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Brilliance of Bangladesh

Updated: Feb 13, 2020

Bangladesh, my home country, is a South Asian state known for its green foliage and extensive waterways. People in Bangladesh often ask, what is deemed a pivotal question: "Tomar desh koi?" translated: "Where is your country?" Districts or cities in Bangladesh are each considered separate "countries" in the Bangla language due to the heterogeneous attributes belonging to varying districts' inhabitants and landforms. My maternal side roots to the northern part of Bangladesh, Rangpur District, where I have been fortunate to visit often; my paternal side, a combination of Sonargaon and Narayanganj, just west of the Meghna River. Each district possesses unique beauty, productions, and history. Thus, when visiting Bangladesh, it is best to visit all parts of the country to absorb the diverse brilliance that unites its soil.



This post seeks to provide a mere glimpse of predominantly Dhaka and Rangpur districts through my Nikon D7000 lens to inspire your next trip to beautiful Bangladesh! There are major attractions in many cities around the country, each with specialized qualities as mentioned above. For instance, while Sylhet is known for its lush tea gardens and its unique 7-layered tea, Cox's Bazar is known to possess the longest natural beach in the world! In this post, I will share insight on places to eat and explore.



Before You Go:


  1. Safety. According to the Government of Canada's Travel Advisory, most South Asian countries are considered of high risk. This is not to scare travelers, but also not to be taken lightly, and rather to practice precaution. I would advise to beware pickpocketers, frauds/scams and to travel in pairs or groups.

  2. Accommodation. Personally, since I travel with and visit family in Bangladesh, I am never in need of drivers or hotels. Major cities in Bangladesh including Dhaka, Cox's Bazar, and Sylhet now have rising resorts and hotels completely safe and world-renowned. I suggest Booking.com for finding fit accommodations. Such accommodations would, however, be limited in smaller towns or villages.

  3. Transportation. Dhaka city now has Uber. I would still advise traveling in pairs or groups. If you have friends living in cities, hiring a personal driver upon recommendation is suggested.

  4. Food. For foreigners, tourists, or even Bangladeshis visiting after a good while living abroad, street food is an absolute no. There are designated spots for foreign stomachs to devour authentic Bangladeshi foods including street snacks that are definitely worth the visit and strongly suggested to avoid falling ill! Regarding water, ONLY consume MUM mineral water (if they don't have it; don't drink it).


KHOLAHATI, RANGPUR



As mentioned above, my maternal side is from the Rangpur district. Fortunately, my grandfather owns land in the north, a sub-city called Kholahati, where we visit every trip to Bangladesh. Village life throughout the country is rather peaceful and absolutely stunning. My favourite times of the day to explore are early in the morning when the village is asleep but the animals are awake, and during sunset. During a trip to Bangladesh, a village visit is a must. The north, however, during winter months are very cold (up to 6 or 7 degrees celsius).



Mornings in Bangladeshi villages are quiet and uniquely peaceful. Photography and observation at this time turn out stunning as the animals serve as models and the trees, paths, and ponds serve as exquisite misty backdrops. Below photographed is a goat fight I encountered during my morning walk.


Above photographed is a part of Kholahati Village that we call "pathar" or the path. Along this path toward the "bat gach" or Banyan tree, the village profits from growing grain. Each village specializes in growing particular crops that are later traded in and around Bangladesh.


KJ Islam House, Kholahati, Rangpur.



DHAKA EATERIES


Dhaka City, Bangladesh's sprawling capital, is heart of diverse cuisine. From traditional Bangladeshi food in Old Dhaka to fusion European cookhouses in the financial district, visitors' tongues are left blazing.


Some of my favourite and Insta worthy places to meet and eat are Butler's Chocolate Cafe (a central hub), Bistro-E, and Bella Italia. For more insta-worthy eateries, please visit the following link as restaurants are always in the rise. Most insta-worthy eateries are located in the Gulshan/Baridhara districts of Dhaka city.


Some popular dishes in Bangladesh include fuchka, cold coffee, tea, kachi biriyani, morog poloa, Comilla rasmalai, luchi, kebab, and more.




DHAKA WEDDING SEASON & DAWATS


December is the best month to visit Bangladesh for a few primary reasons. First, as Bangladesh consists of six seasons, the December weather is cool. Another major reason to visit Bangladesh during December is its Wedding Season! Weddings in Bangladesh become bigger each year. To be involved or simply to attend a Bangladeshi wedding is an exceptional highlight of any Bangladesh trip! Below are some photos from my aunt and uncle's wedding (2016).




Another exceptional highlight of traveling to Bangladesh is traveling with Bangladeshi companions or at least knowing Bangladeshis residing in the country. This is because you will be obligated to attend "dawats" or invitations. Although too many consecutive dawats during your stay may become exhausting, dawats are another exploration of Bangladeshi culture.




Amongst all the chaos and pollution that pervades the city streets, Bangladesh possesses brilliance worth visiting for any kind of traveler!


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