Discover ✦ Explore ✦ ProtectDiscover ✦ Explore ✦ Protect
Dhaka, Bangladesh
Private Tour
Trekkers on the 7-day Discover Ancient North in Bangladesh can expect an enriching blend of culture, history, and adventure as they explore the country’s lesser-known gems. This journey will take you through lush landscapes, past ancient ruins, and into vibrant local communities, providing a unique insight into Bangladesh’s rich heritage and traditions. Along the way, participants will enjoy guided tours of historical sites, engage with local artisans, and experience the warmth of Bangladeshi hospitality, all while traversing diverse terrains that showcase the natural beauty of the region.
On this day, we look forward to welcoming you in Dhaka, where our guide will be ready to greet you at the airport. Upon your arrival, our guide will assist you with your hotel check-in, allowing you time to rest and relax.
If time permits, we can arrange an introductory sightseeing tour of the vibrant capital city of Bangladesh.
To ensure a smooth arrangement, please provide your arrival flight details, enabling our guide to be prepared for your welcome at the airport. Once we have your flight information, we will finalize the day’s itinerary.
Meals: Included (subject to airport pick-up schedule)
Accommodation: Hotel Empyrean (4-star), Studio23 (3-star), Hotel Heaven Inn (3-star), or similar in Dhaka.
Today, we will embark on a visit to Sonargaon, located near Dhaka. Once the former capital of Bangladesh, Sonargaon is rich in history and culture, having served as a significant center for trade and commerce. Now a popular tourist destination, it features numerous historic landmarks and cultural attractions. Highlights of our visit include the Panam City ruins, the Folk Art and Crafts Museum, and the historic Goaldi Mosque, where you can delve into the city’s vibrant history and learn about Bangladesh’s cultural heritage.
After our exploration, we will return to your hotel.
Meals: Included (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Accommodation: Hotel Empyrean (4-star), Studio23 (3-star), Hotel Heaven Inn (3-star), or similar in Dhaka.
Our morning journey to Rajshahi from Dhaka will be conducted in an air-conditioned bus or vehicle for your comfort. Upon arrival, we will check you into your hotel, allowing you some time to rest and rejuvenate.
If time allows, we can embark on a brief sightseeing tour to explore the nearby attractions of the city.
Meals: Included (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Accommodation: Hotel Royal Raj (4-star) or similar in Rajshahi.
Today, we will embark on a full-day excursion to Chapainawabganj and its surrounding areas. Our exploration will include significant tourist attractions such as the Choto Sona Mosque, Darasbari Mosque, and the Tahkhana Complex. We will also visit the Sonamasjid land port and a local mango orchard, enhancing our experience with the region’s cultural and natural delights, ensuring you create lasting memories.
Following our time in Chapainawabganj, we will conduct a comprehensive sightseeing tour of Rajshahi city, aiming to visit key destinations like the Barendra Museum, Puthia Palace, and various ancient and medieval Hindu temples.
After an enriching day, we will return to our hotel for an overnight stay.
Meals: Included (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Accommodation: Hotel Royal Raj (4-star) or similar in Rajshahi.
Our morning will kick off with a day trip from Rajshahi to Naogaon in an air-conditioned vehicle. Naogaon is renowned for its rich cultural and historical heritage, with the Sompura Buddhist Mahavihara being a highlighted attraction; recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is one of the five ancient universities built in the Indian subcontinent.
Following our exploration, we will head to Bogura where we will check into our hotel for a comfortable overnight stay.
Meals: Included (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Accommodation: Hotel Naz Garden (4-star) / Hotel La Villa (3-star) or similar in Bogura.
Today, we will delve into the historical significance of Bogura, often known as the gateway to North Bengal. Our exploration will take us through ancient sites that reveal its rich past; from being the land of the Pundra Civilization and home to the Pundrabardhan Kingdom, to serving as a strategic administrative center for dynasties such as the Maurya, Gupta, Pala, and Sena. We aim to visit and experience the historical importance of notable attractions including the Mahasthangarh Fort City, Gokul Medh, Parshuram’s Palace, Govinda Vita, and Vashu Vihara.
After uncovering the history of this ancient city, we will begin our return journey to Dhaka via an air-conditioned vehicle in the afternoon. Upon arrival, we will check into our hotel and indulge in a well-deserved rest.
Meals: Included (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Accommodation: Hotel Empyrean (4-star) / Studio23 (3-star) / Hotel Heaven Inn (3-star), or similar in Dhaka.
On our final day, we will conclude our tour in Dhaka. Time permitting, we hope to explore some local attractions before checking out from the hotel. A guide will be ready to pick you up and assist you with your transfer to Dhaka airport. To facilitate smooth coordination, please share your departure flight details, allowing us to tailor the day’s activities and ensure a timely drop-off. We wish you safe travels and hope you carry wonderful memories back home!
Meals: Included (subject to airport drop-off schedule)
Official Documents: All necessary official documents, including domestic air tickets, entry tickets to historical sites, and any required permits, will be prepared and arranged by Ghale Treks.
Travel Insurance: It’s highly recommended that travelers acquire comprehensive travel insurance to cover potential medical emergencies or trip cancellations.
Cultural Sensitivity: Familiarize yourself with local customs and etiquette to respectfully engage with the communities you will visit.
Health Precautions: Consult with a healthcare provider regarding vaccinations or health precautions before traveling to Bangladesh.
Currency and Payments: The local currency is the Bangladeshi Taka (BDT). Ensure you have sufficient cash, as not all areas will accept credit cards.
Packing Essentials: Pack lightweight, comfortable clothing suitable for warm weather, as well as sturdy shoes for trekking, along with any personal items you may require.
Connectivity: Mobile coverage is generally good in urban areas, but rural regions may have limited connectivity; consider getting a local SIM card if needed.
Language: While English is commonly spoken in tourist areas, learning a few basic phrases in Bengali can enhance your interaction with locals.
Safety and Security: Stay informed about local safety guidelines, and always follow the advice of your guide regarding safety while trekking.
Clothing: Lightweight, breathable clothes suitable for warm weather; long sleeves and pants are recommended for sun protection and cultural respect.
Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes or trekking boots for exploring and hiking, along with sandals for relaxing.
Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect against strong sun exposure.
Personal Hygiene: Travel-sized toiletries, hand sanitizer, and a quick-dry towel for convenience.
Medications: Any personal medications, along with a basic first aid kit for minor ailments.
Water Bottle: A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout your journey.
Electronics: Mobile phone, camera, and portable charger; consider a universal adapter for charging devices.
Daypack: A small backpack for day trips during the tour to carry essentials.
Snacks: Energy bars or snacks for long travel days or hiking trips.
Extras:
Altitude and Acclimatization: While the tour is designed to be moderate, some destinations may involve higher elevations. It’s important to listen to your body and take breaks as needed. If you experience symptoms like headache, dizziness, or nausea, it’s advisable to rest or descend to a lower altitude. Staying well-hydrated and gradually adjusting to the altitude will help prevent altitude sickness.
Local Currency: The local currency is the Bangladeshi Taka (BDT). While larger cities and tourist areas may have ATMs, it’s recommended to carry some cash for smaller shops, local markets, and rural areas where card payments might not be accepted.
Connectivity: Mobile network coverage varies depending on the region. Major cities and towns generally have good coverage, but remote areas might have limited or no service. Consider carrying a local SIM card for better connectivity. Wi-Fi access may be available at some accommodations but could be slow or unreliable.
Photography Tips: The trip offers fantastic photo opportunities—capture the stunning landscapes, cultural sites, and local life. Always ask for permission before photographing individuals, especially in rural communities or during cultural ceremonies, to show respect and courtesy.
Wildlife and Nature: Keep an eye out for local flora and fauna. Maintain a respectful distance from wildlife and avoid disturbing their natural habitat. Your responsible behavior helps preserve the region’s ecological balance.
Cultural Etiquette: When visiting cultural or religious sites, dress modestly and behave respectfully. Greet locals with a polite “As-salamu alaykum” or “Namaste,” and follow any specific customs or rules at sacred places.
Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of emergency contact numbers, including local authorities, your travel agency, and nearby medical facilities. Having this information accessible can be invaluable in unforeseen situations.
Food and Water Safety: Enjoy the local cuisine, but exercise caution with street food and water. Drink bottled or purified water and eat freshly cooked meals to avoid foodborne illnesses.
Health & Fitness: Maintain your physical well-being by staying active and stretching regularly. Carry any necessary medications and inform yourself about the nearest medical facilities along your route.
Group Dynamics: If traveling with a group, communicate openly about daily plans, pace, and breaks. Supporting each other enhances the experience and ensures safety and enjoyment for everyone.
Our 7-day journey with Ghale Treks exploring the ancient treasures of North Bangladesh was absolutely unforgettable. From the moment we arrived, their meticulous arrangements made everything smooth and enjoyable. Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable about the history and culture, sharing fascinating stories at every site. The accommodations were comfortable, and the entire itinerary was well-paced, allowing us to experience the best of the region. This trip exceeded all our expectations—truly a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Highly recommend Ghale Treks for an authentic and enriching experience!
