Things to Do in Bangladesh in February
February weather, activities, events & insider tips
February Weather in Bangladesh
Is February Right for You?
Advantages
- Peak season for Sundarbans wildlife viewing - tigers are most active in cooler months, and water levels are optimal for boat navigation through the mangrove channels
- Perfect weather for exploring Old Dhaka on foot - temperatures around 22°C (72°F) make walking through Shakhari Bazaar and Lalbagh Fort comfortable for 4-5 hours
- Cox's Bazar beach conditions are ideal with minimal rainfall and gentle waves - water temperature stays around 24°C (75°F) with consistent sea breezes
- Pohela Falgun celebration transforms Dhaka University area into a colorful festival (usually February 13-14) - locals wear yellow and orange, creating incredible photo opportunities
Considerations
- Tourist season pricing affects accommodations - expect 40-60% higher rates in Cox's Bazar and Sundarbans compared to monsoon months
- Morning fog in northern regions like Srimangal can delay domestic flights by 2-3 hours until 10am, particularly affecting Sylhet routes
- Dhaka's winter pollution peaks in February with AQI often reaching 200+ during early morning hours before 9am
Best Activities in February
Sundarbans Mangrove Wildlife Tours
February offers the best wildlife spotting conditions in the world's largest mangrove forest. Royal Bengal tigers are most active in cooler weather, and receding water levels concentrate animals near viewing channels. Spotted deer, crocodiles, and over 270 bird species are easily visible. Morning temperatures around 18°C (64°F) make early boat rides comfortable.
Old Dhaka Heritage Walking Tours
February's mild temperatures make exploring the 400-year-old Mughal capital on foot incredibly rewarding. Start at 8am when temperatures are 20°C (68°F) to visit Lalbagh Fort, Armenian Church, and the spice markets of Chawk Bazaar. The cooler weather allows for 5-6 hour walking tours without heat exhaustion.
Cox's Bazar Beach Resort Experience
The world's longest natural beach (120km/75 miles) is perfect in February with minimal rainfall and comfortable 24°C (75°F) water temperatures. Sea conditions are calm with 1-2 foot waves ideal for swimming. Sunset viewing from Himchari Peak (244m/800ft) offers clear visibility on most February evenings.
Srimangal Tea Garden Experiences
February marks peak tea harvesting season in Bangladesh's tea capital. Morning temperatures of 16°C (61°F) create perfect conditions for walking through Lawachara National Park's rainforest trails (2-4km/1.2-2.5 miles). Tea estates offer fresh first-flush tastings and processing demonstrations.
Chittagong Hill Tracts Cultural Tours
February's dry weather opens mountain roads to indigenous communities in Rangamati and Bandarban. Comfortable hiking temperatures around 20°C (68°F) allow full-day treks to tribal villages. Kaptai Lake boat rides offer stunning views with clear February skies and minimal rainfall.
Dhaka Food Market and Cooking Tours
February's comfortable temperatures make exploring Dhaka's street food scene enjoyable from early morning to late evening. Kawran Bazar (Asia's largest wholesale market) and New Market offer incredible variety. Cooler weather reduces food safety risks and makes walking between food stalls comfortable for 3-4 hours.
February Events & Festivals
Pohela Falgun Spring Festival
Bengali spring celebration where Dhaka University campus transforms into a sea of yellow and orange colors. Students and locals wear traditional spring colors, organize cultural programs, and celebrate with traditional foods like pitha (rice cakes). Street vendors sell jasmine garlands and marigold decorations throughout the campus area.
Dhaka International Trade Fair
Bangladesh's largest trade exhibition featuring local handicrafts, textiles, and traditional products. Held at Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, it offers excellent opportunities to buy authentic Bengali products directly from artisans. Cultural performances and traditional food stalls operate throughout the event.
Ekushey Book Fair
Month-long book festival at Bangla Academy and Suhrawardy Udyan celebrating Bengali literature and International Mother Language Day. Features over 500 publishers, cultural programs, poetry recitations, and discussions. Even non-Bengali speakers enjoy the vibrant literary atmosphere and cultural performances.