Bangladesh is a vibrant South Asian country with a rich history and culture, known for its lush landscapes and the world’s largest delta.
Area: Bangladesh has a total area of approximately 147,630 km² (57,000 mi²).
Population: As of the 2022 Census, the population of Bangladesh was 169,828,911, making it one of the most densely populated countries in the world.
Capital: Dhaka
Major Cities: Besides Dhaka, other major cities include Chittagong, Gazipur, Khulna, and Rangpur City.
Language: The official language of Bangladesh is Bengali (also known as Bangla). English is also widely spoken and taught in schools.
Currency: The currency of Bangladesh is the Bangladeshi Taka (BDT).
Religion: The majority of the population in Bangladesh practices Islam (approximately 91% Sunni Muslim). Hinduism is the second-largest religion (around 8%), with smaller communities of Christians and Buddhists.
Attractions & Wonders:
- The Sundarbans Mangrove Forest: A UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest mangrove forest in the world, famous for being home to the Royal Bengal Tiger.
- Cox’s Bazar Beach: The world’s longest unbroken natural sea beach, stretching nearly 120 km along the southeastern coast.
- Lalbagh Fort: An incomplete 17th-century Mughal fort complex in Dhaka.
- Somapura Mahavihara: An ancient Buddhist monastery, also a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Ahsan Manzil Museum: A historic palace and museum located on the Buriganga River in Dhaka.
- Sajek Valley: A popular hill station offering stunning views.
- Ratargul Swamp Forest: Bangladesh’s only freshwater swamp forest, often compared to the Amazon, best explored by boat.
Architecture: Bangladeshi architecture is a blend of various influences, including Hindu, Buddhist, Islamic, colonial, modernist, and postmodernist styles, reflecting the country’s diverse history and cultural evolution.
Roads: Road conditions in Bangladesh, particularly in major cities like Dhaka, can be challenging with potholes, damaged pavements, and uneven surfaces, which can be hazardous for both drivers and pedestrians, especially during the rainy season.
Hotels: Bangladesh offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hotels to luxury establishments, particularly in major cities. Many hotels, especially in Dhaka and Sylhet, feature amenities like rooftop pools and health clubs.
Cuisine: Bangladeshi cuisine is rich and flavorful, with a strong emphasis on rice, fish, and various spices. Popular dishes include:
- Haji Biryani: A famous rice dish from Dhaka made with goat meat and spices.
- Kala Bhuna: A blackened beef dish from Chittagong.
- Shorshe Ilish: Hilsa fish cooked in a mustard-based gravy.
- Panta Bhat: A traditional fermented rice dish, often eaten with fish or vegetables.
- Bakarkhani: A thick, spiced flatbread, particularly popular in Dhaka.
- Sweets: Popular desserts include Chomchom, Jilapi, and Amriti.
Annual Travel: The cool season, from October to February, is generally considered the best time to visit Bangladesh, with temperatures ranging from 15−25∘C (59−77∘F), offering pleasant weather for exploring.
