Bangladesh: The Gateway to Cultural Paradise

While most tourists favor destinations outside the USA that boast of world-class shopping experience, royal accommodations and breathtaking architectural wonders, it’s undeniable that simplicity and authenticity still matter for those wanting to experience something far from the exploits of human development and illusions of man-made grandeur. Defying the first world artificiality and commerciality is Bangladesh with her pristine destinations and warm culture. What she lacks in economic competitiveness, she compensates with fulfilled promises of travel experience of a lifetime. Culture and nature lovers will surely find the tourist attractions in Bangladesh a paradise worth topping any itinerary.

Bashundhara - the largest mall in the country*

Idyllically situated in the tropics of South Asia, Bangladesh prides herself in nurturing three World Heritage sites, in addition to marvelous landscapes and mélange of flora and fauna. The culture is a proud mixture of Bengali from centuries back, Islam practices, which is also the dominating religion in the nation, a tinge of Western culture left behind by the British invasion especially in the major Bengal (now separated into parts of India and Bangladesh) and influence of Hindu tradition from nearby India. The country falls short of modernity when compared to developing countries, but she teems with heritage and archaeological wonders that are more than enough to give ecstatic travel to searching souls.

Somapura Mahavihara - one of the three World Heritage Sites in the country*

A parade of color in Dhaka, the capital city*

One of the renowned tourist attractions in Bangladesh is the Historic Mosque City of Bagerhat, a 15^th century architectural extravaganza founded by Turkish invaders to serve as piety to Islam. Lying 50 kilometers from the fork of Ganges and Brahmaputra rivers, this ancient city is home to an astonishing 360 mosques, mausoleums, public infrastructures, bridges and roads, all made from baked bricks. Most noticeable structure in the entirety is the Mosque of Shait Gumbad which is venerated for its big prayer room.

Sixty Tomb Mosque - one of the three World Heritage Sites in the country*

Another World Heritage site to feast the eyes on is the Ruins of the Buddhist Vihara at Paharpur. Dating back from the 7^th century, this Great Monastery was center of information trade that lasted for half a millennium. The Buddhist tradition seemingly lurking behind the boulders of ancient civilization greets tourists with history at its finest just like how the rubbles of Athens represent human development itself.

Westin Hotel in Dhaka*

Giving contrast to the country’s rich antiquity is the urban facilities of Dhaka, the capital city of Bangladesh. As the industrial and commercial center, tourists can expect city living merged with tradition and custom of the people. Whether one is budget conscious or into credit lavishing, the city will surely offer sufficient amenities to satisfy citizens from the big cities. Experience old-fashioned transportation via rickshaw, counting to more than half a million which is more abundant than any cities in the world, or dine-in at the high-class communities of Banani and Gulshan. Tourists will not run out of new things to experience in a country as unique as Bangladesh.

Are you still asking “why go to Dhaka”? Shopping in the city is dancing with colors as you move with the fast-paced people and sights. Fall in love with the exotic pink pearls with eternal luster which the country is famous for. Choose from a wide range of jute products—handicrafts, bags, shoes and other useful accessories good for exporting. Gold and silver are also aplenty in Dhaka stores. Some visitors claim them to be the finest in the world.

Sundarbans - the largest mangrove forest in the world*

Getting tired of man-made wonders is not a problem as this tropical paradise is also the location of the world’s largest mangrove forest, the Sundarbans. Truly a paradise of flora and fauna, this natural UNESCO World Heritage site is home to the majestic Bengal tiger, the lord of the jungle for thousands of years. Sadly, its five sub-species are beginning to find extinction. Sundarbans is indeed a last-frontier.

The now endangered Royal Bengal Tiger*

Bangladesh has more to offer than what a hungry explorer can ask for. It’s a wonder developed by thousands of years of culture evolution. See for yourself the promise of grand vacation, not only for the body but for the mind and soul.

Cox's Bazar - the longest natural beach in the world*

* Photos courtesy of Wikipedia

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James Henry Abrina is an editor, writer, SEO specialist and currently a Corporate Communication Professional, Market Desk Strategist, Business Development Officer and Unit Head for Business Profiles Incorporated.

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