Currency & Payment

Bangladesh uses the Bangladeshi taka (BDT, ৳), divided into 100 poisha. The taka is a closed currency that mainly circulates within Bangladesh, so it is hard to obtain or exchange abroad. Many travellers bring US dollars and exchange them locally. Cash is still widely used, especially outside the main cities.

Since the taka is hard to get abroad, most travellers change money after arrival. Banks and licensed money changers at the airport and in cities exchange major currencies, with US dollars widely accepted. Keep your exchange receipts, as you may need them to convert leftover taka back before departure. Compare rates and avoid unofficial street changers.

Visa and Mastercard are accepted at hotels, larger shops, restaurants and some travel agencies in Dhaka and Chittagong, but card acceptance drops sharply in smaller towns and rural areas. Away from the main cities you should expect to pay in cash. Tell your bank you are travelling and keep enough cash for places that do not take cards.

ATMs are common in Dhaka, Chittagong and other cities, and many accept international Visa and Mastercard. Withdrawal limits per transaction can be modest and foreign-card fees may apply, so plan larger cash needs in advance. Use ATMs at banks or inside secure locations, decline home-currency conversion for a better rate, and carry backup cash when heading to rural areas.

Mobile financial services are very widely used in Bangladesh, with providers such as bKash, Nagad and Rocket handling everyday payments and transfers. However, these services usually require a local mobile number and account, so most short-term visitors cannot use them easily. Travellers generally rely on cash and cards instead, while a local host or guide may use mobile money on your behalf.

Tipping in Bangladesh, often called baksheesh, is common but not strictly obligatory. Some restaurants add a service charge, in which case an extra tip is optional; otherwise rounding up or leaving a small amount is appreciated. Small tips for hotel staff, drivers and porters are customary. Tipping is a personal choice, so give what feels reasonable for the service.

Bangladesh is generally an affordable destination for travellers, with low costs for local food, public transport and everyday items. Dhaka and tourist-focused hotels are pricier than smaller towns, and imported goods cost more. In markets and with rickshaws, prices are often negotiable, so agree a fare or price before you start. Prices change over time, so treat any figures as rough guidance.

Bangladesh applies value added tax (VAT) on many goods and services, which is usually included in the price you pay. Unlike some tourist destinations, Bangladesh does not have a broad, well-known tourist VAT-refund scheme for departing visitors, so you should generally not expect to reclaim VAT on your purchases. If you buy high-value items, ask the seller about any applicable rules and check with the tax authority for the latest information.