Land Tour
15 days
$AUD 993 per day
Departure: Bangladesh
Arrival: Bangladesh
Adventure
Private / Tailor made
Discover Bangladesh, the greenest gem of Asia, carved with waterways which are the veins of the country and hilltop villages bursting with tribal culture.
Starting in the hectic city of Dhaka, escape the chaos as you venture through lush landscapes of hundreds of hues of green dotted with bursts of colour from tea plucking ladies and wayside markets. Weave through the landscape by boat, allowing you to experience the country from a different perspective. Uncover hidden Buddhist temples and ruins whilst also learning about the blend of Hindu, Christian and tribal religions. Cruise through the Sunderbans in search of the elusive Bengal Tiger and home to an array of other wildlife. The experiences you will have travelling through Bangladesh are raw, eye-opening and heartwarming.
Exploring this untouched land, you will feel like you are pioneering the way for tourism. Embrace the quirks and beauty this incredible country has to offer and soak up every experience. There is nothing else like it in the world.]]>
* Pricing is subject to change at anytime until full payment has been received.
* A minimum of 4 adults is required to guarantee this departure.
A non-refundable deposit of $1000 AUD per person is required to secure your place. Final payment is due no later than 60 days prior to departure. Travel insurance is mandatory for travelling with Crooked Compass. For full terms and conditions, please click here.]]>
Welcome to Bangladesh! On arrival in Dhaka, you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours at leisure.
Dhaka
Dhaka is chaotic and loud. Running to its own rhythm, the city runs high on energy. Initially, it can be overwhelming – the traffic, the smog, the heat, but once you look beyond the surface-level disarray, the city’s charm will encapsulate you with its charismatic colours and rich culture. From clanky rickshaws to bobbing boats in the never-ending thread of waterways, a blend of Mughal and British monuments will shine through showcasing the history. The cities spiritual side will begin to appear in the form of temples and mosques. The local street scene of funky art and foodie scenes will emerge, giving you a glimpse at the huge potential this country tucked on the shores of West Bengal can offer the traveller prepared to delve a little deeper.
Liberation War Museum
Depending on your arrival time, you may wish to visit the Liberation War Museum (closed on Sundays), which preserves the memory of Bangladesh’s 1971 war for independence from Pakistan. The museum features four galleries covering the country’s early history, the Language Movement of 1952, the rise of Bengali nationalism, and the nine-month-long War of Liberation.
National Parliament Complex
You can also catch an outside view of the National Parliament Complex, designed by the renowned architect Louis I. Kahn. This architectural masterpiece covers 200 acres and symbolises Bangladeshi culture and heritage, earning the prestigious Aga Khan Award for Architecture in 1989.
Meals
N/A
Accommodation
Overnight The Way Dhaka or similar
Services
Airport transfer
Travel time and distance
Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport to Dhaka City Hotel: 15 km | 30 to 60 minutes
Dhaka City Hotel to Liberation War Museum: 5 km | 20 to 30 minutes
Liberation War Museum to National Parliament Complex: 3 km | 15 to 20 minutes
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Rupshi Village
After breakfast, depart for Sreemangal, the tea capital of Bangladesh. En route, visit Rupshi village to witness the traditional Jamdani weaving. This handloom-woven fabric, primarily used for Saris, is made from cotton and was historically known as Muslin. The process is intricate, relying entirely on the weaver’s skill and memory. Each motif is crafted without mechanical assistance, sketches, or written patterns, showcasing a truly unique Bangladeshi art form.
Murapara Jamindar Palace
Next, visit the Murapara Jamindar Palace, built in 1889 by Ramratan Banerjee, the founder of the Murapara Jamindari.
Sreemangal
Arriving in Sreemangal in the afternoon, you’ll be greeted by rolling hills of lush tea plantations, dense forests teeming with birdlife, and tribal villages nestled in the valleys. After checking in and freshening up at the resort, consider visiting the Monipuri village market for vibrant handicrafts made by tribal women. Cap off the day with a unique 7-layer tea at a roadside stall while chatting with the locals.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch at Bengali Restaurant
Accommodation
Overnight in Grand Sultana Tea Resort and Golf in Sreemangal or similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Travel time and distance
Dhaka to Rupshi Village: 32 km | 1 hour
Rupshi Village to Murapara Jamindar Palace: 12 km | 20 minutes
Murapara Jamindar Palace to Sreemangal :164 km | 4 hours
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Lawachara Rainforest
Wake up in paradise. After breakfast, spend the day exploring the lush Lawachara tropical rainforest. This national park is home to rare species like the Capped Langur, Loris, Ape Monkeys, and the Hoolok Gibbon. Keep an eye out for the world’s largest butterflies, including the Birdwing and Ornithoptera, with wingspans reaching 6–8 inches! Bird enthusiasts will also be thrilled to spot over 286 species of colourful local birds.
Visit Khasia Village
Take a trail to the Khasia village, located just on the outskirts of the forest, where you can experience their unique lifestyle and learn about their agricultural practices.
Tea Processing Centre and Garo Village
Next, visit a tea processing centre (if operational) to observe the intricate tea-making process, followed by a trip to a Garo village, where you’ll discover their fascinating lifestyle and ancient traditions.
Madhabpur Lake
If time allows, head to Madhabpur Lake, surrounded by tea and pineapple gardens. Sreemangal is renowned for having the world’s largest tea gardens and is a haven for migratory birds in winter, as well as vibrant orange and pineapple plantations.
Meals
Breakfast and lunch at Bengali Restaurant
Accommodation
Overnight in Grand Sultana Tea Resort and Golf in Sreemangal or similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Travel time and distance
Lawachara Rainforest to Khasia Village: 2 km | 10 minutes
Khasia Village to Tea Processing Centre: 7 km | 20 minutes
Tea Processing Centre to Garo Village: 5 km | 15 minutes
Garo Village to Madhabpur Lake: 22 km | 45 minutes
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Morning: Explore Sreemangal’s Tea Gardens
Start your day with a relaxing walk through Sreemangal’s lush tea gardens. Enjoy observing the vibrant local birdlife and watch the local women plucking tea leaves. Feel free to chat with them or try your hand at tea plucking!
Drive to Sonargaon
Embark on a scenic drive to Sonargaon via the renowned Asian Highway. As you travel, take in the picturesque landscape of green crop lands, bustling wayside markets, and charming forested villages inhabited by both indigenous and local communities.
Afternoon: Discover Sonargaon
Sonargaon, once the ancient capital of Bengal during the Turkish Sultanate period in 1280 AD, was a prominent administrative, commercial, and maritime hub. It was the seat of medieval Muslim rulers and governors of Eastern Bengal, including Sultan Fakhruddin Mubarak Shah, Isa Khan, and the Baro-Bhuyan Confederacy. Historic travellers like Ibn Battuta and Ma Huan described Sonargaon as a thriving trade centre.
Visit Panam Nagar
Explore Panam Nagar, one of the world’s most endangered historic sites and of great archaeological and artistic significance. Known as the Dead City, Panam Nagar features over 50 buildings from the late 19th century. The site has suffered from damp, biological damage, and insect damage. It was listed on the World Monuments Watch List of 100 Most Endangered Sites by the New York-based World Monument Fund in 2006. [Note: Closed on Sundays and the first half of Mondays.]
Optional: Visit the Folk-Art Museum
If time allows, visit the Folk-Art Museum to immerse yourself in Bengali rural culture. Established by renowned Bangladeshi painter Joynul Abedin on March 12, 1975, the museum includes the historic Boro Sardar Bari, built by a wealthy man named Gopinath in 1023 AD. The Bangladesh Folk-Arts and Crafts Foundation has converted the house into a museum as well. [Note: Both museums are closed on Wednesdays and Thursdays.]
Meals
Breakfast and lunch at Bengali Restaurant
Accommodation
Overnight in Royal Resort in Sonargaon or similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Travel time and distance
Sreemangal to Sonargaon: 185 km | 5 hrs drive
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Cumilla
Start your day with a drive to Cumilla, a journey of approximately 75 km. Here, you’ll explore the remarkable archaeological sites of Salban Vihara, situated in the Mainamati Lalmai hill range. This area was a prominent centre of Buddhist culture from the 8th to 12th century, under the Chandra and Deva dynasties. You’ll discover over 50 excavated sites, featuring rare terracotta plaques, bronze and black stone statues, and Votive Stupas.
Lunch
Enjoy a hearty lunch at a local highway restaurant, where you can savour authentic Bengali cuisine.
Kumira
If time allows, consider a brief stop at Kumira to browse shops selling unique products crafted from the steel of dismantled ships. Note that the ship-breaking yard itself is not open to visitors.
Chattogram
Continue your journey to Chattogram, where you’ll spend the night at the Agrabad Hotel or a similar accommodation.
Meals
Breakfast and lunch at Bengali Restaurant
Accommodation
Overnight in Agrabad Hotel Chattogram or similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Travel time and distance
Sonargaon to Cumilla: 75 km | 1.5 hrs
Cumilla to Chattogram: 155 km | 3.5 hrs
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Andarkilla Shahi Jame Masjid
Begin your day with a visit to the historic Andarkilla Shahi Jame Masjid in Chattogram. This 352-year-old mosque stands as a testament to Mughal triumphs over the Arakani Moghs and Portuguese pirates. Built in 1667 by Umed Khan, on the orders of Emperor Aurangzeb, the mosque sits atop a high hill known as Ander-Qila. Though it served as a British ammunition store in the 18th century, it was restored for religious purposes in 1855. The mosque’s architectural and artistic features are noteworthy, attracting around 2,000 daily worshippers and up to 8,000 on Jummah.
War Cemetery
Next, visit the War Cemetery, a solemn site dedicated to Commonwealth soldiers who perished during World War II on the Indo-Burmese front. Created by the British Army, this cemetery originally held about 400 burials, with graves later transferred from Lushai Hills and other locations. It now contains 731 Commonwealth graves, including those of soldiers from Australia, Britain, Canada, and New Zealand. The cemetery, spanning 6 acres, is maintained by the Commonwealth Graves Commission.
Rangamati
Travel to Rangamati and immerse yourself in the picturesque surroundings. This charming town, set on the edge of a man-made lake, serves as a centre for rice milling, cotton weaving, and agriculture. Take in the scenic beauty, including the hanging bridge, and explore the local area.
Local Weaving Village
In the afternoon, visit a local weaving village. Engage with the community and learn about traditional weaving techniques. Try your hand at this age-old craft and gain insights into local traditions.
Meals
Breakfast and lunch at Bengali Restaurant
Accommodation
Overnight in Hill Ambassador Hotel Rangamati or a similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Travel time and distance
Chattogram to Rangamati: 80 km | 3 hrs
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Kaptai Lake Cruise
Start your day with a relaxing cruise on the pristine waters of Kaptai Lake. As you sail, take in the scenic beauty of the surrounding landscape and watch local fishermen casting their nets along the shoreline or navigating the waters in simple boats. You’ll stop at the Shuvolong Waterfall, which is most impressive after the monsoon season when it cascades in full force.
Visit to Chakma and Marma Tribes
During your cruise, you’ll visit the vibrant Chakma and Marma tribes. This is a unique opportunity to engage with the local communities and learn about their rich cultural traditions and way of life. Their colourful attire and fascinating lifestyles reflect the deep-rooted customs of these indigenous people.
Lunch
Enjoy an authentic tribal lunch at a local restaurant. Traditional tribal cuisine will give you a real taste of the region’s culinary heritage.
Journey to Bandarban
Continue your journey towards Bandarban, travelling along a winding, serpentine road that reveals stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Upon arrival in Bandarban, you will be free to relax in the evening.
Meals
Breakfast and lunch at a tribal restaurant
Accommodation
2 nights in D’More Hotel Bandarban or a similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Boat cruise on Kaptai Lake
Travel time and distance
Chattogram to Kaptai Lake: 65 km | 2 hrs
Kaptai Lake to Shuvolong Waterfall: 20 km | 45 mins (by boat)
Shuvolong Waterfall to Chakma Tribe Village: 5 km | 20 mins (by boat)
Chakma Tribe Village to Bandarban: 95 km | 3 hrs
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Local Tribal Villages (Bawm and Mru)
Start your day by visiting the local tribal villages of Bawm and Mru. Engage with the villagers, gaining insights into their unique cultures and traditions. The journey to these remote villages offers breathtaking views, with panoramic hill slopes covered in lush creeper jungles, streams, and the scenic Sangu River carving its way through the landscape.
Golden Temple
Next, enjoy a distant view of the famous Golden Temple, the most ornamented Buddhist temple in Bangladesh. While the temple is restricted to non-Buddhist visitors, its grandeur can still be appreciated from afar. Perched atop Zadi Hill, the temple is built in the traditional Southeast Asian architectural style and houses the second-largest statue of Buddha in Bangladesh.
Sangu River Cruise
In the afternoon, embark on a serene cruise along the Sangu River. As you glide through the waters, you will visit a tribal minority village, offering a deeper connection to the region’s rich cultural tapestry.
Meals
Breakfast and lunch at a local restaurant
Accommodation
D’More Hotel Bandarban or a similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Boat ride along the Sangu River
Travel time and distance
Local Tribal Villages (Bawm and Mru) to Golden Temple: 25 km | 1.5 hrs
Golden Temple to Sangu River (Cruise starting point): 15 km | 30 mins
Sangu River (Cruise) to Local Tribal Minority Village: 10 km | 1 hr (by boat)
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Himchori National Park
After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Cox’s Bazar, with your first stop at Himchori National Park. Established in 1980 and protected by the government, this park offers travellers stunning views of the Himchori waterfall and lush greenery. Home to a diverse range of flora, the park features 58 species of trees, 4 species of grass, 15 species of shrubs, 19 climbers, and 21 species of herbs. It’s a haven for biologists and birdwatchers alike, boasting over 286 bird species.
Inani Beach
After lunch at a local Bengali restaurant, continue to Inani Beach, renowned for its vast rock and coral boulders. During the summer or rainy season, the coral stones appear vibrant and alive, offering a unique natural spectacle. Take in the serene and seemingly endless views of the sea, perfect for watching the sunset.
Meals
Breakfast and lunch at a local restaurant
Accommodation
Overnight in Dera Resort in Cox’s Bazar or a similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Travel time and distance
Himchori National Park to Cox’s Bazar: 20 km | 45 mins
Cox’s Bazar to Inani Beach: 30 km | 1 hr
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Maheshkhali Island Visit
After breakfast, embark on a visit to Maheshkhali Island, a serene destination accessible via a speed boat crossing the bay channel. The island is renowned for its lush, forested hills and mangrove forests. One of the highlights of the island is the ancient ‘Adinath Temple,’ which stands majestically on a hilltop, offering panoramic views. Also of note is the ‘Rakhain Village,’ home to a vibrant Buddhist Temple, adding a touch of cultural colour and historical significance to your visit.
Flight Transfer
Return to Cox’s Bazar airport for your domestic flight to Jashore via Dhaka
Flight schedule: CXB-DAC 15:25 16:30 and DAC-JSR 18:30 19:15
Arrival in Jashore
Upon arrival in Jashore, you will be met by a representative and transferred to your hotel.
Meals
Breakfast and lunch at a local restaurant
Accommodation
Overnight in Zabeer Hotel in Jashore or a similar
Services
Airport transfer
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Domestic flight
Travel time and distance
Cox’s Bazar to Maheshkhali Island: 20 km | 1 hr (by speed boat)
Cox’s Bazar to Dhaka: 350 km | 1 hr 5 min (flight duration: CXB DAC 15:25 16:30)
Dhaka to Jashore: 200 km | 45 min (flight duration: DAC JSR 18:30 19:15)
Jashore Airport to Hotel: 10 km | 20 min
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Bagerhat
Start your day early with a drive to Bagerhat, a historic city nestled in the mangrove jungle at the confluence of the Ganges and Brahmaputra rivers. Founded by Turkish commander Ulugh Khan Jahan in the 15th century, Bagerhat is renowned for its mosque city, featuring numerous ancient Islamic monuments constructed from bricks. Begin with a visit to the Kodla Math in the village of Ayudha, located 10 km north of the 60-Domed Mosque. This UNESCO World Heritage site is notable for its architectural grandeur and historical significance. Nearby, you’ll also find several smaller brick-built mosques and the holy shrine of Saint Khan Jahan Ali. The area is also known for its crocodile-infested lake, adding to its unique charm.
Mongla
Proceed to Mongla, where you will board your boat for an extraordinary adventure into the Sundarbans, the largest saltwater mangrove forest in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Shared by West Bengal in India and Khulna District in Bangladesh, this vast delta is formed by the major rivers flowing from the Himalayas. The confluence of freshwater and saltwater, known as brackish water, fosters a unique ecosystem. This sanctuary is home to over 300 species of birds, fish, reptiles, monkeys, and the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger. Under the water, you might encounter the Ganges dolphin, Indo-Pacific humpbacked dolphin, Irrawaddy dolphin, and finless porpoise.
Cruising the Sundarbans
Set sail southward on your cruise boat. After a few hours of navigation, the boat will stop at a forest station for formalities and to pick up an armed forest guard for safety. The Sundarbans is a wild, untamed environment, and the presence of tigers necessitates extra caution. Continue your journey through the mangroves, arriving at Andermanik in the afternoon. Enjoy a canal cruise to experience the dense jungle up close.
Meals
Breakfast and Lunch onboard, Dinner will be served on the cruise boat
Accommodation
2 nights in a cruise boat in the Sundarbans
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Boat Cruise
Canal Cruise
Travel time and distance
Jashore to Mongla via Bagerhat: 150 km | 5 hrs drive
Mongla to Sundarbans: By cruise boat
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Morning Exploration
Awake to the soothing sounds of nature in the Sundarban forest. Early this morning, embark on an exploration of this renowned area, known for its diverse wildlife and bird species. Enjoy a cruise through the narrower canals aboard a small country boat, which provides an ideal vantage point for bird watching.
Arrival at Kotka
Arrive in Kotka by late morning. After breakfast, you have the option to engage in several activities. Climb one of the watchtowers to gain a panoramic view of the surrounding wildlife, or take a jungle hike through the dense mangrove forest for a closer look at the area’s flora and fauna. A walk to Badamtala Beach (2.5 km) offers a unique experience as you follow tiger trails across sandy stretches and savannah-like grasslands before re-entering the lush forest.
Travel to Kachikhali Island
Return to your boat and set sail for Kachikhali Island (Tiger Point – 2 hours), a renowned wildlife habitat known for its tiger population. In the afternoon, embark on an adventurous forest hike under the canopy, eventually reaching broad grasslands where you can observe herds of spotted deer and wild boar. The elusive Royal Bengal Tiger may make a rare appearance, so keep your eyes peeled!
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch and BBQ Dinner on board
Accommodation
Cruise boat in the Sundarbans
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Boat Cruise
Travel time and distance
Sundarban to Kotka: 2.5 km | 30 mins (for Badamtala Beach Walk)
Kotka to Kachikhali Island (Tiger Point): 2 hrs (sailing distance varies)
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Cruise from Sundarbans to Mongla
Depending on the tide schedule, your boat will begin its return journey once the waters are in. Enjoy a full day cruising through the serene mangrove forest, taking in the tranquil beauty of the creeks. This peaceful journey offers a unique perspective of the Sundarbans’ lush landscapes and rich biodiversity.
Transfer to Barisal
Upon arrival in Mongla in the early afternoon, disembark and transfer to Barisal. The drive to Barisal takes approximately 3.5 hours, covering a distance of around 120 km.
Meals
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinne in Barisal
Accommodation
Grand Park Hotel Barisal or similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Boat Cruise
Travel time and distance
Mongla to Barisal: 130 km | 3.5 hrs
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Floating Vegetable Market
Wake up early and pack your breakfast from the hotel. Depart at 0530 hrs to explore the renowned Floating Vegetable Market, a unique attraction in Bangladesh. This market is one of the few remaining floating markets globally, alongside those in the Mekong Delta in Vietnam and Dal Lake in Kashmir. As you navigate through the canals, you’ll have the chance to visit local artisans and their families. Experience the traditional pottery-making process, from transporting clay by wooden boat to shaping it with a manual wheel, firing it in an oven, and eventually preparing it for shipment.
Journey to Dhaka
Due to the discontinuation of the rocket steamer services and the recent construction of a new bridge over the Padma River, the journey to Dhaka has become more efficient, reducing travel time to approximately 4-5 hours.
Meals
Pack breakfast from the hotel and lunch at a Local restaurant
Accommodation
2 nights in The Way Dhaka Hotel or similar
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Boat ride
Travel time and distance
Floating Vegetable Market to Dhaka: 200 km | 4-5 hrs
Barisal to Dhaka via Banaripara: 235 km | 6.5 hrs
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Historical Walking Tour of Old Dhaka
After breakfast, embark on a full day of sightseeing to explore the old part of Dhaka, which offers a glimpse into the heritage of the Mughal Era (1608). This area is characterised by its ornamented mosques, covered markets, and bustling streets filled with rickshaws and vendors. Your guide will lead you through the Old Hindu Streets, where you can experience the vibrant atmosphere of the old town. This historical district, known for its richly decorated brick buildings from the late Mughal or Colonial period, is home to the Shankhari Community. The community’s name, derived from ‘Shankha’—a decorated bangle made from conch shells—symbolises a married Hindu woman. Witness the traditional making of these ornaments and enjoy live street food, a renowned feature of Old Dhaka.
Visit to Northbrook Hall
Next, visit Northbrook Hall, also known as Lalkuthi (the red house), situated on the bank of the Buriganga River. Built-in 1879 by Raja Rai Bahadur and other eminent Jamindars in honour of Lord Northbrook, the viceroy of India, the hall was inaugurated on 24 May 1880 to commemorate Queen Victoria’s birth anniversary. Initially used as a telegram office and later as Central Women’s College, it is now under the purview of Dhaka Municipality Corporation.
Sadarghat Waterfront and Historical Sites
Explore the vibrant Sadarghat waterfront, once a major riverport with numerous boats and watercraft. Although passenger traffic has decreased due to the Padma Bridge, the area remains bustling. Visit the Ahsan Manzil, the former palace of the Nawab of Dhaka (closed on Thursdays and the first half of Fridays), the Armenian Church built in 1781, and the ornate Star Mosque (Qassabtuli Mosque). Continue to the incomplete Mughal Fort at Lalbagh (closed on Sundays and the first half of Mondays), the historic Curzon Hall at Dhaka University, and Dhakeswari Temple, built by King Ballal Sen in the 12th century and regarded as the state temple of Bangladesh for the Hindu community. Some believe the city’s name, Dhaka, originates from this temple.
Lunch and Shopping
Enjoy lunch at a local Bengali restaurant, followed by a visit to Aarong, renowned for its Bangladeshi handicrafts and products.
Meals
Breakfast and lunch at a local restaurant
Accommodation
The Way Dhaka or a similar hotel.
Services
Private vehicle with English-speaking guide
Boat ride
Travel time and distance
Old Dhaka to Northbrook Hall: 5 km | 15 mins
Northbrook Hall to Sadarghat Waterfront and Historical Sites: 3 km | 10 mins
Sadarghat Waterfront and Historical Sites to Aarong (for Shopping): 8 km | 25 mins
Aarong (for Shopping) to The Way Dhaka or a similar hotel (Accommodation): 7 km | 20 mins
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After breakfast, you’ll transfer to the airport for your onward journey. This is the final leg of your trip, where you’ll reflect on the experiences and memories created throughout your journey.
Meals
Breakfast
Services
Airport transfer
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b. as retail, where your Travel Product will either be paid to the Provider directly at the time of booking or payable to the Provider on the date of travel.
31. Travel Products purchased in accordance with the 'retail' method, will not be bound by these terms and conditions and you are responsible for pursuing any claims of cancellation, re-scheduling, refunds or chargebacks directly with the merchant.
32. As the merchant we are governed by the terms and conditions of the Provider of the merchant facility.
33. A credit card or debit card fee may also be charged by certain Providers and low cost carriers. You will be notified of such charges prior to your purchase.
34. All charges, including the credit card fees, may be in another currency (e.g. EUR), which we will provide an estimate for in Australian dollars.
Refunds and Credits
35. If you cancel your Travel Product, your right to a refund or credit is subject to the terms and conditions of the Provider.
36. If the Provider is required to provide you with a refund or credit for the Travel Product, we will liaise with the Provider to arrange that refund. Where you are entitled to a refund, we are unable to provide you with this refund until we receive it from the Provider. Please note that most Providers take 60 – 90 days to process any refund.
37. Any refund or credit will be subject to these terms and conditions and will not include the Booking & Service Advisory fee, credit card fees or any commissions received. You may also be charged a cancellation fee by the Provider.
38. Where refunds for unused services are allowed, a service fee may be charged by the Provider against the value of the refund.
No Show
39. If you have a booking for a Travel Product (including flights and accommodation) but you do not show up to check-in or otherwise do not avail yourself of such Travel Product, you will not be entitled to any refund from us.
Cancellation and Amendments
40. If you amend or cancel your Travel Product, we reserve the right to charge the cancellation and amendment fees as per the Schedule of Professional Service Fees.
41. The Provider may charge cancellation and amendment fees in accordance with the terms and conditions agreed between you and the Provider. These will be in addition to the fees charged by us. We are not liable for any cancellation fees or refusals to refund made by the Provider.
42. Many Providers treat name changes and route and/or itinerary alterations as a full cancellation and these can incur full cancellation charges.
43. We will not charge a cancellation or amendment fee if you cancel or amend your booking due to a breach by us of our obligations to you or due to our fault.
Cancellations and Amendments for Online Low Cost Carrier Bookings Only
44. If your flight booking is with a low cost carrier, you can only cancel or change your booking by contacting the Provider directly.
Cancellations and amendments for hotel bookings only
Cancellations and Amendments for Hotel Bookings Only
45. Please review the cancellation policy for your hotel booking for any penalties that may apply.
Force Majeure
46. We will not be liable for any failure or delay in performing our obligations in booking the Travel Product that is due to events beyond our control.
47. If a force majeure event occurs that affects your booking, your entitlement to a refund, a credit or re-scheduled travel booking will depend on the Provider's terms and conditions.
48. If your booking is impacted by a force majeure event and you are entitled to a refund or credit from the Provider, we will facilitate this refund or credit.
49. The Booking & Service Advisory fee, credit card fees or any commissions received are non-refundable in the circumstance that a force majeure event occurs.
Low Cost Flights
50. If you book a low cost flight with us, we will make the booking on your behalf and your contract for your low cost flight will also be subject to the airline's booking terms and conditions.
51. It is your responsibility to ensure that all details of the booking are correct before proceeding. For any changes or cancellations, please contact the airline directly, quoting your reference.
Additional Airline Charges
52. Some Providers may also charge additional fees. Please check with the Provider for their full terms and conditions.
Hotel/Accommodation Bookings
53. Some Providers will require an additional charge to be paid locally (e.g. a resort fee) at the time of check in or check out. This amount is in addition to the amount shown during the booking process under the 'total booking cost' amount.
54. There may be taxes levied abroad but not paid at the point of purchase that are payable in relation to your hotel booking (e.g. local taxes, sales tax etc.). Any local taxes will be payable by you directly to the Provider at the time of check in/check out.
Changes in Price and Itineraries
55. We reserve the right to cancel your booking in the event we have reasonable grounds to believe it is fraudulent.
56. If a Provider changes any part of your booking for reasons beyond its control, we will use our reasonable endeavours to notify you. If any such changes result in your Travel Product costing more or otherwise being materially different, then you may cancel the Travel Product. Any refund would be subject to the Travel Provider terms and conditions.
57. These terms and conditions are subject to variation at any time. Any variation will be displayed here, and you will be deemed to have accepted a variation if you have made a booking after it has been displayed.
Your Obligations and Warranties
58. You warrant to us that:
a. you are at least 18 years old and have the power, capacity and authority to enter into a binding contract with us and with the Providers of the Travel Products that you acquire;
b. you have read and understood these terms and conditions and if booking on behalf of third parties, you have conveyed these terms and conditions to them;
c. the information you provide us about yourself is true, accurate, current and complete (apart from any optional items) as required by any registration process;
d. you have considered acquiring comprehensive travel insurance and we are not responsible for any failure by you to acquire adequate insurance cover; and
e. you will use the Booking & Advisory Services in accordance with these terms and conditions and you will not use the Booking & Advisory Services in any way to breach any laws or defame anyone.
Jurisdiction and Law
59. All matters arising out of or in connection with the Booking & Advisory Services and these terms and conditions are governed by the laws of Victoria, Australia. By acquiring the Booking & Advisory Services, you consent and submit to the exclusive jurisdiction of the laws of Victoria, Australia.
Definitions
" We" and "us" means Darebin Travel.
" You" or "your" means any user of our Website or any person who acquires the Booking & Advisory Services, including any person who acquires a Travel Product (whether or not the Booking & Advisory Services were acquired by another person).
" Booking & Advisory Services" means services provided by us to you in assisting you to acquire a Travel Product from a Provider and includes advisory and consulting services.
"Force Majeure” means, but not limited to: acts of God, accident, riot, war, terrorist act, epidemic, pandemic, quarantine, outbreaks of infectious disease or any other public health crisis, civil commotion, breakdown of communication facilities, natural catastrophes, adverse weather conditions, governmental acts or omissions, changes in laws or regulations, national strikes, fire, explosion and generalised lack of availability of raw materials or energy.
“ Travel Provider” or "Provider" or "Providers" means the company or person who provides you with the Travel Product on terms and conditions agreed with you.
" Travel Product" means the service or product provided by a Provider, for example, an airline or a hotel.
" Website" means our website https://deluxelife.com.au/
Schedule of Professional Service Fees
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Planning Fee |
$125 per itinerary. Creating unique travel itineraries is our specialty. For detailed quotations providing tailored recommendations for custom designed tours, a non-refundable planning fee applies. Should you proceed with booking, this fee is credited towards your trip.
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Service Fees |
$40 Domestic/Trans-Tasman airfare per person or as discounted
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$150.00 International airfare per person or as discounted
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$50.00 Domestic/Trans-Tasman business class airfare per person or as discounted
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$200.00 International business class airfare per person or as discounted |
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NIL Domestic/Trans-Tasman package, tour, or cruise per booking
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NIL International package, tour, or cruise per booking |
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$ Other Services dependent on service explained to you |
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$200 to $500 Itinerary planning per booking (credited towards reservation once booked) |
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Deposit & Balance |
For all bookings, the initial deposit is 20% and the balance of payment is due 60 days before departure. If Travel Provider terms and conditions vary, we may request an additional deposit from you, after the initial deposit is paid, plus the balance payment date may also vary. After you have paid your initial deposit, you will have five days cooling off period to accept these Booking & Advisory Terms and Conditions, during which time your deposit is refundable. After 5 days has passed, or you have accepted the Terms and Conditions, the deposit will automatically become non-refundable. Note, some Travel Products must be paid in full at time of booking. Service Fees must also be paid at time of booking and are non-refundable. After you pay the balance of payment this will become fully non-refundable 60 days before travel, or earlier, if specified by the supplier. |
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Amendment Fees |
Changes to Domestic/Trans-Tasman bookings will incur a fee of $50 per passenger per booking in addition to Provider and credit card fees.
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Changes to International bookings (excluding Trans-Tasman bookings) will incur a fee of $50 per passenger per booking in addition to Provider and credit card fees.
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Cancellation Fees |
Cancellations to Domestic/Trans-Tasman bookings will incur a fee of $75 per passenger per booking in addition to Provider and credit card fees.
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Cancellations to International bookings (excluding Trans-Tasman bookings) will incur a fee of $150 per passenger per booking in addition to Provider and credit card fees.
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Credit Card Fees |
Visa - an additional 2.0% applies
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Mastercard - an additional 2.0% applies
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American Express - an additional 2.0% applies
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(All fees exclude GST, where applicable).
Privacy Notice
Darebin Travel collects your personal information to enable us to respond to your queries and provide you with the Booking & Advisory Services, including assisting in arrangements with Providers (such as hotels and flights).
We will also use your personal information to personalise the service we provide you, including your experience on our, and other, websites, and to provide you with information about our, and our partners’, business, products and services. Your personal information may be shared between entities within Darebin Travel and with DeluxeLife Pty Ltd (ACN: 647 484 115), disclosed to suppliers, Providers, our cloud infrastructure, our contractors and to others where authorised or required by law. Some of these entities may be located overseas.
ANNEXURE – TRAVEL TIPS FOR TRAVEL PRODUCTS
These tips set out below are NOT legally binding terms and conditions.
Passports, Visas and Health Requirements
It is your responsibility to ensure that you have the required documents, including visas and passports, before travelling to a destination. For more information please log on to www.dfat.gov.au and www.smarttraveller.gov.au. Please check with the respective Embassy or Consulate of each country that you are travelling to, as many destinations require visas for both Australians and non-Australian passport holders. For more information, log on to www.visalink.com.au. You need to ensure that you have at least 6 months validity on your passport from the date of your departure return.
For International travellers booked on flights to the USA, including Hawaii, it is now mandatory, under the Visa Waiver Program to receive an electronic authorisation known as ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation) no less than 72 hours before travel to the USA. This can be obtained from the following website: https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta/ .
For international travellers booked on flights to Canada, you either need a visitor visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to fly to, or transit through, a Canadian airport. An eTA can be obtained from the following website: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/visit-canada/eta/apply.html
It is your responsibility to ensure that you are aware of any health requirements for your travel destinations. Vaccinations are strongly recommended for certain destinations. You need to contact your local doctor who will advise you of these requirements. Please note that vaccinations may be recommended before your travel departure date.
Travel Advice
We recommend that you contact the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) or visit their website at www.dfat.gov.au for general travel advice, as well as specific advice (including safety alert levels) relating to the destination you wish to visit.
Ticketing
For international and domestic departure, e-tickets will be issued upon payment and completion of the booking process. All other travel documentation, such as hotel booking confirmations, will be emailed to the email address you provided as an e-document. Should the Provider issue paper vouchers, these will be posted to the address you provided.
Baggage Allowance
Baggage allowance varies from airline to airline and in many cases the airfare you have paid may not include the cost to cover checked baggage. Please check with your Travel Advisor and/or the airline providing your flights for the allowances.
Frequent Flyers & Special Requests
For more information on whether your airfare is eligible for Frequent Flyer rewards, please contact the airline directly. When booking online, please ensure that you have entered your correct number. For bookings made by telephone via our Customer Service Team, please advise of your Frequent Flyer details and these will be added to your reservation. We do not take any responsibility should an airline not register your trip. You should retain copies of your air ticket and boarding pass.
Special requests will be passed on to the Providers but cannot be guaranteed.