Pallabi Dhaka Division, Bangladesh Travel Guide
Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (DAC) in Dhaka serves as the main international gateway to Bangladesh. All international flights arrive here. National carriers include Biman Bangladesh Airlines, US-Bangla Airlines, and Novoair. Many major international airlines also serve Dhaka, including Emirates, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, Thai Airways, Air India, China Southern, and Saudi Arabian Airlines.
Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport offers several facilities to assist travelers: ATMs, currency exchange, duty-free shops, restaurants, cafes, lounges, and SIM card vendors. Pre-paid airport taxis are available from designated counters inside the terminal. Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Pathao are readily available, typically offering more transparent pricing.
Expect greater demand and increased prices during Bangladesh's peak tourist season (October-March). Major festivals, specifically Eid holidays, also trigger significant price surges and reduced availability.
Booking flights well in advance, especially for travel during peak times, is advisable. Use resources like Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner to monitor prices.
Exit fees or taxes are usually included in the price of your air ticket. You typically do not pay a separate exit tax for flying from Bangladesh.
Major land border crossings with India include Benapole (most popular), Akhaura, Darshana, Burimari, and Tamabil. Ensure your visa permits land entry.
Bangladesh Railway connects Dhaka to various parts of the country and India (Maitree, Bandhan, Mitali Express).
An extensive network of long-distance buses connects Dhaka to all major cities. Operators like Green Line, Shyamoli Paribahan, and Hanif Enterprise offer services.
Self-driving for tourists is not recommended in Bangladesh. Dhaka's chaotic traffic, aggressive driving habits, and unfamiliar traffic laws present significant challenges. If you desire private vehicle travel, hiring a car with a local driver is strongly advised. This option offers safety and reduces stress associated with navigating local conditions.
Major highways are generally paved, but can experience heavy congestion and varying maintenance quality. City roads in Dhaka are often heavily trafficked, uneven, and prone to waterlogging during the wet season. Driving standards can appear aggressive to international visitors, with regular honking and less adherence to lane discipline. Exercise extreme caution as a pedestrian.
Motorcycle and scooter rentals for tourists are less common in Dhaka. This option is not widely supported for international visitors.
Public bicycle systems are limited. The Pathao app offers short-distance bicycle facilities in some specific areas, but dedicated rental shops for tourists are few.
International sea/river arrivals are not common for tourists to Dhaka. Domestic river launches from Sadarghat Port connect to southern and southwestern Bangladesh, offering an unique local travel experience.
Arrive at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (DAC) at least 3 hours before your international flight. This allows ample time for potential heavy traffic in Dhaka, check-in procedures, and security checks. Complete airline check-in, proceed through security screening, and complete immigration formalities before heading to your departure gate.
If departing by train from Kamalapur Train Station or by long-distance bus from one of Dhaka's many terminals, arrive with sufficient time to spare. Train and bus stations typically provide basic waiting areas, food stalls, and ticketing counters. Confirm your departure time and platform/bay well in advance, as last-minute changes can occur.
If your flight to or from Bangladesh is delayed, AirHelp might secure compensation.
AirHelp assists passengers in receiving up to €600 in compensation for canceled flights.
If you are denied boarding due to overbooking, AirHelp may process your claim.
