Verified Facts
To get around in Bangladesh, you can use a variety of transportation options, including domestic flights, trains, buses, and city transport such as taxis, ride-hailing services, and rickshaws.
Quick Facts
Getting There
Bangladesh is easily accessible by air, with two main international airports: Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka and Shah Amanat International Airport in Chittagong. Direct flights are available from major hubs in Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, including Singapore, Dubai, and London. If you prefer to enter the country by land, you can do so from India or Myanmar, with several overland entry points, including the Benapole-Petrapole border crossing with India and the Teknaf border crossing with Myanmar.
The main overland entry points from India are at Benapole-Petrapole, Gede-Darshana, and Burimari-Changrabandha, while the main entry point from Myanmar is at Teknaf. You can take buses or taxis from these border crossings to major cities in Bangladesh. Alternatively, you can take a ferry from India or other neighboring countries to reach Bangladesh by sea. However, this option is less common and may require more planning and preparation.
Domestic Flights
For domestic travel, Bangladesh has a moderate air network, with several airlines operating flights to major cities, including Dhaka, Chittagong, Sylhet, and Cox's Bazar. The main domestic airlines are Biman Bangladesh Airlines, Novoair, and US-Bangla Airlines, which offer daily flights to various destinations. You can book tickets online or through travel agents, with approximate costs ranging from $50 to $200, depending on the route and airline. It's recommended to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure availability and get the best rates.
Trains & Rail
Bangladesh has a limited rail network, with most trains operating on meter-gauge tracks. The main routes connect Dhaka to other major cities, including Chittagong, Sylhet, and Khulna. While the rail network is not extensive, it's a relatively affordable and comfortable way to travel, with approximate costs ranging from $5 to $20, depending on the class and route. You can book tickets at train stations or through online portals, but it's recommended to book in advance, especially for popular routes. There are no high-speed train options available in Bangladesh, but some trains offer first-class and air-conditioned carriages for more comfort.
Buses & Coaches
For intercity travel, buses and coaches are a popular option, with several companies operating on various routes. The main bus companies are Green Line, Shyamoli, and Hanif, which offer a range of services, from economy to VIP. The quality of buses varies, but most are relatively comfortable and affordable, with approximate costs ranging from $5 to $20, depending on the route and class. You can book tickets at bus stations or through online portals, and it's recommended to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
City Transport
| Mode | Available In | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metro/Subway | Dhaka | $0.20 | Limited routes, but convenient for short distances |
| City Bus | Major cities | $0.20-$1.00 | Affordable, but often crowded and slow |
| Taxi | Everywhere | $1.00-$5.00/km | Metered, but may require negotiation |
| Ride-Hailing | Major cities | $2.00-$5.00 | Convenient, but may require internet connection |
| Tuk-tuk/Rickshaw | Everywhere | $1.00-$3.00 | Affordable, but may require negotiation |
Driving
- To drive in Bangladesh, you'll need a valid international driving permit or a local driving license.
- Road conditions in Bangladesh are generally poor, with many roads being narrow and congested.
- Fuel costs are relatively low, with gasoline and diesel available at most fuel stations.
- Car rental options are limited, but available in major cities, with economy and sedan options starting from $30 per day.
- Hazards to watch out for include potholes, traffic congestion, and aggressive driving.
- It's recommended to hire a driver or use a reputable car rental service to avoid the challenges of driving in Bangladesh.
Transport Tips
- Be aware of scams and overcharging by taxi and rickshaw drivers, and always negotiate the fare before starting your journey.
- Use reputable bus and train companies to avoid delays and cancellations.
- Download ride-hailing apps like Uber or local alternatives to book convenient and affordable rides.
- Carry small bills and change to avoid inconvenience when paying for transport.
- Be patient and flexible when traveling in Bangladesh, as transport options can be unpredictable.
- Use authorized taxi and bus stands to avoid scams and overcharging.
- Keep your valuables safe and secure, especially in crowded transport areas.
- Learn some basic Bengali phrases, such as "hello" (হ্যালো) and "thank you" (ধন্যবাদ), to help you navigate transport options and interact with locals.