Bangladesh’s history is wide and varied. Where ancient Buddhist monuments and Hindu temples vie for space. Despite being one of the most populous countries on the planet, it has a diverse range of wildlife. The Sundarbans – the world’s largest mangrove forest – are home to monkeys, deer, crocodiles, and the elusive Bengal tiger. While birdlife throughout the country is varied and prolific, Bangladesh’s environment is defined by its rivers. There are few better ways to understand it than to cruise gently past small communities, watching life go by. Ferries are a lifeline to some of these more isolated settlements and are widely used by Bangladeshis, so they are a great place to meet people. Bangladesh is predominantly Muslim, with a number of other religious groups, including Hinduism, Buddhism, and Christianity. Early on, Buddhism first arrived. Its presence here dates back to the 6th century BC, with some impressive monuments remaining.