Backpacking in Bangladesh

1 Comments | Rating: 0 | |

When budget travellers think of Bangladesh it probably doesn't rank high on their list of travel destinations. But the country is like another world and, while it will be a challenge, travelling in Bangladesh is a hugely rewarding experience.

Bangladesh isn't a country with a well-established tourist infrastructure and few backpackers ever make it there which means you will be the focus of curious onlookers. You will be followed by stares everywhere you go and the locals aren't shy about it. They will get right up in your face and look at you intensely, almost as though you were an alien. They are harmless and well-meaning though and you can usually break the ice with a big smile. Backpacking in Bangladesh will open you up to a whole new world of people and way of life.

The reason Bangladesh travel is so fun is that it really isn't geared towards tourists the way many countries are these days. Practically the whole country is 'off the beaten path' and you will feel like you're on an adventure every time you step out of the door. Locals will invite you to out for tea and even into their homes and will feed you all sorts of deep-friend delicacies. People are poor but the ones I met were among the most generous people I've ever come across.

Transportation in Bangladesh can be a bit tedious at times because buses have to board ferries to traverse the country's waterways. This often means long waits to get on board the boats. Boat travel is really at the heart of Bangladesh and you should try it out. The Rocket is an old paddle steamer boat that travels from Dhaka to the south of the country in relative luxury. Launch boats are a lot more rustic and spending time with the locals in deck class will be cramped, but also eye-opening. Travelling by boat in Bangladesh is a great way to experience life along the rivers at a slow pace.

Bangladesh is one of the poorest countries in the world and goods there are very cheap for the international traveller. A meal for three people with countless cups of tea can be had for under $2. Food at the market is equally as cheap but there's not much of a selection. Accommodation can be had for as little as $2 per night up to hundreds of dollars for a Western-style place in Dhaka, the capital city.

Backpacking in Bangladesh is not for the feint-of-heart and will present many challenges, but it is one of the safest countries I have been to and the people are among the friendliest in the world. What it lacks in tourist attractions, it makes up for in cultural experiences and you will come away from a trip to Bangladesh with lots of great stories and new friends.