Flights, money, SIM cards and family-friendly stays for diaspora visitors and international travellers.
Sylhet has deep ties with the UK, the Middle East and North America, and many visitors arrive to see family as well as the hills. A few practical points make the first days easier.
- Flights: Biman’s flights between Dhaka and the UK (London and Manchester) call at Osmani International Airport in Sylhet. Most other international routes arrive in Dhaka, with domestic connections to Sylhet. Check current schedules before you book.
- Visa: citizens of many countries, including the UK, the US, Canada, Australia and most of Europe, can usually get a single-entry visa on arrival for up to 30 days for about US$50, at the officer’s discretion. Rules change, so check with a Bangladesh mission first and read practical information.
- Money: bKash and Nagad are used everywhere, but an account needs a registered Bangladeshi mobile number, so many visitors from abroad simply pay cash. International cards work in larger hotels, resorts and some restaurants in Sylhet City and Sreemangal; carry taka in small notes for boats, CNGs and tea stalls.
- Phone: buy a local SIM at the airport with your passport; mobile data works well in towns and patchily near the border.
- Stays: family suites and resorts with pools are common around Sylhet city and Sreemangal. Book early for December and Eid.
- Prices on visitsylhet are shown in taka. Your card or mobile wallet converts at checkout.
Near the border, stay on the Bangladesh side, follow BGB instructions and carry your passport. Ask your hotel or guide before planning a trip close to the line.
