Last checked: November 2026
The best time to visit Bangladesh for most travellers is the dry winter, from November to February, when the weather is cooler and humidity is lower. March to May is hot and humid, and the monsoon runs from about June to September or October. Cyclones can disrupt coastal travel, so check forecasts if you’re heading to Cox’s Bazar, Khulna or the Sundarbans.
Safety note: the US State Department rates Bangladesh Level 2, and both the US and UK governments warn against travel to the Chittagong Hill Tracts. Read the US advisory and the UK travel advice, and check weather alerts from the Bangladesh Meteorological Department before you travel.
How the Weather Works
Bangladesh has a tropical monsoon climate with three broad phases: a cooler dry winter from November to February, a hot pre-monsoon spring from March to May, and a long rainy season from June to October. Published climate data for Dhaka shows January highs around 25°C and lows around 13°C, while April to September highs sit around 31°C to 33°C with warm nights. Rainfall in Dhaka is lowest in January and peaks from June to August at more than 300 mm a month.
Coastal areas face the highest cyclone risk in two windows: late April to early June and October to November. The UK government also notes a risk of flash floods and landslides in parts of the country, including Cox’s Bazar and Sylhet, and pre-monsoon flooding in the north-east.
Month-by-Month Guide
| Month | What to expect | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| January | The coolest and driest month, with Dhaka highs around 25°C | Sightseeing, Sundarbans, tea gardens |
| February | Dry and warming up; International Mother Language Day on 21 February | City visits, Cox’s Bazar |
| March | Hotter and more humid; Independence Day on 26 March | Cox’s Bazar, early-morning sightseeing |
| April | Hot, with highs above 33°C in Dhaka; Pohela Boishakh, the Bengali New Year, on 14 April | Festival atmosphere |
| May | Hot and sticky, with the first heavy rain and cyclone risk | Low prices, indoor sights |
| June | Monsoon begins, with more than 300 mm of rain in Dhaka | Green landscapes, Ratargul |
| July | Heavy rain and humidity | Lush scenery, quiet travel |
| August | Rain continues, with flooding risk | Budget stays |
| September | Rain eases slowly but stays heavy | Rivers and countryside |
| October | Rain and cyclone risk fade, warm days | Shoulder-season travel |
| November | Dry, cooler, and a popular start to the main season | Sundarbans, beaches, cities |
| December | Cool and sunny; Victory Day on 16 December | Sightseeing, beach holidays |
These months describe typical conditions, not forecasts. Weather varies between Dhaka, the coast and the north-east.
Winter: November to February
Winter is the main tourist season. Skies are clearer, humidity is lower, and long journeys are easier. Mornings and evenings can feel chilly in the north and in the Sundarbans, so bring a light jacket. This is also the best period for the Sundarbans, according to most tour guides. Check the Forest Department’s Sundarbans tourism portal for current permits and closures.
Spring: March to May
Spring brings heat and humidity. Plan outdoor sightseeing for early morning, and keep afternoons for museums or rest. Pohela Boishakh in mid-April brings colourful street celebrations in Dhaka, with large crowds, so allow extra time for transport.
Monsoon: June to October
The monsoon turns the countryside green and lowers hotel prices, but it also brings floods, delays and landslides in hill areas. The Sundarbans has been closed to tourists during the wildlife breeding season in recent years, with one closure reported to run until August. Saint Martin’s Island has traditionally been open only from October to March.
Best Months by Trip Type
- Sundarbans: November to February.
- Cox’s Bazar beach: November to March.
- Dhaka sightseeing: November to February.
- Tea gardens: November to February, or the green season if you don’t mind rain.
- Budget travel: May to September, with weather risks.
Ramadan, Eid and Holiday Effects
Ramadan and Eid dates move about 10 to 11 days earlier each year, and in 2027 Ramadan is expected in February and March. Around Eid, large numbers of people leave Dhaka for their home towns, so trains, buses and domestic flights sell out and road journeys are slow. Beach towns such as Cox’s Bazar can be crowded during holidays and long weekends. Restaurants may adjust their hours during Ramadan, so ask your hotel for current times.
What to Pack
- Winter: light layers, a light jacket and sun protection.
- Spring and summer: breathable clothes, a hat, water and rehydration salts.
- Monsoon: a rain jacket, waterproof bag and shoes that dry quickly.
- All year: mosquito repellent, because dengue occurs all year round according to the UK government.
Decision Guide
- Choose November to February if you want the most comfortable weather and the widest choice of tours.
- Choose March if you want the beach and accept heat.
- Choose June to September only if you’re comfortable with rain, floods and changing plans.
Common Mistakes
- Booking Sundarbans or coastal trips during cyclone season without flexible terms.
- Travelling around Eid without booking transport early.
- Planning long road journeys in the monsoon.
Best Time to Visit Bangladesh FAQs
When is the cheapest time to visit?
Prices are usually lower in the monsoon, from June to September, but weather risks are higher. Compare cancellation terms before you book.
Is it safe to visit during the monsoon?
It can be, but floods and landslides can disrupt transport. Check the Bangladesh Meteorological Department forecasts and follow local advice.
When is cyclone season?
Cyclones are most likely in late April to early June and in October and November. Coastal areas are the most exposed.
Does Ramadan affect travel?
It can. Opening hours change, and Eid brings heavy travel demand. Book transport early and confirm opening times.
Heavy rain can slow road and ferry journeys, so read our getting around Bangladesh guide before you fix inter-city plans for the monsoon months.