WHAT TO BUY IN BANGLADESH

Bangladesh is indeed a shoppers' paradise with a rich tradition in handicrafts at throw away prices. Bangladesh is famous for contemporary paintings, wood works, shital pati (fine cane mattress), bamboo crafts, cane and conch shell products, gold and silver hand crafted ornaments, cotton and silk hand woven fabrics, jute products, brassware, traditional dolls and leather products. Once the world famous Dhaka muslin in traditional weaving is no longer available due mainly to the extinction of the intricate and time consuming weaving process. But a new version that is now emerging gives the same effect is now available in sari form.
These items are a must buy for every visitor because of quality and the price.

PINK PEARL: Bangladesh is renowned for its Pink pearls. Grown naturally these are available in a variety of sizes and shapes. They can be bought individually or as intricately designed pieces of jewelry. The prices depend on the color, size and shape and also the design of the ornament. These are mostly set in 22 carat gold but these days in keeping with the trendy demand pearl jewelry set in silver is also easily available. However, visitors are cautioned against purchase from small outlets or vendors if they are looking for genuine gems.

GOLD & SILVER: Bangladesh is considered a haven for gold and silver jewelry and ornaments. All the major cities have a wide selection of shops offering traditional and heavy to trendy and light designs. Although, most gold jewelries are made from 22-carat gold but a variety of designs are now available in 18 and 14 carat and also colored gold. Silver filigree work is available in jewelry and traditional artifacts. Visitors are advises to purchase these items from big jewelers and avoid small street shops. Most modern shopping complexes have one or more jewelry shops.

BRASS & COPPERWARE: Brass has been a traditional household material from the ancient times in Bengal. Used mostly as house-hold utensils by the Hindus it was turned into artifacts and decoration with color in-lay work by the Mughal crafts men. Hand made trays, wall decorations, vases, Hindu deity images are with fine engravings and filigree work are easily available in most of the shops and small boutiques. Brass and copper combination is a unique blend and is a traditional craft form. These are a must buy as gifts or souvenirs.

Leather Products: Products made from hides and skins of animals and reptiles are now export items. Quality leather is found in good quantity in the country. Till recently most of the treated leather were exported to be turned into finished product to countries like Italy. But now leather industry for finished products such as shoes, bags and accessories are expanding in the country. The visitor would therefore, find good bargain in leather products. Some items are handmade with intricate designs and color in-lay works and are available in specialized out-lets. However, the use of reptile and snake skins are now discouraged and the buyer may find it difficult to get such items

Silk and Cotton Fabric: Famous for its silk and hand woven cottons Bangladesh offers the discerning buyer a wide selection. Rajshahi silk has now captured the world attention. These are now available as fabrics in colors and design that would stir the imagination of haute couter designers. Both the silk and cotton fabrics are available in ranges for apparel and other purpose materials. There are high fashion and designer dress boutiques now flourishing all over the country but pre-dominantly in the bigger cities like Dhaka, Chittagong, Sylhet and Khulna. Besides traditional designs are used in western out-fits to give unique look. There tailors and fashionable shops that cater to men’s wear of international standards as Bangladesh is a leading manufacturer of ready made apparel. Visitors will find a wide selection in shirts, trousers and suites.

Handicrafts: Besides brass, copper and silver handicrafts, the visitor will find intricate wood carvings, cane and bamboo products, conch shell bangles and artifacts, clay works and special form of embroidery that is the traditional craft of the rural countryside known as ‘Nakshi Kantha’ on sarees, dresses, cushions, pillow-covers, bedspreads, wall-hangings, bags and many other items.

Where to Shop

Duty-Free Shopping: Duty free sales and display centers run by Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation (NTO) are located in Dhaka, Zia International Airport, Mohakhali and Sylhet Osmani International Airport. These shops enjoy the reputation of being well stocked with a wide range of goods at unbeatable prices. Goods available include wines and spirits, perfumes, cigarettes, hi-fi stereo and audio-visual equipment, Cameras, Watches and a range of household appliances. All purchases must be paid for in foreign currency.

Handi-craft shopping: Dhaka is in itself a veritable shopping mall. Shops and malls of various size and types are spread across the entire length and breadth of this bustling metropolis. In fact this is a city for shoppers. However, bargaining or haggling is a common practice except for some outlets that have fixed prices. Innumerable shops cater in handicrafts and some are now internationally renowned among these are Aarong, Kumudini, Shetuli, Kay Kraft, OG fashion, Shunobona, Ideas and Banglar Mela. Handicrafts and artifacts from all over the countries can be found in these shops. Furthermore, some of these shops have outlets in the two five star hotels of the city. There are smaller shops in Gulshan area that cater exclusive hand-made items.

Some Suggested Shopping Centers :

For Handicrafts and Exclusive Items:

Shopping Centers / Malls :

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