Getting There

Most international travelers arrive by air at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka. It is the main hub and handles the bulk of international traffic. A second international airport, Shah Amanat International Airport in Chittagong, handles some regional flights. Several major airlines fly direct to Dhaka from the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and South Asia. There are no direct flights from North America or Europe — you will connect through Dubai, Doha, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, or another hub.

Travelers coming from India have more options. There are bus and train connections between Kolkata and Dhaka, and a rail link between Agartala (Tripura) and Akhaura. Overland crossings are generally straightforward, but queues at the Benapole–Petrapole border crossing (the main road crossing between Kolkata and Dhaka) can be very long. A faster option is the Maitree Express train, which runs between Kolkata and Dhaka Cantonment several times a week.

Visas: Citizens of many countries can get a visa on arrival at Dhaka airport, valid for 15–30 days, for a $50 USD fee payable in cash. However, the process can be slow and is not guaranteed — it is safer to apply in advance at a Bangladeshi embassy or through the e-visa portal. Processing typically takes a few weeks. Check current requirements carefully before traveling.