Exploring Bangladesh: Dhaka, Khulna, Sundarbans, and Beyond

• The tourists start their journey to the next destination via Khulna. It is the third-largest city in Bangladesh, after Dhaka and Chittagong. Guests will board the awaiting boat at Khulna early in the morning at 08:30.
• The cruise begins to move towards the Sundarbans Forest with the next stop being at Dhangmari. The Dhangmari Reserve Forest is a safe zone for vultures and is also home to a dolphin sanctuary. 
• Tourists are required to take a permit along with a forest guard after paying the fees. The forest area is networked with numerous rivers and canals which will make this cruise easy. This cruise provides them a chance to spot varieties of mangrove trees and 'Chitra' deers along the river banks.
• The cruise tour continues till Kotka. Upon the guest’s arrival at Kotka, they might get a chance to visit the forest on foot. But first, it is recommended to anchor the boat near a suitable place for an overnight stay.
• The Kotka Sea Beach has always been one of the best Bangladesh tourist attractions. Inhere, the tourists can indulge in a jungle trail along with a night stay. Like all the other parts of Sundarban, Kotka is full of flora and fauna. There is also a watch tower from where the tourists can get a wonderful view of the entire forest. The place has always occupied a special place in the list of tourist favorites due to the presence of beautiful Chitra deer herds, different species of birds, calm nature, and various wild animals.

• Begin the 3rd day of the tour with a morning boat ride for a bird-watching trip inside the forest. We venture out on this trip along the canal route. This provides the tourists with the opportunity to catch a glimpse of various birds like Herons, Egrets, Cormorants, Green Pigeons, Sand Pipers, Spoonbills, Seagulls, and a great variety of Wild Geese and Ducks. 
• Next, after breakfast, we walk through the Mangrove Forest and climb the Watch tower through Jamtola Sea beach. This is a picturesque coastal retreat offering a delightful escape for beach enthusiasts. The beach stretches along the shoreline, featuring a considerable length that allows for leisurely walks and sun-soaked relaxation. The Watch tower inhere offers panoramic views of the coastline and serves as a prominent landmark in the area.
• Upon midway through the day’s tour, the guests will have their lunch at the Kotka Forest Office area. The cruise shall then continue up to the Hiron point. Also known as the Nilkamol, this place is a haven for tigers, deer, monkeys, birds, and reptiles. It is one of the best places to watch the Royal Bengal Tiger and other live wildlife in the Sundarbans area.
• Next up the accompanying guide will lead you towards the Dublar Chor. The island is known for its picturesque scenery and is famous for fishing. The Tourists are sure to spot a variety of birds such as Halcyons and egrets, and a notable population of monkeys and deer here. It provides for a calm setting that allows the visitors to connect with the natural world.
• Upon their return on the boat, the tourists are served snacks followed by a Bar-BQ dinner. The day’s tour ends with anchoring the boat near a suitable place for an overnight stay.

• Day 4 starts by commencing the return journey towards Khulna. The tourists are offered the chance to sightsee while on the way back to the Karamjol tourist spot- both the banks of the river abound with thick jungle and several Banyan trees. Visitors will be able to feast their eyes on a vast range of mammals, insects, bird species, reptiles, and fishes. Wildlife enthusiasts can also look forward to viewing Gangetic River Dophins, Salt-Water Crocodiles, deer, wild boar, ducks, and the ever-graceful Royal Bengal Tiger on this boat cruise.

• Upon arrival at the Karamjol tourist spot, we visit the Crocodile breeding house. Here, the tourists can expect a fascinating encounter with various crocodile species. The visit includes observing crocodile nesting areas, and hatcheries. If you are lucky enough you may also witness the hatching process. 

• The day ends with the return boat journey back to Khulna. The guests get to spend the night back in Dhaka.
  

• Upon the return back to the Hotel at Dhaka the guests are advised to take some rest. They can spend the rest of the day exploring old Dhaka and Hatirjheel. Hatirjheel is one of the most favorite recreational places for city dwellers and tourists. Visitors can enjoy themselves at numerous restaurants and venues for small-scale family picnics.
• Enjoy shopping at Aarong or Basundhara Shopping Mall. The local Bengali market provides you with a variety of options for local souvenirs to take back home.
• Tourists can also enjoy the local cuisine and the vibrant street food options which happens to be a highlight. They can savor authentic Bangladeshi dishes like Biryani, Bakorkhani, Kebabs, and Bibiyana Pitha pleasing their taste buds.

• Additional Information

If someone is planning his trip from the 19th to the 24th of February, we recommend staying in Dhaka on the 20th of February. This will allow you to visit Sheedhmeenar and Charu Kola (University of Dhaka) to witness the preparations for International Mother Language Day. 

Optional Day: Tour around Dhaka

• On the second day of this tour get a chance to witness the preparations for International Mother Language Day. Begin the morning with a visit to Old Dhaka for breakfast. Next, we visit the Ahsan Manzil and the Lalbag Kella. 
• Ahsan Manzil is one of the most significant architectural monuments of Bangladesh. Its unique dome serves as the apex of the palace and is considered to be the structure’s most significant feature. The tourists will find an incredible collection of photos of the palace’s 23 rooms taken in its hay day on display. They can also marvel at the family portraits and other Nawab artifacts.
• Next up we pay a visit to the Shaheed Minar. The monument is designed to promote the preservation and protection of all languages. Visitors will have the unique opportunity to witness the preparations of the International Language Day going on on this site of historical importance.
• Midway through the Day’s tour, we take lunch with traditional food.
• After lunch, we go to Dhaka University. Well known for popularly commemorating International Language Day, here we visit the TSE building and the University Hall. The visitors will also get the opportunity to interact with the bright minds at the Charu Kola.
• Head to Manik Mia Avenue and take a stroll down this colorful street to experience a blend of modern and historical Dhaka.
• Visit Shangsad Vaban (the National Parliament House) and Metro Rail.
• Enjoy the Hatir Jheel water trip in the evening. It offers serene boat rides, beautiful landscapes, and a peaceful retreat in the middle of Bangladesh's capital, Dhaka.
• Enjoy continental or Western foods for dinner at Gulshan Restaurant. 
  
  Important Information:
  
  
• The tour cost for 4 people would be: $3,000 ($750 per person)
• If someone wants to stay one day extra [Suggestion plan Feb 20] It would add another: $400 ($100 per person).