By equipping yourself with the help of this practical knowledge, you can approach your Sundarbans adventure with self-assurance. It allows focus on the unique experiences the woodland holds, rather than worrying about mundane logistical issues. This guide aspires to be your go-to resource for everyday practicalities.
Always carry sufficient small denominations of Bangladeshi Taka. This helps with everyday purchases, rickshaw fares, and tipping, as change can be difficult to find for larger notes.
Communication tools are for easy travel.
Local SIM cards and mobile providers are readily available. Major providers include Grameenphone, Robi, and Banglalink. Grameenphone often displays the best coverage, extending even to some parts of the Sundarbans, though connectivity deep inside the forest continues to be limited.
Regarding internet access and Wi-Fi availability, in cities like Khulna, hotels, cafes, and some restaurants offer Wi-Internet access. Public Wi-Fi hotspots are rare. On Sundarbans tour boats, some higher-end vessels might supply satellite internet or Wi-Fi, but it is often slow, unreliable, and may carry an additional charge.
Postal services operate nationwide by Bangladesh Post Office (BPO). For sending international parcels, private courier services like DHL or FedEx render more trustworthy and faster options, primarily from Dhaka. For postcards or letters, the BPO is an option, but transit times can be long.
Language barriers can occur. The official language is Bengali (Bangla). Many in tourism, educated individuals, and city areas speak some English, it is less common in rural areas.
Purchase a local SIM card upon arrival. Data packages are inexpensive, and having local internet access (where available) assists for directions, ride-sharing apps, and communicating with your tour operator.
Knowing typical operating hours for businesses, banks, and considering public holidays will smooth your travel planning.
Generally Sunday to Thursday, 9 AM to 5 PM. Closed on Fridays and Saturdays.
Typically Sunday to Thursday, 10 AM to 4 PM. Some city branches may have extended hours.
Generally open from 10 AM to 8-9 PM, with varied weekly closing days.
Banking hours and ATM locations are vital for managing your cash. ATMs are widely available in Khulna, with banks like Brac Bank, Dutch-Bangla Bank, and Standard Chartered having a strong presence. ATMs are rarer in Mongla and non-existent within a Unesco world heritage site forest.
Religious and public holidays are prevalent in Bangladesh. Major holidays include Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, Durga Puja, Christmas, and Buddha Purnima. At these times, businesses, banks, and government offices may close or have reduced hours.
Check the Bangladeshi public holiday calendar before your trip. Traveling during important celebrations can mean crowded transport and nearbyd businesses, though it also has unique cultural experiences.
A little awareness goes a long way in showing respect and building positive interactions. Observing local customs deepens your travel experience.
Greeting customs are an important first step. A simple "Assalamu Alaikum" (peace be upon you) is a common greeting among Muslims, while "Nomoshkar" is common among Hindus. Handshakes are common among men.
Appropriate attire for different settings stresses modesty. Modest dress holds importance throughout Bangladesh, having respect for local norms. This concerns various environments.
Dining and tipping practices are part of daily life. Traditionally, food is eaten with the right hand, especially for rice-based meals. Avoid using your left hand, which holds an unclean association.
Permission to take photos and restrictions call for sensitivity. Always seek permission to photograph people, particularly women and kids. A simple gesture or "photo?" often works.
Always use your right hand when giving or receiving items, shaking hands, or eating. The left hand holds an unclean association in Bangladeshi culture.
Travelers with mobility challenges face significant hurdles in Bangladesh, including the Sundarbans region. The infrastructure is generally not designed for accessibility, impacting the trip experience.
Accessibility for travelers with disabilities is limited. Sidewalks are often uneven, narrow, or absent in urban areas, making walking difficult or impossible for wheelchair users. Public transport vehicles are not outfitted for accessibility, lacking ramps or lifts.
Accessible attractions and transportation are notably scarce in the World's largest mangrove forest. The nature of the destination itself has inherent challenges. Tour boats are not typically designed for wheelchair access.
Services for travelers with disabilities are also limited. Public information rarely is seen in Braille or sign language. It is a very good idea for travelers with visual or hearing impairments to travel with a companion or engage a specific tour operator who can render dedicated assistance.
Resources and organizations making accessibility information specific to Bangladesh are few. Travelers with mobility issues should consult specialized travel operators that have experience assisting disabled travelers.
If you have mobility challenges, communicate your needs directly with tour companies well in advance. Ask for specific details on boat boarding, cabin access, and the nature of forest walks to assess feasibility.
