Bangladesh
Region
🌍 Asia
Population
👥 169
Currency
💱 Bangladeshi taka
Languages
🗣️ Bengali
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Welcome to Bangladesh, a land of rivers, lush green landscapes, and vibrant culture. This South Asian gem is best known for its extensive river systems, including the world's largest mangrove forest, the Sundarbans, and its rich history evident in ancient ruins and Mughal architecture. First-time visitors can expect a truly immersive cultural experience, characterized by warm hospitality, delicious cuisine, and a lively pace of life. Prepare to be enchanted by the intricate tapestry of rural and urban life, where tradition and modernity intertwine. The country offers a unique journey for those seeking authentic travel beyond the typical tourist trails. From the bustling capital to serene tea gardens, Bangladesh promises a profoundly rewarding adventure. It's a destination that engages all the senses and leaves a lasting impression.
Official NameSource: REST Countries
People's Republic of Bangladesh
Continent
Asia
DemonymSource: REST Countries
Bangladeshi
Independence
26 March 1971 (declared); 16 December 1971 (recognized)
Top-Level Domain
.bd
Calling CodeSource: REST Countries
+880
Time ZoneSource: REST Countries
UTC+06:00
Capital CitySource: REST Countries
Dhaka
ISO Alpha-2
BD
ISO Alpha-3
BGD
UN Code
50
Geographic Coordinates
24,90
Area (km²)Source: REST Countries
147,570#94 of 249
PopulationSource: REST Countries
169,828,911#8 of 247
Population Density (per km²)
1,319.18
Highest Point (m)
1,063 meters (Saka Haphong)
Lowest Point (m)
Sea level
Land Use
Cropland: 58.5%; Other: 41.5% (2018 estimate)
Irrigated Land
13,970 sq km (2012)
Coastline Length
580 km
Climate
Tropical monsoon; hot, humid summers; mild, dry winters
Natural Resources
Natural gas, arable land, timber, coal
Bordering CountriesSource: REST Countries
Myanmar, India
Major Rivers
Ganges (Padma), Brahmaputra (Jamuna), Meghna
Major Lakes
Bangladesh has numerous smaller lakes and wetlands, but no major lakes.
Government Type
Parliamentary republic
Administrative Divisions
8 divisions, subdivided into districts (zilas)
Legal System
Based on English common law
Chief of State
President Mohammed Shahabuddin
Head of Government
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina
Cabinet
Council of Ministers is appointed by the President on the advice of the Prime Minister.
Elections
President elected by Parliament for a 5-year term; Prime Minister appointed by the President from among members of Parliament.
Judicial Branch
Supreme Court
Legislative Branch
Unicameral Jatiya Sangsad (Parliament)
Major Political Parties
Awami League, Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), Jatiya Party
CurrencySource: REST Countries
Bangladeshi taka
GDP, Nominal (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: GDP (current US$) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
456.32#37 of 211
GDP, PPP (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: GDP, PPP (current international $) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
1,783.87#25 of 201
GDP per Capita (US$)Source: World Bank: GDP per capita (current US$) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
2,597.34#166 of 211
GDP - Agriculture (%)Source: World Bank: Agriculture, forestry, and fishing, value added (% of GDP) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
11.42
GDP - Industry (%)Source: World Bank: Industry (including construction), value added (% of GDP) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
34.03
GDP - Services (%)Source: World Bank: Services, value added (% of GDP) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
52.13
Inflation Rate (%)Source: World Bank: Inflation, consumer prices (annual %) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
8.77#28 of 191
Labor Force (people)Source: World Bank: Labor force, total (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
74,739,682
Unemployment Rate (%)Source: World Bank: Unemployment, total (% of total labor force) (modeled ILO estimate) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
3.78#121 of 185
Public Debt (% of GDP)Source: World Bank: Central government debt, total (% of GDP) (2003)Checked September 29, 2026
31.2
Budget
The national budget is prepared and managed by the Ministry of Finance.
Exports (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: Exports of goods and services (current US$) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
50.72#65 of 192
Imports (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: Imports of goods and services (current US$) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
76.82#53 of 192
Foreign Reserves
Around $25 billion (2023 estimate).
Currency Exchange
Currency exchange rates can be found at major banks and online financial platforms.
GDP by Sector
Services, industry, and agriculture.
Major Industries
Ready-made garments, jute, leather, and textiles.
Major Export Partners
The United States, Germany, and the United Kingdom.
Major Import Partners
China, India, and Singapore.
Society
Literacy Rate (%)Source: World Bank: Literacy rate, adult total (% of people ages 15 and above) (2022)Checked September 29, 2026
79#120 of 169
Birth Rate (per 1,000 people)Source: World Bank: Birth rate, crude (per 1,000 people) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
20
Death Rate (per 1,000 people)Source: World Bank: Death rate, crude (per 1,000 people) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
5.1
Net Migration Rate
Approximately -2 migrants per 1,000 population.
Median Age
Approximately 27 years.
Urban Population (%)Source: World Bank: Urban population (% of total population) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
33.24#185 of 214
Urbanization Rate
Around 2% annual rate of change.
Life Expectancy (years)Source: World Bank: Life expectancy at birth, total (years) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
74.9#105 of 214
HIV/AIDS Prevalence
Less than 0.1%.
Health Expenditures (% of GDP)Source: World Bank: Current health expenditure (% of GDP) (2023)Checked September 29, 2026
2.17
Ethnic Groups
Bengali (98%), other (2%).
Religions
Islam (89%), Hinduism (10%), other (1%).
LanguagesSource: REST Countries
Bengali
Education
Education System
The education system in Bangladesh includes primary, secondary, and higher education. There's a mix of government and private schools.
School Life Expectancy (years)Source: World Bank: School life expectancy, primary to tertiary, both sexes (years) (2018)Checked September 29, 2026
12
Government Education Spending
Government expenditure on education is a significant portion of the budget, but spending per student is still relatively low.
Primary Education Access
—
Secondary Education Access
—
Higher Education Access
—
Major Universities
Major universities include the University of Dhaka, Jahangirnagar University, and Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET).
Culture
Cultural Overview
Bangladeshi culture is rich and diverse, influenced by Bengali heritage, Islam, and regional variations.
National HolidaysSource: Nager.Date
- শহিদ দিবস ও আন্তর্জাতিক মাতৃভাষা দিবস (2026-02-21)
- স্বাধীনতা ও জাতীয় দিবস (2026-03-26)
- নববর্ষ (2026-04-14)
- মে দিবস (2026-05-01)
- জুলাই গণঅভ্যুত্থান দিবস (2026-08-05)
- বিজয় দিবস (2026-12-16)
- বড়দিন (2026-12-25)
Popular Music
Popular music includes Bengali folk music, modern Bangla songs, and influences from Western music.
Traditional Food
Traditional food features rice, fish, lentils, and various vegetable curries. Biryani and Panta Bhat are also popular.
Sports
Cricket and football are the most popular sports.
Major Festivals
Major festivals include Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, Durga Puja, and Pahela Baishakh (Bengali New Year).
Famous People
Famous people include Rabindranath Tagore, Muhammad Yunus, and Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
Cultural Heritage Sites
Cultural heritage sites include the Sixty Dome Mosque and Lalbagh Fort.
UNESCO Sites
UNESCO sites include the Sundarbans, the historic Mosque City of Bagerhat, and the Ruins of the Buddhist Vihara at Paharpur.
Annual Tourist Visits
around 500,000-600,000/year
Tourism Overview
Bangladesh offers a rich tapestry for travelers, particularly those interested in cultural immersion and nature exploration. Trip styles often involve exploring the vibrant urban chaos of Dhaka, venturing into the serene tea plantations of Sylhet, and experiencing the unique ecosystems of the Sundarbans. The country's main highlights include its magnificent riverine landscapes, ancient historical sites, and the warm hospitality of its people. Bangladesh is well-suited for adventurous travelers, history enthusiasts, culture seekers, and eco-tourists looking for an authentic and off-the-beaten-path experience. Visitors should be prepared for a dynamic environment and a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and tastes. The focus is often on understanding local life, engaging with communities, and appreciating the natural beauty.
Top Tourist Attractions
- Sundarbans National Park: Explore the world's largest mangrove forest, home to the Royal Bengal Tiger.
- Lalbagh Fort, Dhaka: Discover this incomplete 17th-century Mughal fort complex.
- Ahsan Manzil, Dhaka: Visit the Pink Palace, a former Nawab's residence, showcasing colonial architecture.
- Star Mosque (Star Masjid), Dhaka: Admire the intricate blue and white tiled facade of this beautiful mosque.
- Chittagong Hill Tracts: Experience diverse tribal cultures and scenic mountain landscapes.
- Cox's Bazar Beach: Relax on the world's longest natural sea beach.
- Srimangal: Wander through verdant tea gardens and sample local tea.
- Mahasthangarh: Explore the ruins of ancient Pundravardhana, a significant archaeological site.
- Kantanagar Temple, Dinajpur: Marvel at the ornate terracotta decorations on this Hindu temple.
- Paharpur Buddhist Monastery (Somapura Mahavihara): Visit the ruins of one of the most important archaeological sites in South Asia.
- Saint Martin's Island: Enjoy a tropical island getaway with clear waters and coral reefs.
- Kuakata Beach: Witness spectacular sunrise and sunset views over the Bay of Bengal.
Famous Cities
Dhaka, the bustling capital, is a must-see for its historical sites like Lalbagh Fort and its energetic street life. Chittagong, the main port city, offers a gateway to the southeast and boasts its own historical charm and proximity to natural beauty. Sylhet, in the northeast, is renowned for its stunning tea gardens and spiritual sites like Shah Jalal's shrine. Rajshahi, in the west, is known as the 'City of Mangoes' and offers a glimpse into traditional Bengali life. Cox's Bazar, while a town, is famous worldwide for having the longest natural sea beach, attracting beach lovers from everywhere. Each city provides a distinct flavor of Bangladeshi culture and landscape.
National Parks
- Sundarbans National Park: The largest mangrove forest in the world, known for its biodiversity.
- Lawachara National Park: A significant rainforest reserve in Sylhet, home to diverse flora and fauna.
- Himchari National Park: Located near Cox's Bazar, offering coastal hills and waterfalls.
- Bhawal National Park: A large forest area close to Dhaka, popular for day trips.
- Modhupur National Park: Features tropical deciduous forests and is an important wildlife habitat.
- Teknaf Wildlife Sanctuary: Protects the coastal forests and mangrove ecosystems in the southeast.
- Nijhum Dwip National Park: A marine protected area known for its diverse birdlife and deer.
- Kuakata National Park: Situated near the coast, offering unique beach and forest ecosystems.
Protected Areas
—
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Bangladesh is generally during the cooler, drier winter months from October to March. This period offers pleasant temperatures ideal for exploring cities like Dhaka and Chittagong, as well as enjoying the beaches of Cox's Bazar. For nature lovers, this season is also optimal for visiting the Sundarbans, with less humidity and clearer skies. Traveling during the monsoon season, from June to September, can mean heavy rainfall which may disrupt travel plans and limit outdoor activities. Spring, around April and May, can be hot and humid before the onset of the rains. For festival enthusiasts, visiting during major events like Eid al-Fitr or Pohela Boishakh (Bengali New Year) offers a vibrant cultural experience, though accommodation may be harder to find and prices higher.
Tourist Visa Info
Most foreign nationals can obtain a tourist visa on arrival at major entry points, valid for 30 days, for tourism purposes. However, it is crucial to verify this with the Bangladeshi embassy in your country beforehand, as rules can change and depend on your nationality. You will likely need a passport with at least six months of validity, a recent photograph, and an onward or return ticket. Extensions may be possible at local immigration offices. Business visas or other types of entry permits will have different application processes and requirements. Always have clear documentation supporting your visit.
Visa Requirements Overview
Tourist visa requirements for Bangladesh vary significantly based on your nationality. Many nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival for short stays, typically up to 30 days, often extendable. However, it is strongly recommended to check the specific requirements for your country of citizenship with the nearest Bangladeshi embassy or consulate before your travel. Some nationalities may require pre-arranged visas. Key documents usually include a valid passport with at least six months' validity, a completed application form, passport-sized photographs, and proof of onward travel. Visa fees are applicable and may vary.
Travel Advisory
Travelers to Bangladesh are advised to exercise normal precautions, similar to those taken in other busy South Asian countries. Be mindful of traffic conditions, especially in urban centers, and consider hiring drivers for comfort and safety. Cultural sensitivity is important; dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites. Stay informed about local conditions, especially regarding weather and any potential civil disturbances, although these are rare. It's advisable to have comprehensive travel insurance and to carry a local mobile number for easy communication. Maintaining a flexible itinerary can be beneficial due to the nature of travel in the region.
Healthcare
Healthcare Quality
The healthcare quality index is moderate.
Medical Cost
Medical costs vary depending on the service and location.
Number of Hospitals
There are numerous public and private hospitals throughout the country.
Universal Healthcare
Bangladesh's healthcare system is a mix of public and private providers. Universal health coverage is a goal, but access and quality vary.
Medical Services Overview
Public and private healthcare services are available; however, quality can vary.
Emergency Medical Access
Emergency medical services are available, but access and response times can vary depending on the location.
Emergency & Safety
Emergency Number (Police)
999
Emergency Number (Ambulance)
999
Emergency Number (Fire)
999
Crime Rate
—
Safety Index
—
Military Expenditure
—
Emergency Services Overview
Emergency services in Bangladesh are available, though response times and accessibility can vary, particularly outside major cities. In case of a medical emergency, private hospitals in Dhaka and Chittagong offer the highest standards of care. For police assistance, it is best to contact the nearest police station or use the national emergency number if available. Fire services are also accessible through the emergency number. Tourists should ensure they have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation. Keeping a local SIM card for easier communication is highly recommended in any emergency situation.
Safety Overview
Bangladesh is generally a safe country for tourists, with most visitors experiencing positive interactions. Common sense precautions are advised, such as being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded markets and bus stations, where petty theft can occur. Avoid displaying large amounts of cash or valuables. While generally safe, it's wise to be cautious of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited tours or assistance, as some may attempt minor scams. Stick to reputable tour operators and transportation services. Women traveling alone should exercise extra vigilance, particularly in public transport and during evening hours. Respecting local customs and dress codes will enhance your experience and ensure smoother interactions.
Military Branches
—
Infrastructure
Electricity Access
—
Water Access
—
Sanitation Access
—
Railways
Bangladesh has a railway network operated by Bangladesh Railway, connecting major cities and towns.
Roadways
Road conditions in Bangladesh can be variable, with major highways generally in better condition than rural roads. Driving can be challenging due to high traffic density, unpredictable driving habits, and the presence of slower-moving vehicles. Tolls are common on major highways and bridges. Self-driving is generally not recommended for tourists due to the complex traffic environment and potential language barriers in navigation. Hiring a car with a local driver is a more practical and safer option for exploring the country. The road network connects most major cities and towns, but journeys can be slow due to traffic and road quality. Be prepared for a unique driving experience if you choose to navigate the roads.
Transportation System
The transportation system includes road, rail, air, and waterways. Traffic congestion is a significant issue in urban areas.
AirportsSource: OurAirports
Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (DAC), Osmany International Airport (ZYL), Shah Amanat International Airport (CGP), Barisal Airport (BZL), Cox's Bazar Airport (CXB), Ishurdi Airport (IRD)
Ports
—
Public Transit
Public transportation in major Bangladeshi cities, especially Dhaka, is a vibrant and often chaotic experience. Buses are the most common form of public transit, with numerous local and express routes covering most areas. Ticketing is usually handled by conductors on the bus, with fares varying based on distance and bus type. Rickshaws, both pedal and auto, are ubiquitous for shorter distances and offer a more intimate way to navigate. Dhaka also has a developing metro rail system, which is modern and efficient for its operational routes. For longer distances, trains and intercity buses are popular, offering a glimpse into the country's connectivity. Taxis and ride-sharing apps like Uber and Pathao are available in larger cities and provide a more comfortable option. Tourists should be prepared for crowded conditions and consider using ride-sharing apps for ease of navigation.
Technology & Communication
Internet Penetration (%)Source: World Bank: Individuals using the Internet (% of population) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
53.42#157 of 211
Mobile Subscriptions (per 100)
—
Tech Startups
—
Innovation Index
—
ICT Development Index
—
TV Broadcast Stations
—
Radio Broadcast Stations
—
Plug Type & Voltage
Type A, C, and D plugs are commonly used; 230V voltage and 50Hz frequency.
CO2 Emissions (t per capita)Source: World Bank: Carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions excluding LULUCF per capita (t CO2e/capita) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
0.72#151 of 202
Air Quality Index
Air quality can be poor in major cities, particularly during certain seasons.
Water Pollution Level
Water quality can be a concern, especially in urban areas and densely populated regions; bottled water is recommended for drinking.
Renewable Energy Usage
—
Environmental Issues
—
Natural Hazards
Bangladesh is susceptible to natural hazards due to its geography. Cyclones are a significant concern, particularly along the coast during the pre- and post-monsoon seasons. Flooding is also common, especially during the monsoon months, which can impact travel and daily life. Earthquakes can occur, though major destructive quakes are infrequent. Heatwaves can be experienced during the summer months. Travelers should stay informed about weather forecasts and advisories, especially when visiting coastal areas or during the monsoon season.
Waste Management
Waste management is a growing challenge in Bangladesh, particularly in its rapidly expanding cities. While recycling efforts are present, they are not as widespread as in some other countries. Travelers will notice considerable waste in public areas, especially in markets and on streets. It is advisable for tourists to minimize their waste and dispose of it responsibly, looking for designated bins where available. In many tourist accommodations, efforts are made to manage waste more effectively, but outside these areas, awareness and infrastructure can be limited. Bringing reusable water bottles and bags can help reduce personal waste.
Environmental Agreements
—
UN MembershipSource: REST Countries
Yes
Diplomatic Missions
—