Day 1: Dhaka – The Capital
Dhaka, Bangladesh’s vibrant and chaotic capital, is where you’ll start your journey. It’s a city full of life. Start early to avoid the gridlock.
Visit Lalbagh Fort
Your first stop is Lalbagh Fort. This 17th-century Mughal fort is one of Dhaka’s most important historical landmarks. It’s quiet inside and offers a break from the noise just outside the walls. Spend some time wandering around and enjoy the gardens.
Explore Ahsan Manzil (The Pink Palace)
Next, head to Ahsan Manzil, also known as the Pink Palace. It’s a beautiful museum that was once home to the Nawab of Dhaka. The pink exterior is pretty iconic, and inside it gives you a glimpse of life during the colonial period. Walking through the large halls is like stepping into history.
Walk Around Old Dhaka
Once you’ve done with the tourist sights, take a few hours to explore Old Dhaka. Wander through the narrow streets, and you’ll encounter spice markets, street food, and age-old traditions. Try some delicious biryani here; it’s famous in this area.
Boat Ride on the Buriganga River
Finish your day with a boat ride on the Buriganga River. It’s a great way to see life unfold along the riverbanks. Sometimes you’ll see small boats filling the river, while larger ones carry goods across. The sunset view from here is unforgettable.
Day 2: Sonargaon – The Old Capital
Today, you’ll step back in time as you visit Sonargaon, which used to be the capital of Bengal.
Visit Panam City
Panam City is a ghost town now, but the streets are lined with old architecture that once housed merchants and traders. The once-bustling city feels abandoned now but still holds onto its rich history. Take your time walking around and snapping photos of the old buildings.
Sonargaon Folk Art and Craft Museum
Next, visit the Sonargaon Folk Art and Craft Museum. It has a lot of traditional art pieces on display, and if you’re interested in understanding more about Bengali culture, it’s a must-visit. Make sure to check out the local crafts.
Relax at Sadarbari
Close by, Sadarbari is another historical mansion that has been restored. It’s a peaceful place to take a breather and soak in the silence before heading back to Dhaka.
Day 3: Srimangal – The Tea Capital of Bangladesh
Today, leave the city behind and catch an early train or bus to Srimangal. It’s the tea capital, and the lush greenery will be a breath of fresh air after the hectic pace of Dhaka.
Visit the Tea Gardens
Srimangal’s rolling tea gardens are a highlight. You can walk around the plantations and see how tea is grown and harvested. Don’t miss the chance to visit a small, local shop and try the famous seven-layer tea.
Explore Lawachara National Park
After the tea gardens, head over to Lawachara National Park. This is a dense tropical rainforest where you can spot a variety of wildlife, including macaques and other rare species like the Hoolock Gibbon. A guide can help you navigate the trails.
Cycling around Srimangal
The sleepy town of Srimangal is best explored by bike. You can rent one and leisurely pedal around, visit local villages, and enjoy the quiet countryside. Stop by roadside tea stalls for a quick break and chat with locals.
Day 4: Sylhet – Home of the Sufis
From Srimangal, it’s a short bus or car ride to Sylhet, a city close to the border of India. Sylhet is known for its spiritual significance and is considered the heart of Bangladesh’s Sufi culture.
Visit Hazrat Shah Jalal’s Shrine
Start by visiting the Shrine of Hazrat Shah Jalal. It’s a deeply spiritual site, and many people come here for prayer. Even if you’re not religious, walking around the shrine gives you an insight into the devotion that runs through the area.
Visit the Ratargul Swamp Forest
After the shrine, head to the Ratargul Swamp Forest. It’s a unique spot where you can take a boat trip through the forest flooded with water. It feels serene and calm, ideal for unwinding.
Explore Jaflong
From the swamp, make your way towards Jaflong, a beautiful area near the Indian border. The view of the hills here is spectacular. You’ll get to see women from the Khasi tribe working in limestone quarries, which is fascinating to observe.
Day 5: Cox’s Bazar – The Longest Beach in the World
After exploring the green landscapes, finish your trip with a relaxing beach day at Cox’s Bazar, a stunning 120km long stretch of beach.
Relax on the Beach
Cox’s Bazar’s beach is the longest in the world. The water isn’t crystal clear, but the views are amazing. Spend your morning lounging on the beach, watching fishermen at work, and maybe even try out some local snacks from nearby stalls.
Visit Himchari National Park
In the afternoon, take a trip to Himchari National Park. The park has beautiful waterfalls and plenty of nature trails to explore. The views from the Himchari hilltop are particularly worth the short hike up.
Walk Through Inani Beach
Before sunset, make your way to Inani Beach. It’s quieter and more peaceful than Cox’s Bazar, and the sunset colors here are breathtaking. End your trip with some stillness while watching the waves crash against the shore.
Final Thoughts
Bangladesh is an underrated gem, full of rich culture, stunning landscapes, and welcoming people. This 5-day itinerary balances city life, nature, and relaxation. It’s flexible, so slow down or speed up depending on how you feel. You’ll leave the country with a deep appreciation for all it has to offer.
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