Best Time to Visit Bangladesh: Coolest Months & Festival Seasons

Do you wish to visit Bangladesh but haven't yet? If you're thinking about visiting Bangladesh and want to explore the country's top attractions you have come to the right place.

And If you're seeking the best time to visit Bangladesh, March is the best time. There are a lot of different aspects that come into play, such as the price of plane tickets, the season, and the busiest travel times. People that have a passion for the outdoors, good food, and venturing into the unknown will find it to be an ideal location.

If you're seeking a genuinely memorable journey to a place draped in natural and artificial beauty, you should learn more about this prominent, diverse place and what it offers. This article, Best Time to Visit Bangladesh: Coolest Months & Festival Seasons, will talk about everything this country offers and some tips to make it more enjoyable.

Best Time to Visit Bangladesh:

The best time to visit Bangladesh is during the winter months, from November to February, when the weather is cool and dry. During this time, the temperatures range from 10°C to 25°C, and there is little rainfall, making it an ideal time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

If you are interested in experiencing the famous Bengali festivals, such as Durga Puja, Eid, or Pohela Boishakh, you should plan your trip around these festivals. Durga Puja is usually celebrated in September or October, Eid al-Fitr is celebrated after the holy month of Ramadan, and Pohela Boishakh, the Bengali New Year, is celebrated in mid-April.

However, if you are looking for a budget-friendly trip, you may consider traveling during the monsoon season, which lasts from June to October. During this time, you can expect heavy rainfall and high humidity, but you can also find some great deals on accommodations and tours.

Weather in Bangladesh:

Bangladesh has a tropical monsoon climate, characterized by high temperatures and heavy rainfall. The climate can be divided into three seasons:

Summer (March to May): During this time, temperatures can reach up to 40°C (104°F) in some areas, with high humidity levels. The occasional thunderstorm can bring relief from the heat.
Monsoon (June to September): This is the rainy season, with most of the country experiencing heavy rainfall and occasional flooding. Temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F) during this time.
Winter (October to February): The weather during this time is dry and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F).

Overall, Bangladesh experiences high humidity levels throughout the year, and the average annual temperature is around 26°C (79°F). However, due to its location in the Bay of Bengal, Bangladesh is also susceptible to cyclones and other extreme weather events, particularly during the monsoon season.

Tips When Travelling to Bangladesh:

Be prepared for transportation delays as they are common in Bangladesh. Plan your itinerary accordingly and allow extra time for unexpected delays.
When traveling by boat, it's safer to stay above deck rather than below deck, especially on crowded boats.
Dress modestly and cover your arms and legs, especially if visiting a holy building. Women should consider covering their heads with a scarf as a sign of respect.
Visit cities on Fridays and Saturdays when there are fewer traffic jams and crowds.
Keep your money and valuables safe, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash. It's best to eat at busy food stalls where you can see the food being prepared freshly.
Bring earplugs as the noise level from surrounding traffic can be relatively high, especially in the cities.
Stay away from public protests and demonstrations, as they can quickly escalate into violence.
Drink only bottled water and avoid drinking tap water to prevent getting sick.

By following these tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Bangladesh.

Festival of Bangladesh According to Months:

January - February:

01. Shakrain:

At the close of the Bengali month, Poush, the Old Town in Dhaka, hosts an annual festival known as Shakrain. This celebration goes by the name "Poush Sankranti." It is a festival for kites. Travelers from around the world come to Old Town for its beautiful ambiance. Fireworks are set off throughout town once the sun goes down to increase the fun factor.

02. International Mother Language Day & Amor Ekushey Boi Mela:

To memorialize and honor those who gave their lives for Bangla's right to their mother language, Amor Ekushey (immortal February 21) is observed in Bangladesh every year on February 21.

Traditionally, the Day consists of placing flower bouquets at Shahid Minar through ritual processions in the very early hours of the Day. Also, there are other events, including prayers for the departed, theatrical performances, and so on.

Also, in February, Dhaka hosts a month-long book festival to promote the Bangla language and literature called Amor ekushey boi mela.

03. Trade Fair:

The Dhaka International Trade Fair is an annual trade show every January. Businesses worldwide sell their goods and services to Bangladeshi businesspeople and tourists at this fair.

Because of the large number of tourists from other countries who come to Bangladesh during this time of year, you can see thousands of booths and pavilions.

You will find everything at half the price. From cloth items to home appliances, everything is at a sale price. Don't miss this fair if you want to bring any souvenirs from Bangladesh.

04. Pohela Falgun:

Pohela Falgun, or the Festival of the Full Moon, is a momentous day in Bengali culture. The Day occurs annually on February 13. Yellow and white are the traditional colors worn for festivities on this Day. Flowers are an ordinary gift, and some individuals choose to give them to their loved ones. Marigolds, with their bright, cheerful springtime color, are a favorite flower of theirs to use. Everywhere you go in the morning, you'll hear "Basanta Esche Geche," the most beautiful Spring song. Cultural centers host events, including concerts and dance recitals.

05. Jatiya Pitha Utsab:

Dhaka's National Cake Festival is a new tradition. Every year, this festival brings together people to celebrate art and creativity in a variety of methods. People in Dhaka are unfamiliar with the practice of making pithas or cakes and sending them to loved ones in other parts of Bangladesh during the winter months.

That's why Shilpakala Academy, a well-known cultural institution, devised this novel plan. Putting sweets in front of an audience that appreciates artistic expression and dance programming is a rewarding experience.

March - April:

06. Basanta Utsab:

The first day of Falgun, the 11th month of the Bangla calendar, which corresponds to about the middle of February in the Gregorian calendar, is celebrated with great pomp and circumstance across the country since it marks the beginning of spring. People dress in bright colors for this event, and many cultural activities and fairs are planned. Women commonly accessorize their yellow sharis with floral headpieces and sashes. It is traditional to offer and receive presents and greetings on the Day.

07. Independence and National Day:

On March 26, the country celebrates its independence and national Day with great pomp and circumstance. Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman declared independence from Pakistan on March 25, 1971. President and Prime Minister lay a floral wreath at the National Mausoleum at Savar to honor the country's brave freedom fighters.

The holiday is also marked by parades, political speeches, fairs, concerts, and a variety of other public and private events honoring Bangladesh's rich cultural heritage. Broadcasters on television and radio played patriotic specials and songs.

Flags and lights of several nations adorn the sidewalks and landmarks of various cities. On the evening before Bangladesh's independence day, worthy citizens are honored with the Independence Award. A special event was held in Bangladeshi diplomatic missions worldwide to commemorate the Day.

08. Buddha Purnima:

When the full moon occurs in April, Buddhists all over the country commemorate Buddha Purnima, the birth anniversary of Lord Buddha, with religious zeal and enthusiasm. This is a day off for everyone in Bangladesh.

Many Buddhist ceremonies take place at temples and monasteries on this Day. Bangladesh is home to some of Asia's oldest and most revered Buddhist monasteries, making it a prime location for studying one of the world's oldest religions.

09. Pahela Baishakh:

Pahela Baishakh is a Bengali culture that has been going on for centuries. Bangladesh's largest celebration takes place on the first day of the Bengali New Year. Men and women wear red and white. Many places hold daylong activities. At the fair, visitors can get Candy Floss, Panta Ilish, and Pithas. Over 10,000 people march at Dhaka University's Mangal Shobhajatra. Students carry banners, festoons, and cock-sheet and paint art faces.

May - June:

10. National Tree Fair:

In the modern world, it is crucial to take action, such as planting trees. Tree-planting is especially crucial now, in this era of severe global warming.

This fair lasts for 30 days in Agargaon, Dhaka. People who live in cities find time to go to the fair and buy mostly rooftop plants.

11. Nouka Baich:

Rural residents have practiced Nouka Baich for many years. Crews of 10–20 people from the same team ride in a long boat and use intense rowing to gain an advantage over the other groups. Thousands of people gather to watch this game, played in huge rivers.

July- August

12. Eid Ul Fitr:

All Muslims in the United States are celebrating this momentous event. The holiday of Eid is so widely celebrated that even non-Muslims desire to take part in the festivities. Followers of Islam fasted for 30 days during the month of Ramadan before to this holy day. The end of the 30-day fast is marked by Eid, which is seen as a blessing from Allah.

All the mosques and open fields are crowded with worshippers at dawn, as they prepare to perform the Eid Salat. They get ready for it by taking a shower, buying new pajama-Punjabi, and spraying on fragrance. They pray the Eid al-Fitr prayer, then they embrace each other and depart the Eidgah area. They celebrate the occasion with friends, neighbors, and relatives by joining in a feast and going to each other's houses.

13. Eid Ul Adha:

Approximately two months following the celebration of Eid Ul Fitr, Muslims celebrate another holiday known as Eid al-Adha. Similarly, the Eid Salat is usually done first thing in the morning. They eat a quick breakfast after returning from the mosques.

For Allah, these animals are being sacrificed at the sacred Eid. There are many cows and goats roaming the streets. They are then butchered by the persons who have just finished slaughtering them. After that, the meat is divided into thirds. One is kept for personal use, another is given to family, and the remainder is shared among the less fortunate. By nightfall, the meat is ready, and feasting begins as people share the flavor of Eid with one another.

September - October:

14. Durga Puja:

The Hindu community of Bangladesh celebrates this Day more than any other. It's a huge party that the entire country joins in on every fall. The festival honors Durga, the Hindu goddess, for defeating the demon Mahisasura. A celebration known as Basanti Puja is held in the springtime in several parts of Bangladesh.

Through a colorful possession ritual, the idol is submerged in water on the fourth day of worship. Dhaka's Dhakeswari Temple and the Ram Krishna Mission are the sites of the city's most extravagant events.

November - December:

15. Victory Day:

Every year on December 16, Bangladesh commemorates the day the Allies finally defeated the Pakistani forces, ending the nine-month-long liberation war and officially separating East Pakistan into Bangladesh. This day is known as Victory Day. The event is almost identical to that of Independence Day in terms of pomp and circumstance.

16. Christmas:

Christmas In Bangladesh, Christmas has celebrated annually with much fanfare and joy. Carols are sung in churches across Bangladesh beginning the first week of December, marking the beginning of the Christmas season. Trees decked out in ornaments and lit in festive colors can be seen at churches, residences, and even city hotels.

17. Nabanna:

Nabanna is a harvest festival celebrated by farmers in the countryside. The crop is finally ready, and the farmers are delighted after all their hard work over the past few months. New harvests have been filling the homes, and every surface breathes the fresh-cut aroma of a new crop. The villagers have a party complete with feasting, dancing, and music.

Top 12 Places In Bangladesh You Shouldn't Miss:

01. Tour of Sadarghat River Port:

There is a place in Dhaka that is so full of life that words can't do it justice. It is the water fort at Sadarghat. From the time of the Moguls to the present, it has always been one of the main places people go.

The afternoon is an excellent time to go to the port because the boats start taking people out. Don't miss the boat ride on the Burigonga River when you get to the river port. Tourists say that old London used to be like this, with hundreds of boats crossing the river every second.

Take in the scenery as the sun sets from the boat, then sail on until nightfall. It will be one of the best ways to see the city, and you'll be able to take many pictures of how people live in Sadarghat.

How to get there: Take a car, bus, or train from Dhaka to Sadarghat.
Best Time: Afternoon
Duration: 1 to 2 hours

Tips: Don't put your hands in the corners when boarding and departing because they can clash with other boats.

02. Visit Barisal's Floating Markets:

Bangladesh Located in the southern capital of Bangladesh, the Barisal division is home to one of Asia's largest floating market sites. Because of its proximity to the ocean and the abundance of mighty rivers in the area, people have been carrying out centuries-old customs in these waterways using small boats, especially during market days.

At least six markets operate on different days of the week, with some specializing in fruit and vegetable sales, others in rice sales, and others in selling various other goods.

The first half of the day is the best time to take a boat cruise through the narrow channels. It's a window into the authentic Bangladeshi way of life, even better for taking pictures. Hundreds of boats are brought to marketplaces daily for sale and purchase.

How to Go: Take a car, bus, boat, or train from Dhaka to Barisal, and from there, arrange for local transportation.
Best Time to Visit: Rainfall.
Duration: One Day

Tips: always carry an umbrella and an additional camera battery.

03. Tangail's Craft Village:

Northeast of Dhaka is the neighborhood of Tangail. Tangail, located near the city of Bisnapur, is renowned as a center of handloom weaving. There is no hiding the fact that creating a tangail sari is a popular activity for females.

Aside from Tangail, nearby villages also have traditional handicrafts such as jewelry production; this is especially popular in the vicinity of the marketplaces, followed by traditional pot-making villages or pottery towns.

Before introducing ceramic and plastic goods, traditional Bangladeshi culture centered around using clay pots for virtually all household needs. One of the best things to do in the area is to visit the Atia mosque, which was built in 1607 and has the most beautiful decorations.

One of a kind is a half-day bike ride through the town, where you can view the locals and their way of life as you pedal along the paved road through the lush paddy fields.

How to Go: Take a car, bus, or train from Dhaka to Tangail, and from there, arrange for local transportation.
Best Time to Visit: at any season.
Duration: One Day

Tips: This is one of the best spots in Bangladesh for camping, sightseeing, and cultural performances. There's no luxury lodging: well-decorated rooms, hot water, no internet, and some air conditioning.

04. Visit Bangladesh's Parliament Building:

Bangladesh takes great pride in its modern parliament building. It's famous for its cutting-edge design. In many ways, regular tourists couldn't visit the great work. However, anyone with a passport and visa can see the building between 10:00 am and 04:00 pm.

An artificial lake complements the building's geometric design by reflecting light inside. The core assembly has a single bim as an umbrella. If you're a tourist, you can't carry anything that uses electricity, including cameras and phones.

How to Go: Take a car, bus, or train from Dhaka to Tangail, and from there, arrange for local transportation.
Best Time to Visit: at any season.
Duration: One Day

Tips: This is one of Bangladesh's most unique places where you can participate in cultural programs. There can't be any luxury accommodations. There is hot water in the rooms, but there is no internet, and only a few rooms have air conditioning.

05. Paharpur:

One of Bangladesh's most important archaeological monuments and an actual example of pre-Islamic Bangladeshi architecture are the Ruins of the Buddhist Vihara, inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985 and was previously known as the Somapura Mahavihara.

Somapura mahabhihara, a world heritage site in the northwestern portion of Bangladesh, is located in paharpur, a small town in the country's northwest. As early as the 8th century, it was the most significant Buddhist monastery south of the Himalayan range in terms of population. During its heyday, monks from around the world came to study here. It was at that time one of the most famous Buddhist monasteries in the whole wide world.

06. Boga Lake:

Bandarban's Bagakain Lake, also known as Boga Lake, is located in a hilly area. At Boga Lake, tourists from around the world can take in the site's natural beauty.

Boga Lake's water is the most striking feature. It's a large, deep lake with a distinctively sweet flavor. The water is crystal clear, so tourists will enjoy the sensation of being in a new place.

Tourists can also learn about tribal cultures and spend a day getting to know the people who live in tribal areas and their simple and rural way of life. With direct access to the heart of nature provided by Boga Lake, tourists can experience the majesty and vastness of nature up close.

While hiking around Boga Lake, one may genuinely appreciate Bandarban's natural beauty. You can enjoy the magnificent scenery from any of the cliffs. Boga Lake is a must-see destination for nature lovers who want to experience the best of what Mother Nature has to offer.

07. Kuakata Sea Beach:

Kuakata, which is in the district of Patuakhali, is known for its beautiful beach on the sea. It is the only site in Bangladesh where you can see the sunrise and sunset over the Bay of Bengal in such a breathtaking way.

When you're not lazing on the sand, check out Fatra'r chor, Lebur chor, Kuakata Eco Park, and Gangamati Reserve Forest, which are nearby.

The island is also well-known for its dry fish farming, and one community sells nothing but dry fish. If you're a fan of the seafood dish, bring some back with you.

08. Cox's Bazar:

Cox's Bazar, is visited year-round destinations in Bangladesh. It is in the country's southeast; this district has the world's longest sea beach.

Cox's Bazar offers many options for fun in the sun, beach, and surf. Beaches in the region include Inani, Kolatoli, Sugandha, and Laboni Point. This hilly area features waterfalls and is near the beach at Himchori.

Cox's Bazar is also a shopper's dream come true. In these shops, you'll find a wide variety of Burmese décor, apparel, household items, cutlery and kitchen supplies, and cosmetics.

It is possible to acquire a wide selection of fresh seafood meals at any of the restaurants or roadside vendors. If you're looking for a fine-dining experience, you'll never run out of options.

09. Rangamati:

The lovely mountain town of Rangamati is in the beautiful Chittagong Hill Tracts. It is a calm and peaceful alternative to many of Bangladesh's busy cities.

The town is on the shores of Kaptai Lake, known for its blue and green water and the woods surrounding it. If you're lucky, you could catch a glimpse of an Asian elephant strolling along the riverbank in a small, colorfully painted boat.

The golden statue of Buddha Dhatu Jadi and the hiking trails are the main things to do here.

The Parjatan Hanging Bridge and the royal palaces of the old Chakma Raj are also two of the most popular tourist destinations in the area.

10. Jaflong, Sylhet:

One of the most well-known places for tourists to visit when in the Sylhet region is Jaflong. Sylhet town is 60 kilometers away, and getting there takes two hours by car. In addition to being surrounded by tea gardens, the neighboring city of Jaflong offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and their rolling stone landscape. It lies near the river Mari and Hill Khashia.

The Mari river emerges from India's mighty Himalayas, bringing millions of tonnes of stone boulders. In Jaflong, you may observe the stone collection from the river and enjoy boating on the Mari. Almost entirely covered in trees, the hills of Jaflong are a sight to behold.

This woodland has many wild animals, so don't enter alone. In Jaflong, you may see how the Khashia people live.

11. Sundarban:

The Sundarbans are one of the world's most extensive mangrove forests and home to various flora and animals. It houses the national symbol, the Royal Bengal Tiger, among Bangladesh's most popular tourist attractions.

Sundarban has small islands and beaches you can enjoy all day, especially at sunset. Its dense forests and abundant wildlife make it possible to get up close and personal with beautiful plants.

It's a must-see location to witness various creatures in their natural habitat at Hiron Point or Nilkomol. Perhaps even the Royal Bengal tiger will come out to play!

12. Saint Martin's Island:

Saint Martin's Island, in Cox's Bazar and the Bay of Bengal, is a small and famous island visited by tourists worldwide. The island is also free of vehicles, making it a pollution-free zone.

You can reach St. Martin's extension, known as the Chhera Dweep or Chhera Island, by renting a speedboat.

You can try scuba diving, cycling, and stargazing while not wandering around the island's unique and beautiful sights. The island also has some special snacks and cuisines you should not miss.

Is a Bangladesh Travel Worth It?

Bangladesh is one of Asia's undiscovered gems, but it doesn't have the best reputation worldwide because of political unrest and natural disasters. And most people in Bangladesh are friendly and curious when they spot a stranger.

Bangladesh hasn't as many tourist scams because it isn't as popular as India. In certain areas, the roads are bad, and as a result, the traffic is unbearable. In remote locations where few know English, traveling alone can be difficult.

While the country has a lot of beautiful scenery, people, and locations, it is also home to a lot of poverty and pollution. If you're not comfortable dressed conservatively, riding in crowded transport, and experiencing different conditions, then it's better not to come.

Don’t Miss (Things to Do) when You Visit in Bangladesh:

Eat your weight in Biriyani: The Biriyani in Dhaka is not the same as what you’ll find in other places. Providing various types of Biriyani, whether you are a biriyani lover or not, you’ll love it!

Explore Old Dhaka: The Old Dhaka possesses many historic buildings and architecture. Exploring the Old Dhaka will surely amaze you.

Rickshaw Rides: Dhaka is a jam-packed city. A Rickshaw ride will give you one of the pleasing experiences you will ever get.

Visit Lalbagh Fort: Dhaka’s main historical attraction is the sprawling fort in the heart of Old Dhaka. The view from the A.C. rooftop cafes overlooking the complex is enjoyable.

Launch/ Steamer Journey: You don’t want to miss the thrilling experience of a launch journey. The atmosphere will undoubtedly change your mood. The calmness and serenity will amaze you.

Cuisine: This country offers a variety of local foods that you’ll not get anywhere else. Sweet, Sour, Spicy; ANYTHING! Each region has its kind of delicacy. The delicious meals will leave you to spell bounded.

Travel Packing List in Bangladesh:

People of Bangladesh follow the traditional way of dressing and wearing ordinary shirts, T-shirts, Pants, trousers, and “Lungi”. The “Lungi" is a traditional dress, most common in Bangladesh, mostly seen in villages, and also most of the town people get comfortable wearing this due to its conformability. Wear ordinary clothes would make you comfortable exploring, which might let you get an easy mix up with Bangladeshi residents.

Be general and wear comfortable clothes to make an enjoyable travel experience in Bangladesh. Try this comfortable wearing while traveling in Bangladesh.

Clothing:

You can take trousers, pants, shorts, casual T-shirts, shirts, and hoodies.
Due to an Islamic state, it is better to wear covered and modest clothes for females.
Appearing in modest and simplest clothes could allow you to get close to this country's natives, the habits of Bangladeshi peoples as well as the cultures of this entire nation.
Do not forget to take your camera, the picturesque views of this nation's surroundings could immerse you and allow you to capture natural landscapes, and have a unique collection of raw excellence photographs.
Take warm clothes like jackets, suitors, mufflers, and overcoats, if you travel there from November to February, due to the winter season inside, this time seems to have many cold and foggy surroundings everywhere inside this nation.
For men, take thin clothes while traveling in rainy seasons, from July-October. Don't take heavy dresses like jeans pants and converse shoes.
Pack simple outfits to get comfortable exploring with enjoying after rain Vistas of Hills could make the most comfortable journeys ever in your lifetime travel experiences.

Toiletries:

For ladies, sanitary napkins, and urinating objects are available at super shops, markets, stores, and pharmacies in all areas of this nation.
Soaps, detergents, and toilet tissues are available at all ordinary departmental stores.

Electronics:

Due to a developing nation in the country, Bangladesh has the finest electrical services in all possible areas of its surface.
Have higher technological gatherings to offer travelers all possible advantages.
Carrying a power bank in a backpack could allow travelers to ensure enough charging backups of their devices in an instant.

Staying Healthy in Bangladesh:

It is better to drink sealed fresh mineral waters to ensure secure prevention from unwanted water diseases like hypothermia, and allergies, during travel in Bangladesh.
Eat hygienic and healthy meals would keep you safe during traveling in Bangladesh. Do not take unhealthy, oily foods; always try to grab available delicious meals from restaurants around this nation.

Bangladesh Travel Costs:

The cost of traveling to Bangladesh can vary widely depending on your travel style, preferences, and itinerary. Here are some estimated costs to help you plan your budget:

Accommodation: You can find budget guesthouses and hostels for as low as $5-10 USD per night. Mid-range hotels can cost $25-50 USD per night, and luxury hotels can cost $100 USD or more per night.
Food: You can enjoy a basic meal in a local restaurant for around $2-5 USD, while mid-range restaurants can cost $10-15 USD per meal. Street food is also a popular and affordable option in Bangladesh.
Transportation: Taxis and ride-sharing services are available in Bangladesh, and fares can vary depending on the distance and time of day. A short taxi ride can cost around $2-3 USD, while longer journeys can cost $10-20 USD. Buses and trains are also available, with fares ranging from $1-10 USD.
Activities: There are many cultural and historical sites to visit in Bangladesh, and admission fees can range from $1-5 USD. Boat tours, wildlife safaris, and other activities may cost more.

Overall, budget travelers can expect to spend around $20-30 USD per day, while mid-range travelers can expect to spend $50-75 USD per day. Luxury travelers can expect to spend $100 USD or more per day. Keep in mind that these are rough estimates, and your actual costs may vary depending on your travel style and itinerary.

Best Time to Visit Bangladesh: Coolest Months & Festival Seasons