South Asia.

GMT + 6.

144,000 sq km (55,599 sq miles).

153.5 million (2008 estimate).

1045 per sq km.

Dhaka. Population: 11.9 million (2007).

The People's Republic of Bangladesh, formerly East Pakistan, is bordered to the west and northwest by West Bengal (India), to the north by Assam and Meghalaya (India), to the east by Assam and Tripura (India) and by Myanmar (Burma) to the southeast. The landscape is mainly flat. A large part of Bangladesh is made up of alluvial plain, caused by the effects of the two great river systems of the Ganges (Padma) and the Brahmaputra (Jamuna) and their innumerable tributaries. In the northeast and east of the country, the landscape rises to form forested hills. To the southeast, along the Burmese and Indian borders, the land is hilly and wooded. About 7% of the country's area is under water and flooding occurs regularly.

Republic. Gained independence from Pakistan in 1971.

President Zillur Rahman since 2009.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina since 2009.

After 16 years of presidential government, Bangladesh reverted to its original parliamentary system in August 1992. In January 2007 Fakhruddin Ahmed took over as leader of the caretaker government. Emergency law was declared along with a crackdown on corruption. Elections at the end of 2008 marked a return to two-party politics following the state of emergency imposed in 2007.

The official language is Bengali (Bangla). English is widely spoken, especially in government and commercial circles. Tribal dialects are also spoken.

90% Muslim, 9% Hindus and 1% Buddhist and Christian minorities. Religion is the main influence on attitudes and behaviour. Since 1988, Islam has been the official state religion.

220/240 volts AC, 50Hz. Plugs are of the British 5- and 15-amp, two- or three-pin (round) type.

In someone's home it is acceptable to sit crossed-legged on cushions or the sofa. If a visitor wishes to bring a gift, money must not be given as it may cause offence. Religious customs should be respected by guests. There are severe penalties for possession and trafficking of illegal drugs. Some drugs-related offences are punishable by death. Local women should not be specifically photographed unless it is certain that there will be no objection. Women should wear trousers or long skirts; revealing clothes should be avoided, particularly when visiting religious places. Dress is generally informal for men, though modesty must be maintained. Same-sex relations are illegal.

Photography: In rural areas, people are becoming more used to tourists; however, permission should be requested before photographs are taken of individuals. Do not photograph military installations.