Comilla Chittagong, Bangladesh Travel Guide
Bangladesh offers several major mobile network providers: Grameenphone, Robi, Banglalink, Airtel, and Teletalk. Grameenphone and Robi often provide the widest coverage. You need your original passport, visa copy, and a passport-sized photo to register a SIM. Comilla City and its surrounding areas generally possess good 4G/LTE coverage.
Wi-Fi is available in most mid-range to higher-end hotels and many cafes and restaurants in Comilla, though quality and velocity can vary. Mobile data with a local SIM provides a reliable connection. Cyber coffee shops are less common but may still exist.
Branches of the Bangladesh Post Office are available in Comilla. You can use these services for sending letters and parcels, both domestically and internationally. These services cater to general mailing needs.
Bengali (Bangla) is the official language. English is spoken by some in tourist roles, educated individuals, and higher-end hotels. Do not expect universal English comprehension in local markets or including a lot of drivers. Basic English is understood in some public settings.
General hours of operation and banking schedules in Comilla follow typical Bangladeshi patterns, with considerations for holidays.
Generally open from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM, with some variation. Weekly closure days are common.
Generally operate from 9:12:12:00 AM to 5:00 am:00 am:00 PM, Sunday through Thursday.
Generally open from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Sunday through Thursday.
Most banks function Sunday through Thursday. Some larger branches may offer extended hours. ATMs are widely available throughout Comilla City, with the majority of operating 24/7. Large banks include Brac Bank, City Bank, Eastern Bank, and Dutch-Bangla Bank, generally accepting foreign credit cards.
Friday is the official weekend, meaning many businesses, government offices, and banks are closed or have reduced hours. Major Islamic festivals like Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha cause multi-day closures. Pohela Boishakh (Bengali New Year) around April 14th is also a public holiday. Services may be limited during these days.
Checking the public holiday calendar is for a seamless travel experience, especially at the time of big festivals.
Embrace and honor local traditions to enhance your experience in Comilla and foster positive interactions.
Men typically shake hands with men. Women may offer a handshake to other women, but a verbal greeting or slight bow is often sufficient. Avoid initiating physical contact with women unless they extend a hand first. "Assalamu Alaikum" (peace be upon you) is common among Muslims, while "Nomoshkar" is common among Hindus.
Conservative dress for both men and women is important in Bangladesh. Modest dress shows respect for the local culture and can make interactions more comfortable, particularly for female travelers. (Refer to initial travel guide parts for more detailed recommendations on climate-appropriate and culturally sensitive clothing).
When enjoying traditional cuisine, eat with your right hand. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. While service charges may apply with more-end establishments, a small tip for good service is a kind gesture. (Refer to relevant previous segments for specific tipping customs and currency recommendations).
Always ask for permission before photographing people, especially women and children. A simple gesture or asking "Photo?" usually suffices. Respect any refusal. At religious sites, be notably mindful; some may have restrictions, or it is appropriate to avoid photography during prayers or ceremonies.
Observing and adapting to local cultural norms for a more rewarding and respectful journey.
Accessibility infrastructure for travelers with disabilities is very limited in Comilla and across Bangladesh.
Most public buildings, transportation, and sidewalks in Comilla are not designed for wheelchair access. Sidewalks are often uneven, crowded, or simply non-existent, making navigation challenging for those with mobility impairments.
Few, if there are any, specific accessible attractions are available. Public transit choices are generally not accessible. Travelers with mobility challenges typically require specialized arrangements to navigate the city and explore locations, often involving private car hire with a driver and personal assistance.
Specialized services for travelers with visual or hearing impairments are limited. It is advisable to travel with a companion or ensure comprehensive planning for assistance throughout your visit. Local infrastructure and public services may not cater to these specific needs.
There are no specific organizations or resources in Comilla that cater to accessible travel for foreign tourists. Travelers with specific needs should conduct extensive pre-trip research and consider engaging a specific travel agency if possible to help manage logistical challenges.
Travelers with mobility challenges should prepare for minimal accessibility and plan accordingly, including personal assistance and private transport.
