Culture, Customs and Etiquette in Bangladesh: A Traveler's Guide

A warm, hospitable culture

Bangladesh, the land of rivers and the Bengali language, is famously welcoming. Guests are treated with atithi (hospitality) bordering on the sacred, and a little cultural awareness goes a long way from Dhaka's bustle to the tea gardens of Sylhet.

Greetings

• Muslims often greet with Assalamu alaikum (peace be upon you); reply Wa alaikum assalam.
• A friendly Nomoshkar with palms together suits Hindu acquaintances; a simple Kemon achen? (How are you?) works for everyone.
• Men shake hands; with women, wait for them to extend a hand first. Use your right hand or both hands.

Dress and modesty

• Dress conservatively. Cover shoulders and knees; women may carry a light scarf (orna) for mosques and shrines.
• Remove shoes before entering homes, mosques and many shops.
• Public displays of affection are frowned upon.

Dining etiquette

• Meals centre on rice, lentils (dal), fish and curries; the national fish is hilsa (ilish).
• Eat with your right hand; the left is considered unclean. Wash hands before and after.
• Your host will refill your plate insistently. Refusing the first offer is polite; accepting eventually pleases them.
• Try street snacks like fuchka, jhalmuri and sweet roshogolla.

Dos and don'ts

• Do accept tea or food when offered; refusal can disappoint.
• Do ask before photographing people, especially women.
• Don't point your feet at people or the Quran, or step over food.
• Don't drink alcohol publicly; it is restricted and culturally sensitive.
• Don't discuss the 1971 Liberation War flippantly; it is deeply emotional.

Tipping (bakshish)

• Restaurants: round up or leave 5-10% if no service charge is added.
• Hotel porters: 50-100 taka per bag. Drivers: round up the fare.
• Tour guides: 500-1,000 taka per day for good service.

Religion and festivals

During Ramadan, avoid eating in public in daytime. Join the joy of Pohela Boishakh (Bengali New Year, April 14) and the Eid festivals, when cities empty as families reunite.

Stay connected in Bangladesh

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