Bangladesh is among the least-visited Asian countries, but there are plenty of reasons why this underrated destination must be part of everyone’s travel plans. The country’s top destination is Cox's Bazar, known for having the longest uninterrupted natural beach in the world.

This South Asian republic is overshadowed by its neighboring Maldives and India’s attractions, but Bangladesh is home to stunning attractions. The culture is colorful, the cuisine, including the street food, is appetizing, the climate is welcoming, and the locals are hospitable. From man-made landmarks like temples and mosques to natural wonders like wetlands and forests, Bangladesh is simply beautiful.

10 It Has A Stunning Archeological Site

The red citadel with patches of greens makes the Mahasthangarh a remarkable landmark in the district of Bogra. The fortified area is the oldest archaeological site in the country, dating back to the 4th century BCE. The area is popular among locals, more so for lovers of archeology. The ruins in this old city include temples, palaces, shrines, monasteries, and a bastion. In the museum, tourists can check out stone slabs, coins, ceramics, and sculptures. Walking down memory lane has never been this good.

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9 There’s A Great Buddhist Monastery

Bangladesh is now a predominantly Muslim nation, but it has a rich Buddhist past, evident in the ruins of Somapura Mahavihara. Located in Paharpur, the "Great Monastery" is intricately designed and looks like a maze. Tourists need not worry, though, because when visiting this landmark, there's nothing but amazement at every corner. The archaeological site is so stunning and well-designed that UNESCO said it’s the inspiration for the Buddhist architecture in Cambodia. In Somapura Mahavihara, nirvana is always within grasp.

8 It Has A Terracotta Temple

Hindu travelers to Dinajpur, meanwhile, should drop by the majestic Kantaji Temple. The 18th-century edifice is one big work of art — a great example of the terracotta architecture of pre-Islamic Bangladesh. The temple lost its nine spires but looks amazing, thanks to its 15,000 terracotta masterpieces on the walls. The Krishna-dedicated Kantaji is a peaceful place where tourists can appreciate the country’s intricate past, all the while being inspired by the architecture. As always, nirvana is within grasp in this Hindu landmark.

7 There’s A Mosque With More Than 60 Domes

Muslim architecture is not to be outdone because the Sixty Dome Mosque can be visited in Bagerhat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of the largest mosques in Bangladesh and is considered among the most impressive in the region. The mosque is more than its name because it has 81 domes. This display of grand architecture is a manifestation that Bangladesh is not to be overlooked and ready to entice tourists wherever they come from so long they are ready to learn new things and be fulfilled.

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6 The Hills Are Alive In Chittagong

The Chittagong Hill Tracts is an area divided into three districts: Khagrachari, Rangamati, and Bandarban. As the name suggests, CHT is rife with rolling hills, and within lies springs, waterfalls, and lakes. The most tourist-friendly areas are Rangamati and Bandarban, with the former known for its waterways and the latter for the Sangu River. Buddhist temples can also be visited in Bandarban, while a towering hanging bridge can be crossed in Rangamati. With such attractions, CHT might as well mean charming, hospitable, and tranquil.

5 It Has One Of The Largest Mangrove Forests

Tourists who want some Jungle Book experience can visit the Sundarbans, one of the largest mangrove forests in the world, where the Bengal tiger and spotted deer live. Even with such magnificence, the area is yet to be explored by many tourists. However, those curious enough to embark on a journey into Sundarbans will have a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Thanks to its location along the Bay of Bengal, the area is teeming with wildlife. Aside from tigers, other unique creatures in the forest include mudskippers. That’s the Sundarbans, a place of wet and wild adventures.

4 Saint Martin’s Island Is Perfect For Sun-kissed Memories

Another Bay of Bengal attraction, St. Martin's Island is perfect for those who want to enjoy a day under the sun without the crowd that Cox’s Bazar attracts. It’s possible to beachcomb the whole island (1.15 square miles) in just a day. One must-visit attraction on St. Martin’s is Chera Dwip, a smaller island separated at high tide. Chera Dwip is also the country’s southernmost island. Both areas are good for diving, picnics, or just basking under the sun. Indeed, sun-worshippers always have a place in Bangladesh.

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3 Sajek Valley Is Awe-Inspiring

Those who want to experience being welcomed by a sea of clouds in the morning should drop by Sajek Valley in Baghaichhari. Those who are not fans of waking up early need not worry, though, because the valley is an eye candy even when the clouds dissipate. When that happens, the greenery looks marvelous. Dubbed the “Queen of Hills,” Sajek Valley is the best background for photos, so tourists should be ready with their poses. Otherwise, they can just sit back and enjoy stunning mountain views.

2 Bangladesh Is Proud Of Its Haors

Haors, also known as back swamps, are scattered in Bangladesh, easily accessible from rural areas and slowly attracting tourists. One famous haor is the Tanguar, a birdwatcher’s paradise, thanks to about 200 bird species that drop by here during the migration season. Nikli, meanwhile, is famous because it's accessible from the Bangladeshi capital of Dhaka and stunning to look at during the monsoon season. The Hail Haor, on the other hand, is teeming not just with birds but also with fish, turtles, amphibians, and reptiles. These unique wetlands indeed deserve some attention from travelers.

1 The Tajhat Palace Looks Grand

In Rangpur lies a landmark so grand even as its building only has the color white. As they say, simplicity is beauty, and Tajhat Palace is proof of that. This landmark was once used by the country’s supreme court and now houses a museum. This 20th-century palace is well-maintained, and the exterior alone deserves praise. The place is perfect for Instagram-savvy tourists and those who want to learn more about the country’s rich history. Tajhat Palace takes the crown.