Syed Zakir Hossain for The New York Times. A land mainly known for troubles is also a place to relax on broad beaches amid friendly hosts.
This dynamic country proudly considers itself to be an active participant in an increasingly global community. In defiance of its stuttering development and the weight of historical tragedy that it bears, it is a nation charged with perseverance and promise, and one from which we could all learn a thing or two. The country had been quietly doing something considered nearly impossible in richer Western countries – banning all petrol and diesel vehicles from the major conurbations (and, if things go to plan, the entire nation) and replacing them with cleaner alternatives. If striving for cleaner air isn’t enough, they’ve also banned plastic bags and created a flurry of national parks and protected areas. It just goes to show how much the world has to learn about the trendsetting, breathtaking and hard-working country that is Bangladesh.
Weather
The climate in Bangladesh is dramatic, to say the least. It is subtropical and tropical with temperatures ranging from as low as 3ºC overnight in the cold season to a daytime top of above 40ºC in the hot season. Annual rainfall varies from 1000mm in the west to 2500mm in the southeast, and up to 5000mm in the north, near the hills of Assam.
Three-quarters of the annual rainfall occurs between June and September. The 90% to 95% humidity in this season is almost unbearable.
In the cold season the weather is drier and fresh, with average daytime temperatures of 24ºC. Rainfall is negligible, although even in winter a brief shower may come along.
While early March can still be pleasant, by April, as the monsoon approaches, humidity increases and lethal hailstorms aren’t uncommon. The monsoon season usually starts between late May and mid-June. It doesn’t rain solidly all day – there tends to be an initial downpour, followed by clear skies. You should avoid visiting at this time of year!
See also When to Go.
When to go
Bangladesh has three main seasons: the monsoonal season (wet season) from late May to early October; the cool season from mid-October to the end of February; and the hot season from March to mid-May.
Between October and February is the best time to go: skies are blue, days are sunny and the weather is dry, with daytime temperatures averaging 24ºC. By April the temperature rises to around 40ºC, the humidity can be intolerable and hailstorms aren’t uncommon. On average, Bangladesh is hit by one major cyclone every three years. The worst times for these are May and June, and October and November.