Bangladesh Getting Around

Getting Around

By Plane There are airports in Rajshahi, Jessore, Coxs Bazaar and some other small cities. Most of the domestic airports are served by either Biman, the national airline or GMG the private competitor. Air Travel in Bangladesh is very affordbale and convenient. By Bus Unlike standard US or Western bus, regular Bangladeshi buses are generally crowded and often to the extent of people riding on the bus steps (entrance) and even on roof of some buses. However there are luxurious air conditioned bus services connecting major cities like Dhaka, Chittagong, Rajshahi, Khulna, Sylhet, Jessore, Bogra and others. By car WARNING: Driving in Bangladesh is NOT advisable for drivers used to the western organised style of driving. Driving in Bangladesh is not for the faint hearted, the road network is now good but you will be amused to see BMWs and Mercedes using the same streets as rickshaws. This being said, tourists will find it quite easy to get around Dhaka city using cabs. There are three types of cabs, the yellow cabs (with AC), the Black or Blue cabs (w/o AC) and the CNG gas operated three wheelers, generally called 'Green CNG'. The drivers will try and over charge if you are obviously a foreigner, although they are all fitted with government issued meters. Traffic in Dhaka city have reached unbearable proportions of late and it is advisable to leave and hour or 30 minutes earlier for any appointments. By train The principal rail station, Kamlapur Rail Station, is located in Dhaka. All of the major cities of Bangladesh are connected with Dhaka by rail but due to the existence of broad gauge and meter gauge tracks in different parts of the country, it may be required to change trains at certain places. Bangladesh Railways is the state and only train operator. The ticket prices are reasonable and usually similar to bus ticket prices and often much cheaper. However, due to the roundabout routes, the journey durations are usually much longer than if one goes by bus. Tickets can be booked over the phone. In terms of comfort, trains have an advantage over buses in terms of legroom. Though the carriages are generally nor very clean, the AC and 1st Class seats are quite manageable. Most importantly, however, journey by train is not very safe in Bangladesh since a large number of accidents compared to other countries occur. By boat Bangladesh has over 230 mighty and small rivers through out the country and hence the river communication using ferry, launch and steamer services and boats are an integral part for commuting for locals among districts. Traditional boats are mainly used for fishing. Motorized/steel made boats are uncommon in most areas. A journey along the river in any mode is probably the best way to view the wonderful natural beauty of Bangladesh. There are a number of private tour operators offering riverine trips of various lengths. The 'Rocket' (steamer) service between Dhaka-Barisal-Khulna is another best way to enjoy riverine Bangladesh. However, it is advisable to avoid launch services during the rainy seasons and during holidays when the launches get over crowded with home-returning city dwellers.