Bangladesh

Bangladeshi Taka — Exchange Only at Banks or Authorised Money Changers

The Bangladeshi Taka (BDT, ৳) is the official currency and is non-convertible outside Bangladesh. Exchange USD, EUR, or GBP only at Bangladesh Bank-licensed exchange houses, or at arrival counters at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (Dhaka). Street changers operate illegally. Keep all exchange receipts — hotels and some merchants may ask for them, and you'll need them to reconvert Taka on departure.

ATMs Available in Dhaka and Major Cities — Limited in Rural Areas

Dutch-Bangla Bank (DBBL) has the widest ATM network across Bangladesh, including rural branches. BRAC Bank, Prime Bank, and City Bank ATMs are common in Dhaka, Chittagong, and Sylhet. International Visa and Mastercard are accepted at DBBL and a handful of other networks. Outside major cities — in the Sundarbans region, Cox's Bazar hinterland, and the Chittagong Hill Tracts — ATMs are scarce. Withdraw in cities before venturing into rural Bangladesh.

bKash Mobile Money is Dominant — Physical Cards Less Common Outside Hotels

Bangladesh has a highly developed mobile financial services sector dominated by bKash (65M+ users), Nagad, and Rocket. As a foreign visitor, you cannot typically open a bKash account — but your accommodation or local fixer/guide can use it. Foreign Visa and Mastercard work at upscale hotels, airline offices, and larger restaurants in Dhaka. Most shops, markets, rickshaws, and restaurants operate cash-only. Apple Pay and Google Pay are not widely functional.

One of South Asia's Most Affordable Destinations

Bangladesh is exceptionally affordable for international visitors. Budget guesthouse in Dhaka: BDT 500–1,500/night ($5–14). Local dal-bhat meal: BDT 50–150 ($0.50–1.40). Mid-range restaurant: BDT 300–800 ($3–7) per person. A comfortable mid-range trip runs BDT 2,000–4,000/day ($18–37). Carry small denominations — change for BDT 500/1,000 notes can be difficult at small vendors.