HIGHLIGHTS

Step into the captivating world of the candle festival in Bangladesh, where the air becomes infused with reverence and the interplay of light and shadow weaves a tapestry of ethereal beauty. As day gives way to night, thousands of devotees gather around the sacred temple, their faces aglow with the warm flicker of countless candles. In this mesmerizing realm, our lenses bear witness to the extraordinary convergence of faith, culture, and human spirit. Wisps of smoke rise, mingling with the luminous trails of candlelight, as if painting a portrait of devotion itself. With each click of the shutter, we freeze fleeting moments of intense spirituality, encapsulating the transformative power of this cherished tradition. Through our photographs, we invite viewers to embark on a visual pilgrimage, to immerse themselves in the profound connection between the divine and the mortal, and to be swept away by the enchantment of the candle festival in Bangladesh.

Continuing our visual odyssey, we delve into the captivating world of rice factories, bustling stone quarries, and the morning wonders of the biggest sea fish port and wholesale fish market.

November 2: Depart for Bangladesh

November 3: Arrival Dhaka, Bangladesh
After arrival, our representative will greet you at the airport then take you to the hotel for check-in. Welcome Dinner with our group. (.D)

November 4: COAL LABORS– CANDLE LIGHT FESTIVAL

Step into the captivating world of the candle festival in Bangladesh, where the air becomes infused with reverence and the interplay of light and shadow weaves a tapestry of ethereal beauty. As day gives way to night, thousands of devotees gather around the sacred temple, their faces aglow with the warm flicker of countless candles. In this mesmerizing realm, our lenses bear witness to the extraordinary convergence of faith, culture, and human spirit. Wisps of smoke rise, mingling with the luminous trails of candlelight, as if painting a portrait of devotion itself. With each click of the shutter, we freeze fleeting moments of intense spirituality, encapsulating the transformative power of this cherished tradition. Through our photographs, we invite viewers to embark on a visual pilgrimage, to immerse themselves in the profound connection between the divine and the mortal, and to be swept away by the enchantment of the candle festival in Bangladesh. (B.L.D)
 

November 5: DHAKA-NORTHEAST

At dawn, we will leave for the Northeast of the country. Embark on a captivating photographic expedition as we navigate the vibrant landscapes of Bangladesh, where visual wonders unfold at every turn. Our lenses eagerly capture the pulsating heart of the largest tie-dying (Batik) village, where skilled artisans meticulously infuse fabrics with vibrant hues using traditional techniques. As colors swirl and fabrics dry under the sun's gentle caress, we seize the opportunity to immortalize this vivid tapestry of artistry and cultural heritage.

Continuing our visual odyssey, we delve into the captivating world of rice factories. Amidst the rhythmic symphony of bustling workers, our cameras artfully frame the choreography of labor, capturing the intricate processes that transform rice from field to table. The lines of rice paddies stretch their lush green hues, a testament to nature's bounty.

Immersed in the sun-drenched courtyards, we witness the enchanting spectacle of rice drying. The radiant light plays upon the golden grains, casting a mesmerizing play of light and shadow. . (B.L.D.)

November 6: Stone mine

Today, embark on a captivating photographic journey into bustling stone quarries, where 20,000 laborers tirelessly search, collect, and crush stones. Our lenses capture dynamic scenes of stone collection, with traditional boats gliding through the water as laborers deftly maneuver. The winnowing process reveals unique textures, while the interplay of light and shadow enhances the stones' visual impact. Through carefully composed shots, we immortalize the laborers' skill in transforming boulders into smaller fragments.. (B.L.D.)

November 7: STONE CITY – DHAKA

Witness the transformative power of photography as we venture into the enchanting realm of a morning dump yard. Here, amidst the mist and swirling smoke of garbage fires, a captivating scene unfolds before our lenses. With each click of the shutter, we capture the resolute figures collecting junk in the sprawling garbage field, their tireless efforts juxtaposed against the surreal ambiance. The ethereal blend of morning fog and the haunting dance of smoke creates a dramatic and evocative setting, offering photographers a unique opportunity to create visually striking and powerful compositions. Join us as we explore this unconventional landscape, where the convergence of human perseverance and atmospheric elements reveals the extraordinary beauty hidden within the ordinary.. On the way, we will also explore and photograph village life. (B.L.D.)

November 8: Southern Dhaka

Prepare your camera gear as we embark on an exhilarating journey through the vibrant landscapes of the south city. Our lens focuses on the captivating spectacle of the biggest wholesale vegetable market, where visual wonders abound at every corner. Enter a world teeming with life as hundreds of small temporary shops come to life, forming a kaleidoscope of colors and bustling activity.

Navigate through the market's labyrinthine pathways, capturing the essence of the distinct blocks dedicated to the wholesale trade in fish, vegetables, fruits, and rice. Each section offers a treasure trove of photographic opportunities, where the vibrant hues of fresh produce mingle with the animated exchanges between buyers and sellers.

November 9: Fish Market

Delve into the morning wonders of the biggest sea fish port and wholesale fish market. From the crack of dawn, our lenses are poised to capture the captivating scenes that unfold before us. Fishermen, with weathered hands and unwavering determination, unload their abundant haul from the boats, their faces illuminated by a resolute passion for their craft. With meticulous attention, they repair their fishing nets, each knot and mend a testament to their unwavering commitment to their livelihood.

Continuing our photographic exploration, we venture towards the southern bay, where the world's longest sea beach stretches out in all its splendor. Here, we are immersed in a tapestry of fishing activities and the innocent joy of children at play. The rhythmic dance of fishermen casting their nets against the backdrop of crashing waves becomes a visual symphony. With each click of the shutter, we capture the essence of their skill and the harmony they share with the sea.

Photograph silhouettes of fishermen, their nets stretching gracefully across the water's edge, become ethereal forms against the vibrant hues of the setting sun. These images, infused with a sense of serenity and reverence, evoke the timeless connection between humanity and the sea.

November 10: Betel Nut Market

In the morning photography on the biggest betel nut market in Bangladesh. Hundreds of villagers carry betel nuts to the market, people selling and storing nuts. Afternoon photography in the world’s longest sea beach, colorful moon shape boats, fishing on the sea beach, fishermen making and repairing nets, dragging fishing boats, and sunset on the beach. (B.L.D.)

November 11 :SOUTH BAY – DHAKA-CANDLE LIGHT

Early morning photography in the biggest dry fish village of Bangladesh. Hundreds of village people working on, drying fish by a traditional process in the sun. Afternoon flight to Dhaka and photography on the Candle light festival another biggest Hindu temple. (B.L.D.)

November 12:: BRICK FACTORIES & TRAIN STATION

At morning we will enter several brick factories, explores whole traditional process of bricking making where brick laborers making brick by hand in the traditional processes. Red bricks with dust carry on their overhead. After lunch visit local train station, people traveling in crowded train even seating roof of the train. Beside  train station you a chance to shoot very interesting street photography.(B.L.D.)

November 13: Shipyard

At morning photo shoot on the old Dhaka city riverside where you will capture hundreds of people crossing river bus small local boats and riverside market and activities.  Next we will enter the Shipyard, a slum, and home to the largest shipyard in Asia. A labyrinth-like city in which giant skeletons of old ships provide work for around 15,000 people, with the task of dismantling ships, and creating new boats with the recovered parts. (B.L.D.)

November 14: DHAKA-DEPARTURE

Early Morning photography at the chicken market. After breakfast, we will transport  you back to  the airport  for your flights home. (B)

Dhaka:

Fars Hotel and Resorts (4-star)

Chittagong (South City):

Well Park Residence Hotel (4-star)

Coxbazar:

Ocean Paradise hotel (5-star)

Sylhet (Northeast):

Grand Palace Hotel & Resorts (5-star)

Bangladesh’s population

is a staggering 140 million, 14 million of which are packed into the capital, Dhaka. But that number is growing every day – as more and more of the rural population come to the capital city in search of work that is more lucrative and secure than agriculture. Things get a little crowded from time to time!

US Embassy/Consulate

[880] (2) 5566-2000; US Embassy in Dhaka, Madani Avenue, Baridhara, Dhaka -1212, Bangladesh; https://bd.usembassy.gov/; DhakaACS@state.gov

Language

Bengal is the language of Bangladesh and is largely the same as the Bengali spoken in India. The major difference you will find is in levels of spoken English in Bangladesh: English is not widely spoken, especially outside of cities, and announcements on transport, at stations etc are not in English. Younger people (eg students) are more likely to speak English than the older generation. Numbers are written in Bangla script, which means checking coach numbers for trains, uber registration plates, and even prices can be a bit of a pain. If you can learn how the Bangla numbers look in advance you will be at an advantage!

Telephone Code

880

Currency (Code)

Takas (BDT)

CLIMATE

Tropical; mild winter (October to March); hot, humid summer (March to June); humid, warm rainy monsoon (June to October)

Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s)

220 V / 50 Hz / plug types(s): A, C, D, G, K

Major Religions

Muslim 81.1%, Hindu 10%

Time Difference

UTC+6 (11 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)

Tipping Guidelines

Tipping is very uncommon and may be seen as ostentatious. Taxi fares may be rounded up and left with the driver as a tip, and 20-30 takas a day is common for hotel staff.

Vaccinations

Hepatitis A and typhoid vaccinations are required; hepatitis B, Japanese encephalitis, and rabies vaccinations are recommended. Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required if you are traveling from a country with a risk of yellow fever and are older than one year of age. See WHO recommendations.

http://www.who.int/

PASSPORT AND VISA REQUIREMENTS

US citizens should make sure their passport will not expire for at least 6 months after they enter the country even if they do not intend to stay that long. They should also make sure they have at least 1 blank page in their passport for any entry stamp and or visa that will be required. A visa is required. US citizens can get a Visa on Arrival if you are travelling for tourism (tourist visa) and plan to stay less than 30 days. You can find up to date info on the Bangladesh visa on arrival here.