Travel Advisory
Please check your government's official travel advisory before departure. Situations can change rapidly.
Safety Level
Official risk level and travel advisories
Bangladesh is a densely populated South Asian country. Exercise increased caution for traffic, crowds, petty theft and occasional political demonstrations.
- Overall risk
- Moderate; safe with sensible precautions
- Main concern
- Heavy traffic, crowds, pickpocketing and demonstrations
- Emergency number
- 999 (all services)
- Most visits are trouble-free. Stay alert in crowded areas of Dhaka and Chittagong, avoid political gatherings, and check the latest advice for the Chittagong Hill Tracts, where access rules may apply.
Danger Zones & Areas to Avoid
Regions with poor security or restricted access
Access to the Chittagong Hill Tracts may be restricted and can require permits. Avoid areas where demonstrations or political gatherings take place.
- Chittagong Hill Tracts
- Permits or restrictions may apply; check current rules
- Demonstrations
- Keep away from political rallies and large crowds
- Most tourist areas are accessible with normal caution. In the Chittagong Hill Tracts, local access rules can change, so confirm the latest requirements before travelling there.
Natural Disaster Risks
Earthquakes, typhoons, floods, and other hazards
Bangladesh is a low-lying delta prone to monsoon rains, flooding and Bay of Bengal cyclones. The rainy season runs roughly June to October.
- Monsoon
- Heavy rain and flooding, roughly June to October
- Cyclones
- Risk from the Bay of Bengal, mainly pre- and post-monsoon
- Climate
- Hot and humid summers
- Flooding can disrupt roads and travel in low-lying areas. During cyclone warnings, follow local authorities and move to designated shelters. Check forecasts before travelling in the rainy season.
Health & Disease Risks
Endemic diseases and hygiene concerns
Do not drink tap water. Mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue occur, and food and water hygiene need care. Check vaccinations before travel.
- Tap water
- Not safe to drink; use bottled or treated water
- Mosquitoes
- Dengue and other mosquito-borne diseases occur
- Emergency
- 999 for ambulance
- Consult a travel clinic about recommended vaccinations well before departure. Use mosquito repellent, drink bottled water, and choose freshly cooked food. Private hospitals in Dhaka offer better care; carry personal medication.
Crime & Scam Trends
Common crimes and scams targeting tourists
Pickpocketing and bag snatching occur in crowded markets, transport hubs and busy streets of Dhaka and Chittagong. Keep valuables secure.
- Main risk
- Pickpocketing and bag snatching in crowds
- Hotspots
- Markets, bus and rail stations, busy streets
- Advice
- Keep valuables out of sight; be wary in traffic
- Thieves target distracted travellers in crowded places. Keep bags closed and in front of you, avoid displaying cash or phones, and use reputable transport, especially at night.
Political Situation & Protests
Political instability and potential demonstrations
Political demonstrations, strikes and rallies can occur, sometimes at short notice, and may disrupt transport. Avoid all gatherings.
- Demonstrations
- Can occur at short notice and disrupt transport
- Advice
- Avoid rallies and follow local news
- Political events and general strikes (hartals) may affect roads and services. Keep away from crowds and protests, monitor local media, and follow instructions from local authorities.
Local Laws & Prohibitions
Important local laws and penalties for travelers
Bangladesh is a majority-Muslim country with conservative customs. Dress modestly, respect Ramadan, and note that alcohol is restricted. Traffic drives on the left.
- Dress
- Modest clothing appreciated, especially at religious sites
- Ramadan
- Avoid eating and drinking in public during daylight
- Alcohol
- Restricted; available only in licensed venues
- Cover shoulders and knees and remove shoes at mosques; ask before photographing people. Traffic drives on the left. Penalties for drug offences are severe. Follow local customs respectfully.
Emergency Contacts
Police, ambulance, and fire department numbers
Dial 999 for all emergencies: police, ambulance and fire. It is the national integrated emergency number.
- All emergencies
- 999
- Country code
- +880
- Advice
- Note your hotel address and embassy contact
- 999 is the integrated national line for police, ambulance and fire. English may be limited, so keep your address in Bengali if possible and note your embassy details.
Embassy & Consulate Info
Location and contact details of your embassy
No embassy or consulate information is available for your selected nationality in this country.
Travel Insurance
Recommended coverage and tips for choosing a policy
Carry comprehensive travel insurance with strong medical cover and medical evacuation, as serious cases may need treatment abroad.
- Medical cover
- Comprehensive insurance strongly recommended
- Evacuation
- Include medical evacuation and repatriation
- Include
- Cover for activities and pre-existing conditions
- Private hospitals in Dhaka offer better care but can be costly. Ensure your policy covers hospital treatment, medical evacuation to a regional hub if needed, and repatriation.