Verified Facts
Official NamePeople's Republic of Bangladesh
CapitalDhaka
Population169.8 million
Area147,570 km² (56,977 sq mi)
LanguagesBengali
CurrencyBangladeshi taka (৳)
TimezoneUTC+06:00
RegionAsia / Southern Asia
Drives onLeft
Source: REST Countries API
Notable Achievements
| Category | Achievement | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Science | Space Technology | Bangladesh launched its first communications satellite, Bangabandhu-1, in 2018, becoming the 57th country to have its own satellite in space. |
| Sports | Cricket | The Bangladesh national cricket team has shown significant improvement in recent years, winning several international matches and reaching the quarterfinals of the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup. |
| Arts | Film Industry | The Bangladeshi film industry, also known as Dhallywood, produces over 100 films a year, with many winning international awards, such as the National Film Award. |
| Development | Poverty Reduction | Bangladesh has made significant progress in reducing poverty, with the poverty rate declining from 56.7% in 1990 to 24.3% in 2016, according to the World Bank. |
| Innovation | Mobile Finance | Bangladesh is a leader in mobile finance, with bKash, a mobile financial service, providing financial services to millions of people, especially in rural areas. |
| Global Contributions | Peacekeeping | Bangladesh is one of the largest contributors to United Nations peacekeeping missions, with over 7,000 troops deployed in various countries around the world. |
| Education | Literacy Rate | Bangladesh has made significant progress in increasing its literacy rate, which has risen from 35.4% in 1990 to 73.9% in 2019, according to the UNESCO Institute for Statistics. |
| Environment | Disaster Management | Bangladesh has developed a robust disaster management system, which has helped to reduce the impact of natural disasters, such as cyclones and floods, on its population. |
Cultural Treasures
- The Baitul Mukarram National Mosque in Dhaka is one of the largest mosques in the world and a prominent example of modern Islamic architecture.
- The Lalbagh Fort in Dhaka is a 17th-century Mughal fort and a popular tourist destination.
- The Sundarbans, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the largest mangrove forest in the world and home to the Bengal tiger.
- The Pahela Baishakh festival, which marks the beginning of the Bengali New Year, is a significant cultural event in Bangladesh.
- The Jamdani textile, a traditional Bengali fabric, is a UNESCO-recognized intangible cultural heritage of humanity.
People & Global Impact
- Muhammad Yunus, a Bangladeshi economist and Nobel laureate, is known for his work in microfinance and social business.
- The Bangladeshi diaspora has made significant contributions to the economy and culture of countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada.
- Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founding father of Bangladesh, played a key role in the country's independence movement and is revered as a national hero.
- The Grameen Bank, founded by Muhammad Yunus, has provided financial services to millions of people, especially women, in rural Bangladesh and has been recognized globally for its innovative approach to microfinance.
What Visitors Love
- The hospitality of the Bangladeshi people is often praised by visitors, who appreciate the warm welcome and generosity they receive.
- The food in Bangladesh is a fusion of traditional Bengali cuisine and international flavors, with popular dishes such as biriyani and haleem.
- The scenery of Bangladesh, with its lush green countryside, rivers, and beaches, is a major draw for tourists.
- The Cox's Bazar Beach, one of the longest natural sea beaches in the world, is a popular destination for visitors.
- The Sundarbans mangrove forest is a unique and fascinating ecosystem that attracts nature lovers and adventure seekers.
- The Dhaka city, with its rich history and cultural heritage, is a treasure trove of experiences, from visiting ancient forts and mosques to exploring the vibrant streets and markets.
Hidden Gems
- The Rangamati Hill District is a lesser-known destination in Bangladesh, known for its scenic beauty, tribal villages, and traditional handicrafts.
- The Puthia Temple Complex is a collection of ancient temples and ruins that showcase the rich cultural heritage of Bangladesh.
- The Lawachara National Park is a protected area that is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including the hoolock gibbon, an endangered primate species.
- The Bangladesh National Museum in Dhaka is a treasure trove of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the country's history, culture, and natural heritage.