7-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary in Bangladesh

Friday, November 10: Dhaka

Start your trip in the bustling capital city of Dhaka. In the morning, explore the historic Old Dhaka area, visiting attractions such as Lalbagh Fort and Ahsan Manzil. In the afternoon, take a boat ride on the Buriganga River to experience the vibrant river life. As the evening sets in, immerse yourself in the flavors of local street food at the bustling food markets of Chawkbazar.

• Old Dhaka: Entrance fees vary, estimated time spent: 4 hours
• Buriganga River boat ride: BDT 300 ($3), estimated time spent: 2 hours
• Chawkbazar food markets: Budget around BDT 500 ($6) for food, estimated time spent: 2 hours

Saturday, November 11: Sundarbans

Embark on an adventurous trip to the Sundarbans, the world's largest mangrove forest and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the morning, take a boat ride through the narrow creeks to spot wildlife, including the Royal Bengal Tiger. In the afternoon, visit the Karamjal Wildlife Rescue Center to learn about conservation efforts. As the evening sets in, enjoy a peaceful sunset over the vast mangrove expanse.

• Sundarbans boat tour: BDT 3,000 ($35), estimated time spent: 8 hours
• Karamjal Wildlife Rescue Center: BDT 100 ($1), estimated time spent: 2 hours

Sunday, November 12: Cox's Bazar

Head to Cox's Bazar, the longest natural sea beach in the world. In the morning, relax on the sandy shores and take a dip in the Bay of Bengal. In the afternoon, visit Himchari National Park and enjoy the scenic views from the hilltop. As the evening sets in, explore the vibrant beach market and try some fresh seafood.

• Himchari National Park: Entrance fee BDT 50 ($0.60), estimated time spent: 4 hours
• Beach Market: Budget around BDT 500 ($6) for shopping, estimated time spent: 2 hours

Monday, November 13: Sylhet

Travel to the picturesque city of Sylhet, known for its tea gardens and natural beauty. In the morning, visit the lush green tea estates of Srimangal and take a guided tour to learn about the tea-making process. In the afternoon, explore the enchanting Ratargul Swamp Forest, also known as the Amazon of Bangladesh. As the evening sets in, enjoy a cup of aromatic Sylheti tea.

• Srimangal tea estate tour: BDT 500 ($6), estimated time spent: 4 hours
• Ratargul Swamp Forest: Boat ride BDT 300 ($3), estimated time spent: 2 hours

Tuesday, November 14: Chittagong

Visit the vibrant port city of Chittagong. In the morning, explore the historic sites of Foy's Lake and War Cemetery. In the afternoon, visit the Ethnological Museum to learn about the local culture and heritage. As the evening sets in, take a stroll along Patenga Beach and savor some delicious seafood from the nearby beachside stalls.

• Foy's Lake: Entrance fee BDT 100 ($1), estimated time spent: 4 hours
• Ethnological Museum: Entrance fee BDT 100 ($1), estimated time spent: 2 hours
• Patenga Beach: Free, estimated time spent: 2 hours

Wednesday, November 15: Rangamati

Travel to the scenic town of Rangamati, located amidst the hills and lakes of the Chittagong Hill Tracts. In the morning, take a boat ride on the beautiful Kaptai Lake and enjoy the serene surroundings. In the afternoon, visit the Tribal Cultural Museum to learn about the indigenous communities. As the evening sets in, explore the Rangamati Hanging Bridge and enjoy the panoramic views.

• Kaptai Lake boat ride: BDT 300 ($3), estimated time spent: 4 hours
• Tribal Cultural Museum: Entrance fee BDT 50 ($0.60), estimated time spent: 2 hours
• Rangamati Hanging Bridge: Free, estimated time spent: 1 hour

Thursday, November 16: Dhaka

Return to Dhaka for your departure. In the morning, visit the National Parliament House, an architectural marvel. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant shopping district of New Market and pick up some souvenirs. As the evening sets in, indulge in a farewell dinner at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of Bangladeshi cuisine.

• National Parliament House: Entrance fee BDT 200 ($2), estimated time spent: 2 hours
• New Market: Budget around BDT 500 ($6) for shopping, estimated time spent: 2 hours
• Farewell dinner: Budget around BDT 1,000 ($12) for a meal, estimated time spent: 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting the Bagerhat Mosque City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing beautiful medieval mosques. Explore the tranquil beauty of the tea gardens in Maulvibazar and experience the local tea culture. Take a trip to the Somapura Mahavihara in Paharpur, an ancient Buddhist monastery dating back to the 8th century. These hidden gems offer unique experiences while sticking to a shoestring budget.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.