The Raj & River Kingdoms of Bangladesh
10 Days | A Glam Girls Lux Travels Signature Journey
“A journey through the fading grandeur of the Bengal Presidency—where pink palaces overlook timeless rivers, tea planters’ bungalows nestle amongst emerald plantations, and elegant merchant mansions whisper stories of a bygone era.”
The Journey
Bangladesh remains one of South Asia’s best-kept secrets—a country where the grandeur of colonial Bengal still lingers amongst river ports, tea estates and magnificent historic architecture.
From the elegant Pink Palace of Dhaka to the rolling tea gardens of Srimangal and the tranquil waterways of the Sundarbans, this carefully curated journey explores the heritage of the old Bengal Presidency with the signature style and comfort synonymous with Glam Girls Lux Travels.
Along the way, we’ll discover artisan villages, ancient trading towns, magnificent Mughal monuments, colonial tea estates and some of the friendliest people in Asia.
Day 1 – Welcome to Dhaka
On arrival in Dhaka, you’ll be met by your private guide and transferred to your hotel.
Our home for the next two evenings is the elegant InterContinental Dhaka—an historic landmark and peaceful oasis amidst one of Asia’s most vibrant cities.
This evening, enjoy a relaxed Welcome Dinner as we begin our journey through Colonial Bengal.
Accommodation: InterContinental Dhaka
Day 2 – Dhaka, Sonargaon & The River Kingdom
Today we discover the rich history of old Bengal.
Our day begins in Sonargaon, the former capital of Bengal, where beautifully preserved merchant houses and quiet streets evoke centuries of prosperity and trade.
Returning to Old Dhaka, we wander through atmospheric lanes lined with magnificent merchant mansions, visit the beautiful Ahsan Manzil (Pink Palace) overlooking the Buriganga River, and explore the historic Armenian Church.
Later, we’ll photograph the remarkable traditional ship-building yards along the Buriganga—a fascinating glimpse into a centuries-old industry that continues much as it always has.
As the afternoon light softens, we enjoy a private cruise on the Buriganga River, retracing waterways once travelled by merchants, officials and elegant paddle steamers during the British Raj.
Accommodation: InterContinental Dhaka
Day 3 – Dhamrai & Bengal’s Master Artisans
This morning we travel to the traditional village of Dhamrai, renowned for its generations of brass and metal craftsmen whose work once adorned Bengal’s great households.
We visit family workshops where ancient techniques continue to be practised before stopping at the impressive National Martyrs’ Memorial at Savar.
Return to Dhaka during the afternoon to enjoy time at leisure or perhaps indulge in an elegant afternoon tea back at the hotel.
Accommodation: InterContinental Dhaka
Day 4 – Into Tea Country
Leaving Dhaka behind, we journey to Srimangal, Bangladesh’s enchanting tea-growing region.
Rolling emerald plantations, colonial tea bungalows and quiet country roads create a landscape reminiscent of the great tea districts of old Ceylon.
This afternoon we visit working tea estates, meet local communities including the Manipuri people, and enjoy Bangladesh’s famous seven-layer tea.
Accommodation: Grand Sultan Tea Resort & Golf
Day 5 – The Elegance of Bengal’s Tea Plantations
Today is devoted to the gentle beauty of Srimangal.
Explore the lush rainforest of Lawachara National Park, home to remarkable birdlife and playful primates, before visiting Khasi villages, pineapple plantations and fragrant lemon orchards scattered amongst the hills.
The afternoon offers time to relax amongst the tea gardens, soaking in the timeless atmosphere of Bengal’s plantation country.
Accommodation: Grand Sultan Tea Resort & Golf
Day 6 – Return to Dhaka
Following breakfast we return to Dhaka.
The remainder of the afternoon is free to unwind, visit a gallery, browse local boutiques or simply enjoy the comfort of our elegant hotel.
Accommodation: InterContinental Dhaka
Days 7 & 8 – The Sundarbans River Expedition
An early departure takes us south to Mongla, where we board our boutique expedition vessel for an unforgettable two-night cruise through the magnificent Sundarbans.
Rather than rushing, we embrace the slow rhythm of Bengal’s waterways.
Cruise narrow mangrove channels, watch colourful birdlife, visit remote river settlements, walk forest trails accompanied by experienced rangers, and enjoy sunset drinks on deck as the day’s final light reflects across the waterways.
The Sundarbans are also home to the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger, although the true magic lies in the serenity of this extraordinary landscape once navigated by the steamers of the Bengal Presidency.
Accommodation: Boutique Sundarbans Expedition Vessel
Day 9 – Bagerhat & Return to Dhaka
After breakfast we disembark and begin our return journey to Dhaka.
En route we visit the magnificent UNESCO World Heritage-listed Sixty Dome Mosque at Bagerhat, one of the finest surviving monuments of medieval Bengal and a beautiful historical counterpoint to the colonial stories explored throughout our journey.
Arrive back in Dhaka during the evening for our Farewell Dinner.
Accommodation: InterContinental Dhaka
Day 10 – Departure
Following breakfast, transfer to Dhaka International Airport for your onward flight.
As our journey concludes, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of a country where history, hospitality and timeless elegance combine to create one of South Asia’s most rewarding and undiscovered destinations.
Signature Accommodation
Dhaka (4 nights)
InterContinental Dhaka
Srimangal (2 nights)
Grand Sultan Tea Resort & Golf
Sundarbans (2 nights)
Boutique Expedition River Vessel
Journey Highlights
- Stay in Bangladesh’s finest heritage-style accommodation
- Explore the elegant Pink Palace of Ahsan Manzil
- Wander the historic streets of Old Dhaka
- Visit the former capital of Sonargaon
- Cruise the historic Buriganga River
- Photograph traditional ship-building yards
- Discover the artisan workshops of Dhamrai
- Stay amongst the tea estates of Srimangal
- Experience Bangladesh’s famous Seven-Layer Tea
- Visit Lawachara National Park
- Meet Manipuri and Khasi communities
- Two-night boutique cruise through the Sundarbans
- Explore the world’s largest mangrove forest
- Visit the UNESCO-listed Sixty Dome Mosque at Bagerhat
- Private guides and carefully curated cultural experiences throughout
Glam Girls Lux Travels
Bengal in Style is an elegant journey into one of South Asia’s most overlooked treasures—where colonial grandeur, river kingdoms, tea plantations and warm Bengali hospitality come together in a truly unforgettable experience.
Twin Share – Usd$4830 each
Single Supplement – Usd$650
Only 6 spots available!
Be in touch today with jeanw@glamgirlsluxtravels.com to secure your spot – and copy of expression of interest form