🐾 Traveling to Bangladesh with Pets
Pet-Friendly Bangladesh
Bangladesh is increasingly welcoming to pets, particularly in urban areas and tourist spots. From beaches to river cruises, well-behaved pets are often allowed in hotels, restaurants, and outdoor spaces, making it a growing destination for pet owners exploring South Asia.
Entry Requirements & Documentation
Health Certificate
Dogs, cats, and other pets need a veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of arrival, confirming no infectious diseases.
Certificate must include details on vaccinations and be endorsed by official authorities in the country of origin.
Rabies Vaccination
Mandatory rabies vaccination required, administered at least 30 days before travel and valid for the duration of stay.
Proof of vaccination must be included in all documentation; boosters may be needed if expired.
Microchip Requirements
Pets must have an ISO-compliant microchip for identification, implanted before rabies vaccination.
Chip number should match all certificates; customs may scan upon arrival at airports like Dhaka.
Non-Approved Countries
Pets from rabies-endemic countries may face quarantine (up to 30 days) or additional tests.
Check with Bangladesh embassy or Department of Livestock Services for country-specific rules in advance.
Restricted Breeds
No nationwide breed bans, but aggressive breeds may require special permits and must be muzzled in public.
Local authorities in Dhaka and Chittagong enforce leash and muzzle rules for larger dogs.
Other Pets
Birds, fish, and small mammals have separate import rules; exotic species need CITES permits.
Contact Bangladesh customs for specific requirements on non-traditional pets.
Pet-Friendly Accommodations
Book Pet-Friendly Hotels
Find hotels that welcome pets across Bangladesh on Booking.com. Filter by "Pets allowed" to see properties with pet-friendly policies, fees, and amenities like pet beds and walking areas.
Accommodation Types
- Pet-Friendly Hotels (Dhaka & Chittagong): Urban hotels like Radisson Blu and Pan Pacific welcome pets for 500-1500 BDT/night fee, with nearby parks. International chains are more reliable for pet policies.
- Beach Resorts (Cox's Bazar): Seaside properties often allow pets at no extra charge, with beach access. Ideal for relaxed stays with dogs enjoying the sand.
- Vacation Rentals & Guesthouses: Platforms like Airbnb offer pet-friendly homes, especially in Sylhet and rural areas. More space for pets to move freely.
- Eco-Lodges (Sundarbans): Mangrove forest lodges accommodate pets and provide nature experiences. Great for families with animals seeking adventure.
- Campsites & Boat Houses: Riverside and beach campsites are pet-friendly, with open areas for exercise. Popular in the Chittagong Hill Tracts.
- Luxury Pet-Friendly Options: High-end resorts like Amari Dhaka offer pet amenities including grooming services and special menus for traveling companions.
Pet-Friendly Activities & Destinations
River & Mangrove Tours
Sundarbans National Park offers pet-friendly boat safaris spotting tigers and wildlife.
Keep pets leashed on board and follow park guidelines for animal interactions.
Beaches & Coastal Areas
Cox's Bazar, the world's longest beach, has sections for dogs to play and swim.
St. Martin's Island allows leashed pets; check seasonal restrictions during monsoons.
Cities & Parks
Dhaka's Ramna Park and Gulshan areas welcome leashed dogs; outdoor eateries often permit pets.
Sylhet's tea gardens provide open spaces for walks with pets on leash.
Pet-Friendly Cafés
Urban cafés in Dhaka provide water bowls; rooftop spots in Gulshan are pet-tolerant.
Always ask permission before seating with pets indoors.
City Walking Tours
Outdoor tours in Old Dhaka and Chittagong historic sites allow leashed dogs.
Avoid crowded indoor sites like museums with pets for safety.
Boat Rides & Cruises
Many river ferries and short cruises accept pets in designated areas for 100-300 BDT.
Book pet spots in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Pet Transport & Logistics
- Trains (Bangladesh Railway): Small pets travel free in carriers; larger dogs require tickets (200-500 BDT) and must be leashed or crated. Allowed in general compartments.
- Buses & Rickshaws (Urban): CNG auto-rickshaws and buses allow small pets free; larger dogs 50-100 BDT with leash. Avoid rush hours in Dhaka.
- Taxis: Pathao and Uber drivers accept pets with notice; most local taxis allow if cleaned after. Select pet-friendly options in apps.
- Rental Cars: Agencies like Navana allow pets with deposit (1000-3000 BDT). Opt for spacious vehicles for comfort on long drives.
- Flights to Bangladesh: Check airline policies; Biman Bangladesh and international carriers allow cabin pets under 8kg. Book early and review requirements. Compare flight options on Aviasales to find pet-friendly airlines and routes.
- Pet-Friendly Airlines: Qatar Airways, Emirates, and Biman accept pets in cabin (under 8kg) for 3000-8000 BDT each way. Larger pets in cargo with health certificates.
Pet Services & Veterinary Care
Emergency Vet Services
24-hour clinics in Dhaka (BRAC University Veterinary Hospital) and Chittagong offer urgent care.
Travel insurance may cover pets; consultations cost 500-2000 BDT.
Pharmacies & Pet Supplies
Shops like Pet Zone in Dhaka stock food, meds, and accessories.
Local pharmacies carry basic pet items; bring prescriptions for imports.
Grooming & Day Care
Urban salons in Dhaka provide grooming for 500-1500 BDT per session.
Book in advance; hotels can recommend services in tourist areas.
Pet-Sitting Services
Local services in major cities offer sitting for day trips; rates 500-1000 BDT/day.
Hotels arrange trusted sitters; check reviews for reliability.
Pet Rules & Etiquette
- Leash Laws: Dogs must be leashed in cities, beaches, and protected areas like Sundarbans. Off-leash allowed in rural spots away from crowds.
- Muzzle Requirements: Larger or restricted breeds need muzzles on public transport and in urban zones. Carry one for compliance.
- Waste Disposal: Carry and dispose of waste properly; bins available in parks. Fines up to 500 BDT for littering in tourist areas.
- Beach & Water Rules: Designated pet areas on Cox's Bazar; avoid during high tides or crowded times. Respect other beachgoers.
- Restaurant Etiquette: Pets at outdoor seating; quiet behavior expected. No pets on food preparation areas.
- National Parks: Leash required near wildlife; restrictions during monsoon (June-Oct). Stick to trails to protect ecosystems.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Bangladesh
Bangladesh for Families
Bangladesh offers vibrant family adventures with beaches, historic sites, river explorations, and cultural immersion. Safe for kids with welcoming locals, playgrounds, and affordable activities. Facilities include family rooms and child-friendly eateries in major spots.
Top Family Attractions
Cox's Bazar Beach
World's longest natural beach with play areas, horse rides, and sea activities for all ages.
Free access; pony rides 100-200 BDT. Open year-round with evening markets.
Dhaka Zoo
Popular zoo with lions, tigers, and local wildlife in Mirpur, perfect for young explorers.
Tickets 20-50 BDT adults, 10 BDT kids; includes train rides inside the zoo.
Lalbagh Fort (Dhaka)
17th-century fort with gardens, museums, and history lessons kids enjoy.
Entry 20 BDT; family audio guides available for engaging stories.
Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Novo Theatre (Dhaka)
Interactive science shows and planetarium exhibits for curious minds.
Tickets 50-100 BDT; shows in Bengali with English subtitles.
Sundarbans Boat Safari
Mangrove forest tours spotting dolphins and monkeys on family-friendly cruises.
Day trips 2000-5000 BDT per family; life jackets provided for kids.
Sylhet Tea Gardens
Scenic walks, picnics, and tea factory visits in lush green hills.
Entry free; guided tours 500 BDT, suitable for kids 5+.
Book Family Activities
Discover family-friendly tours, attractions, and activities across Bangladesh on Viator. From beach days to river safaris, find skip-the-line tickets and age-appropriate experiences with flexible cancellation.
Family Accommodations
- Family Hotels (Dhaka & Cox's Bazar): Properties like InterContinental and Sea Pearl Beach Resort offer family suites for 5000-10000 BDT/night. Include kids' pools and play areas.
- Beach Resorts (Cox's Bazar): All-inclusive options with childcare and family activities. Resorts like Ocean Paradise focus on family entertainment.
- Riverside Guesthouses: Affordable stays near Sundarbans with boat access and home-cooked meals. Prices 2000-4000 BDT/night for families.
- Vacation Apartments: Self-catering units in Dhaka with kitchens for family meals. Space for kids to play indoors.
- Budget Guesthouses: Clean, family rooms in Sylhet for 1500-3000 BDT/night. Shared kitchens and local vibe.
- Eco-Resorts: Nature lodges in the Chittagong Hills with family bungalows and outdoor adventures. Kids love the wildlife spotting.
Find family-friendly accommodations with connected rooms, cribs, and children's facilities on Booking.com. Filter by "Family rooms" and read reviews from other parents.
Kid-Friendly Activities by Region
Dhaka with Kids
Lalbagh Fort explorations, Dhaka Zoo, boat rides on Buriganga River, and Sonargaon folk museum.
Rickshaw rides and street food adventures make the capital exciting for children.
Cox's Bazar with Kids
Beach games, Himchari National Park hikes, and Inani Beach picnics.
Sea turtle watching and sunset boat trips delight young families.
Sylhet with Kids
Tea garden tours, Jaflong waterfalls, and Ratargul Swamp Forest boat rides.
Easy nature walks and fresh tea tasting keep kids engaged.
Sundarbans with Kids
Short boat safaris, spotting deer and birds, with educational ranger talks.
Family lodges offer safe, guided experiences in the mangrove wilderness.
Family Travel Practicalities
Getting Around with Kids
- Trains: Children under 5 travel free; ages 5-12 get 50% off. Family seating available on intercity trains with space for strollers.
- City Transport: Rickshaws and CNGs are fun and cheap (50-100 BDT/ride); family day passes for buses in Dhaka around 200 BDT.
- Car Rentals: Child seats available (300-500 BDT/day); required for under 12s. Hire with driver for ease on busy roads.
- Stroller-Friendly: Urban areas improving with ramps; beaches and parks accessible, but rural paths may be uneven.
Dining with Children
- Kids' Menus: Restaurants offer simple rice, fish, and veggies for 100-300 BDT. High chairs in urban spots.
- Family-Friendly Restaurants: Riverside eateries and beach shacks welcome kids with play spaces. Dhaka's food streets have variety.
- Self-Catering: Markets like New Market stock baby food and diapers. Fresh fruits ideal for healthy snacks.
- Snacks & Treats: Local sweets like rasgulla and street chaat keep kids happy between meals.
Childcare & Baby Facilities
- Baby-Changing Rooms: Available in malls and major hotels; public parks have basic facilities.
- Pharmacies: Stock formula, diapers, and meds; English-speaking staff in cities assist families.
- Babysitting Services: Hotels arrange sitters for 500-1000 BDT/hour; local agencies in Dhaka.
- Medical Care: Pediatric hospitals in Dhaka and Chittagong; emergency dial 999. Travel insurance recommended.
♿ Accessibility in Bangladesh
Accessible Travel
Bangladesh is improving accessibility with ramps in new hotels and attractions, though challenges remain in historic sites. Urban areas offer better facilities, and tourism operators provide assistance for barrier-free experiences.
Transportation Accessibility
- Trains: Some stations have ramps; request assistance for boarding. Wheelchair spaces on select trains.
- City Transport: CNG rickshaws accommodate folding wheelchairs; accessible buses in Dhaka with low floors.
- Taxis: Wheelchair-adapted vehicles available via apps; standard taxis fit manual chairs.
- Airports: Dhaka and Chittagong airports offer wheelchair services, accessible restrooms, and priority assistance.
Accessible Attractions
- Museums & Sites: Ahsan Manzil and national museum have partial ramps; audio guides for visually impaired.
- Historic Sites: Lalbagh Fort improving access; flat paths in parts, though steps remain.
- Nature & Parks: Cox's Bazar boardwalk is wheelchair-friendly; Sundarbans boats offer accessible options.
- Accommodations: Hotels indicate accessible rooms on Booking.com; look for roll-in showers, wide doorways, and ground-floor options.
Essential Tips for Families & Pet Owners
Best Time to Visit
Winter (November-February) for mild weather and festivals; avoid monsoon (June-October) for flooding.
Shoulder seasons (March-May, post-monsoon) have fewer crowds and vibrant nature.
Budget Tips
Family packages save on attractions; local markets cheaper than tourist spots.
Picnics on beaches and self-catering keep costs low for groups.
Language
Bengali official; English spoken in hotels, tourist sites, and by youth.
Basic phrases help; locals are friendly and patient with families.
Packing Essentials
Light clothes for heat, rain gear for monsoons, mosquito repellent.
Pet owners: bring food, leash, waste bags, and vaccination records.
Useful Apps
Pathao for rides, Google Maps, and local pet care directories.
Bangladesh Railway app for train schedules and bookings.
Health & Safety
Very safe for tourists; drink bottled water. Pharmacies offer advice.
Emergency: dial 999. Vaccinations recommended for hep A, typhoid.