Tourism Marketing: Bangladesh Perspective.

MOHAMMAD SHAMSUDDOHA
Assistant ProfessorDepartment of Marketing, University of ChittagongChittagong, Bangladesh.E-
mail:mdsdoha@gmail.com
Abstract:
 Bangladesh as a vacationland has many facets. Her tourist attractions include archeologicalsites,
historic mosques and monuments, resorts, beaches, picnic spots, forest and wildlife. Bangladesh
is a riverine country having attractive panoramic beauty. There are hills, vales, deepand
mangrove forests, rivers and the longest beach in the world. In this country, the scope of nature
based tourism, research based tourism, culture based tourism and eco-tourism is quiteevident. In
Bangladesh, prospective areas are present, minimum infra-structural arrangement isdeveloping,
role of government is now positive, private and public organizations have come forward side by
side to attract the local and foreign tourists, researchers, dignitaries and foreigndelegates. Having
all the minimum requirements, the tourism industry could not developadequately. The cracks of
problem could not identify accurately because of paucity of sufficient number of research and
investigations in our country. Out of different problems, the researchers have
concentrated their focus to human resource development aspect for tourism sector in Bangladesh.
It is due to low literacy rate of general people, they cannot communicate with thedomestic and
foreign tourists significantly. So, the tourists felt discourage to visit repeatedly tothe tourist spots.
It is not possible to increase literacy rate dramatically to developcommunicative skill of mass
people. The researchers feel that a group of personnel could be developed on an
emergency basis to face the immense need of the tourism industry in Bangladesh. Presently,
specialized formal education like bachelor’s degree, under graduatedegree or postgraduate
degrees are not available in universities of Bangladesh on tourism. No specialized
training program is being found to develop skilled personnel in this regard. In some International
Hotels, Parjatan Corporation and at private level tourist agencies very limited scope of on the job
training has been developed. This study will facilitate the decision makers toassess the
intensity of the problem and to plan accurate measures to train and develop a
good number of manpower for facing the current need readily. This could benefit the
tourism industryin multiple ways. This could change the economic picture of tourism sector
and contribute a bigshare in the GDP of Bangladesh.
Keywords:
Tourism, Development, Marketing

Further, it is an effort to make possible harmony between the social interests and interests of touristorganizations.Itis
anapproachtopromotebusiness,whichfeedstheorganizationsthenecessaryinformationforfarmingorrevampingthemarketing
decisions.Thetourismsmarketingisthuspromotionorsalesbasedonresearchonwhataretobesoldinthemarket.Dependenceon
laurelsisnotpossibleinthetourismmarketingsincethetastepreferencesofuserschangeveryfirstly.
Rationale of the study
Bangladesh is trying to develop her tourism status to compete in local and global market.Tourism is one of
the main root of developing the country’s economy and as well as skilledprofessional human
resource. Governmental and non-Governmental institutes can keep such avital role by giving
emphasis on tourism marketing. Bangladesh needs to develop its humanresources for improving tourism
marketing in local tourists as well as foreign tourist.. InBangladesh, tourism has lot of potentiality to earn more
revenue than presently what they areearning. If Govt. and Non-government organization come
forward and take the responsibility fordeveloping tourism industry, it will earn much more
revenue and create lots of employment aswell. There has no plethora research work on tourism in
Bangladesh perspectives. This researchwill add some value and fill up the gap that motivated the
authors to undertake such a study
Objectives of the study
In the light of development of tourism industry in Bangladesh particularly, the main objectives of the study are-
1.
 
To find out the present status of tourism industry in Bangladesh.2.
 
To explore the potential tourist spot in Bangladesh.3.
 
To give some recommendation for the development of tourist industry in Bangladesh.
Scope and Methodologies of the study
The study covered various Government and non-government who are acting vital role
indeveloping tourism industry Situated mainly capital Dhaka and commercial capital
cityChittagong in Bangladesh. The sample comprised of more than ten Governmental and non-
governmental institutes those who are working with the tourism in Bangladesh.
Necessaryinformation and data were collected from sample respondents through the direct
interview
 
method by using structured questionnaire. In addition, review all the tourism related websites
forupdated information. In total 50 respondents were interviewed during the study period. In
theother hand, the researcher also reviews several foreign and local research works as well in
thisfield.
Limitations of the study
The study covered very limited number of sample organization in respect of its real scope allover the country.
There is no plethora of research work in this field. Sometimes responded werenot interested to express to their
honest opinion. To overcome these limitations, an intensivestudy of existing literature in this field, foreign
journal, relevant publication by Government andother private agencies were studied. This is fully self-
financed research work that is why theresearcher could not able to cover wider area.
Analysis of Findings
The conceptual exposition appears essential to study tourism marketing. The marketing
expertsopine that tourism marketing is the systemic and coordinated efforts to optimize the
satisfactionof tourism .The thing here are concerned with making available to the tourist organizations.
Thetourism marketing is also supposed to be a device to make a possible reorientation in thebusiness policy
and overhaul in the management concept. Tourism marketing is an integratedeffort to satisfy tourists
by making available to them the best possible services. It is a device totransform the potential tourists into
actual tourists. It is the safest way to generate demand andexpand market. Further it is an effort to make
possible harmony between the social interests andinterests of tourist organizations. It is an approach to promote
business, which feeds theorganizations the necessary information for farming or revamping the
marketing decisions. Thetourisms marketing is thus promotion or sales based on research on what are to be
sold in themarket. Dependence on laurels is not possible in the tourism marketing since the tastepreferences of
users change very firstly in Bangladesh.
The users of Tourism Services
There are several users of tourist like rural tourists, urban tourists and international tourists. Forthe successful
execution of marketing strategies for translating the strategies in to meaningful
 
42%23%18%17%BusinessPleasureOfficialOthers
purposes, it is essential to have a detailed knowledge of users of services. Tourists coming fromthe rural areas are
rural tourists whereas the tourists coming from urban areas are urban tourists.[Source: BPC Officials]
Classification of Tourists
According to a sample survey, the tourists arrival are classified in the following categories:A.
Business
  
42%B. Pleasure
  
23%C. Official
  
18%D. Others
  
17%[Source: Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation]
UrbanR u r a l Rich / PoorRich / Poor
 
Literate IlliterateLiterate IlliterateDomestic ForeignThe users
 
Figure: Shows the Arrival of Tourists
  
Institutional FrameworkThe National Tourism Organization
The principal channel of Government involvement in the tourism sector is the national
tourismorganization, Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation, (BPC or Parjatan), which is a semi
autonomousgovernment agency reporting to the Ministry of civil Aviation and Tourism as its
administrativeMinistry. Importantly, the national airline Biman Bangladesh Airlines, (Biman),
forms a separatedivision within the same Ministry, which allows integration and of tourism initiatives. Many
of BPC’s managerial matters are handling through the national Tourism Facilitation
committeeheaded by the secretary of the ministry of Aviation and Tourism. A sub-committee of theNational
committee is responsible for coordination of efforts to promote tourism in the country.The sub-committee is
comprised of the following members: Biman (Convener); Chairman,Bangladesh Parjatan
Corporation; Joint secretary of the Ministry of Aviation and Tourism;Sonargaon Hotel; Sheraton
Hotel; Association of Travel Agent of Bangladesh; Pacific AreaTravel Association; Secretary
Bangladesh Services Ltd; Flying club of Bangladesh (co-opted).BPC was created on the 27
th
November 1972 by order of the Government of the People’sRepublic of Bangladesh and commenced business
in January 1973. It was established as aCorporation under the laws of the country with an authorized capital of
Tk one crore (roughlyUS$ 1.3 million then) and initial share capital of Tk five lakhs (roughly US$
65,000 then). Underthe law, additional loan or equity capital could be raised for carrying out the functions of
theCorporation with government approval. It was evidently the intention of the drafters of the
Orderthat BPC should be an autonomous corporation responsible to its shareholders as would be
anyother corporate entity in the country. Specifically, the Order directed that the assets and
liabilitiesof a preceding company, Pakistan Tourism Development Corporation Limited, would betransferred
to BPC. The Government clearly intended to distance itself from the operations of BPC and not be a major
investor. The Corporation was given broad power and authority andimportant some power as follows
1.
 
To promote tourist undertakings and to control and regulate tourist installations andservices;

also a number of ancient mosques, shrines and temples in and around Rajshahi. Connected
withDhaka by road, rail, river and air, Rajshahi is located on the bank of the Padma River.
Sundarban :
In the south-western part of Bangladesh, in the district of greater Khulna, lies theSundarbans, the beautiful
forest. It is a virgin forest which until recently owed nothing to humanendeavor and yet nature has
laid it out with as much care as a planned pleasure ground. For milesand miles, the lofty treetops form an
unbroken canopy, while nearer the ground, works of highand ebb-tide marked on the soil and tree
trunks and the many varieties of the natural mangroveforest have much to offer to an inquisitive visitor. Here land
and water meet in many novelfashions, Wildlife presents many a spectacle. No wonder, you may
come across a Royal BengalTiger swimming across the streams or the crocodiles basking on the
riverbanks. With theapproach of the evening herds of deer make for the darkling glades where
boisterous monkeysshower Keora leaves from above for sumptuous meal for the former. For the botanist, the
loverof nature, the poet and the painter this land provides a variety of wonder for which they all crave.
Sylhet:
Nestled in the picturesque Surma valley amidst scenic tea plantations and lush greentropical forests, it is a prime
attraction for all tourists. Its terraced tea gardens, eye soothingorange groves and pineapple plantations and
hills covered with tropical forests form a beautifullandscape. The Sylhet valley has a good
number of haors, which are big natural wetlands. Duringwinter these haors are vast stretches of
green land but in the rainy season they turn into turbulentseas. These haors provide sanctuary to the
millions of migratory birds that fly from Siberiaacross the Himalayas to avoid the severe cold.
Srimongal in Sylhet, known as the tea capital of Bangladesh, is the main tea center in this region.
Visit in the vast tea garden spread like greencarpet over the plain land or slope of the hill is a memorable
experience. A stay in one of the resthouse of the tea garden is a fascinating one.
Bogra:
This small district town serves as the nerve-centre of northern Bangladesh and is fastcoming up as an industrial
zone. It provides several road links with other district towns andhistorical sites in the the region besides
being itself well connected with Dhaka. Some of thelargest coal and lime deposits have been discovered
in this district and ambitious plans have beenmade for their utilization. The district already has a number of sugar,
textile and chemical
 
industries. The handloom products of the area are popular throughout the country. Bogra is alsopopular for its
rice, sweets and yogurtBesides that there are several places, which might be, treating as a tourist
spot like Natore,Mainamati, Paharpur etc.
Recommendation
There are so many problems, the researcher found regarding tourism in Bangladesh.
Thecustomers of tourism market are price sensitive and want security in tourist place. To expand
themarket it is necessary to set competitive price.¦ Develop the management education on tourism
Marketing and prepare marketing or salespeople to sell the product properly to the right place in local and
global perspectives as well.¦ In order to strengthen the marketing department, a person should be
appointed to look afterpolicy matters and new brand exclusively while the responsibility of that
division should be inthe hand of the marketing Director.¦ Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation
should create pressure on Govt. to implement her policymore strictly regarding the quality of service.
As a result private service provider will be able toface competition on an even ground.¦ To deliver
information to the foreign tourist through online or website and InformationTechnology is necessary
to research about new tourist spot.¦ To encourage the Jr. executives they should be promoted to his/her
position and newexecutives should be recruited to ensure.¦ Training and other refresher courses should
be conducted at regular intervals to up date thepersonnel with efficient.¦ BPC should formulate
her strategy in such to way by which she can serve the users moreeffectively. BPC can easily
utilize the following distribution channel.¦ Private sector in this field should be encouraged by the
BPC and as well as Governmentofficials.

 
Concluding Remarks
Bangladesh is one of the third world countries having scarcity of his finance but they canincrease their GDP
through by giving stress to the tourism industry. From overall point of view,Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation is a
only one government tourism service provider firm inBangladesh, which practices modern marketing concept.
But in some sector they are laggingbehind. There have a lot of opportunities to earn foreign and local
revenue from this sector butthis sector is totally ignored. The researcher has put forward some
recommendation. If BPCfollows these recommendations, in the long run, BPC will become
revenue-generatingorganization. Bangladesh has a lot of potential tourist spots but it should do find out
theexposure. Otherwise, she cannot cash from this potential sector. And private sector
shouldencourage by the government to work together for the sake of the development of
tourismindustry in Bangladesh.
 References
1.
 
Butler, R.W. (1990), ``Tourism-historical and conceptual context’’, in Nelson, J.G. andO’Neil,
P.C. (Eds),
 A Workshop on a Strategy for Tourism and Sustainable Development  
,Heritage Resources Centre, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, pp. 15-19.2.
 
Cevat Tosun and Dallen J. Timothy, International Journal of Contemporary HospitalityManagement13/7[2001]
Page.352.3.
 
Tosun, C. and Jenkins, C.L. (1998), ``The evolution of tourism planning in third worldcountries:
a critique’’, Progress in Tourism and Hospitality Research, Vol. 4 No. 2, pp.101-14.4.
 
Timothy, D. (1998), ``Cooperative tourism planning in a developing destination’’,Journal of Sustainable
Tourism, Vol. 6 No. 1, pp. 52-68.5.
 
President’s Order No 143 of 1972 as published in the Bangladesh Gazette Extraordinary,27
th
November 1972.6.
 
Principles of Marketing, Philip Kotler & Gray Armstrong, 7
th
Edition7.
 
Marketing Management, Philip Kotler, 9
th
Edition.8.
 
Website of Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation9.
 
Website of UNDP, WTO, ILO10.
 
www.bangladeshonline.com 11.
 
www.tourismindiaonline.com 12.
 
www.tourismindia.com 13.
 
www.bangladeshonline.com/tourism/spots 
Friday, July 15, 2011
OP-ED

Tourism: Untapped potential

G. M. Quader

From the experience of countries which has seen considerable growth in tourism, it is found that
tourism development is not the job of a single ministry alone. It is a coordinated effort of all the
ministries.

Human beings are instinctively curious. From time immemorial people moved from one place to
another to know the unknown, see the unseen, discover the undiscovered and go into ecstasies
about the newness. With the advent of civilization and technological advancement, the world has
become smaller. With the rise of income level, people are being liberated from the clutches of
poverty gradually. People of the global village can afford to move easily from one corner to
another.

This is why the number of tourist arriving is always rising. In 2010, about $852 billion business
has been generated at a high growth rate of 7%, which was 5% in the previous year. In the
coming days, it is predicted to witness an even higher growth rate. With the passage of time
more and more countries across the world are showing increased interest in tourism, investing
bigger amounts and also reaping higher benefits.

In the context of the global scenario, only 1% of global tourism transactions are generated in the
Saarc region, where India alone seized almost half of it. 1% of the total business means $10
billion, where Bangladesh earned $78.3 million in the year 2010, which is below 0.01%. Several
countries of this region earn much more every year.

It is not at all difficult for Bangladesh to achieve $1billion. We need to ensure that there would
be one million tourists arriving per year, and provide facilities so that each tourist spends around
$1,000. This target is not too ambitious considering the varieties Bangladesh can offer.

It is good news for Bangladesh that tourists who usually visit the destinations of developed world
are now looking for new and unexplored destinations. Saarc countries and surrounding regions,
which are less familiar to the world, are getting attention now.

Since the international communities are showing interest, the countries of this region have
become eager to foster the tourism industry. Nepal and Sri Lanka, two of Saarc member
countries, have declared separately 2011 as Tourism Year in their nations.
South Korea also declared 2011 as Tourism Year. Maldives, Bhutan, India have already started
huge promotional and development work in tourism. Besides, countries like Iran, Turkey,
Kazakhstan, China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand etc. and the Middle Eastern
countries like Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait etc, are spending billions of
dollars for the development of tourism and earning benefits out of this industry.

There is expectation among many in Bangladesh that we should keep pace with other countries
in developing the tourism sector. The present government initiated some administrative
measures.

An inter-ministerial coordination committee, headed by the secretary tourism, was formed.

Besides, an advisory committee headed by the minister of tourism, cabinet committee for
tourism headed by the finance minister and the national tourism council, the apex committee for
tourism headed by the honorable prime minister, have been formed with the aim to coordinate
the efforts of all ministers including stakeholders.

A tourism cell has been established in each deputy commissioner's office with the objective to
identify tourist attractions, maintain tourist spots, build infrastructure and ensure overall quality
management.

Besides, the cell is responsible in taking necessary measures in providing guide services,
transportation and ensuring safety and security to the tourists. The expenditures for these
purposes will be earned from the visitors. The excess expenditure, if necessary, especially for
development work, is to be borne by the district council funds.

Ministry of local government, rural development and cooperatives will manage to get the
allocation from the national budget as per the demand submitted by the district councils. This
programme could not be made effective in reality due to a lack of awareness among the
concerned officials and stakeholders.

The ministry of tourism is preparing multi-participatory tourism development projects jointly

with other ministries like local government, forest and environment, cultural, shipping, etc.
Proper allocation of fund is necessary for implementing them.

The survey of the vast areas of Cox's Bazaar up to Teknaf and St. Martins Island and Kuakata
has been conducted, and the preparation of two separate master plans is now in the final stage. A
Cox's Bazaar development authority, under ministry of housing and settlement, is being created
for implementing the development work of Cox's Bazaar.

Authorisation committees have been formed to oversee and guide all development activities in
the Cox's Bazaar area and Kuakata till specific development authorities are formed. It can be
expected that tourist facilities will flourish in accordance with the master plans from now on.

It addition, Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation (BPC) has been building some facilities in different
places of the country as and when needed, subject to the availability of fund. The website of BPC
(tourismbangladesh.gov.bd) has also been modernised.
The present government has made a pragmatic tourism policy. A new law has been enacted for
the preservation of the tourist attractions of the country and also for establishing exclusive tourist
zones. A new national tourism organisation, e.g. Bangladesh Tourism Board (BTB) has been
created.

BTB has been constituted with representatives of related ministries and stakeholders from the
private sector. This has allowed a closer interaction between governmental agencies and private
sectors for an overall development of this sector. A web portal (visitbangladesh.gov.bd) is being
designed to provide all vital information on the tourism sector. We also declared the year 2011 as
the Tourism Year for Bangladesh.

In spite of all this, the development of international tourism in Bangladesh is not satisfactory.
The entire government needs to be involved under the leadership of the head of the government.

It is also clear that the endeavour of the government is not enough for the maximum exploitation
of the tourism potential. Every stakeholder in business, society and opposition political parties
need to be involved too.

In fact, development of tourism is not possible until and unless a social movement, involving the
entire nation, can be launched to support it. This is exactly what has happened and is happening
in countries like Nepal, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Bhutan, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, China,
India etc.

Countries that have made remarkable achievement in tourism have witnessed direct involvement
and/or patronisation of the head of the government. In addition, tourism has been put on top of
the priority list of the government. We in Bangladesh lacked in both.

The reason for this is a lack of national confidence in tourism development potentials and the
potential benefits from this sector. As such, it is felt that a practical demonstration has become
essential to show the potential and the benefit tourism sector can bring.

We believe that Bangladesh has immense prospect in the tourism sector with its natural beauty,
historical and archaeological attractions, architectural structures, local culture and lifestyle,
colourful indigenous entities and different festivals. Apart from these, the most enticing
proposition of Bangladesh for the tourists is the hardworking, resilient, ever-smiling and
hospitable people of the country.

There is no denying that both the public and private sectors have developed different tourist
facilities and skilled human resources.

As regards enhancement of tourism facilities, we feel we have enough for the present or even to
some extent to meet future demands. New facilities are coming up with the increase of demand.
If the demand starts growing fast so will the facilities.
Considering the situation, it is believed that if we can project our country to the international
community, we will be able to attract quite a good number of tourists who seem eager to find
new destinations.

Projecting Bangladesh in the international electronic and print media is necessary to catch more
attention. Moreover, different events in our foreign missions can be done highlighting tourism.
Participation in different tourism fairs, arrangement of familiarisation tours, and distribution of
printed promotional materials are also crucial.

It is felt that "on arrival visa" should be allowed for the tourists from Saarc countries unilaterally.
It may also be considered for other countries from where we anticipate large number of visitors.

Tourism can create a huge employment opportunity and can contribute substantially to the
economy. Tourism, thus, can play a vital role in poverty alleviation. The biggest barrier to
development of tourism is the lack of trust and the main challenge is to create confidence.

The writer is Minister, Ministry of Civil Aviation and Tourism, Bangladesh.

Community-Based Tourism in Protected Areas

Bangladesh
Bangladesh is a South Asian country neighboring India with a burgeoning economy that is
rapidly creating a middle class via the textile and other global industries. Its landscape is
dominated by the Ganges-Brahmaputra delta which is the largest in the world. Flooded with
humanity, Bangladesh is home to the population of the United States in an area roughly the size
of Louisiana. Efforts to assist this country with forest and biodiversity preservation are being
urgently addressed by global agencies including USAID, with community benefits a key focus.

EplerWood International provided strategic reports to the Integrated Protected Area Co-
Management (IPAC) project to review how community based tourism could assist with the
protection of Bangladesh's protected areas. EWI focused on two protected areas: The Teknaf
Game Reserve and the Sunderbans Reserve Forest.

The EplerWood International reports emphasized the importance of creating a suite of policy and
enterprise development tactics to ensure that tourism was sustainably developed. Observations
based on discussions with government officials in Bangladesh indicated that the environmental
management of tourism and its regulation had scarcely been considered by national agencies.

EWI proposed a Teknaf Nature Tourism Management Plan to create a vision for a more
sustainable form of tourism development and provide a vehicle to achieve this via participatory
bioregional planning, using a local team with technical assistance. The Teknaf Peninsula, home
to the longest sand beach in the world, has already become a domestic tourism mecca with over 1
million visitors in 2008. To determine the potential for nature tourism development activity, the
strategy reviewed existing tourism planning and development efforts, markets for tourism,
market niches, investment climate, and the type of tourism development activity that would be
recommended based on market niche segmentation. Discussions with the locally active private
sector led to a variety of creative market opportunities for ecotourism that would be dependent
on a holistic strategy to involve local people, preserve endangered species such as the wild Asian
elephant, and an active effort to protect areas presently threatened by rapidly escalating
development. Read the full Ecotourism Strategy

For the Sundarbans Reserve Forest, a biosphere reserve which was established to protect the
largest mangrove in the world, EplerWood International recommended a Strengths, Weaknesses,
Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) analysis of tourism to help IPAC capture current, relevant
data on tourism in its various forms - both domestic and international - in the reserve. Read the
full SWOT analysis

Total visitor numbers in the SRF increased by 14% between 2007/8 and 2008/9 reflecting a
vibrant tourism economy that is growing primarily due to domestic travelers. However, the study
demonstrated there is little being done to manage these visitors, there are no economic benefits
flowing to the reserve as a result of this growth in domestic interest, and social/community
benefits are very small indeed. If this were not problematic enough, environmental damage is
increasing rapidly.

The SWOT analysis of the Sundarbans was developed to guide decision making on the means to
develop tourism in the Sundarbans Reserve Forest in a sustainable manner. Results were broken
down into the following categories.

 Information Accessibility on the Sundarbans

 Boat Transportation
 Visitor Management
 Community Benefits
 Cultural Impacts
 Conservation Awareness
 Revenue Generation
 Community Benefits
 Physical Impacts - Entire Sundarbans region
 Unmanaged Tourism - Site Specific
 Socio-cultural impacts in tourism areas
 PLACES OF TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN BANGLADESH
DHAKA the capital the capital of Bangladesh is Dhaka with its exciting history and rich culture,
known the world over as the city of mosques and muslin; it has attracted travelers from far and
nearer throughout in all the ages. It has a history dating back to earliest time. But the exact date
of its foundation is not known. However, according to recorded history it was founded in 1608
A.D. as the seat of the imperial Mughal Viceroy of Bengal. Dhaka as the capital of Bangladesh
has grown into a busy city of about seven million people with an area of about 815 sq. km. Having
a happy blending of old and new architectural trends, Dhaka has been developing fast as a
modern city and is throbbing with activities in all spheres of life. It is the centre of industrial
commercial, cultural, educational and political activities for Bangladesh. At Tongi, Tejgaon,
Demra, Pagla, kanchpur, the industrial establishments turn - out daily necessities. Motijheel is the
main commercial area of the city. Dhaka's major waterfront Sadarghat is on the bank of the river
Buriganga and is crowded with all kinds of river craft, batches, country boats, motor launches,
paddle-steamers, fishermen's boats all bustling with activity. Colourful rickshaws (tricycle) on the
city streets are common attractions for the visitors. Some of the outstanding tourist attractions of
Dhaka are: Mosque: Seven domed Mosque (17th century), Rose Garden (Rajbari), Atia Mosque
(Mugal Element), Baitul Mukarram National Mosque, Star Mosque (18th century). Hindu Temples:
Dhakashwari Temple (11th Century), Ramkrishna Mission. Churches : Armenian Church (1781).
St. Mary's Cathedral at Ramna, Church of Bangladesh or former St Thomas Cathedral Church
(1677) at Tejgaon. Lalbagh Fort : It was built in 1687 A.D., by Prince Mohammad Azam, son of
Mughal emperor Aurangazeb. The fort was the scene of bloody battle during the first war of
independence (1857) when 260 sepoys stationed here backed by the people revolted against
British forces. Outstanding among the monuments of the Lalbagh Fort are the tomb of Pari Bibi
(Fairy lady), Lalbagh Mosque, audience hall and Hammam of Nawan Shaista Khan now housing
a museum. 1857 Memorial (Bhahudar Shah Park): Built to commemorate the martyrs of the first
liberation war (1857 - 59) against British rule. It was here that the revolting sepoys and their civil
compatriots were publicly hanged. Ahsan Manzil Museum: On the bank of river Buriganga in
Dhaka the pink majestic Ahsan Manzil has been renovated and turned into a museum recently. It
is an example of the nations rich cultural heritage. It was the home of the Nawab of Dhaka and a
silent spectator to many events. Today's renovated Ahsan Manzil is a monument of immense
historical beauty. It has 31 rooms with a huge dome atop which can be seen from miles around. It
now has 23 galleries in 31 rooms displaying portraits, furniture and household articles and
utensils used by the Nawab. Curzon Hall: Beautiful architectural building named after Lord
Curzon. It now houses the Science Faculty of Dhaka University. Old High Court Building:
Originally built as the residence of the British Governor. It illustrates a happy blend of European
and Mughal architecture. Dhaka Zoo: Popularly known as Mirpur Zoo. Colourful and attractive
collections of different local and foreign species of animals and birds including the majestic Royal
Bengal Tiger are available here. National Museum: Centrally located, the museum contains a
large number of interesting collections including sculptures and paintings of the Hindu, Buddhist
and Muslim periods. Botanical Garden: Built on an area of 205 acres of land at Mirpur and
adjacent to Dhaka zoo. One can have a look at the zoo and the botanical garden in one trip.
National Park: Situated at Rejendrapur, 40km. north of Dhaka city. This is a vast (1,600 acres),
national recreational forest with facilities for picnic & rowing etc. Central Shahid Minar: Symbol of
Bangladesh nationalism. This monument was built to commemorate the martyrs of the historic
Language Movement of 1952. Hundred and thousands of people with floral wreaths & bouquet
gather on 21 February every year to pay respect in a solemn atmosphere. Celebrations begin at
zero hour of midnight. Buddhist Monastery: Kamalapur Buddhist Monastry. National Poet's
Graveyard: Revalutionary poet Kazi Nazrul Islam diend on the 26 th August 1978 and was buried
here. The graveyard is adjacent to the Dhaka University. Suhrawardy Uddyan (Garden): Popular
Park. The oath for independence of Bangladesh was taken here on the 7th March 1971. The
place is famous for its lush verdure and gentle breezes. Mausoleum of National Leaders:
Location at the south western corner of Suhrawardy Uddyan, it is the eternal resting place of
three great national leaders, Shree - Bangla A.K. Fazlul Haque, Hossain Shahid Suhrawardy and
Khawja Nazimmuddin. Banga Bhaban: The official residence of the President, located in the city.
One can have a outside view. Baldha Garden: It has a rare collection of botanical plants and
flowers. Ramna Green: A vast stretch of green garden surrounded by a serpentine lake near the
Sheraton Hotel. National Assembly: Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban (Parliament House) at Shere e
Bengla Nagar, designed by the famous architect Louis, Kahn, has distinctive architectural
features. It may be called an architectural wonder of this region. Science Museum: Located at
 Agargaon, the Museum is a modern learning centre related to the latest scientific discoveries.
National Memorial: Located at Savar, 35 km. from Dhaka city. The memorial designed by
architect Moinul Hossain, sacred memory of the millions of unknown martyrs of the 1971 war of
liberation. Sonargaon: About 29 km. from Dhaka. Sonargaon is one of the oldest capital of
Bengal. A Folk Art and Crafts Museum has been established here. Other attractions in and
around Dhaka include the institute of Arts and Crafts with its representative collection of folk art
and paintings, handicraft shops, Aparajeya Bangla monument, picnic spots at Chandra and
Salna, industrial estates of Tongi, Narayanganj Demra, Tejgaon: cruising by country boat in the
nearby river or a visit to a village to see jute cultivation, weaving and pottery making. Last but not
least travel by a horse driven cart or rickshaw along busy Dhaka streets is a rewarding
experience. Sight seeing tours: TRAVEL BANGLADESH (TRAVELBD) offers conducted sight -
seeing tours form its tourist information centre TRAVEL BANGLADESH (TRAVELBD). River
cursing: Day long attractive river cursing is organized in Dhaka by TRAVEL BANGLADESH
(TRAVELBD) during tourist season. For bookings one may contact the Tourist information
centers in Dhaka or Manager (Tours) TRAVELBD Head Office  Web site URL: www.travelbd.com
,email: info@travelbd.com

 CHITTAGONG - GATEWAY TO THE BAY OF BENGAL

With a picturesque hinterland of large hill forests and lakes. Chittagong is a good vacation spot. It
is the second largest city of Bangladesh and a busy of Bangladesh and a busy international sea
port. Its green hills and forests, broad sandy beaches and fine cool climate always attract holiday
makers. It combines the hump of a restless seaport with the pleasure of a charming hill town with
its undulating topography. Chittagong is the country's chief port and is the main site for the
establishment of heavy, medium and light industries. Bangladesh's only steel mill and oil refinery
are also located here. Chittagong is connected with Dhaka by rail, road, air and water. It is also
connected with Cox's Bazar and Calcutta by Air.

1. Places of Interest: Sharine of Byazid Bostami : This holy shrine attracts a large number of
visitors and pilgrims. At its base there is a large tank with several hundred tortoises floating in the
water.

2. World War II Cemetery: In this well preserved cemetery at a quiet and picturesque place lie
buried over 700 soldiers from Commonwealth countries and Japan. Source: www.travelbd.com

3.Foy's Lake: Set amidst panoramic surroundings, this ideal sport for outings and picnics is
thronged by thousands of visitors.

4. Ethnological Museum: A unique treasure house of variety of tribal culture and heritage of
Bangladesh.

5. Court Building: Situated on the Fairy Hill, this building commands a magnificent bird's eye view
of Chittagong city particularly at night. Day long attractive sightseeing is organized in Chittagong
by TRAVEL BANGLADESH (TRAVELBD) during tourist season. For bookings one may contact
the Tourist information centers in Dhaka or Manager (Tours) TRAVELBD Web site URL:
www.travelbd.com, email: info@travelbd.com

 6. PATENGA BEACH: Sandy beach at the meeting place of the roaring sea and the river
Karnaphuli.

7. Sitakund: About 40 km from Chittagong. This is famous for the Chandranath Hinduy Temple
and the Buddist Temple. There is a hot water spring 5 km to the north of Sitakund. Other
important places of interest include Shrine of Shah Amanat, Shahi Jame Mosque, Chandanpura
Mosque, Portuguese Arsenal Port Area, Marine Academy, Biponi Bitan (New Market) and
Government Circuit House built during British days. Accommodation, sightseeing and car hire
 services run by Bangladesh TRAVEL BANGLADESH (TRAVELBD) Manager (Tours), email:
info@travelbd.com web site URL: www.travelbd.com

8. COX'S BAZAR - the tourist capital Miles of golden sands, towering cliffs, surfing waves, rare
conch shells, colourful pagodas, Buddhist temples and tribes, delightful sea food this is Cox's
Bazar, the tourist capital of Bangladesh. Having the world's longest unbroken (120 km) beach
sloping gently down to the blue waters of the Bay of Bengal against the picturesque background
of a chain of hills covered with deep green forests, Cox's Bazar is one of the most attractive
tourist spots in the world. The beach is good for bathing, sun bathing and swimming. The breath
taking beauty of the sun setting behind the waves of the sea is captivating. Attractive local variety
of cigars and handloom products of the Rakhyne tribal families are good buys. Their unique
customs and costumes attract visitors. Located at a distance of 152 km. south of Chittagong,
Cox's Bazar is connected both by air and road from Dhaka and Chittagong. Visits to the
fascinating picnic spot at Himchair, Teknaf, southern most tip of Bangladesh, Buddist temple at
Ramu and nearby islands of Sonadia, St. Martin and Moheskhali are memorable experience of a
life time. Government has taken initiatives to develop Sonadia as an exclusive beach resort.
TRAVEL BANGLADESH (TRAVELBD) is an Perfect tour operator ,comfortable accommodation,
catering, sightseeing and other facilities for the visitor. There is a nine hole golf course also for
the guests. Day long attractive sightseeing is organized in Cox'sbazar by TRAVEL
BANGLADESH (TRAVELBD) during tourist season. For bookings contact the Manager (Tours) ,
TRAVELBD Head Office  Web site URL: www.travelbd.com, email: info@travelbd.com

9. HILL TRACTS DISTRICTS Hill Tracts Districts - world of panoramic beauty The hill Tracts
Districts with its perenial forest, thrilling drives through hills and dales, emerald blue water of
Kaptai lake, colourful tribal life and culture, attractive handicrafts and artisans beackons you to a
world of panoramic beauty mother nature has so lavishly unfolded. Greater Hill Tracts is dividend
into three districts, namely Rangamati, Khagrachari and Bandarban each one equally unique in
its attractions. For visits of foreign tourists to the Hill tract districts prior permission form the
Government is required which can be arranged through TRAVEL BANGLADESH (TRAVELBD)
Manager (Tours), TRAVELBD email: info@travelbd.com web site URL: www.travelbd.com

RANGAMATI - THE HEART OF THE LAKE DISTRICT

From Chittagong a 77 km. road amidt green fields and winding hills will take you to Rangamati,
the headquarters of Rangamati Hill District which is a wonderful repository of scenic splendours
with flora and fauna of varied descriptions. The township is located on the western bank of the
Kaptai lake. Rangamati is a favourite holiday resort because of its beautiful landscape, scenic
beauty, lake, colourful tribes (Chakma, Marma etc.) its flora and fauna, tribal museum, hanging
bridge, homespun textile products, ivory jewellery and the tribal men and women who fashion
them. For tourists the attractions of Rangamati are numerous, tribal life, fishing, speed boat
cruising, water skiing, hiking, bathing or merely enjoying nature as it is. Bangladesh Parjatan
Corporation provides suitable hotel and cottage accommodation, catering, speed boat and other
facilities at Rangamati. Day long attractive sightseeing is organized in Cox'sbazar by TRAVEL
BANGLADESH (TRAVELBD) during tourist season. For bookings Manager (Tours), TRAVELBD
Head Office.Web site URL: www.travelbd.com, email: info@travelbd.com

 KAPTAI
A pleasant and picturesque drive of 64 km. from Chitagong brings you to huge expanse of
emerald and blue water ringed with tropical forest. It is the famous man made Kaptai lake (680
sq. km) formed by damming the Kamaphuli river. Only 3 km. from Kaptai along Chittagong Road,
lies the ancient Chit Morong Buddist temple having beautiful Buddist statues. Other places of
interest in the Hill Tract districts include Chandraghone, Khagrachari and Bandarban all in
picturesque surrounding.

SYLHET - LAND OF TWO LEAVES AND A BUD

Next to the Hill Tracts, Sylhet is the widely hilly district in the country. Nestled in the picturesque
Surma valley amidst scenic tea plantations and lush green tropical forest, it is a prime attraction
 for all tourists. Its terraced tea gardens, eye catching orange groves and pineapple plantations
and hills covered with tropical forests form a beautiful landscape. the Sylhet valley has a good
number of haors which are big natural wetlands. During winter these haors are vast stretches of
green land, but in the rainy season they turn into a turbulent sea. These haors provide sanctuary
to the million of migratory birds who fly from Siberia across the Himalayas to avoid the severe
cold. Srimangal in Sylhet, known as the tea capital of Bangladesh, is the main tea centre of the
area. For miles and miles around, the visitor can see the tea gardens spread like green carpet
over the plain land or on the sloping hills. A visit to the tea plantation in Sythet is a memorable
experience Sylhet the tea granary of Bangladesh , not only has over 150 tea gardens but also
proudly possesses the tree largest tea gardens in the world both in area and production. Sylhet is
also known as the land of the famous Muslim saint Hazrat Shah Halal the great torch bearer of
Islam to the region. The Shrine of this great saint is located at Sylhet town. Colourful Monipuri,
Khasia and Garo tribes live in Sylhet. Monipuri tribal maidens are famous for their dance. Sylhet
is also well known for its wide variety of exquisite handicrafts of cane and bamboo. Sylhet is
linked with Dhaka by rail road and air. Source: www.travelbd.com
1 Tamabil - Jaflong Situated amidst splendid panorama, Tamabil is a border out post on Sylhet-
shilong Road, about 55 km away from Sylhet town. Besides enchanting views of the area one can
also have a glimpse of the waterfalls across the border from Tamabil. Jaflong is also a scenic
spot nearby amidst tea gardens and rare beauty of rolling stones from hills. Other places of tourist
attraction in Sylhet include Moulvibazar, Janitipur, Madhabakunda and Haripur gas field. Source:
www.travelbd.com
2 Guided Tours in Bangladesh TRAVEL BANGLADESH (TRAVELBD) arranges guided package
tours for groups of 2 to 10 and above from Dhaka to Sylhet. For details please contact: TRAVEL
BANGLADESH (TRAVELBD) Manager (Tours), TRAVELBD, email: info@travelbd.com , web site
URL: www.travelbd.com

SUNDARBANS - HOME OF THE ROYAL BENGAL TIGER & MANGROVE FOREST

Located near Khulna about 320 Km. west of Dhaka. Here in the south, spread over an area of
about 6000 sq. km. of deltaic swamps along the coastal belt of Khulna is the biggest mangrove
forest, Sundarbans (beautiful forest)- the home of the Royal Bengal Tiger. Its dense rain forests
are criss crossed by a network of rivers and creeks. One finds here tides flowing in two directions
in the same creek and often tigers swimming across a river or huge crocodiles basking in the sun.
Other wildlife in this region are cheetahs, spotted dears, moneys, pythons, wild bears and
hyenas. The forest is accessible by river from Khulna and Mongla. There are rest houses for the
visitors to stay and enjoy the unspoiled nature with all its charm and majesty. Spending some
times inside the forest can be a rara treat for the lovers of nature. Guided Tours in Sundarbans
TRAVEL BANGLADESH (TRAVELBD) arranges guided package tours for groups of 2 to 8 and
above from Dhaka to Sundarbans. For details please contact: TRAVEL BANGLADESH
(TRAVELBD) Manager (Tours), TRAVELBD Head Office.email: info@travelbd.com , web site
URL: www.travelbd.com

KUAKATA
A rare scenic beauty spot on the southernmost tip of Bangladesh in the district of Patuakhali. It
has a wide sandy beach from where one can get the unique opportunity of seeing both the
sunrise and sun setting. It is located at a distance of 70 km, from the district headquarters of
Patuakhali. Access to the area is difficult. Guided Tours in Kuakata TRAVEL BANGLADESH
(TRAVELBD) arranges guided package tours for groups of 2 to 8 and above from Dhaka to
Kuakata. For details please contact: TRAVEL BANGLADESH (TRAVELBD) Manager (Tours),
TRAVELBD Head Office,email: info@travelbd.com , web site URL: www.travelbd.com

 MAINAMATI - SEAT OF LOST DYNASTIES

About eight km. to the west of Comilla town which is situated 114 km south east of Dhaka lies a
range of low hills known as Mainamati-Lalmai ridge, an extensive centre of Buddhist culture. On
the slopes of these hills lie scattered a treasure of information about the early Buddhist cMlization
(7th-12th Centure A.D.). At Salban in the middle of the ridge, excavations laid bare a large
Buddhist Vihara (monastery) and imposing central sharine. It has revealed valuable information
 about the rule of the Chandra and Deva dynasties which flourished here from the 7th to 12th
century. The whole range of hillocks run for about 18 km. and is studded with more than 50 sites.
A site museum houses the archaeological finds which include terra cotta plaques, bronze statues
and casket, coins, jewellery, utensils, pottery and votive stupas embossed with Buddhist
inscriptions. Museum is open Sunday-Friday and closed on Saturday. Bangladesh Academy for
Rural Development (BARD) established nearby in 1959 is known for its pioneering role in co-
operative movement. *Guided Tours in Mainamati TRAVEL BANGLADESH (TRAVELBD)
arranges guided package tours for groups of 2 to 8 and above from Dhaka to Mainamati. For
details please contact: TRAVEL BANGLADESH (TRAVELBD) Manager (Tours), TRAVELBD
Head Office,email: info@travelbd.com , web site URL: www.travelbd.com

MAHASTHANGARH - THE OLDEST ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE

Located at a distance of 18 km north of Bogra town. Mahasthangarh is the oldest archaeological
site of Bangladesh on the western bank of river Karatoa. The spectacular site is an imposing
landmark in the area having a fortified long enclosure. Beyond the fortified area, other ancient
ruins fan out within a semicircle of about 8 km radius. Several isolated mounds, the local names
of which are Govinda Bhita Temple, Khodia Pathar Mound, Mankalir Kunda, Parasuramer Bedi,
Jiyat Kunda etc. surround the fortified city. This 3rd century B.C. archaeological site is still held to
be of great sancitity by the Hindus. Every year (mid - April) and once in every 12 years
(December) thousands of Hindu devotees join the bathing ceremony on the bank of river Karatoa.
A visit to the Mahasthangarh site museum will open up for one a wide variety of antiquities,
ranging form terra-cotta objects to gold ornaments and coins recovered from the site. Also
noteworthy are the shrine of Shah Sultan Bulki Mahisawary and Gokul Moth in the neighbourhood
of Mahasthangarh. *Guided Tours in Mahasthangarh TRAVEL BANGLADESH (TRAVELBD)
arranges guided package tours for groups of 2 to 8 and above from Dhaka to Mahasthangarh.
For details please contact: TRAVEL BANGLADESH (TRAVELBD) Manager (Tours), TRAVELBD
Head Office email: info@travelbd.com , web site URL: www.travelbd.com

RAJSHAI - A NATURAL SILK PRODUCING CENTRE

Rajshahi has seen the most glorious periods of Bengal's Pala dynasty. It is famous for pure silk,
mangoes and lichis. Attractive silk products are cheaper. A visit to Varendra Research Museum
at the heart of the city of rich archaeological finds, would be most rewarding. There are also a
number of ancient mosques, shrines and temples in and around Rajshahi. Connected with Dhaka
by road, rail, river and air, Rajshahi is located on the bank of the Padma river. Bangladesh
Parjathan Corporation offers comfortable accommodation and restaurant facilities at Rajshahi.
*Guided Tours in Rajshahi TRAVEL BANGLADESH (TRAVELBD) arranges guided package
tours for groups of 2 to 8 and above from Dhaka to Rajshahi. For details please contact: TRAVEL
BANGLADESH (TRAVELBD) Manager (Tours), TRAVELBD Head Office email:
info@travelbd.com , web site URL: www.travelbd.com

 NATORE PLACE OF DIGHPATIYA RAJBARI

About 40km. from Rajshahi by road is Natore, an old seat of Maharajas with a beautiful palace,
now serving as the Uttara Ganabhaban (President's Official residence of the northern region). It
was residence of the Dighapatiya Raj. It is situated amid well kept ground surrounded by a fine
moat. The buildings are modern. They include a well equipped guest house, an imposing
gateway and a fine garden decorated with statues of white marble. *Guided Tours in Natore
TRAVEL BANGLADESH (TRAVELBD) arranges guided package tours for groups of 2 to 8 and
above from Dhaka to Natore. For details please contact: TRAVEL BANGLADESH (TRAVELBD)
Manager (Tours), TRAVELBD Head Office email: info@travelbd.com , web site URL:
www.travelbd.com


PAHARPUR - THE LARGEST BUDDHIST SEAT OF LEARNING
Paharpur is a small village 5 km. west of Jamalganj in the greater Rajshahi district where the
remains of the most important and the largest known monastery south of the Himalayas has been
 excavated. This 7th century archaeological find covers approximately an area of 27 acres of land.
The entire establishment, occupying a quadrangular cout, measuring more than 900 ft. and from
12 ft. to 15th. in height. With elaborate gateway complex on the north there are 45 cells on the
north and 44 in each of the other three sides with a total number of 177 rooms. The architecture
of the pyramidal cruciform temple is profoundly influenced by those of South - East Asia,
especially Myanmar and Java. It had taken its name from a high mound, which looked like pahar
or hillock. A site museum built recently houses the representative collection of objects recovered
from the area. The excavated findings have also been preserved at the Varendra Research
Museum at Rajshahi. The antiquities of the museum include terra-cotta plaques, images of
different goods and goddesses, potteries, coin inscriptions, ornamental bricks and other minor
clay objects. Interest tourists may avail "Palace & Archeological Tour Dhaka - Natore - Rajshahi-
paharpur - Mahasthangarh - Bogra - Natore - Dhaka" offered by TRAVEL BANGLADESH
(TRAVELBD) to visit most of the interesting places in the northern Bangladesh. For details please
contact Manager (Tours), TRAVELBD Head Office email: info@travelbd.com , web site URL:
www.travelbd.com

 DINAJPUR - OLD ORNAMENTAL TEMPLE TOWN

The northern most district of the country, offers a number of attractions to the visitors. The
Ransagar (great sea) lake with rest houses is a good picnic spot having facilities for fishing and
rowing in a serene and quiet green countryside atmosphere. Kantanager temple, the most ornate
among the late medieval temples of Bangladesh is situated near Dinajpur town. It was build by
Maharaja Pran Nath in 1752 A.D. Every inch of the temple surface is beautifully embellished with
exquisite terra-cotta plaques, representing flora, fauna, geometric motifis, mythological scenes
and an astonishing array to contemporary social scenes and favourite pastimes. The Maharaja's
palace with relics of the past centuries and local museum are worth a visit. *Guided Tours in
Dinajpur TRAVEL BANGLADESH (TRAVELBD) arranges guided package tours for groups of 2 to
8 and above from Dhaka to Dinajpur. For details please contact: TRAVEL BANGLADESH
(TRAVELBD) Manager (Tours), TRAVELBD Head Office email: info@travelbd.com , web site
URL: www.travelbd.com

 MYMENSINGH - THE HEART OF BENGAL'S FOLKLORE

From the foot of the Garo Hills in the north down to the plains of Dhaka in the south lies greater
Mymensingh. Along the northern frontier of the district there are many aboriginal tribes such as
Garos, Hajongs and Kochis who are ethnically quiet distinct from the people around them.
Mymensingh has earned a notable position in Bengali literature as the birth place or rich folklores
and folk songs. On the road from Dhaka to mymensing there is a national park and game
sanctuary at Madhupur about 160 km. from Dhaka. There are a number of reserve forests in the
area with rest houses and picnic spots. World famous painter Zainul Abedin's Art Gallery at
Mymensingh carries the boyhood memories of national poet Kazi Nazrul Islam. Other places of
tourist interest include the following:

1. Shilaidaha Kuthibari Carries memory of the Nobel laureate poet Rabindranath Tagore who
made frequent visits to this place and used to stay in connection with the administration of his
jamindari and enriched Bengali literature through his writings during that time. It is located at a
distance of about 20 km. from Kushita town.

2. Shahjadpur kuthibari About 75 km. from Pabna town, it is also a historical place connected with
the frequent visits of poet Rabindranath Tagore.

3. Sagardari Birth place of modern Bengali poet Michael Madhusudhan Datta who first introduced
sonnet in Bengali poetry. Located at a distance of about 90 km. from Jessore town.

4. Meherpur Memorial Located at a distance of about 7 km. from the town of Meherpur. First
provisional revolutionary Government of Bangladesh was declared here on 14 April during the
liberation war in 1971. A monument has been built to commemorate this occasion.
PARK/SANCTUARIES

1. Baldha Garden Unique creation of the late Narendra Narayan Roy, the landlord of Baldha.
Year of establishment was 1904. Located in Wari area of Dhaka city (opposite Christian
Cemetery), the garden with its rich collection of indigenous and exotic plants is one of the most
exciting attraction for naturalists and tourists. Dividend into two units: `Psyche' meanings the
mother goddess of nature, the garden house about 1500 plants and trees covering 672 species
and 87 families. Many of them are rare plants procured from about 50 different countries of the
world. Papyrus, Amazou Lily, Victoria Regia, Camelias (Camellia japonica) Ashoke tree, Baobab
(Adansonia digital) Century flower plant (Fureraea gigantea), Canyehor and Sugar palm of
Philippines are some of the rare collections. A lovely lily pond inside the `Psyche' and a sun dial
are worth visiting. The tombs of the founder and his son are located within `Cybele'. Visit both the
twins for rewarding experience. Open: Saturday- Thursday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Friday closed.
Entrance fee Ta. 2.00.

2. National Botanical Garden Located at Mirpur, near the Dhaka Zoo. Spread over an area of 205
acres of land. It has a collection of nearly 100 species of local and foreign plants. Outstanding
attractions are 100 varieties of roses in the rose corner, 100 varieties of bamboos in the bamboo
grove, varieties of sandal wood and an old banyan tree. A quiet place out of the main city to meet
the nature. Open: Saturday - Thursday, 9:00 am. - 5:00 pm.

3. Dhaka Zoological Gardens Popularly known as Mirpur Zoo and located at a distance of about
16 km. from the Dhaka city centre. Establiushed on 230 acres of land. It has nearly 1400 animals
and birds belonging to 124 species latest addition being the Kangaroo and Tapir. Busy
enclosures are those of lions, Royal Bengal Tiger, Panthers, Deers, Monkeys, Chimpanzees,
Pythons, Crocodiles, Elephants, colourful birds and other animals. A zoological museum with
stuffed animals and birds is rich in collection. Angling and picnic facilities available inside the zoo
besides Kiosks and restaurants. Open: Daily : 8.00 a.m.- 6.00 p.m. Entrance Fee: Adult Ta. 2.00
Children. Ta 1.00 and foreigners Ta. 5.00.

4. National Park Situated at Bhawal, 40km, north of Dhaka Trishal - Mymensingh Highway. An
ideal spot for visitors, artists, photographers, omithologists and tourists. A vast (16,000 acres)
national recreational forest. Main flora is Garjan (Assam Sal) and fauna includes small tigers,
leopards, foxes, pythons, lizards and many local birds. A 1000 metre long meandering man made
lake having angling and rowing facilities, the flower gardens inside are added attraction to natural
beauty. Mere walking or lazing under the shade of trees is pleasant. 20 picnic spots., 6 rest
houses of the forest department with comfortable bed and modern amenities are available inside
the national park. Prior premission/booking may be obtained from the Divisional Forest Officer.

MUSEUMS

1. National Museums Established as Dhaka Museum in 1913. It has been renamed as the
National Museum and was shifted to its new building at shahbag in 1983. It is a four storied
building and has forty galleries under four departments, namely (1) Natural History, (2) History
and Classical Art, (3) Ethnography and Decorative Art and (4) Contemporary art and world
civilization. The museum contains a large number of interesting collection including sculptures
and paintings of the Buddhist and Muslim periods. It also has a rich collection of old coins, metal
images, books on art, ivory and silver filigree works, textiles including the world famous muslim
fabric embroidered quilt (Nakshi Kantha), arms and ammunitions of the bygone warriors, varieties
of fine handicrafts and models of the village and town life, contemporary paintings and sculptures.
Above all, the valuable articles of the heroic liberation war of Bangladesh are also there. Open:
Saturday - Wednesday 10.00 am - 7.00 pm. Thursday: closed. Entrance Fee: TK. 5.00. For Visit
you may contact TRAVEL BANGLADESH (TRAVELBD) Manager (Tours), TRAVELBD Head
Office email: info@travelbd.com web site URL: www.travelbd.com
2. Folk Art Museum The Folk Art Museum was established in 1975 to fulfill the dream of the
celebrated painter Shilpacharya Zainul Abedin. The Museum has a very rich collection of folk
objects of different materials and forms of aesthetic and utilitarian values. These undoubtedly
reflect the sentiments, impulse, temperament, moods, idiosyncracy skill and expertise of the
artists and artisans. It is a national traditional art heritage of Bangladesh, exhibiting objects of
exceptional design and skill. Open: Saturday - Wednesday 9.00 am. 5.00 pm. closed Thursday,
Friday & Govt, Holidays. For Visit you may contact TRAVEL BANGLADESH (TRAVELBD)
Manager (Tours), TRAVELBD Head Office email: info@travelbd.com web site URL:
www.travelbd.com

3. Ethnological Museum The ethnological museum at Chittagong stands as a milestone in our

national progress. It is a place where ample facilities have been provided to carry out
enthnologiczal research. This museum is recognised as one of the best specialised museum is
recognised as one of the best specialised museums in south east asia. It houses objects of 12
different tribes of Bangladesh and also of many tribes of Australia, India and Pakistan. Entrance
fee : Adult Ta 1.00 and children Ta. 0.50.

4. Archaeological Museums Every place of archaeological importance houses a small

archaeological museum i.e. at Lalbagh Fort, Mahasthangarh, Paharpur, and Mainamati.
Admission fee to these museums is adult Tk. 10 and children Tk.5. For Visit you may contact
TRAVEL BANGLADESH (TRAVELBD) Manager (Tours), TRAVELBD Head Office
email: info@travelbd.com web site URL: www.travelbd.com

5. Varendra Museum Situated at Rajshahi. This museum has a rich collection of objects of
Mohenjodaro and also of 16th to 19th century A.D. This is devoted to the study of ancient history
an culture. Its rich collections contain interesting objects of past Hindu, Buddhist and Muslim
heritage. It is located at the heart of Rajshahi town and maintained by Rajshahi University
authority. The year of its formal establishment is 1910. Admission is free. For Visit you may
contact TRAVEL BANGLADESH (TRAVELBD) Manager (Tours), TRAVELBD Head Office  email:
info@travelbd.com , web site URL: www.travelbd.com

6. Tribal Museum The only Tribal Cultural Museum in the Hill Tracts region was established at
Rangamati town in 1978 and run by the Tribal Cultural Institute. It preserves valuable objects and
articles of different tribes depicting their socioeconomic, cultural and historical tradition. These
include typical tribal dresses, ornaments, arms and ammunitions, coins, statues made of wood,
bronze and other metals, musical instruments, ivory products, handicrafts, paintings on tribal life
etc. Open : Saturday - Thursday 10.00 am. - 4.00 pm., closed: Friday & Public Holidays.
Admission is free. For Visit you may contact TRAVEL BANGLADESH (TRAVELBD) Manager
(Tours), TRAVELBD Head Office email: info@travelbd.com web site URL: www.travelbd.com

ENTERTAINMENT

1. Cinema Dhaka has several excellent air conditioned cinema halls which screen British.
American, continental and Bangladeshi films. All district towns have their own cinemas. Check
the daily morning newspapers for details of current attractions. For Visit you may contact
TRAVEL BANGLADESH (TRAVELBD) Manager (Tours), TRAVELBD Head Office email:
info@travelbd.com , web site URL: www.travelbd.com

2. Theatre Bengali and Bengali transiations of western plays are staged frequently. Popular
theatre groups are: Dhaka Theatre, Nagarik Nattya Sampraday and Theatre. For Visit you may
contact TRAVEL BANGLADESH (TRAVELBD) Manager (Tours), TRAVELBD Head Office email:
info@travelbd.com web site URL: www.travelbd.com

3. Cultural Shows Cultural shows are quite frequently performed at several venues like Mohila
Samity, Guide House and British Council Auditorium. Check with hotel receptions and the daily
 newspapers for details.

4. Fairs, festivals & Holidays Fairs and festivals have always plaued a significant role in the life of
the citizens of this country. They derive from them a great amount of joy, entertainment and
colour for life. While most of the festivals have sprung from religious rituals, the fairs have their
roots in the very heart of the people, irrespective of religion, caste or creed. The biggest muslim
festivals are Eidul Fitr. Next comes Eid ul Azha. Other widely celebrated muslim festivals are Eid
e Miladunabi, Shab - e - Barat, Ashura (10th day of Lunar Month, Muharram), and Jamt ul wide.
Festivals like Durga Puja of the Hindus, Christmas of the Christians, Buddha Purnima of the
Buddhists are also celebrated with equal fervour. Among the nonreligious festivals Bengali New
Year's Day, Victory Day (16th December) and Independence day (26th March) are celebrated
nation wide. All these festivals are marked as public holidays. Other national holidays are 21st
February (National Mourning Day in memory of the martyrs of Language movement) 1st May and
7th November (National Solidarity Day).

DANCE
Classical forms of the sub continent predominate in Bangladeshi dance. The folk, tribal and
middle eastern traits are also common. Among the tribal dances, particularly popular are Monipur
and Santal. For arrangement or Visit you may contact TRAVEL BANGLADESH (TRAVELBD)
Manager (Tours), TRAVELBD Head Office email: info@travelbd.com, web site URL:
www.travelbd.com

 MUSIC
The music in Bangladesh can be divided into three distinct categories classical , folk and modern.
The classical music, both vocal and instrumental is rooted in the remote past of the sub continent.
Ustad Alauddin Khan and Ustad Ayet Ali Khan are two names in classical instrument music who
are internationally known. Folk song nurtured through the ages by village poets, rich in devotional
musticism and loveres is popular in Bangladesh. The best known forms are Bhatiali, Baul,
Marfati, Murshidi and Bhawaiya, Lalan, Hansan Raja, Abbasuddin and Abdul Alim are four great
manes in flok song. Modern Bengali song pioneered by Rabindranath Tagore and Kazi Nazrul
Islam blended western and Middle Eastern traits with traditional forms. Contemporary patterns
have more inclinations to west. Pop song and band groups are also coming up mainly in Dhaka
city. For arrangement or Visit you may contact TRAVEL BANGLADESH (TRAVELBD) Manager
(Tours), TRAVELBD Head Office
email: info@travelbd.com, web site URL: www.travelbd.com

FAIRS AND FESTIVALS

Fairs and festivals have always played a significant role in the life of the people of the country.
Brief information on the important and regular festivals is given below. It may not be out of place
to mention here that besides these, there are various fairs and exhibitions held during the winter
(November - March). Visit & Attend you may contact TRAVEL BANGLADESH (TRAVELBD)
Manager (Tours), TRAVELBD Head Office email: info@travelbd.com, web site URL:
www.travelbd.com

 HEALTH RISKS Cholera, dysentery, hepatitis, malaria and meningococcal meningitis.

 VISA

 Restricted entry: The government of Bangladesh refuses admission and transit to nationals of
Israel. - PASSPORTS: Passport valid for 3 months after departure required by all. VISAS:
Required by all except the following: (a) nationals of Bahamas, Fiji, Gambia, Grenada, Guinea-
Bissau, Jamaica, Guyana, Honduras, Lesotho, Malawi, Montserrat, St Kitts & Nevis, St Lucia, St
Vincent & the Grenadines, Seychelles, Solomon Islands, Vatican City and Zambia for stays of up
to 90 days; (b) transit passengers continuing their journey the same for first connecting aircraft
provided holding valid onward or return documentation and not leaving the airport;(c) tourist and
 business travellers arriving at Zia, Dhaka and Patenga international airports, provided holding
return air tickets, who may be granted 'landing permission' by the by the Chief Immigration Officer
for stays of up to 15 days.


Visas for Bangladesh
Restricted entry: The government of Bangladesh refuses admission and transit to nationals of
Israel.
Passports: Passport valid for 3 months after departure required by all.
Visas: Required by all except the following:
(a) Nationals of Antigua & Barbuda, Bahamas, Bhutan, Dominica, Fiji, Gambia, Grenada, Guinea-
Bissau, Jamaica, Guyana, Honduras, Lesotho, Malawi, Maldives, Montserrat, Papua New
Guinea, St Kitts & Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent & the Grenadines, Seychelles, Solomon Islands,
Uruguay, Vatican City and Zambia for stays of up to 90 days.
(b) Transit passengers continuing their journey the same for first connecting aircraft provided
holding valid onward or return documentation and not leaving the airport.
(c) Tourist and business travellers arriving at Zia international airport, Dhaka and Patenga
international airport, provided holding return air tickets, who may be granted 'landing permission'
by the Chief Immigration Officer for stays of up to 15 days.
Note: Visas are not required by Bangladesh nationals nor by former Bangladesh nationals holding
British passports provided they have the statement' no visa required for travel to Bangladesh'
stamped in their passport by the Bangladesh High Commission. Please also note any foreign
visitor overstaying the allotted period may be charged a fine for each day of overstay.
Types of visa: Entry, Visit, Tourist and. Entry visas may be issued for short conference or
journalistic trips (although not for business trips).
Validity: Single- and Double entry: 6 months from date of issue. Multiple-entry: 6-12 months from
date of issue. Stays are for a maximum of 90 days each.
Application to: Consular Section at Embassy or High Commission.
Application requirements:
(a) Valid passport.
(b) 2 completed application forms.
(c) 2 passport-size photos.
(d) Fee. Source: www.travelbd.com
(e) Letter from employer or other relevant letters for business and conference trips.
Working days required: 24 hours for a single-entry visa; 48 hours for other types of visa. 7-10
days for postal applications.


Some useful Tips for travelers in Bangladesh

Make sure you have the proper health/immunization requirements.

Carry as much currency in travelers checks as possible.
Keep a copy of all documents and credit card information in a safe place.
Find out some information about your destination. It is to your advantage to know some basic
phrases in the local language, basic facts, places of interest, how to get around etc.
Check all your travel documents to make sure that they are in order. Passports should be valid for
a few months after your return date.
Bring your address and telephone book. Make sure you have jotted down important telephone
numbers in case of emergency.
Check the weather conditions of your destination.


Essential Safety Information for Travellers in Bangladesh

Before you travel, make sure you passport is valid and will not be expire while you are away.
Most of the country will not except your passport if it has expired.
Always take good care of your passport. Don't give or handover your passport to anyone. You
need that to go and come in every country of the world. Without a passport you will not be able to
get in the plane.
Keep your passport with you at all times. If you are visiting friends or family, make sure that your
passport is in a safe place. If you are in a hotel or shopping around the town, always check on it.
Do you have a duplicate copy of your passport? If not, make at least 3 photo copies of your
passport. Leave one behind at your permanent address, 2nd copy with you when you traveling
but not with the original passport (or keep it with your traveling companion). Incase you lose your
passport; you would need the photocopy for your identification. While making photocopy, make
sure to copy all the relevant pages of your passport (mainly the page with your photo and profile)
If you have a scanner - scan you passport and send it to your own e-mail address. It could be
very helpful incase if you lose your passport and photocopy can't be located.
If incase, you lost your passport, notify the local police authority and contact your embassy
immediately. Do not delay on reporting the lost of your passport. Your travel arrangement might
When it comes to traveling abroad, first piece of document you need is a passport. It is the most
important document. Following are some of the very you should keep in mind: be delayed due to
lost of your passport.

Where else do you need a passport?

If you pulled over or stopped by the law enforcement officers in a foreign country, passport is you
first identity along with your international drivers license.
If you like to use your credit card for your shopping need, passport can be used as your
identification.