How to get to Sylhet

A journey to Sylhet opens the doors to the picturesque northeastern region of Bangladesh, renowned for its endless tea plantations and Sufi shrines. This spiritual and cultural hub attracts numerous pilgrims and nature enthusiasts, offering a tranquil retreat away from the capital's bustle. Getting here is effortless: the city boasts a developed transport infrastructure, including an international airport, railway connections, and a network of bus routes.

The fastest way to reach the region is to fly into the international Sylhet Airport (ZYL), which receives flights from Dhaka and selected international destinations. The airport is located just a few kilometers from the center, allowing travelers to begin exploring the city almost immediately after landing.

Although the geographically closest airports are located in the Indian cities of Shillong and Silchar, using these routes requires crossing the state border. Therefore, for most tourists, the optimal option remains a domestic flight or a direct international flight straight to Sylhet.

Rail travel is one of the most popular and scenic ways to reach the city. Unlike many other regions, there is a major railway station here, which serves as the terminus for trains arriving from the capital and the port city of Chittagong.

A train journey allows you to enjoy views of the green hills and rural landscapes of Bangladesh. It is recommended to book tickets for popular express trains in advance, as this mode of transport is in high demand among locals and tourists.

Bus services connect Sylhet with almost all major settlements in the country. The most sought-after routes originate from the capital, Dhaka, from where both comfortable air-conditioned buses and more budget-friendly options depart regularly.

A bus journey allows you to witness the authentic life of the region, passing through small towns and villages. Travel time and ticket prices vary depending on the service class and traffic conditions, but it remains one of the most accessible ways to travel around Bangladesh.

When planning a trip by car, it is important to consider that the nearest major cities are located within India, which implies passing through border control. The route from the city of Shillong, covering about 117 km, will take approximately 4 hours and passes through picturesque mountain areas.

A journey from the city of Silchar (about 112 km) will last around 3.7 hours, while the road from the city of Agartala (162 km) will take about 4.8 hours. For domestic trips from Dhaka, it is customary to rent a car with a driver, as local traffic can be challenging for foreigners.

To ensure your stay in Sylhet is as comfortable as possible and leaves only pleasant impressions, it is worth familiarizing yourself with local customs in advance. The following tips will help you easily adapt to the culture and rhythm of life in this region.

1. Clothing and Attire: Choose modest, covered clothing made of natural fabrics (cotton, linen), as the climate here is hot and humid, and the society is conservative.
2. Transport: For getting around the city, it is most convenient to use cycle rickshaws or auto-rickshaws (CNG). Be sure to negotiate the price before the start of the trip.
3. Finances: The official currency is the Taka. Exchange money in advance, as cards are not accepted everywhere, and always carry small cash denominations.
4. Health and Safety: Drink only bottled water and avoid street food that has not undergone thermal processing. Carry insect repellents with you.
5. Communication: The main language is Bengali. English is understood in hotels, but a few phrases in the local language will help build rapport with the residents.
6. Local Etiquette: Greet elders first. Remember that it is customary to pass money or eat food using only your right hand.
7. What to Avoid: Do not photograph locals, especially women, without their explicit permission, and avoid public displays of affection.
8. Extra Tip: Do not miss the opportunity to visit the tea gardens at sunset — the lighting at this time is ideal for photography.

Observing these simple rules and respecting traditions will make your journey safe and filled with positive emotions.