Getting around Bangladesh is part of the adventure. You can fly between regions in under an hour, take a train through the paddy fields, sleep on an overnight river launch or ride a cycle rickshaw through Old Dhaka. Traffic is heavy, so plan realistic travel times. This guide covers each option.
Domestic flights
Biman Bangladesh, US-Bangla Airlines and Novoair fly from Dhaka to Chattogram, Cox’s Bazar, Sylhet, Jashore (for the Sundarbans), Rajshahi, Saidpur and Barishal. Flights take 40 to 60 minutes and save a long day on the road. Winter fog can delay early morning departures.
Trains
Bangladesh Railway connects Dhaka with Sylhet, Sreemangal, Chattogram, Rajshahi, Khulna and other cities. Intercity trains are comfortable and scenic, especially the line to Sreemangal through tea country. Book an air-conditioned seat (AC chair) or berth. Tickets sell out quickly and are sold online through the official e-ticket system, so let your tour operator book them.
River launches and boats
Rivers are the country’s old highways. Large overnight launches run from Sadarghat in Dhaka to Barishal and other southern towns, with private cabins. It is an unforgettable experience. Since the Padma Bridge opened in 2022, the road to the southwest is much faster, but the river journey is still worth doing once. In the Sundarbans, all travel is by boat.
Private car and driver
For most visitors, a car with a professional driver is the safest and most flexible way to travel. Self-drive is not recommended: driving here takes local experience. All our tours include an air-conditioned vehicle and driver.
In the cities
- Dhaka Metro Rail: the elevated MRT Line 6 runs north to south through the city and beats the traffic.
- Ride-hailing: Uber and the local app Pathao work in Dhaka and Chattogram, for cars and motorbikes.
- CNG auto-rickshaws: green three-wheelers. Agree the fare before you start.
- Cycle rickshaws: perfect for short trips and Old Dhaka’s lanes. Agree the fare first.
Buses
Long-distance coaches link all major towns and range from basic to comfortable AC services. Local buses are very crowded and not recommended for visitors.
Realistic travel times by road
- Dhaka to Sreemangal: about 4 to 5 hours
- Dhaka to Bagerhat or Khulna: about 4 to 5 hours via the Padma Bridge
- Dhaka to Sylhet: about 5 to 6 hours
- Dhaka to Bogura or Paharpur: about 5 to 7 hours
Times depend heavily on traffic, especially leaving Dhaka. We plan early starts to avoid the worst of it.
Frequently asked questions
Is it easy to travel independently in Bangladesh?
It is possible, but harder than in most of Asia because signs are often only in Bangla and tourist infrastructure is limited. Many first-time visitors prefer a guide for at least part of the trip.
How do I get from Dhaka airport to the city?
Use a pre-booked car, a ride-hailing app or the airport taxi counter. Allow one to two hours to central Dhaka at busy times. We meet all our guests at the airport.
