Immersing yourself in the vibrant life and diverse things to do in Dhaka, from the bustling streets of Old Dhaka to the serene beauty of Lalbagh Fort, is just the beginning of what Bangladesh has to offer. For those eager to explore further, day trips from Dhaka provide a unique opportunity to discover the rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes that lie just beyond the city’s limits.
Venturing out from Dhaka, the wide array of things to do in Bangladesh becomes apparent, with options ranging from the historic ruins of Sonargaon to the tranquil waters of the Turag River. These excursions not only complement your Dhaka visit with peaceful retreats and historical insights but also showcase the diverse beauty of Bangladesh’s countryside.
Choosing where to stay in Dhaka is crucial for maximizing your exploration of the city and its surroundings. Opting for accommodations that offer both comfort and convenience ensures that you have a restful base to return to after your day trips, providing a perfect balance between the exhilaration of city life and the tranquility of Bangladesh’s natural wonders.
Discover Best Day Trips from Dhaka, Bangladesh
1. Sonargaon, Bangladesh
Sonargaon, the ancient capital of Bengal, offers a rich historical experience with its old architectural beauties, including the Folk Art and Crafts Museum and the Panam City ruins. This place serves as a vivid reminder of Bengal’s golden past.
Distance: Approximately 27 km
Travel Time: Approximately 1-1.5 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Folk Art and Crafts Museum, Panam City ruins, Goaldi Mosque
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Folk Art and Crafts Museum: $1
- Panam City: Free
Budget: Approximately $10-$20 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Panam Nagar, Meghna River, Goaldi Mosque
Travel Tip: Visit the Folk Art and Crafts Museum to see traditional Bangladeshi art and craftworks.
2. Moinamoti, Bangladesh
Moinamoti, located in Comilla, is an archaeological site famous for its Buddhist vihara (monastery) ruins and artifacts. This site provides a glimpse into the rich ancient history and culture of the region.
Distance: Approximately 96 km
Travel Time: Around 2-3 hours by car or bus
Transportation: Bus (Busbud), Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Buddhist vihara (monastery) ruins, Moinamoti Museum
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Moinamoti Museum: $1
- Vihara Ruins: Free
Budget: Approximately $15-$30 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Salban Vihara, Rupban Mura, Itakhola Mura
Travel Tip: Hire a local guide to gain deeper insights into the historical significance of the excavations.
3. Paharpur, Bangladesh
Paharpur is home to the ancient Somapura Mahavihara, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This impressive archaeological site was one of the largest Buddhist monasteries in South Asia and is a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Distance: Approximately 258 km
Travel Time: About 5-6 hours by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Somapura Mahavihara (UNESCO World Heritage Site), Paharpur Museum
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Somapura Mahavihara: $5
- Paharpur Museum: $1
Budget: Approximately $30-$50 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Monastery Ruins, Paharpur Museum, Local Villages
Travel Tip: Bring a hat and sunscreen as the area can be quite open and sunny.
4. Srimangal, Bangladesh
Srimangal, known as the tea capital of Bangladesh, offers lush green tea gardens, tribal cultures, and the chance to taste the famous seven-layer tea. The area is also great for trekking and bird watching.
Distance: Approximately 191 km
Travel Time: Around 4-5 hours by train or bus
Transportation: Train, Bus (Busbud)
Main Attractions: Tea gardens, Lawachara National Park, Seven-layer tea
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Lawachara National Park: $2
- Tea Garden Visits: Free
Budget: Approximately $20-$40 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Lawachara National Park, Madhabpur Lake, Tea Gardens
Travel Tip: Plan a visit to the Lawachara National Park for a chance to see diverse wildlife and enjoy the natural scenery.
5. Sundarbans, Bangladesh
The Sundarbans, the largest mangrove forest in the world, is famous for its unique ecosystem and the Royal Bengal Tiger. A boat tour in these dense mangroves offers an adventurous and unforgettable experience.
Distance: Approximately 300 km
Travel Time: Travel to the Sundarbans typically involves a 6-8 hour drive to Khulna or Mongla, followed by a boat journey
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com), Boat
Main Attractions: Royal Bengal Tiger, Mangrove forests, Boat tours
Best Time to Visit: November to March
Entrance Fees:
- Sundarbans Entry Permit: $10
- Boat Tour: $50-$100
Budget: Approximately $80-$150 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Mangrove Forests, Wildlife Sightings, River Channels
Travel Tip: Book a guided tour for a safer and more informative journey through this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
6. Bagerhat, Bangladesh
Bagerhat, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for its historic mosques, including the 60 Dome Mosque. The city’s unique architecture reflects the rich Islamic heritage of the region.
Distance: Approximately 205 km
Travel Time: Around 6-7 hours by car or bus
Transportation: Bus (Busbud), Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Sixty Dome Mosque (UNESCO World Heritage Site), Bagerhat Museum
Best Time to Visit: November to March
Entrance Fees:
- Sixty Dome Mosque: $1
- Bagerhat Museum: $1
Budget: Approximately $20-$40 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Sixty Dome Mosque, Singair Mosque, Ghora Dighi Lake
Travel Tip: Visit during the cooler months for a more comfortable exploration of the outdoor sites.
7. Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh
Cox’s Bazar, home to the world’s longest natural sea beach, offers a scenic and relaxing getaway. Enjoy the breathtaking views, seafood cuisine, and various beach activities.
Distance: Approximately 400 km
Travel Time: A flight from Dhaka to Cox’s Bazar takes about 1 hour, while a bus journey can take 10-12 hours
Transportation: Flight, Bus (Busbud)
Main Attractions: World’s longest natural sea beach, Marine Drive, Himchari National Park
Best Time to Visit: November to March
Entrance Fees:
- Beach Access: Free
- Himchari National Park: $2
Budget: Approximately $50-$100 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Cox’s Bazar Beach, Inani Beach, Himchari Waterfall
Travel Tip: Try to catch the sunrise or sunset on the beach for a spectacular view.
8. Bandarban, Bangladesh
Bandarban, known for its natural beauty, is a perfect destination for adventurers and nature lovers. It offers hills, tribal culture, and attractions like the Nilgiri and Boga Lake.
Distance: Approximately 252 km
Travel Time: Around 8-10 hours by bus
Transportation: Bus (Busbud)
Main Attractions: Hills, tribal culture, Nilgiri, Boga Lake
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Entrance Fees:
- Nilgiri: $2
- Boga Lake: Free
Budget: Approximately $30-$60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Nilgiri Hill, Boga Lake, Sangu River
Travel Tip: Wear comfortable hiking shoes and be prepared for some trekking to fully enjoy the natural landscapes.
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FAQ About Best Day Trips from Dhaka, Bangladesh
What are some recommended day trips from Dhaka?
Recommended day trips from Dhaka include visits to Sonargaon (the ancient capital of Bengal), the pottery village of Kakran, a river cruise on the Shitalakshya River, and a visit to the historical Panam Nagar.
Can I explore the Sundarbans from Dhaka in a day?
While the Sundarbans is too far for a day trip from Dhaka, short guided tours to the outskirts of this magnificent mangrove forest can be arranged, offering a glimpse into the region’s unique ecosystem.
Is a visit to the ancient city of Sonargaon worth it?
Absolutely! Sonargaon, with its rich history as the ancient capital of Bengal, showcases fascinating ruins, the Folk-Art and Crafts Museum, and the beautifully preserved Panam City, making it a worthwhile day trip from Dhaka.
Are there boat trips available on the rivers around Dhaka?
Yes, several operators offer boat trips on the rivers surrounding Dhaka, such as the Shitalakshya, Buriganga, and Meghna rivers. These trips are a great way to experience the scenic beauty and riverine life of Bangladesh.
What cultural experiences can I have on a day trip from Dhaka?
Day trips from Dhaka can include exploring traditional markets, visiting local artisan villages like Kakran for pottery and weaving, and experiencing rural Bangladeshi life. These trips offer deep cultural insights and opportunities to purchase unique handicrafts.
Is there a wildlife sanctuary near Dhaka for a day visit?
While there are no major wildlife sanctuaries within a day’s reach of Dhaka, the Bhawal National Park offers a semi-natural habitat for local wildlife and is a pleasant getaway for nature lovers.
Can I visit a tea plantation from Dhaka in one day?
Visiting the main tea plantations in Sylhet requires more than a day due to the distance. However, shorter visits to nearby areas that have smaller tea gardens or eco-parks can be arranged for a taste of the tea country experience.
Are there historical forts to visit near Dhaka?
Yes, Lalbagh Fort in Dhaka and the ancient ruins of Sonargaon offer insights into the rich historical past of the region. These sites are easily accessible for a day trip and provide a glimpse into the Mughal and pre-Mughal era.
Sources:
https://www.getyourguide.com/dhaka-l32163?activity_type=dayTrip
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