Things To Do
in Tungi
Tongi, often spelled Tongi, is a busy riverside town located just north of Dhaka in Bangladesh. It functions as a local transport and market hub, with vibrant street life, rickshaw lanes, and a mix of traditional houses and new developments. The Turag River threads through the area, offering scenic views, boating, and day-trip possibilities to nearby villages.
As a gateway to Gazipur’s parks and cultural sights, Tongi blends urban energy with rural charm and warm hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a traditional breakfast at a local eatery, savoring dishes like paratha and bhaji. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll through the historic streets of Tungi, soaking in the colonial architecture and vibrant local life. Visit the nearby Tungi Mosque, a beautiful example of local craftsmanship, where you can appreciate the serene atmosphere.
Post-lunch, explore the local markets filled with handmade crafts and textiles, where you can interact with artisans and learn about their work. Stop by a local tea shop to taste the famous Bangladeshi tea while engaging with friendly locals. As the afternoon sun casts a warm glow, continue your exploration to the nearby riverside area to enjoy the lively riverside activities.
As evening approaches, head to a local restaurant for dinner, enjoying traditional dishes such as hilsa fish curry. After your meal, take a peaceful walk along the riverbank, watching the sunset paint the sky with vibrant colors. Conclude your day by attending a local cultural performance or folk music session, immersing yourself in the rich heritage of Tungi.
Begin your day early with a guided nature walk in the nearby wetlands, where you can witness the diverse flora and fauna of the region. With binoculars in hand, keep an eye out for native bird species, while your guide shares interesting facts about their habitats. Enjoy the fresh morning air as you stroll through lush greenery and tranquil waters.
After a packed lunch, visit the Tungi Eco Park, where you can participate in birdwatching activities and nature photography. Spend the afternoon hiking the marked trails, discovering hidden gems within the park, and taking in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Look out for local wildlife, including unique birds and small mammals, while enjoying the peaceful ambiance.
As dusk settles in, return to your accommodations to freshen up before dinner. Enjoy a relaxing meal at a local restaurant, sampling seasonal vegetables and fish caught from nearby waters. Later, take a moment to reflect on your day while lounging at a serene spot, listening to the sounds of nature as night falls.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $0.50-2 |
| 🚲Bike or rickshaw rental (half day) | $4-8 |
| 🧺Groceries for a day | $2-6 |
| 🏨Budget hotel or guesthouse (per night) | $12-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant market life and friendly locals
- Close to Dhaka with easy access to river scenery and natural areas
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options compared to central Dhaka
- Can be hot and crowded during peak summer months
- "Assalamu Alaikum" - Hello / Peace be upon you
- "Dhonnobad" - Thank you
- "Kemon acho?" - How are you?
- "Eta kothay pabo?" - Where can I find this?
- "Doya kore bolben, ami bhasha korte pari na" - Please speak slowly; I don't speak Bengali well
Places to Visit in Tungi
Visit one of these nice places.
Early-morning light over the Turag River with boats and silhouettes of local life on the water.
Classic rail station scenes, vendors, and daily commuter life—great for candid and architectural shots.
Rough banks, fishing nets, and village activity along the water's edge—excellent golden-hour photography.
Neon signs, textiles, and a bustle of shoppers; vibrant street photography opportunities.
Food in Tungi
Tungi Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A signature Bangladeshi dish, usually served with steamed rice and often prepared in mustard oil for a sharp, aromatic bite.
Must-Try!
Prawns cooked in a creamy coconut milk sauce, a beloved coastal-inspired preparation found in many eateries around Tongi.
Mashed lentils spiced and tempered, served with plain rice and fresh chutney or bhorta vegetables.
Rice flour cakes enjoyed with tea, popular in cooler evenings and at markets during certain seasons.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively market district where you can sample fuchka, chotpoti, fried snacks, fresh fruit, spices, and everyday staples.
Small stalls along main roads offering mishti (sweets), pakoras, samosas, jilapi, and hot chai; great for a quick bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Common greetings include 'Assalamu Alaikum' or 'Namaskar'; respond with a courteous nod or 'Walaikum Assalam' in return.
Dress modestly, especially in village areas and religious sites; shoulders and knees should be covered for many sacred spaces.
Remove shoes before entering homes and most mosques or religious sites; check posted rules at temples as well.
Public displays of affection are uncommon; be respectful in conversations about religion and politics.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in rural areas or inside homes.
Safety
Tipping in Tungi
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not required in everyday street stalls. In mid-range and upscale restaurants, a 5–10% tip is appreciated if service is not included. For casual vendors, rounding up the bill or leaving small coins is common. Tip hotel staff, guides, and drivers based on the level of service received.
Cash remains widely used. Mobile wallets such as bKash, Nagad, and Rocket are common for smaller purchases and taxis. Cards are accepted at larger hotels and some restaurants, but expect to pay cash at most street stalls and in markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid, with heat peaking in April–May. Stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
June–September brings heavy rainfall and occasional floods. Carry rain gear, waterproof footwear, and monitor local weather and road conditions.
Dry, mild to cool temperatures (November–February). Comfortable for outdoor exploration; evenings can be cool—bring a light sweater.
Tungi at Night
Hiking in Tungi
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails and birdwatching opportunities a short drive from Tongi; good for a nature day trip.
Low-key riverbank paths suitable for easy walks and sunset photography near Tongi.
Airports
How to reach Tungi by plane.
Bangladesh’s main international airport serving Dhaka; roughly 20–30 km from Tongi by road, with taxis, ride-hailing, and rail access to Tongi.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Bengali-speaking Muslims making up the core community in Tongi and the surrounding area.
A smaller Hindu community contributing to the regional diversity, with temples and local traditions.
Small numbers of Christians, Buddhists, and migrant workers who contribute to the town’s cultural mix.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region; local grounds often host informal games and school tournaments.
Widely played in schools and local clubs; watch a match when opportunities arise.
A traditional sport practiced at community events and in some schools.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tungi.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Build meals around dal, assorted vegetables, bhorta, and dairy. Communicate spice and oil preferences, as mustard oil and heavy spice are common in some dishes.