Fixing the road to tourism: Why Bangladesh must invest in better transportation
Bangladesh possesses substantial potential as a tourism destination, with its diverse natural landscapes, cultural heritage, and hospitable communities. However, the underdevelopment of transportation infrastructure continues to be a significant constraint to the growth of its tourism sector. For both domestic and international travelers, inadequate and unreliable transportation systems often undermine the overall experience, thereby discouraging travel.
Access to key tourist destinations such as Cox’s Bazar, the Sundarbans, and St. Martin’s Island remains challenging due to outdated road networks, delayed public transport and poorly regulated ferry systems. These logistical obstacles negatively impact both visitor satisfaction and destination competitiveness. According to the Bangladesh Tourism Board’s Strategic Master Plan from 2023, the country welcomed only around 300,000 international tourists in 2022 — figures substantially lower than those of neighboring countries such as India, Nepal and Sri Lanka. The report identifies limited transport connectivity as a major barrier to attracting foreign visitors.
Empirical evidence reinforces this concern. The country’s roads are often congested and poorly maintained, particularly during the monsoon season. Rail transport lacks both speed and comprehensive regional coverage, while air travel remains relatively expensive and is primarily concentrated around major urban centers. Additionally, maritime transportation, which is essential for island tourism, suffers from irregular schedules, insufficient safety protocols and inadequate infrastructure. These limitations not only hinder tourist mobility but also restrict the ability of local entrepreneurs and investors to expand tourism-related services in peripheral regions.
According to a 2021 World Bank report, transport inefficiencies cost Bangladesh over 2 percent of its annual GDP. Although this figure primarily refers to trade-related impacts, it also reflects broader systemic issues that equally affect the tourism sector. Improving transportation infrastructure is therefore not only a developmental imperative but also an economic opportunity.
Comparative insights can be drawn from countries such as Korea, which recorded approximately 16.4 million international arrivals in 2024. Korea’s success in attracting tourists is strongly supported by its integrated, efficient and user-friendly transportation system. From high-speed rail networks and affordable domestic flights to digital travel tools and real-time apps, the infrastructure significantly enhances accessibility and visitor satisfaction.
While Bangladesh operates under different economic constraints, scalable models can be adapted. Prioritizing infrastructure development linked to high-potential destinations — such as Bandarban, Sajek, Kuakata, Sylhet and Rajshahi — can enhance regional inclusivity and stimulate local economies. Strategic partnerships with the private sector may also facilitate the development of modern transport solutions, including digital platforms for travel planning and real-time updates on routes and safety conditions.
Crucially, all improvements must align with the principles of sustainability and environmental responsibility. As emphasized by the U.N. World Tourism Organization, postpandemic tourism development should foster resilience and inclusivity, particularly in ecologically sensitive areas.
The advancement of Bangladesh’s tourism sector is inherently tied to the state of its transportation systems. A commitment to improving infrastructure is not merely about increasing tourist arrivals — it is about ensuring equitable access, enhancing destination image and enabling sustainable economic growth. Investment in transport must therefore be recognized as a foundational element of national tourism strategy.
Tapas Mondol is a Ph.D. student in Tourism Management at Dong-A University in Busan, South Korea. His research focuses on sustainable tourism development and responsible travel behavior.