Bangladesh

⚠️ SAFETY WARNING: Due to heightened political volatility ahead of the February 2026 elections, frequent nationwide strikes, and risks of terrorism and violent crime, government agencies (including CA, USA, UK, AU, IE, and NZ) advise travelers to reconsider their need to travel or avoid non-essential travel to Bangladesh. Security situations can escalate quickly, particularly near protest sites and in the Chittagong Hill Tracts. Families are strongly urged to consult their own government's official travel advisory before considering a trip, as circumstances and risk assessments vary.

For families undertaking essential travel or visiting with careful preparation, Bangladesh presents a landscape defined by water. Located on the massive Ganges-Brahmaputra delta, the country is a lush tapestry of rivers, canals, and wetlands. The pace of life is dictated by the seasons, with the monsoon bringing heavy rains that transform the countryside into a vast, verdant waterworld. While infrastructure can be challenging, the warmth of the local people often helps smooth the journey.

The crown jewel for nature lovers is the Sundarbans, the world's largest mangrove forest. Here, families can take multi-day boat safaris, sleeping on vessels anchored in the river channels. It is one of the few places to see the Royal Bengal tiger in the wild, though sightings are rare; however, spotting spotted deer, saltwater crocodiles, and river dolphins is common. The silence of the forest, broken only by bird calls and splashing water, offers a stark contrast to the country's busy cities.

For a cooler climate and open spaces, Srimangal in the northeast is known as the tea capital. Families can cycle along paths winding through endless green tea estates or trek in Lawachara National Park to spot the endangered hoolock gibbon. The region's Seven Layer Tea is a curious local novelty that children often find fascinating. In the capital, Dhaka, the chaos is part of the experience. A ride on a cycle rickshaw-painted with bright, folk-art scenes-is an essential activity. Historical sites like the pink-hued Ahsan Manzil and the incomplete 17th-century Lalbagh Fort provide enclosed spaces where kids can run around and explore history.

Dining in Bangladesh is a highlight, with river fish and rice being staples. While spicy curries are common, the country is famous for its sweets, or mishti, such as rosogolla (syrup-soaked cheese balls), which are usually a hit with children. Travelers should pack conservative clothing to respect local customs and be prepared for significant traffic delays when moving between destinations.