Famous Landmarks in Bangladesh
Bangladesh, located in South Asia, is a country rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Despite being one of the most densely populated nations in the world, it is a relatively unexplored destination for international tourists. With a history that dates back thousands of years, Bangladesh offers visitors a wide array of landmarks, including ancient ruins, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, vibrant cities, and stunning natural landscapes like the Sundarbans mangrove forest, home to the Royal Bengal tiger. The country’s rivers, lush countryside, and friendly people add to its charm, while bustling cities like Dhaka and Chittagong provide a glimpse into modern Bangladeshi life.
While the tourism infrastructure in Bangladesh is still developing, travelers seeking authentic experiences, adventure, and cultural immersion will find much to explore. Below are the top 10 famous landmarks in Bangladesh that showcase the country’s historical, cultural, and natural diversity.
1. Sundarbans Mangrove Forest
Overview
The Sundarbans Mangrove Forest is one of the largest mangrove forests in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spanning both Bangladesh and India, the Sundarbans is famous for its biodiversity, particularly as the home of the endangered Royal Bengal tiger. The forest’s dense mangroves and network of waterways offer a unique environment where visitors can explore by boat, spotting wildlife like crocodiles, spotted deer, and a variety of bird species. The Sundarbans is an essential destination for nature lovers and adventurers.
Location
- Province: Khulna Division
- Coordinates: 21.9497° N, 89.1833° E
Ticket Price
- Entry Fee: Approximately 300 BDT ($3.50 USD) for foreign visitors, with additional fees for boat tours and guides.
Nearby Airports
- Jessore Airport (JSR): Located about 100 km from the Sundarbans, with road and boat connections to the forest.
Railway Stations
- Khulna Railway Station: The nearest major station, located about 50 km from the Sundarbans, with buses and boats connecting visitors to the forest.
Special Attention
Wildlife Protection: Visitors should be aware that the Sundarbans is a protected area, and all activities must comply with conservation guidelines to protect the fragile ecosystem.
2. Ahsan Manzil (Pink Palace)
Overview
Ahsan Manzil, also known as the Pink Palace, is one of the most famous architectural landmarks in Bangladesh, located on the banks of the Buriganga River in Dhaka. Built in the 19th century, this stunning palace was the official residence of the Nawab family of Dhaka and has since been converted into a museum. The building’s distinctive pink façade and grand interiors reflect the opulence of Dhaka’s aristocratic past. Visitors can explore the palace’s galleries, which showcase relics and artifacts from the Nawab period.
Location
- City: Dhaka
- Coordinates: 23.7099° N, 90.4055° E
Ticket Price
- Entry Fee: 500 BDT ($5.85 USD) for foreign visitors.
Nearby Airports
- Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (DAC): Approximately 20 km from Ahsan Manzil.
Railway Stations
- Kamalapur Railway Station: The main train station in Dhaka, located about 5 km from Ahsan Manzil.
Special Attention
Restoration Efforts: Ahsan Manzil has undergone extensive restoration, and visitors are encouraged to respect the historic structure by following designated tour routes and refraining from touching exhibits.
3. Lalbagh Fort
Overview
Lalbagh Fort is an incomplete Mughal fort complex in the heart of Dhaka. Construction began in 1678 under Mughal prince Muhammad Azam but was never completed. Today, Lalbagh Fort remains a popular historical site, with its gardens, mosque, and tomb of Pari Bibi (the daughter of a Mughal governor) attracting both locals and tourists. The architecture of the fort reflects classic Mughal design, and the site offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city streets of Dhaka.
Location
- City: Dhaka
- Coordinates: 23.7196° N, 90.3885° E
Ticket Price
- Entry Fee: 200 BDT ($2.35 USD) for foreign visitors.
Nearby Airports
- Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (DAC): About 18 km from Lalbagh Fort.
Railway Stations
- Kamalapur Railway Station: Located approximately 7 km from the fort.
Special Attention
Cultural Significance: Visitors should take time to explore the gardens and architectural details, and note that the fort is a symbol of Dhaka’s historical significance during the Mughal Empire.
4. Sixty Dome Mosque (Shat Gombuj Masjid)
Overview
The Sixty Dome Mosque, or Shat Gombuj Masjid, is one of the most famous Islamic landmarks in Bangladesh and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located in the city of Bagerhat, this mosque was built in the 15th century by the Turkish general Ulugh Khan Jahan. Despite its name, the mosque actually has 77 domes supported by 60 stone columns. The mosque is an excellent example of Tughlaq architecture, and its peaceful atmosphere draws both worshippers and history enthusiasts.
Location
- City: Bagerhat, Khulna Division
- Coordinates: 22.6747° N, 89.7410° E
Ticket Price
- Entry Fee: 200 BDT ($2.35 USD) for foreign visitors.
Nearby Airports
- Jessore Airport (JSR): Located about 60 km from Bagerhat.
Railway Stations
- Khulna Railway Station: The nearest major station, located about 30 km from the mosque.
Special Attention
Respectful Dress Code: As an active place of worship, visitors are required to dress modestly and remove their shoes before entering the mosque.
5. Mahasthangarh
Overview
Mahasthangarh is the oldest archaeological site in Bangladesh, dating back to at least the 3rd century BC. Located in the Bogura district, it was once the capital of the Pundra Kingdom. Visitors can explore the ancient city’s ruins, including temples, fortifications, and a museum that houses artifacts from the site. Mahasthangarh offers a fascinating glimpse into Bangladesh’s ancient history, showcasing the remains of a once-thriving urban center.
Location
- City: Bogura, Rajshahi Division
- Coordinates: 24.9681° N, 89.3572° E
Ticket Price
- Entry Fee: 200 BDT ($2.35 USD) for foreign visitors.
Nearby Airports
- Shah Makhdum Airport (RJH): Located about 100 km from Mahasthangarh.
Railway Stations
- Bogura Railway Station: Located about 15 km from the site, with bus and taxi services available.
Special Attention
Ancient Relics: Visitors interested in history and archaeology should not miss the on-site museum, which houses an impressive collection of terracotta plaques, pottery, and sculptures from various periods of the region’s history.
6. Cox’s Bazar Beach
Overview
Cox’s Bazar is home to the longest natural sea beach in the world, stretching over 120 km along the Bay of Bengal. A major tourist destination, the beach offers stunning ocean views, golden sand, and numerous activities such as surfing, beach volleyball, and boat rides to nearby islands like Saint Martin’s Island. Cox’s Bazar is the perfect destination for beach lovers looking to relax or explore the local culture through nearby markets and seafood restaurants.
Location
- City: Cox’s Bazar, Chittagong Division
- Coordinates: 21.4272° N, 92.0058° E
Ticket Price
- Entry Fee: Free to access the beach, though activities and tours may have additional costs.
Nearby Airports
- Cox’s Bazar Airport (CXB): Located just 5 km from the beach.
Railway Stations
There are no railway stations in Cox’s Bazar, but train services are available to Chittagong, with buses and cars connecting travelers to the beach.
Special Attention
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Cox’s Bazar is from November to March, when the weather is cooler and the sea is calmer for water activities.
7. Somapura Mahavihara
Overview
Somapura Mahavihara, located in Paharpur, is one of the largest and most significant Buddhist monasteries in South Asia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the 8th century during the reign of the Pala dynasty, the monastery is known for its impressive architecture and intricate terracotta decorations. The sprawling complex features a large central stupa surrounded by smaller shrines and living quarters for monks. Somapura Mahavihara is an important site for those interested in Buddhism and ancient architecture.
Location
- City: Paharpur, Naogaon District
- Coordinates: 25.0312° N, 88.9764° E
Ticket Price
- Entry Fee: 200 BDT ($2.35 USD) for foreign visitors.
Nearby Airports
- Shah Makhdum Airport (RJH): Located about 100 km from Somapura Mahavihara.
Railway Stations
- Naogaon Railway Station: The nearest station, located about 35 km from the site, with road transport available.
Special Attention
Historical Exploration: Visitors are encouraged to take a guided tour to fully appreciate the history and significance of this ancient monastery.
8. Jatiyo Sangsad Bhaban (National Parliament House)
Overview
The Jatiyo Sangsad Bhaban, designed by renowned American architect Louis Kahn, is the seat of Bangladesh’s National Parliament and a masterpiece of modernist architecture. Located in Dhaka, the building’s striking geometric design and surrounding artificial lakes make it one of the most impressive governmental buildings in the world. Visitors can admire the exterior and the surrounding grounds, and on certain occasions, guided tours of the interior are available.
Location
- City: Dhaka
- Coordinates: 23.7625° N, 90.3781° E
Ticket Price
- Entry Fee: Viewing from the outside is free. Tours of the interior are limited and typically arranged through special permission.
Nearby Airports
- Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (DAC): About 15 km from the National Parliament House.
Railway Stations
- Kamalapur Railway Station: Located about 10 km from the Jatiyo Sangsad Bhaban.
Special Attention
Architectural Tours: For those interested in architecture, guided tours of the Jatiyo Sangsad Bhaban offer an in-depth look at the unique design and construction of this iconic building.
9. Saint Martin’s Island
Overview
Saint Martin’s Island is the only coral island in Bangladesh, located in the Bay of Bengal near the coast of Myanmar. Known for its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and coral reefs, the island is a tropical paradise and a popular destination for snorkeling, diving, and relaxation. Visitors can explore the island’s natural beauty, sample local seafood, and enjoy the serene environment far from the hustle and bustle of the mainland.
Location
- City: Saint Martin’s Island, Chittagong Division
- Coordinates: 20.6290° N, 92.3225° E
Ticket Price
- Entry Fee: Free to access the island, though boat rides and activities like snorkeling may have additional costs.
Nearby Airports
- Cox’s Bazar Airport (CXB): Located about 100 km from Saint Martin’s Island, with boat services available from Teknaf.
Railway Stations
There are no railway stations near Saint Martin’s Island, but train services to Chittagong are available, with onward transport to Teknaf.
Special Attention
Environmental Responsibility: Saint Martin’s Island is an ecologically sensitive area, so visitors should follow sustainable tourism practices, avoid littering, and respect the coral reefs.
10. Ramna Park
Overview
Ramna Park is a large public park and garden located in the heart of Dhaka. Known for its beautiful greenery, lakes, and peaceful walking paths, the park is a popular spot for both locals and tourists seeking a respite from the bustling city. Ramna Park is also home to several cultural events, including the traditional Bengali New Year (Pohela Boishakh) celebrations. The park’s serene environment makes it an ideal place for leisurely walks, picnics, and photography.
Location
- City: Dhaka
- Coordinates: 23.7360° N, 90.4075° E
Ticket Price
- Entry Fee: Free to enter.
Nearby Airports
- Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (DAC): About 16 km from Ramna Park.
Railway Stations
- Kamalapur Railway Station: Located about 5 km from Ramna Park.
Special Attention
Best Time for a Visit: Early morning or late afternoon are ideal times to visit Ramna Park to avoid the heat and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.