lunch at a local highway restaurant, where you can savour authentic Bengali cuisine. If time allows, you will have a brief stop at Kumira to browse shops selling unique products crafted from the steel of dismantled ships. Note that the ship-breaking yard itself is not open to visitors.Continue your journey to Chattogram (155km,3.5hrs), where you’ll spend the night at the Agrabad Hotel or a similar accommodation. (B,L)Overnight – Agrabad Hotel, Chattogram or similar

Begin your day with a visit to the historic Andarkilla Shahi Jame Masjid in Chattogram. This 352-year-old mosque stands as a testament to Mughal triumphs over the Arakani Moghs and Portuguese pirates. Built in 1667 by Umed Khan, on the orders of Emperor Aurangzeb, the mosque sits atop a high hill known as Ander-Qila. Though it served as a British ammunition store in the 18th century, it was restored for religious purposes in 1855. The mosque’s architectural and artistic features are noteworthy, attracting around 2,000 daily worshippers and up to 8,000 on Jummah.Next, visit the War Cemetery, a solemn site dedicated to Commonwealth soldiers who perished during World War II on the Indo-Burmese front. Created by the British Army, this cemetery originally held about 400 burials, with graves later transferred from Lushai Hills and other locations. It now contains 731 Commonwealth graves, including those of soldiers from Australia, Britain, Canada, and New Zealand. The cemetery, spanning 6 acres, is maintained by the Commonwealth Graves Commission.Travel to Rangamati (80km,3hr) and immerse yourself in the picturesque surroundings. This charming town, set on the edge of a man-made lake, serves as a centre for rice milling, cotton weaving, and agriculture. Take in the scenic beauty, including the hanging bridge, and explore the local area.In the afternoon, visit a local weaving village. Engage with the community and learn about traditional weaving techniques. Try your hand at this age-old craft and gain insights into local traditions. (B,L)Overnight – Hill Ambassador Hotel, Rangamati or similar

Start your day by travelling to Kaptai Lake (65km,2hr) for a relaxing cruise. Watch local fishermen casting their nets along the shoreline or navigating the waters in simple boats. You’ll stop at the Shuvolong Waterfall, which is most impressive after the monsoon season when it cascades in full force. During your cruise, you’ll visit the vibrant Chakma and Marma tribes. This is a unique opportunity to engage with the local communities and learn about their rich cultural traditions and way of life. Their colourful attire and fascinating lifestyles reflect the deep-rooted customs of these indigenous people.Enjoy an authentic tribal lunch at a local restaurant. Traditional tribal cuisine will give you a real taste of the region’s culinary heritage.Continue your journey towards Bandarban (95km,3hr), travelling along a winding, serpentine road that reveals stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Upon arrival in Bandarban, you will be free to relax in the evening. (B,L)Overnight – D ’More Hotel Bandarban or similar

Start your day by visiting the local tribal villages of Bawm and Mru. Engage with the villagers, gaining insights into their unique cultures and traditions. The journey to these remote villages offers breathtaking views, with panoramic hill slopes covered in lush creeper jungles, streams, and the scenic Sangu River carving its way through the landscape.Next, enjoy a distant view of the famous Golden Temple, the most ornamented Buddhist temple in Bangladesh. While the temple is restricted to non-Buddhist visitors, its grandeur can still be appreciated from afar. Perched atop Zadi Hill, the temple is built in the traditional Southeast Asian architectural style and houses the second-largest statue of Buddha in Bangladesh.In the afternoon, embark on a serene cruise along the Sangu River. As you glide through the waters, you will visit a tribal minority village, offering a deeper connection to the region’s rich cultural tapestry. (B,L)Overnight – D’More Hotel Bandarban or similar

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Cox’s Bazar, with your first stop at Himchori National Park. Established in 1980 and protected by the government, this park offers travellers stunning views of the Himchori waterfall and lush greenery. Home to a diverse range of flora, the park features 58 species of trees, 4 species of grass, 15 species of shrubs, 19 climbers, and 21 species of herbs. It’s a haven for biologists and birdwatchers alike, boasting over 286 bird species.After lunch at a local Bengali restaurant, continue to Inani Beach, renowned for its vast rock and coral boulders. During the summer or rainy season, the coral stones appear vibrant and alive, offering a unique natural spectacle. Take in the serene and seemingly endless views of the sea, perfect for watching the sunset. (B,L)Overnight – Dera Resort in Cox’s Bazar or similar

After breakfast, embark on a visit to Maheshkhali Island, a serene destination accessible via a speed boat crossing the bay channel (20km,1hr). The island is renowned for its lush, forested hills and mangrove forests. One of the highlights of the island is the ancient ‘Adinath Temple,’ which stands majestically on a hilltop, offering panoramic views. Also of note is the ‘Rakhain Village,’ home to a vibrant Buddhist Temple, adding a touch of cultural colour and historical significance to your visit.Return to Cox’s Bazar airport for your domestic flight to Jashore via Dhaka.  Your expected departure time from Cox’s Bazaar is 15:25, and your arrival into Jashore is 19:15 (subject to change). Upon arrival in Jashore, you will be met by a representative and transferred to your hotel. (B,L)Overnight – Zabeer Hotel in Jashore or similar

Start your day early with a drive to Bagerhat, a historic city nestled in the mangrove jungle at the confluence of the Ganges and Brahmaputra rivers. Founded by Turkish commander Ulugh Khan Jahan in the 15th century, Bagerhat is renowned for its mosque city, featuring numerous ancient Islamic monuments constructed from bricks. Begin with a visit to the Kodla Math in the village of Ayudha, located 10 km north of the 60-Domed Mosque. This UNESCO World Heritage site is notable for its architectural grandeur and historical significance. Nearby, you’ll also find several smaller brick-built mosques and the holy shrine of Saint Khan Jahan Ali. The area is also known for its crocodile-infested lake, adding to its unique charm.Proceed to Mongla (150km,5hrs) where you will board your boat for an extraordinary adventure into the Sundarbans, the largest saltwater mangrove forest in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Shared by West Bengal in India and Khulna District in Bangladesh, this vast delta is formed by the major rivers flowing from the Himalayas. The confluence of freshwater and saltwater, known as brackish water, fosters a unique ecosystem. This sanctuary is home to over 300 species of birds, fish, reptiles, monkeys, and the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger. Under the water, you might encounter the Ganges dolphin, Indo-Pacific humpbacked dolphin, Irrawaddy dolphin, and finless porpoise.Set sail southward on your cruise boat. After a few hours of navigation, the boat will stop at a forest station for formalities and to pick up an armed forest guard for safety. The Sundarbans is a wild, untamed environment, and the presence of tigers necessitates extra caution. Continue your journey through the mangroves, arriving at Andermanik in the afternoon. Enjoy a canal cruise to experience the dense jungle up close. (B,L,D)Overnight – Cruise boat in the Sundarbans

Awake to the soothing sounds of nature in the Sundarban forest. Early this morning, embark on an exploration of this renowned area, known for its diverse wildlife and bird species. Enjoy a cruise through the narrower canals aboard a small country boat, which provides an ideal vantage point for bird watching.Arrive in Kotka by late morning. After breakfast, you have the option to engage in several activities. Climb one of the watchtowers to gain a panoramic view of the surrounding wildlife, or take a jungle hike through the dense mangrove forest for a closer look at the area’s flora and fauna. A walk to Badamtala Beach (2.5 km) offers a unique experience as you follow tiger trails across sandy stretches and savannah-like grasslands before re-entering the lush forest.Return to your boat and set sail for Kachikhali Island (Tiger Point – 2 hours), a renowned wildlife habitat known for its tiger population. In the afternoon, embark on an adventurous forest hike under the canopy, eventually reaching broad grasslands where you can observe herds of spotted deer and wild boar. (B,L,D)Overnight – Cruise boat in the Sundarbans

Depending on the tide schedule, your boat will begin its return journey once the waters are in. Enjoy a full day cruising through the serene mangrove forest, taking in the tranquil beauty of the creeks. This peaceful journey offers a unique perspective of the Sundarbans’ lush landscapes and rich biodiversity.Upon arrival in Mongla in the early afternoon, disembark and transfer to Barisal. The drive to Barisal takes approximately 3.5 hours, covering a distance of around 120 km. (B,L,D) Overnight – Grand Park Hotel Barisal or similar

Wake up early and pack your breakfast from the hotel. Depart at 0530 hrs to explore the renowned Floating Vegetable Market, a unique attraction in Bangladesh. This market is one of the few remaining floating markets globally, alongside those in the Mekong Delta in Vietnam and Dal Lake in Kashmir. As you navigate through the canals, you’ll have the chance to visit local artisans and their families.  Experience the traditional pottery-making process, from transporting clay by wooden boat to shaping it with a manual wheel, firing it in an oven, and eventually preparing it for shipment. Due to the discontinuation of the rocket steamer services and the recent construction of a new bridge over the Padma River, the journey to Dhaka has become more efficient, reducing travel time to approximately 4-5 hours (200km). (B,L)Overnight – The Way Dhaka Hotel or similar

After breakfast, embark on a full day of sightseeing to explore the old part of Dhaka, which offers a glimpse into the heritage of the Mughal Era (1608). This area is characterised by its ornamented mosques, covered markets, and bustling streets filled with rickshaws and vendors. Your guide will lead you through the Old Hindu Streets, where you can experience the vibrant atmosphere of the old town. This historical district, known for its richly decorated brick buildings from the late Mughal or Colonialperiod, is home to the Shankhari Community. The community’s name, derive from ‘Shankha’a decorated bangle made from conch shells—symbolises a married Hindu woman.   Witness the period, is home to the Shankhari Community. The community’s name, derived from ‘Shankha’a decorated bangle made from conch shells—symbolises a married Hindu woman.   Witness the traditional making of these ornaments and enjoy live street food, a renowned feature of Old Dhaka.Next, visit Northbrook Hall, also known as Lalkuthi (the red house), situated on the bank of the Buriganga River. Built in 1879 by Raja Rai Bahadur and other eminent Jamindars in honour of Lord Northbrook, the viceroy of India, the hall was inaugurated on 24 May 1880 to commemorate Queen Victoria’s birth anniversary. Initially used as a telegram office and later as Central Women’s College, it is now under the purview of Dhaka Municipality Corporation.Explore the vibrant Sadarghat waterfront, once a major riverport with numerous boats and watercraft. Although passenger traffic has decreased due to the Padma Bridge, the area remains bustling. Visit the Ahsan Manzil, the former palace of the Nawab of Dhaka (closed on Thursdays and the first half of Fridays), the Armenian Church built in 1781, and the ornate Star Mosque (Qassabtuli Mosque). Continue to the incomplete Mughal Fort at Lalbagh (closed on Sundays and the first half of Mondays), the historic Curzon Hall at Dhaka University, and Dhakeswari Temple, built by King Ballal Sen in the 12th century and regarded as the state temple of Bangladesh for the Hindu community. Some believe the city’s name, Dhaka, originates from this temple.Enjoy lunch at a local Bengali restaurant, followed by a visit to Aarong, renowned for its Bangladeshi handicrafts and products. (B,L)Overnight – The Way Dhaka or a similar hotel.

After breakfast, you’ll transfer to the airport for your onward journey. This is the final leg of your trip, where you’ll reflect on the experiences and memories created throughout your journey. (B)