places to visit at dhaka

15 Incredible Things to Do in Dhaka | Ultimate Travel Guide

• March 27, 2024

I won’t sugarcoat it, Dhaka is wild. 

A place where the energy never dips, the streets are always buzzing, and your senses get totally stimulated with each step. That’s Dhaka for you.

As the capital of  Bangladesh ; it’s the soul of an unbreakable spirit that resonates through its crowded bazaars, vibrant rickshaws, and its people.

Now, if you’re expecting some peaceful walks around its city streets, Dhaka will throw you off your game. But if you’re here to dive into the depths of culture, taste food that tingles your very soul, and experience life in one of the most densely populated cities on earth, you’re in for a treat.

Dhaka is not just a city; it’s an experience, an adventure for the brave and the bold. And no worries, this  guide is here to take you through the beautiful chaos. Trust me, it’s a journey you won’t forget.

Table of Contents

History of Dhaka

Let’s go back a hundreds of years, to when the city was buzzing with traders from across the world, and majestic ships docked at its ports. It’s a city with roots that stretch deep in history.

Originally known as Jahangir Nagar during the Mughal era in the 17th century, Dhaka blossomed into a center of trade and  culture , famed for its fine muslin fabric that was sought after globally. The Mughals, who were known for their architectural prowess and sophisticated lifestyle, left a lasting imprint on the city (including the Lalbagh Fort). 

It’s a city that has witnessed the tides of change, surviving colonial rule under the British, who took over in the 19th century, and later becoming the focal point of Bangladesh’s struggle for independence. In 1971, Dhaka emerged as the proud capital of Bangladesh, embarking on a new chapter that would see it grow into the bustling metropolis it is today.

Bangladeshi Culture Overview

Bangladeshi culture is a tapestry woven with the threads of diverse influences, from ancient civilizations through the Mughal Empire to British colonialism, all leaving their mark on this land’s identity. For a deeper dive into this fascinating culture, don’t miss out on my article on  Bangladeshi Culture & Traditions .

It’s also important to note the distinction between “Bengali” and “Bangladeshi” as you would most likely encounter these two terms in Bangladesh. “Bengali” refers to the ethnic group with a shared language (Bangla) and culture, primarily residing in Bangladesh and the Indian state of West Bengal. “Bangladeshi,” on the other hand, denotes the nationality of people from Bangladesh, embracing a multitude of ethnic groups and cultures within the country.

Bangladeshi culture is also a celebration of life’s moments, big and small, through its festivals. The Durga Puja and Eid celebrations showcase the country’s religious diversity (A  Hindu  and  Islamic   festival respectively) yet unified spirit.

The culinary landscape of Bangladesh is as diverse as its people, with rice and fish considered staples, embodying the saying, “Fish and rice make a Bengali.”

Best Places to Visit in Dhaka

1. Old Dhaka

I won’t beat around the bush—Old Dhaka is like stepping into a whole different world. It’s the kind of place where the air is thick with the aroma of street food, spices, perfume, amongst a multitude of other things. If you’re interested, you can join a tour of Old and New Dhaka through  here .

You’ll be walking down streets lined with buildings that have seen centuries come and go. You’re dodging rickshaws, sharing smiles (and stares) with locals, and every so often, you stop because something fascinating catches your eye. It’s chaotic, sure, but in the best possible way. There’s an energy here that you won’t find anywhere else in the city.

This part of town is where you get to see the real Dhaka. It’s not polished or pretentious—it’s authentic, raw, and absolutely wild. You’ll wander past markets where the locals shop, duck into a tiny tea shop for a cup of cha that hits just right, and maybe even stumble upon a hidden gem of a restaurant that serves up dishes you’ve never heard of but will dream about for days.

So, if you’re up for an adventure and don’t mind getting a bit lost along the way, Old Dhaka is the place to be. It’s an experience that’s as unforgettable as it is hard to describe, but one thing’s for sure—you’ll leave with stories to tell.

2. Dhakeshwari National Temple

The Dhakeshwari National Temple, as the name suggests, isn’t just any temple—it’s one of the few prominent  Hindu  temples in the city and it’s state-owned. Dhakeshwari means “ Goddess of Dhaka “, and once you’re there, you’ll feel her presence. Though you can see other deities present as well including  Ganesha ,  Durga , and  Shiva .

Dedicated to the Hindu goddess Dhakeshwari, from whom the city of Dhaka is said to derive its name, the temple has stood the test of time and witnessed the city’s evolution from ancient times to modern-day Bangladesh.

Structurally, the temple complex is a fascinating sight. You’ll have to take off your shoes before entering the main temple grounds. I think the main highlight are the pink and white patterned structures that are super eye-catching even from afar.

3. Khan Mohammad Mridha Masjid

Khan Mohammad Mridha Masjid is one of those places that might not make the front page of glossy travel brochures, but it’s absolutely packed with history and a sense of tranquility that’s hard to find in the bustling city.

Built in the early 18th century, the mosque sits on a high platform, accessible by stairs, which is a bit unusual for mosques from that period. This elevated design not only adds to its grandeur but also protected it from the floods that were common in Dhaka.

It’s got this Mughal architectural vibe with three domes crowning the main prayer hall and two slender minarets at the front. What’s really cool about this mosque is its blend of Mughal and pre-Mughal architectural elements.

I found the locals here to be very friendly, and you’ll most likely be the only tourist here. It’s definitely worth checking out as the upper terrace gives you a better view of the surrounding neighborhood as well.

4. Lalbagh Fort

Lalbagh Fort is a story of dreams, ambitions, and an unfinished legacy that still stands proud.

Constructed in the 17th century under the orders of Prince Azam Shah , the son of the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb , the fort was envisioned to be a magnificent example of Mughal architecture. However, as fate would have it, the fort remains incomplete to this day. Despite its unfinished status, Lalbagh Fort is a breathtaking site, with its grandiose structures and intricate designs that offer a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of the Mughals.

Walking through the fort, you can’t help but feel transported to another time. The main components include the tomb of Pari Bibi, a mosque, and the Diwan-i-Aam, where the Mughals held their public audiences. The tomb of Pari Bibi, in particular, is a heart-touching story of loss, believed to be a major reason the construction was halted, as it cast a shadow of grief over the project. 

I t’s surrounded by beautifully maintained gardens that offer a serene escape from the city’s chaos. It’s a popular spot for locals as well, and it’s not uncommon for them to start conversations with you as you walk around the compound.

5. Tara Masjid

Originally built in the early 18th century by Mirza Golam Pir , Tara Masjid’s modest beginnings belied the astronomical wonder it would become. It was later in the 20th century that a local businessman, financed an expansion and adorned the mosque with the tiles that would earn it the name “Star Mosque.”

Step inside, and you’re enveloped in a galaxy of tiles, with stars twinkling back at you from walls, domes, and archways. The mosque is covered in black, white, and yellow tiles, with patterns that mimic the night sky. It’s not just the design that captures your imagination; it’s the meticulous detail in every tile, every pattern, that tells you this place is something special.

It’s still an active place of worship yet it welcomes all who come in peace. Just be sure to be respectful especially during the times of prayer.

6. Armenian Church

The Armenian Church. Imagine a little oasis where the noise of the city fades into the background and you’re once again in a place of peace. That’s this place. And take it from me, it’s hard to find places of solace in Dhaka so we have to take what we can get before we venture out into the fray.

The Armenian Church isn’t just about the beautiful, old architecture, though that alone is pretty cool. It’s a peek into the lives of the Armenian community that once thrived here in the 1700s. These folks were part of the city’s vibrant trade scene, and this church was their gathering spot, a slice of home away from home.

Walking through, you’ll notice it’s kept in great shape. There’s a peaceful vibe that makes you slow down and take it all in – the detailed archways, the quiet graveyard with its ancient tombstones.

You can actually go up to the upper floor and out onto the rooftop, but you can even go higher than that if you climb the ladder. You’ll get an amazing view of Dhaka’s bustling streets and apartments.

7. Ahsan Manzil Museum

Ahsan Manzil Museum is one of those places in Dhaka that kind of stops you in your tracks. Right on the banks of the Buriganga River, this massive pink palace doesn’t just stand out because of its color. It’s a dive into the luxurious world of the Nawabs of Dhaka , showing off what high living looked like back in the day.

Back in the 19th century, this was the spot where the Nawab of Dhaka had his digs. We’re talking big parties, important political meetings, and all the lavish lifestyle you can imagine from that era. Nowadays, turned into a museum, Ahsan Manzil is a window into that opulent past.

But let’s dial back to the main color at hand: pink. The Pink Palace is easily one of the most photogenic and Instagram-worthy places of Dhaka and at sunset the colors are even more vibrant!

Hidden Gems in Dhaka

8. Gol Talab

Gol Talab is this pretty little pond tucked away in the older part of Dhaka, in a neighborhood called Islampur. It’s a spot that might not make the big tourist maps, but for those in the know, it’s a slice of local life that’s worth checking out. It’s a bit hard to get to and I had to ask for some directions that took me through an underground pitch-black alley but I did make it to the other side.

What’s cool about Gol Talab is that it’s a perfectly oval-shaped pond smack-dab in the middle of the city and it’s even been designated as a heritage site by the government!

9. Ruplal House

Ruplal House is not as widely talked about as some of the other landmarks, but if you’re the type who loves digging into the lesser-known pages of history, this place is a gem. I wasn’t able to make it here just because I was already too tired and I couldn’t bring myself to go on another long journey through Dhaka’s crazy streets.

Built in the late 19th century, Ruplal House was once a symbol of opulence in Farashganj, a reminder of the wealth and cultural sophistication of its owners, the Ruplal brothers . These guys were among the city’s elite, and their residence was a hub of social gatherings. The architecture of Ruplal House is a fascinating blend of European influences with traditional  Bengali  elements.

Today, Ruplal House stands in a state that cries out for preservation. Walking past or through it, you can’t help but feel a mix of awe and a slight twinge of sadness. Awe, because even with the wear and tear, the grandeur of its design and the stories it must hold are palpable. Sadness, because it’s clear that without some love and attention, more of its stories could be lost to time.

Top Things to Do in Dhaka

10. Shop at Chawkbazar

Alright, if really want to see Dhaka, you’ve got to wander through the bazaars, and Chawkbazar is a prime spot for this.

Chawkbazar isn’t just a place to shop; it’s like the city’s pulse with streets buzzing with energy, stalls overflowing with colorful goods, and the air rich with the scent of spices and street food. This is where you get a real taste of Dhaka’s street life. It’s loud, it’s crowded, and it’s absolutely brilliant.

Hidden in this bustling market scene is the Chawkbazar Shahi Jame Masjid , a historic mosque that offers a peaceful counterpoint to the market’s frenzy. But you’re gonna have to tell me what it’s like though because I never did find the mosque. I was simply too overwhelmed and couldn’t bring myself to keep going deeper into the urban jungle.

Still, it’s could be an expedition of some sort, just keep your wits about you and stay safe in there!

11. Take a Day Trip to Sonargaon

Heading out of the city for a bit?  Sonargaon  is the perfect day trip from Dhaka. I was actually able to do this in the morning before exploring Old Dhaka in the afternoon.

Sonargaon, which translates to “ City of Gold ,” was once the capital of ancient Bengal in various phases of history.  The star attraction here is Panam City, an abandoned yet remarkably preserved part of Sonargaon. Walking down its main road, lined with the ruins of magnificent colonial-era buildings, feels eerily like time travel. These structures once housed the wealthy merchants of the region, and though they now stand empty.

The Folk Art and Crafts Museum is a colorful showcase of Bangladesh’s living traditions, though the best shot is the one taken from outside with a reflection of it by the pool.

And then there’s the natural side of things. The area around Sonargaon is dotted with rivers and lush greenery, giving you a look at what rural life is like and it’s honestly so much better than Dhaka, but don’t take it from me! See it for yourself!

12. Check Out the Bangladesh National Museum

From the moment you step in the National Museum, you’re greeted with a vast collection that spans several floors, each dedicated to different aspects of Bangladeshi life. There’s something almost overwhelming but in the best way possible about the depth and breadth of what’s on display. 

You’ve got galleries filled with ancient Bengal artifacts, exhibits on the flora and fauna of the region, and even sections dedicated to the struggle for independence. It’s all there.  There’s an entire section devoted to folk art and t here are contemporary art galleries.

So, if you find yourself in Dhaka with a few hours to spare, the Bangladesh National Museum is well worth your time, especially if history is important to you.

13. Dine at Buriganga Riverview Restaurant

The Buriganga River is the lifeline of Dhaka, and dining alongside its banks gives you a front-row seat to the river life that defines the city. From the early morning fishermen in their wooden boats to the colorful hustle of the river traffic throughout the day, it’s a snapshot of Dhaka from a perspective not often seen.

I accidentally found the Buriganga Riverview Restaurant while walking towards Ruplal House but ended up eating an early dinner and watching the sunset here instead. The food and service is top-notch and if you’re afraid of trying out the streetfood and other street restaurants then I highly recommend this place as the quality and ambiance is really high. It seems to be a popular place as there were signs that said “No Food Bloggers Allowed.”

14. Ride a Rickshaw

Forget about Uber, ride a rickshaw! The quintessential mode of transport in Dhaka. It’s an adventure that lets you dive headfirst into the busy streets, all from the unique vantage point of a colorful, often intricately decorated, three-wheeler.

Weaving through the bustling traffic, the sounds of the city buzzing around you, as you take in sights and sounds that you’d miss from the confines of a car. Rickshaws open up a whole new perspective on Dhaka, bringing you up close to the daily lives of its people. You’ll pass by local markets spilling onto the streets, dodge alongside buses and cars in a dance that seems chaotic but flows like a well-practiced routine though I must say I still saw some small bumbs and scraps every now and then.

What makes rickshaw rides truly special in Dhaka is their cultural significance. They’re not just a mode of transport; they’re a part of the city’s identity, an art form on wheels.

But beyond the cultural flair, riding a rickshaw is about connecting with the city on a human level. Understand that this is their livelihood and it’s one heck of a job to be pedalling people the whole day, without any technological supports. It never hurts to give a bit more if you can afford to.

15. Watch the Sunset at Sadarghat

If you’re not too keen on the riverside restaurant, ending a day in Dhaka with a sunset at Sadarghat is still something truly special. A round you, the day’s hustle begins to slow, but the energy of Sadarghat lingers, with boats of all sizes winding down their day’s work. It’s here, amidst the chaos of coming and going vessels, that you find a moment of profound beauty.

You’re surrounded by the rhythm of daily life—fishermen securing their boats, vendors making their last sales, and families gathering to enjoy the cooler evening air. The sunset here tells the story of the city—a blend of relentless energy, timeless tradition, and natural beauty.

It’s also a photographer’s dream, I mean I couldn’t stop snapping because with every passing minute the Golden Hour just keeps giving! But even without a camera, sitting by the river and watching the day turn into night is a moment you’ll want to hold onto.

Where to Stay in Dhaka

When looking for accommodations in Dhaka, I prioritize peace and safety. You must have read many times by now but Dhaka is a noisy city, a city that never sleeps. The worst thing is to have your sleep taken away from you when you still have plenty of days to explore. Safety is another prime factor, being in a safe neighborhood, away from the crowds can give you that sense of peace which is highly relevant in this city. Here are some of my recommendations on where to stay: 

Best Hotels in Dhaka :

• Nascent Gardenia Residence – this is where I personally stayed. It’s in a quiet and cozy neighborhood in Gulshan area. Make sure to put the right one in on your Uber as there’s also another Nascent Gardenia that I mistakenly ended up in which was like an apartment. On the booking website, they mentioned that free airport shuttle is included though they did try to charge me at first when I asked for it. And the shuttle actually was not there when I arrived which put a bit of a sour taste in my mouth. But! They more than made up for it though, the place was perfect. Big and comfortable beds, spacious and quiet rooms. The bellboy was extremely polite and kind, always happy to assist. The bathroom’s shower worked perfectly and came with various toiletries and other amneties including water and fruits. Breakfast is a buffet with a great selection. They also offered me a shuttle back to the airport but I didn’t need it as I was heading to  Khulna . All in all, I highly recommend it, just be on the same page and follow up with the airport shuttle as we discussed that a month back so perhaps it got lost.
• Hotel the Capital Ltd. – provides a range of amenities including a fitness center, complimentary WiFi, and on-site parking at no extra cost. This 3-star establishment not only features round-the-clock front desk and concierge services but also caters to families with a kids’ club, offers room service, and facilitates currency exchange. You’ll have the option to dine at the hotel’s restaurant, which serves a variety of Chinese, Indian, and Italian dishes, with special dietary requests such as vegetarian, halal, and vegan meals accommodated.
• InterContinental Dhaka  – Experience the luxury of celebrity-like treatment at InterContinental Dhaka, an IHG Hotel. This lavish 5-star hotel boasts an array of upscale facilities, including an outdoor swimming pool, a state-of-the-art fitness center, a serene garden, and a sophisticated restaurant complemented by a chic bar. You’re welcomed around the clock at the 24-hour front desk and can enjoy the convenience of airport transportation, room service, and complimentary WiFi across the premises.

How to Get Around Dhaka

Getting around Dhaka is an adventure in itself, and I mean that. If you want a thrill go for the motorbikes, they are cheaper and the adrenaline you get from weaving across traffic is really something else. I always make sure to pay my driver more just because making it out unscathed seems like a miracle. Still, the traffic is one thing to consider, two-wheelers can get you to where you need faster than CNGs and four-wheeled vehicles. I recommend using Uber and it’s easy to hail any of the modes of transport listed on here. Here’s a breakdown:

• Taxis : The traditional yellow taxis are a staple on Dhaka’s roads. They’re a bit of a step up from rickshaws in terms of comfort and can be hailed off the streets. Just be prepared to haggle over the fare since most don’t use meters. Again, Uber is your friend here.
• Auto Rickshaws (CNGs) : Auto rickshaws, locally known as CNGs due to their compressed natural gas fuel, are like motorized rickshaws with a small cabin for passengers. They’re nimbler than cars in traffic and cheaper than taxis, plus you’ll feel a bit safer inside the cabin as opposed to rickshaws and motorbikes.
• Rickshaws : For shorter distances and a truly local experience, you can’t beat a rickshaw ride. It’s an eco-friendly option and provides a livelihood for many.
• Motorbikes : Another option through ride-sharing apps is booking a motorbike ride. It’s the quickest way to get around, especially during peak traffic hours, as bikes squeeze through gaps that cars can’t. Helmets are always provided, all you can do is trust that the driver knows these roads like the back of his hand, which they often do.

How to Stay Safe in Dhaka

Now let me get real with you. Dhaka is generally an okay place, as a foreigner you will catch attention and I personally found that people tend to stare. It’s hard not to stand out, but just do your best and ignore it. People are naturally curious. Wearing sunglasses or a balaclava can help.

It’s also a fact that Dhaka is one the most polluted cities on Earth. There’s garbage everywhere and the scents intermingle with the heavy perfumes, incense, spices, and food which completely barrages the senses. I highly recommend wearing a mask. In fact, I would say it’s a requirement.  I literally got sick the same night on the first day of exploring just because I wanted to experience the city “unfiltered.” Regrets were made. That cough stayed with me the whole time I was in Bangladesh, from  Bagerhat  to the  Sundarbans  and all the way to Nepal.

Not to mention the crowds, it’s really crowded, like you’ll have to creatively maneuver just to get from point A to B. And oh the traffic, the horns of rickshaws blaring incessantly. All of these factors combined clearly takes a mental toll and a 5 minute walk really takes a lot of energy. But I never did encounter anything untoward (though I did get  sexually harassed  in Sonargaon), still, you should always keep your wits about you and keep your valuables close.

As for the food, sticking to vegetarian meals or fancier restaurants should give you that sense of peace. In the end, Bangladesh is one of the few countries that I highly recommend getting travel insurance for when going.

Best Time to Visit Dhaka

The best time to visit Dhaka is during the cooler, drier months from November to February . During this period, the weather is more pleasant, making it easier to explore the city without the discomfort of the intense heat or monsoon rains that characterize other times of the year.  Temperatures during these months can range from about 15°C – 26°C (59°F – 79°F).

Do keep in mind, however, that this is also the peak tourist season, so you might encounter more crowds at popular attractions and potentially higher prices for accommodations. Planning and booking in advance can help mitigate some of these issues.

Plan Your Trip to Dhaka | Best Travel Resources

Book Your Accommodations

• Booking.com  – the world’s leading online booking platform for accomodations around the world, they have an extensive amount of available listings with zero booking fees and best price guarantees.
• Hostelworld  – a backpacker’s best friend, Hostelworld has the largest collection of hostels and guesthouses for affordable prices.

Don’t Forget Insurance

• SafetyWing  – from Nomad Insurance, an insurance by nomads for nomads. They understand our lifestyle well and have really comprehensive and flexible plans that cater to any traveler.

Find Cheap Flights

• Kiwi.com  – my go-to for booking and finding the cheapest flights and it’s helped me save tons of money. They do virtual interlining which is connecting flights from airlines that do not codeshare, so you can find routes that you wouldn’t be able to find normally. 

Join Tours & Activities

• GetYourGuide  – is one of the best places to find unique tours and activities. I found that it’s an excellent way to meet fellow travelers and create fond memories. They are not only limited to tours as they also offer niche services such as skip-the-line tickets or private transfers.

Catch a Ride

• Rentalcars.com  – nothing beats the freedom of the road, Rentalcars.com is the world’s largest online car rental service. They operate across 160 countries so they’re the perfect partner to work with if you find yourself wanting a ride.

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13 Places to visit in Dhaka you can’t miss on your trip

A list of the best places to visit in Dhaka City (New & Old Dhaka) you must not miss on your trip to Bangladesh, for a memorable experience.

Dhaka is the capital city of Bangladesh, a residence of 16 million population and growing every day. It is one of the most densely populated cities in the world, full of activities – a paradise for street photography. If you like street or portrait photography, Dhaka is your city. You’ll find unlimited subjects here to shoot for several days.

Other than photography, Dhaka has many interesting sites to visit from the Mughal and colonial periods. In this article, you’ll find some of the best places to visit in Dhaka City (New & Old Dhaka) that you must not miss on your first trip to Bangladesh.

Table of Contents

• Ahsan Manzil (Pink Palace)
• Lalbagh Fort
• Sadarghat Waterfront
• Kawran Bazar
• Dhaka Shipyards
• Armenian Church
• Dhakeshwari Temple
• Star Mosque
• Parliament Building of Bangladesh
• Shakhari Bazar
• Mridha Mosque
• Bait-ur-Rouf Mosque
• Liberation War Museum

Ahsan Manzil (Pink Palace) in Old Dhaka. © Photo Credit: Raw Hasan.

Best places to visit in Dhaka City (New & Old Dhaka)

1. ahsan manzil (pink palace) one of the best places to visit in dhaka city for history.

Ahsan Manzil, also known as the Pink Palace, was the residence of the wealthiest family of Dhaka during British rule. Dating from 1740, Ahsan Manzil was a small entertainment house of a local landlord, which later became a French trading house. After exchanging ownership between the French and the British a few times, it was purchased in 1830 by Khwaja Alimullah, the established feudal landlord of Dhaka. After his death, his son Khwaja Abdul Gani made a massive development to the property and named it “Ahsan Manzil” after his son Ahsan Ullah. It was two one-storied buildings at that time.

In 1888, the building was severely damaged by a tornado. Khawaja Abdul Gani and his son Ahsan Ullah then reconstructed the buildings, making them two-storied, adding the dome, and connecting the two buildings with a wooden gangway. After the British rule, when the family’s descendants could not maintain the property and made it a slam by renting its rooms individually, the then Pakistan government acquired this property from them in 1952 and put it under a trust.

In 1985, Dhaka National Museum acquired this property, renovated it, and opened it as a museum for the public. Since then, it has become a key tourist attraction in Dhaka. Ahsan Manzil is one of the best tourist attractions in Dhaka City someone should not miss on their first visit.

Visiting Ahsan Manzil

You can book our Dhaka City Tour to visit Ahsan Manzil along with other major attractions of both the New and Old Dhaka conveniently on a day tour, including a boat ride on Buriganga and a rickshaw ride on the backstreets of Old Dhaka. Also can book our 5-day Dhaka, Bagerhat & Sundarban Tour or any of our Bangladesh holiday packages to visit Ahsan Manzil.

More Reading

• Ahsan Manzil (Pink Palace): The residence of the feudal landlords of Dhaka .

▲ Back to the Table of Contents

Lalbagh Fort in Old Dhaka. © Photo Credit: Raw Hasan.

2. Lalbag Fort One of the top places to visit in Dhaka City for history

Lalbagh Fort is a 17th-century Mughal fort and one of the key tourist attractions in Dhaka. The fort’s construction was started in 1678 by Prince Muhammed Azam, the third son of Aurangazeb, during his vice-royalty in Bengal. He returned to the capital Delhi after 15 months when his father called him to take part in a war, leaving the fort unfinished.

The construction work was then handed to the next governor of Dhaka, Shaista Khan, a maternal uncle of Muhammed Azam. Shaista Khan didn’t finish it because of the death of her young daughter Pari Bibi in 1684. He started thinking the fort ominous and never finished it. It is said that Pari Bibi was engaged with Muhammed Azam at that time. Aurangazeb never told him anything about finishing the fort and later donated it to Shaista Khan in memory of his daughter. The fort lost popularity because Bengal’s capital shifted from Dhaka to Murshidabad in 1704 after Shaista Khan left Dhaka. After the royal Mughal period, the fort became abandoned.

In 1853 during the Pakistan Period, the fort was used as the cantonment. After its independence in 1971, the Bangladesh government renovated and opened it for visitors. There is the tomb of Pari Bibi inside the fort, wrapped in expensive marble, which is its main attraction. Also, the residential building of the governor is being used as a small museum, displaying Mughal paintings and calligraphy, along with swords and firearms. Lalbagh Fort is number two on our list of the best places to visit in Dhaka.

Visiting Lalbagh Fort

You can book our Dhaka City Tour to visit Lalbagh Fort along with other major attractions of both the New and Old Dhaka conveniently on a day tour, including a boat ride on Buriganga and a rickshaw ride on the backstreets of Old Dhaka. Also can book our 5-day Dhaka, Bagerhat & Sundarban Tour or any of our Bangladesh holiday packages to visit Lalbagh Fort.

• Lalbagh Fort: An unfinished Mughal fort at Old Dhaka in Bangladesh .

Sadarghat Waterfront: One of the best places to visit in Dhaka City. © Photo Credit: Raw Hasan.

3. Sadarghat Waterfront One of the must places to visit in Dhaka City for photography

Sadarghat is Dhaka City’s busy waterfront, harboring the Sadarghat River Port and many other small ports. Sadarghat River Port is one of the largest river ports in Asia, passing about 30,000 passengers daily. The riverfront is full of big passenger ferries, cargo vessels, and tiny wooden rowing boats crossing the passengers across the river. You’ll get a truly authentic taste of Dhaka by visiting this live and vibrant place. Sadarghat is a must-visiting tourist attraction in Dhaka you can’t miss.

• Sadarghat: The live and vibrant river port and waterfront of Old Dhaka .

Kawran Bazar: One of the best places to visit in Dhaka City. © Photo Credit: Nijhoom Tours.

4. Kawran Bazar One of the best places to visit in Dhaka for photography

Kawran Bazar is the largest wholesale market in Dhaka city. It is full of activities and a gem for photographers. Trading starts here at midnight and ends around 8.30 in the morning. The permanent shops on the market will remain open the whole day though. Kawran Bazar is a must-visiting tourist attraction in Dhaka for people who love photography.

Watch video of Kawran Bazar, a much visiting tourist attraction of Dhaka city

Work in Dhaka Shipyards. © Photo Credit: Tony Eales.

5. Dhaka Shipyards One of the best places to visit in Dhaka City for photography

Located on the bank of river Buriganga, Dhaka Shipyard is a busy place for repairing and sometimes making new passenger ferries and cargo boats for the rivers. Passenger ferries of Sadarghat come here for occasional overhauling and repairs. Workers work here from dawn to dusk, beating their hammers on the boats and rubbing new paints. Endless workshops make huge propellers for the boats, melting still. Full of activities, Dhaka Shipyard is one of the best places to visit in Dhaka City which you should not miss.

P.S. Don’t confuse this with the infamous ship graveyard of Bangladesh, which is located about 250 km away from Dhaka. You can check out our Chittagong Ship Breaking Yard Tour to visit that site on a convenient day tour from Dhaka using an internal flight and express train.

Armenian Church in Old Dhaka. © Photo Credit: Raw Hasan.

6. Armenian Church of The Holy Resurrection One of the most beautiful places to visit in Dhaka for history

Armenian Church of the Holy Resurrection is located at Armanitola in Old Dhaka, a place named after the Armenian colony that settled here in the late 17th century. The church is the soul of this now almost extinct community. Dates from 1781, it is an oasis of tranquility in the heart of the crowded city and a must-visiting tourist attraction in Dhaka.

Visiting Armenian Church

You can book our Dhaka City Tour to visit the Armenian Church along with other major attractions of both the New and Old Dhaka conveniently on a day tour, including a boat ride on Buriganga and a rickshaw ride on the backstreets of Old Dhaka. Also can book our 5-day Dhaka, Bagerhat & Sundarban Tour or any of our Bangladesh holiday packages to visit Armenian Church.

• The Armenian Church in Old Dhaka: A quiet colonial era church .

Dhakeshwari Temple: One of the beautiful places to visit in Dhaka City. © Photo Credit: Raw Hasan.

7. Dhakeshwari Temple

Dhakeshwari Temple is a state-owned 500 years old Hindu temple built by one Mangat Ray, who was also known as Ballalasena, the younger brother of Arakanese king Shri Sudharma, son of famous Arakanese king Raja Malhana alias Husen Shah. This is the center of the Hindu religion and culture in Dhaka City. You’ll find devotees coming here in colorful sarees, ringing the bell on the door while entering the temple, and doing many ceremonies. Every major Hindu festival in Dhaka starts here, so you’ll always find a festive atmosphere here. Dhakeshwari Temple is one of the best places to visit in Dhaka city.

Visiting Dhakeshwari Temple

You can book our Dhaka City Tour to visit Dhakeshwari Temple along with other major attractions of both the New and Old Dhaka conveniently on a day tour, including a boat ride on Buriganga and a rickshaw ride on the backstreets of Old Dhaka. Also can book our 5-day Dhaka, Bagerhat & Sundarban Tour or any of our Bangladesh holiday packages to visit Dhakeshwari Temple.

• Dhakeshwari Temple: The center of Hindu religion and festival in Old Dhaka .

Start Mosque: One of the must places to visit in Dhaka City. © Photo Credit: Raw Hasan.

8. Star Mosque (Tara Masjid) One of the top places to visit in Dhaka City

Star Mosque is one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions in Dhaka, dating from the early 18th century. The whole walls of the mosque are decorated with mosaic stars, from where the name derived. It was originally built in the typical Mughal style, with four corner towers, but radically altered later.

Visiting Star Mosque

You can book our Dhaka City Tour to visit Star Mosque along with other major attractions of both the New and Old Dhaka conveniently on a day tour, including a boat ride on Buriganga and a rickshaw ride on the backstreets of Old Dhaka. Also can book our 5-day Dhaka, Bagerhat & Sundarban Tour or any of our Bangladesh holiday packages to visit Star Mosque.

• Star Mosque (Tara Masjid): A mosque decorated with star motifs made with China clay mosaic .

Parliament Building of Bangladesh: One of the best places to visit in Dhaka City. © Photo Credit: Kawe Safavi-Bayet.

9. Parliament Building A must visiting tourist attraction in Dhaka for architecture

The parliament building of Bangladesh is the finest architecture of world-renowned American architect and Yale University Professor Louis I. Kahn. Originally commissioned by the Pakistanis when Bangladesh was known as East Pakistan after the Partition of the Indian Sub-Continent, was meant to serve as the second seat of the national parliament. Construction started in 1964 but halted due to the Bangladeshi War of Independence, and was finally completed in 1982. If you like architecture, this is one of the two must-visiting tourist attractions in Dhaka for you.

• Bangladesh Parliament Building: A stunning architecture of Louis Kahn in Dhaka .

An artisan making deities in Shakhari Bazar. © Photo Credit: Eric Lynn.

10. Shakhari Bazar (Hindu Street)

Shakhari Bazar, also known as the Hindu Street, is a unique street in Dhaka City and the center of Hindu culture and community in Old Dhaka. Old buildings are raised on both sides of the street, full of jewelry shops, local musical instrument shops, Hindu bridal shops, kite shops, cookery shops, temples, rickshaws, and people. A live and vibrant street of Old Dhaka, Shakhari Bazar is one of the best places to visit in Dhaka City.

Visiting Shakhari Bazar

You can book our Dhaka City Tour to visit Shakhari Bazar along with other major attractions of both the New and Old Dhaka conveniently on a day tour, including a boat ride on Buriganga and a rickshaw ride on the backstreets of Old Dhaka. Also can book our 5-day Dhaka, Bagerhat & Sundarban Tour or any of our Bangladesh holiday packages to visit Shakhari Bazar.

Khan Mohammad Mridha Mosque in Old Dhaka. © Photo Credit: Eric Lynn.

11. Khan Mohammad Mridha Mosque

Erected in 1704-5, this Mughal structure is stylistically similar to Lalbag Fort, built on a raised platform, up to a flight of 25 steps. Three squat domes, with pointed minarets at each corner, dominate the rectangular roof. There are a series of vaulted rooms on the ground floor, which was used for living purpose. Located about half a mile from Lalbagh Fort, Khan Mohammad Mridha Mosque is beautiful architecture and one of the must-places to visit in Dhaka City.

Visiting Khan Mohammad Mridha Mosque

You can book our Dhaka City Tour to visit Khan Mohammad Mridha Mosque along with other major attractions of both the New and Old Dhaka conveniently on a day tour, including a boat ride on Buriganga and a rickshaw ride on the backstreets of Old Dhaka. Also can book our 5-day Dhaka, Bagerhat & Sundarban Tour or any of our Bangladesh holiday packages to visit Khan Mohammad Mridha Mosque.

• Khan Mohammad Mridha Mosque: A unique Mughal mosque in Old Dhaka .

Bait-ur-Rouf mosque: One of the best places to visit in Dhaka City. © Photo Credit: Aga Khan Award for Architecture.

12. Bait Ur Rouf Mosque A must-visiting tourist attraction in Dhaka for architecture

Bait Ur Rouf Mosque is the winner of the Aga Khan Award for Architecture 2014-2016. Designed by architect Maria Tabassum, this is a modern architecture hidden in a very dense neighborhood in Dhaka city. The design of the mosque is exceptional. Unlike any other mosques in Dhaka city, the symbolic elements of any mosque are absent from it, e.g mineral, dome. Inspired by the Sultanate mosque architecture, it breathes through porous brick walls, keeping the prayer hall ventilated and cool. Natural light brought in through a skylight is ample for the daytime. If you like architecture, this is one of the two must-visiting tourist attractions in Dhaka City for you.

Liberation War Museum in Dhaka. © Photo Credit: Wikipedia.

13. Liberation War Museum One of the top places to visit in Dhaka to know Bangladesh’s history

Liberation War Museum in Dhaka is an exceptional museum. It commemorates the Bangladesh Liberation War that led to the independence of Bangladesh from Pakistan in 1971. It showcases the genocide the Pakistani military committed in Bangladesh during the war, and how Bangladesh was born. A must visit tourist-attraction in Dhaka to know the history of Bangladesh.

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Have you ever visited Dhaka? How interesting have you found the tourist attractions in Dhaka? Have I missed something here? Share your experience and opinion with us in the comments.

You might also be interested in reading 17 Best places to visit in Bangladesh not to miss and 101 Things to know about traveling to Bangladesh .

• 13 Places to visit in Dhaka you can't miss on your trip
• 7 Best things to do in Dhaka for the ultimate experience
• Ahsan Manzil (Pink Palace): The residence of the feudal landlords of Dhaka
• Lalbagh Fort: An unfinished Mughal fort at Old Dhaka in Bangladesh
• Sadarghat: The live and vibrant river port and waterfront of Old Dhaka
• The Armenian Church in Old Dhaka: A quiet colonial era church
• Dhakeshwari Temple: The center of Hindu religion and festival in Old Dhaka
• Star Mosque (Tara Masjid): A mosque decorated with star motifs made with China clay mosaic
• Bangladesh Parliament Building: A stunning architecture of Louis Kahn in Dhaka
• Khan Mohammad Mridha Mosque: A unique Mughal mosque in Old Dhaka
• 17 Best places to visit in Bangladesh you can't miss on your holiday
• Bangladesh visa on arrival: Everything you need to know about
• 16 Top Bangladeshi food you must try on your visit

Check out our Dhaka City Tour to visit the key attractions of New and Old Dhaka. The full-day tour starts from $70* US with an air-conditioned car, an English-speaking guide, all entrance tickets, lunch at a local restaurant with authentic local food, a rickshaw, and a boat ride.

Check out our 1-7 days Bangladesh tour packages and 8-28 days Bangladesh holiday packages to visit Bangladesh with comfort.

Sundarban Safari

Bangladesh Photography Tour

Classic Bangladesh

Glories of Bangladesh

Raas Festival Tour

Express Bangladesh

I am the Owner & CEO of Nijhoom Tours, a multi-award winning local tour operator in Bangladesh specializing in organizing memorable holidays in Bangladesh for western travelers. Connect with me on Facebook or Mastodon , or join our Facebook group Let's Go To Bangladesh for updates and help about traveling to Bangladesh.

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Discovering Dhaka: 15 Best Things to Do in Bangladesh’s Capital City

15 must-see sights and activities in bangladesh’s capital.

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A Traveler’s Guide: 15 Things to See and Do in Dhaka, Bangladesh

Table of Contents

Dhaka, the capital city of Bangladesh, is a vibrant and bustling metropolis that offers an intriguing blend of old and new. With a rich history dating back to the Mughal era, Dhaka has plenty of cultural and historical landmarks to explore and a burgeoning food and nightlife scene. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, there are plenty of things to see and do in Dhaka. Here are 15 of the best things to do in Dhaka.

Visit the historic Lalbagh Fort.

Lalbagh Fort, also known as Fort Aurangabad, is a 17th-century Mughal fort complex in the Old City of Dhaka. The fort was built in 1678 by Prince Muhammad Azam, the son of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. The complex includes several buildings, such as the mosque, the Diwan-i-Aam, and the tomb of Pari Bibi. Visitors can explore the fort’s beautiful gardens, mosques, and pavilions and learn about its fascinating history.

Explore the Ahsan Manzil Museum

Ahsan Manzil Museum is a historical landmark located in Dhaka, Bangladesh. The museum was the former residence of the Nawabs of Dhaka and is now a popular tourist destination. Built in the 19th century, the palace uniquely blends Mughal and European architectural styles. The museum houses a collection of artifacts and memorabilia from the Nawab’s era, including furniture, paintings, photographs, and other personal items.

The palace grounds also feature a beautiful garden, a mosque, and a large pond. Visitors can learn about the history and culture of Dhaka while exploring the palace’s lavish interiors and stunning exteriors. Ahsan Manzil Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, architecture, or cultural heritage.

Wander through Dhaka University

Dhaka University, established in 1921, is one of Bangladesh’s oldest and most prestigious universities. Located in the capital city of Dhaka, the university has a long history of promoting higher education, research, and cultural development. The campus spans over 600 acres and includes various academic departments and faculties, offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in various disciplines.

The university has a diverse student body, with students from Bangladesh and international students from different countries. Dhaka University has produced many notable alumni, including Nobel laureates, politicians, academics, and business leaders. The university is also known for its vibrant student life, with numerous clubs, societies, and events organized annually. Dhaka University continues to be a center of excellence for higher education and research in Bangladesh.

Visit the National Museum of Bangladesh

The National Museum of Bangladesh is the largest in the country, located in the capital city of Dhaka. Established in 1913, the museum has a rich collection of historical artifacts and objects, including sculptures, paintings, pottery, coins, and textiles, representing the rich cultural heritage of Bangladesh. The museum has over 86 galleries showcasing various aspects of Bangladesh’s history, art, and culture, including the Liberation War of 1971.

Visitors can explore the galleries and learn about the country’s ancient civilization, the Mughal period, the British colonial era, and modern-day Bangladesh. The museum also has a library with a vast collection of books and manuscripts and a conservation laboratory where the experts preserve valuable artifacts. The National Museum of Bangladesh is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the country’s rich cultural heritage and history.

Shop at the New Market

Dhaka New Market, also known as the New Market, is a popular shopping destination located in the heart of the capital city of Bangladesh, Dhaka. Established in 1952, the market is a hub of activity, offering a wide range of products, including clothing, electronics, jewelry, handicrafts, and fresh produce. The market is divided into meat and fish, vegetables, and garments.

Visitors can explore the market’s various shops and stalls and bargain for the best prices. The market also has a food court serving delicious local cuisine and a mosque for visitors to pray. Dhaka New Market is a vibrant and bustling place, offering an authentic shopping experience and a glimpse into the city’s daily life.

Visit the Dhaka Art Center

The Dhaka Art Center is a contemporary art gallery and cultural center located in the Dhanmondi neighborhood of Dhaka. The center hosts a range of exhibitions, performances, and workshops showcasing the work of local and international artists. Visitors can attend art shows, music concerts, and film screenings or enjoy the center’s serene courtyard and cafe.

Explore the Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Novo Theatre

The Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Novo Theatre is a state-of-the-art planetarium and science center in Dhaka’s Bijoy Sarani area. The center features a range of interactive exhibits and multimedia displays, offering visitors a fun and educational experience.

Visitors can learn about astronomy, physics, and other scientific subjects through the center’s exhibits, films, and live shows.

Visit the Dhaka Zoo

Dhaka Zoo, also known as the Bangladesh National Zoo, is located in Mirpur, Dhaka, and is one of South Asia’s largest and oldest zoos. Established in 1974, the zoo covers an area of 186 acres and is home to over 2,000 animals from 165 species.

The zoo is divided into different sections: a birdhouse, a nocturnal animal house, a reptile house, and an aquarium. The zoo also has a children’s corner, a picnic area, and a lake where visitors can enjoy boat rides. Despite its popularity, the zoo has faced criticism for its poor conditions, lack of proper care for the animals, and allegations of corruption.

Take a boat ride on the Buriganga River.

The Buriganga River is a major river that flows through Dhaka, and a boat ride on the river is a popular activity for tourists and locals alike. Visitors can hire a boat from the Sadarghat launch terminal and take a leisurely ride along the river, passing by colorful boats and bustling riverfront markets.

Explore the Old Dhaka neighborhood.

Old Dhaka, also known as Puran Dhaka, is a historic neighborhood in the heart of the city. The area is known for its narrow alleyways, historic buildings, and vibrant street life. Visitors can take a walking tour of the neighborhood and see the various landmarks, including the Star Mosque, the Armenian Church, and the Dhakeshwari Temple.

Visit the Jatiyo Sangsad Bhaban

Jatiyo Sangsad Bhaban, also known as the National Parliament House, is the seat of the Jatiyo Sangsad, the national parliament of Bangladesh. It is located in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, Dhaka, and was designed by the renowned American architect Louis I. Kahn. The construction of the building began in 1961 and was completed in 1982.

Its unique and modern design, incorporating traditional Bengali architecture elements, characterizes the structure. It comprises several buildings and a large artificial lake and can accommodate up to 354 members of parliament. The building has become a landmark of modern architecture and is considered one of the finest examples of 20th-century architecture. It is open to visitors, and guided tours are available to explore the interior and learn about the history and significance of the building.

Attend a cricket match at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium

Cricket is a popular sport in Bangladesh, and attending a cricket match at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium is a must-do activity for sports enthusiasts. The stadium, located in the Mirpur area of Dhaka, has hosted several international cricket matches and is known for its lively atmosphere and passionate fans.

Sample the local cuisine.

Bangladesh has a rich culinary tradition, and Dhaka has diverse food options. Visitors can sample traditional Bangladeshi dishes at local restaurants and street food stalls, such as biryani, samosas, and dal puri. Some popular food destinations in Dhaka include the Haji Biriyani restaurant, famous for its spicy beef biryani, and Fakruddin, which serves delicious chicken dishes.

Visit the Ahsan Manzil Museum

The Ahsan Manzil Museum is a stunning historical landmark encapsulating the region’s rich heritage. This majestic pink palace, constructed during the late 19th century, uniquely blends Mughal and European architectural styles. Not only did it serve as a residence for Nawabs, but it was also the official residence of the Dhaka Nawab Family and was the witness of many significant historical events.

Today, it stands as a museum, showcasing artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of Bangladesh’s cultural and political evolution. The Ahsan Manzil, also known as the Pink Palace, is a captivating destination for locals and tourists due to its breathtaking architecture and historical role. Those who visit can take a guided tour of the palace and marvel at the various exhibits and artifacts on display.

Shop at the local markets

Dhaka is home to various markets and bazaars selling everything from handicrafts and textiles to spices and fresh produce. The New Market, located in the heart of the city, is a bustling bazaar with hundreds of stalls selling clothing, jewelry, and souvenirs. The Kawran Bazar, on the other hand, is a sprawling wholesale market that sells fresh fruits, vegetables, and spices.

Best Time to Visit Dhaka, Bangladesh

The best time to visit Dhaka, the capital city of Bangladesh, is during the winter months, from November to February. During this time, the weather is relatively dry and mild, making it more comfortable for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Winter Season (November to February)

• Temperature: The average temperature during winter in Dhaka ranges from 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F), with cooler evenings.
• Weather: The weather is usually dry, with occasional foggy mornings. It is considered the most pleasant time to explore the city.
• Festivals: This period includes major Hindu festivals like Durga Puja and Diwali, celebrated with great enthusiasm in Dhaka.
• Tourist Attractions: Popular attractions like Lalbagh Fort, Ahsan Manzil, and the National Museum can be comfortably enjoyed without extreme heat or rain.

Spring Season (March to May)

• Temperature: During spring, the temperature rises, with average highs reaching around 32°C (90°F).
• Weather: The weather becomes hot and humid, and occasional showers are expected, especially in May.
• Festivals: The Bengali New Year, known as Pohela Boishakh, is celebrated in mid-April with colorful cultural events and street parades.
• Tourist Attractions: Indoor attractions like the Liberation War Museum and Baitul Mukarram National Mosque should be visited during the spring.

Monsoon Season (June to September)

• Temperature: The temperature during monsoon season ranges from 24°C (75°F) to 30°C (86°F), with high humidity levels.
• Weather:  Heavy rainfall is common, and the city experiences occasional floods. Outdoor activities may be limited due to the constant downpour.
• Festivals: Eid-ul-Fitr, the largest Muslim festival, is celebrated after the holy month of Ramadan during this season.
• Tourist Attractions: Indoor activities like exploring the Dhaka Art Center and visiting shopping malls are suitable during the monsoon season.

Autumn Season (October)

• Temperature: In October, the weather starts to cool down, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F).
• Weather: The autumn season experiences occasional rainfall but lesser humidity than the monsoon season.
• Festivals: The Hindu festival of Durga Puja is celebrated in October which involves elaborate decorations and vibrant processions.
• Tourist Attractions: Popular landmarks like Jatiyo Sangsad Bhaban (Parliament Building) and the National Martyrs’ Memorial are worth exploring in the pleasant autumn weather.

It is important to note that the weather conditions may vary, and checking the forecast before planning a trip to Dhaka is always advisable.

How to Get to Dhaka

To travel to Dhaka, the capital city of Bangladesh, you have several options depending on your location and preferences:

• International Flights: Dhaka is served by Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, which has many international connections. You can look for direct flights to Dhaka from major cities worldwide.
• Domestic Flights: If you are already in Bangladesh, you can take a domestic flight from any major airport to Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka.
• Bus: Dhaka is well-connected by road to other parts of Bangladesh. Numerous bus services are operating from different cities and towns to Dhaka. Look for reputable bus operators and choose a comfortable option for a smooth journey.
• Car: If you prefer to drive, you can reach Dhaka from neighboring countries like India or Bangladesh. Make sure to check the required permits and follow the traffic rules.

Train: If you are in a neighboring country like India or a city within Bangladesh, you can consider taking a train to Dhaka. Dhaka has several railway stations connecting it to different parts of the country. Check the train schedules and book your tickets in advance.

Ferry: Dhaka is located on the banks of the Buriganga River, offering ferry services to and from various river ports within Bangladesh. If you are in a nearby city with river connectivity, you can explore traveling to Dhaka by ferry.

Remember to plan your trip in advance, check for any travel restrictions or requirements, and make sure to have all necessary documents such as passports, visas, and identification while traveling.

Dhaka, Bangladesh Travel and Tour Packages

Want more updates about new package tours and tourist attractions in Dhaka that you can add to your itinerary?

Dhaka is a vibrant and bustling city with a rich cultural heritage and exciting things to see and do. From exploring the historic landmarks and monuments to sampling the local cuisine and shopping at the bustling markets, there is something for everyone in Dhaka. So, whether you’re a history buff, foodie, or adventure seeker, add these 15 best things to do in Dhaka to your itinerary and experience the best this vibrant city offers.

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Must-see attractions in Dhaka

Running calmly through the centre of Old Dhaka, the Buriganga River is the muddy artery of Dhaka and the very lifeblood of both this city and the nation…

Shankharia Bazar

Clouds of incense and a bursting paintbox of colours signal a welcome to so-called Hindu Street. Lined on either side with old houses, garlands of lurid…

National Museum

The excellent National Museum, sprawling over several floors, begins with the geological formation of Bangladesh, whisks you through a rundown of the…

Lalbagh Fort

The half-completed Lalbagh Fort and its well-tended gardens are an excuse to escape Old Dhaka’s hustle and bustle for an hour or so. The fort is…

Ahsan Manzil

Dating from 1872, the must-see Pink Palace was built on the site of an old French factory by Nawab Abdul Ghani, the city’s wealthiest zamindar (landowner)…

Botanical Gardens

The shady, tranquil botanical gardens, stretch over 40 hectares and contain over 1000 species of local and foreign plants, as well as lots of birdlife…

Liberation War Museum

Housed in a beautiful whitewashed colonial-era building, this small museum chronicles the 1971 War of Independence, one of the 20th century’s more deadly…

National Assembly Building

In 1963 the Pakistanis commissioned Louis Kahn, a world-renowned American architect, to design a regional capitol for East Pakistan. Due to the liberation…

Dhakeswari Temple

Dhakeshwari Temple is the centre of the Hindu faith in Bangladesh. It is dedicated to Dhakeswari, the protector of Dhaka and an incarnation of the goddess…

Dhaka University

Dating from 1921, Dhaka University, or just DU, has some fine old buildings. The architectural masterpiece is the red-brick Curzon Hall, a highly…

Curzon Hall

The quasi-Gothic red-brick Curzon Hall, erected in 1905 after the first partition of Bengal is Dhaka University's architectural masterpiece. It's a highly…

Bengal Gallery of Fine Arts

Bangladesh's home of fine arts, this gallery was established in 200 by the Bengal Foundation, and holds regular exhibitions of art and photography as well…

This dilapidated Mughal-era structure is one of the oldest buildings in Dhaka, although searching for it among the high-walled, pinched alleyways of this…

Armenian Church of the Holy Resurrection

This small area is known as Armanitola, and is named after the Armenian colony that settled here in the late 17th century. The white- and lemon-painted…

Hussaini Dalan

A block north of the central jail is Hussaini Dalan, looking more like a Hindu rajbari (landowner’s palace) than an Islamic building. It was built in 1642…

Khan Mohammed Mridha’s Mosque

Erected in 1706, this Mughal structure is stylistically similar to Lalbagh Fort. It is built on a raised platform, up a flight of 25 steps. Three squat…

Star Mosque

This unusual mosque, with its striking mosaic decoration, dates from the early 18th century, although it has been radically altered. It was originally…

Baldha Gardens

At the eastern end of Tipu Sultan Rd, and a block south of Hatkhola Rd, the Baldha Gardens are a relaxing corner in busy Dhaka. The two walled enclosures,…

Baitul Mukarram Mosque

West of Motijheel on Topkhana Rd, this enormous modern mosque is designed in the style of the holy Ka’aba of Mecca and is a hard-to-miss landmark. The…

Old High Court

The imposing old High Court, once the governor’s residence, is just north of Dhaka University’s main campus. It is the finest example in Dhaka of the…

Gulshan Central Mosque

Gulshan's main mosque, this is a striking white example of 1960's futurism, with rocket-like minarets and a geometric prayer hall evoking the optimism of…

Sat Gumbad Mosque

Dating from 1680, Sat Gumbad Mosque is a white-washed onion-dome mosque, and the finest example of the pure Mughal-style mosque in Dhaka.

Faculty of Fine Art

Hosts art exhibitions, housed inside Dhaka University's Institute of Arts and Crafts.

Gallery specialising in photography

Prime Minister's Office

Prime minister's office.

Suhrawardi Park

Beginning near the Old High Court and stretching all the way to the National Museum, Suhrawardi Park covers an enormous area. This was once a racecourse,…

Chota Katra

This run-down Mughal-era structure dates from 1663, and was a caravanserai for visiting merchants. It was similar in design to nearby Bara Katra, but…

One of Dhaka's largest green areas – a great escape if the traffic is getting too much. The Mughals first set aside the area for recreation; the British…

Park near Bangladesh's National Assembly, home to the lakeside mausoleum of Zia Rahman, former prime minister of the country who was assassinated in 1981.

Kartalab Khan's Mosque

This historic mosque, founded in the 18th century, makes an architectural nod to the Bengali 'hut' style of temple building.

St Thomas Church

Small gothic-style church built in 1819, home to the Anglican church in Bangladesh.

Holy Rosary Church

A Portuguese-inspired church, founded in the 17th century.

Lalbagh Fort Entrance Gate

Lalbagh Fort entrance gate.

A small local mosque.

Rajuk Mosque

River Mosque

Places to visit in Dhaka

Bangladesh is the eight largest country in the world according to the population. It’s often neglected as a tourist destination and gets overshadowed by the neighbour, India. Dhaka is the capital of Bangladesh and an unbelievably vibrant city. It always buzzes with people. Although data shows Dhaka as the 10th largest capital in the world according to the population, those data is old. According to my calculation, Dhaka is the third most populous capital followed by Beijing and New Delhi. It’s a lot of fun to visit different places visit in Dhaka. What I can assure you, there is nothing like Dhaka – you love it or hate it – you will never forget it after you leave!

Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh is a city full of contrast. You won’t see many cities in this world as colorful and diversified as Dhaka. On one side of the city, you will find cramped roads with old buildings handshaking with each other. In another part of the city, you will find boulevards with modern multistory buildings. You will hear the prayers from the mosque – you will hear the sweet sounds made by the tongues of the worshippers from the temples. You will find people begging in the street, you will find people driving high-end posh cars. Despite all these odds, you will find one thing in common – the smile on people’s faces. Here goes a list of places to visit in Dhaka. As much as you read about them or see the photos, you have to come and experience this magical and marvelous city.

Table of Contents

National Parliament – An architectural Marvel

If you love architecture, the national parliament building of Bangladesh should be on top of your places to visit in Dhaka. It’s so gorgeously beautiful! This is my most favorite architecture in Bangladesh. I believe you won’t find many parliaments in the world as beautiful as the national parliament of Bangladesh.

Designed by the famous American architect Lous Kahn, the parliament complex spans over 200 acres of areas making it one of the largest in the world. You will find a gigantic main building which in terms divided into many sections, an artificial lake, and a big green lawn.

As I mentioned above that, the national parliament complex is huge in size, you should take a walk to go to the backside of it. From the front take a walk to the left, then go to the right, cross two intersections. Just before the prime minister’s house take a right turn. This will take to the back of the parliament. You are not allowed to take photos, but, you can walk. This will give you an opportunity to get another dimension. You will see that, there are water reservoirs between the complex and the main road.

Shaheed Minar – Memoirs of Language Movement

Shaheed means Martyr, Minar means minaret. You might have heard about bloodshed due to various reasons – to take control of land, conflicts among religions, ethnicity, and so on. However, have you ever heard about bloodshed only because a race wanted to speak in their mother tongue? Yes, that’s happened in Bangladesh (the then East Pakistan) in 1952. The British left the Indian subcontinent in 1947 splitting the country into two – Pakistan and India. Pakistan had two parts – West Pakistan (where the rulers were) and East Pakistan (which became Bangladesh).

Since then, it was a history of oppression, discrimination, and sadness . The mother tongue of East Pakistan was Bangla, the major language of West Pakistan was Urdu. The ruler of West Pakistan declared Urdu as the national language of Pakistan in 1952 despite the fact that East Pakistan had a larger population. Dhaka, the capital of East Pakistan erupted with this declaration – they thought it was an attack on their existence and wanted their mother language back. On 21 February 1952, many people protested against this decision. The police killed several persons. This language movement eventually brought back Bangla as a state language. But, several people had to sacrifice their lives to achieve this.

Shaheed Minar was built to honor the martyrs who gave their lives for our mother language. This 14 meters tall, marble made architecture is one of the most iconic architectures in Dhaka.

Entrance Fee

Opening hours, ahsan manzil – iconic dhaka landmark.

Ahsan Manzil is one of the most iconic architectures in not only Dhaka but in the entire country. It was the residence of Nawabs of Dhaka, the largest Muslim landlords during the British reign in the Indian subcontinent. Ahsan Manzil was built in 1872, a time when Dhaka did not see any major construction. It proudly announced its existence right in front of the Buriganga river which is the Thames of Dhaka and witnessed the power and glorry of the Nawabs.

Gone are those days as the British left the country in 1947, and the country moved on to keep track with the modern world. However, this pink-colored building influenced by Mughal-Gothic architecture still reminds us of its glory days. It has now been converted into a museum. You can explore it within an hour or two.

• BDT 20/= for Bangladeshi
• BDT 300/= for visitors from SAARC countries
• BDT 500/= for foreigners from other countries
• April to September – Saturday to Wednesday – 10:30 AM to 5:30 PM
• October to March – Saturday to Wednesday – 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM
• Friday (all the years round) – 3:00 PM to 7:30 PM
• Closed on Thursday and the day before and on Eid day

Lalbag Killa – An Unfinished Fort

Muhammad Azam Shah, the son of the great Mughal emperor Aurangzeb started the construction of Lalbag fort in 1678. Later Mr. Shah was replaced by Shaista Khan. An unfortunate event took place when Shaista Khan came to Dhaka. His daughter Pari Bibi passed away in the fort. Shaista Khan considered it as a cursed one and stopped the construction work. He buried his daughter inside the fort. Her grave is known as Pari Bibir Mazar according to her name Pari Bibi.

It’s never been completed fully, and remained unoccupied for a long period of time. During the construction, its name was Aurangabad, which was changed to Lalbag later and currently one of the most iconic architectures of Dhaka.

Lalbag killa has 3 major parts – the tomb of Pari Bibi, a mosque and a courtyard name diwan i aam. It’s not very far from Buriganga river and getting overshadowed by the unplanned surroundings high rise buildings. You will find several small gardens with beautiful flowers, especially roses and marigold. After getting into the fort through the designated gate, a road will take you directly to the complex which will lead you to both left and right. Although the place will be crowded, you should be able to find a place for you if you walk and try to find one.

• BDT 100/= for visitors from SAARC countries
• BDT 200/= for foreigners from other countries
• April to September – Saturday to Wednesday – 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Closed between 1:00 PM to 1:30 PM). Friday – 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (Closed between 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM)
• October to March – Saturday to Wednesday – 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Closed between 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM). Friday 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Closed between 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM)
• Monday (all the years round) – 1:30 PM to 5:00 PM
• Closed on Sunday and the day before and on Eid day

Curzon Hall – Historical Place in Dhaka

Ever heard of the name Lord Curzon? He was the viceroy of India – the representative of the Indian head of state. Mr. Curzon has a deep influence in Bengal as he created the Eastern Bengal (and Assam). The Curzon Hall was built in his name during the British era with an influence of European and Mughal architecture. This red building was initially used as a town hall.

In course of time, it was transferred into a classroom. At present time, it is served as the faculty of science in the prestigious University of Dhaka. It has a history of witnessing mass political movements like the language movement of 1952. Don’t forget to pay a visit to a large pond at the backside of Curzon hall. That’s the pond for the residency students.

Baitul Mukarram – The National Mosque

Dhaka is a city of mosques aka Masjid. There are more than 6000 mosques in this small town. Baitul Mukarram is the most supreme of them all. It’s the national mosque of Bangladesh and can facilitate 40,000 worshippers. Inspired by the holiest mosque of Muslims, the Kaaba, the shape of Baitul Mukarram is cubic.

It’s 99 feet and eight storied structure. Interestingly, unlike most of the mosques, you won’t find any domes here. A part of the mosque accommodates shops, too. You gotta go inside to feel about the vastness of this mosque.

Dhakeshwari Temple – The National Temple

You have just learned and seen the national mosque of Bangladesh. Now, is the perfect time to see the national temple of Bangladesh. This is Dhakeshwari temple – if you translate it to English from Bengali – the meaning becomes the Goddess of Dhaka .

The original history of the Dhakeshwari temple is dated back to the 12th century. There is a myth that the city of Dhaka is named after this temple. You can visit here any day of the year, however, you will experience an insane vibe if you can plan your visit during the Durga Puja – which takes once a year during October.

Free, you need to take your shoe off and put it to a custodian, they expect a tips of BDT 10.

8:00 AM to 7:30 PM (closed between 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM)

TSC – The Hangout Place for the Youth

TSC is the place where youths of the country gather to share their knowledge, mingle with each other, and to hang out. Although this place is for the students and teachers of the University of Dhaka (TSC means Teacher-Student Centre), anyone can get in. There is a big premise outside where different activities like concerts, drama,s, and meetings take place.

Inside, you will find a complex with a red crescent-shaped building with a big green lawn. The complex has almost everything – a library, place to have food, stages for performance, room for indoor games, an auditorium, and meeting rooms. Still, the long L-shaped corridor is the most vibrant part where you will find the young generations seating together in groups.

I won’t be surprised if you catch a group who are playing guitar and singing songs. This is a place where I go to feel the vibe of the youths, I feel younger every-time I pay a visit to TSC. A side wise view will reveal a half moon structure which is the main structure of the entire complex.

Aparajeyo Bangla – A Fantastic Sculpture

Aparajeyo Bangla – the undefeated or unvanquished Bengal , is one of the most famous sculptures in Bangladesh. This is dedicated to the liberation war of 1971. This concrete made 18 feet tall sculpture is located in front of the faculty of Arts at the University of Dhaka. You can see three characters side by side in the sculpture. The central one is a male – he is the tallest, deemed to the as a villager going to the war with a rifle. He is accompanied by another man carrying a rifle. Both of them are joined by a girl with a first aid box in her hand. These resemble the unequal war we fought in 1971 where a civilian like you or me had to fight for the country and people from every gender, cast, and age joined hand in hand to fight the war. This is the unvanquished Bengal, you cannot defeat them, no matter what!

Bangladesh National Museum – Know About Bangladesh

Not surprisingly, the national museum of Bangladesh is located in Dhaka. It should be on your places to visit in Dhaka list as it will give you a perspective about the country’s culture, heritage, history, and lifestyle. This hundred years old building has 3 floors. An entire section on the 1st floor is dedicated to the liberation war and a walk through this room is bound to move you emotionally.

Strolling around the narrow streets of old Dhaka – A chaos everyone loves

Dhaka has 400 years of history. The part of Dhaka which was founded in the sixteenth century is called the old town . You will get it as soon as you enter there. The roads are narrow and dirty in places, the buildings are old, the noise is intensely high. One moment, you would think that a rickshaw would hit you, the next moment, you would stop one of them by standing in front of it. There is no order of traffic, no sense of direction, it’s utter chaos all around. Still, you would love it. You would love it because the foods here are unparalleled. You would love to see the businesses everyone is running, don’t get fooled by the size of the shops – they are running million dollars business without staying in a newly built multi-storied building. Above all, you would love the vigor, liveliness, and contagious enthusiasm for this part of the town. Old Dhaka never sleeps!

Sadarghat – The Ships are Ready to Take you Far

Bangladesh is a land of rivers, if you do not travel throughout the country, you won’t be able to understand it. However, if you go to the Sadarghat, you will get a notion about them. Sadarghat is the inter-city water vessel terminal. The terminal is not a modern one, you might find it dirty. What makes this place so special is the number of big passenger launches docked for the passengers and how they are approaching it. If you are brave, you can hop into one to get another type of experience!

While visiting Sadarghat, you will see another major attraction of Dhaka. Since my childhood, we have been reading that Dhaka is built on the river Buriganga like London is built on the River Thames. The river in Sadarghat is that Buriganga river for you. Unfortunately, Buriganga is a polluted river. You will be surprised to see the color of the water and sense the smell of it. Every time, I go there, I feel sad, how we humans can abuse nature. Saying this, don’t miss an opportunity to see the sunset while taking a small boat in Buriganga.

Kamalapur Railway Station – The Central Station with Iconic Building

This is the intercity train terminal of the country. The structure of Kamalapur Railway Station is an iconic one and represents Bangladesh in many places. It was inaugurated in 1968. If you look at the railway stations of the subcontinents carefully, you will find a colonial influenced red brick building or designs based on the Mughal architecture.

Kamalapur Railway Station is an exceptional design considering that it was built about 65 years back. The parabolic umbrella-shaped roof is a treat to watch and should be on your list of places to visit in Dhaka.

Martyred Intellectuals Memorial – A Sad Chapter in the History

If you know the history of this place prior to visiting the Martyred Intellectuals Memorial, you might shed a drop of tears or two while visiting there. You might already know that Bangladesh got independence in 1971 from Pakistan after a 9 months-long fight. The victory came on 16 December 1971 when West Pakistan bowed their head and surrendered. Before that, they did something unprecedented! When they realized that, they are losing the cause, they made a list of the most talented persons in our country – the renowned teachers, doctors, engineers, writers, journalists, lawyers.

Systematically, they called them out of their home on 14 December, only two days before the surrender, and killed them. We lost more than 1000 intellectuals on that day – the nation lost its best talents. They threw their body in a single place named Rayerbazar. This memorial is built in that place. It’s a big curved wall (17.7 m high, 115.8 m long) which is broken at two ends. It symbolizes the incompleteness of the nation without them. You will find a big window on the wall through which you can see the sky – the freedom is priceless! A black obelisk is raised to depict sadness.

Shilpakala Academy – Priceless Performance

Shilpakala Academy is the place where you can see the best performers in the country performing. Visit there during the evening to see performances. There is no defined schedule of performances but you might grab a drama, dance performance, musical performance, or a concert. Although they are in Bangla, you should enjoy it as it has a global language.

There are several buildings inside the Shilpakala Academy complex. Some of them are dedicated to musical performance, some of them are for drama, and some are for displaying paintings as well as arts.

Depending on the show.

Dhaka Newmarket – See How Dhaka Dwellers Shop

Every one of the capitals who wants to buy something heads toward Dhaka Newmarket. It is an open-air shopping complex having a lot of shops. Dhaka Newmarket was built in 1953 and has three arched gates on three sides of the market. The nighttime is the busiest time for this market and I suggest you visit there during that time to see the people especially women going for haggling and shopping spree.

Liberation War Museum – Shed of Tears

Although the national museum of Bangladesh has a gallery dedicated to displaying the artifacts of the liberation war, this museum is entirely dedicated to the memory of the liberation war. The museum is an old one, it’s been relocated and newly built. It will draw your attention from outside because of the fantastic architecture, but, you will be overblown when you will enter inside.

This 3500 square meters space holds so many memories of the war. There are 4 galleries on two major floors. The walls are covered with cuttings from newspapers, magazines, and heartbreaking photos of that time.

It’s not only about the photos. You will learn histories, see the dresses used by the martyrs, and see some invaluable clips. The museum has wonderful lighting and they created an ambiance with the sound. Your heart will be filled with sadness and sorrow while navigating through different doors.

Armenian Church – Isn’t Armenia far away from Bangladesh?

Bangladesh is a country where only 0.3% of Christians live. However, you will find a historically important church in Dhaka. That’s the Armenian church for you, it proves that a significant number of people from Armenia used to live here.

They came to Bengal from Persia (Iran) as traders. Some of them made huge profits out of the leathers and jute business and decided to settle in Dhaka. Besides, the Mughals ruled the Indian subcontinent during that time.

As the Armenian could speak in the Persian language, they could easily mingle with the Mughal Emperor. The Armenians built this church for worshiping in 1781. This area was an Armenian graveyard before the church was erected. As soon as you will enter the complex, you can see those graves with marks.

This two-storied white building with golden liner has arched doors and windows. An angel is overseeing the church on the porch. A spiral staircase leads to the top floor. You will find some beautiful paintings there. There is a small congressional hall with wooden bench. Prayer takes place on each Sunday.

Free, you need to register your name on a registrar.

Tara Masjiid – A marvelous Mosque

You will find many mosques in Dhaka bigger than the Tara mosque but won’t find them as beautiful as this one. This Mughal style mosque was built in the 19th century. It’s beautifully decorated with lots of small blue stars on a pure white building. Hence it’s named the Tara (Star) mosque.

Just after entering the complex, you will find a water reservoir that was empty during my visit. The evening is a glorious time to visit when the ray of the sun on the mosque creates a wonderful light. You will find clouds of dust on the surface of the Tara mosque (I wish those were clean!). Even with the dust, it’s spectacular!

Hussaini Dalan – A Religious Edifice

Although the majority of the Muslims in Dhaka came from a sect named Sunni, there are a few Shias here, too. Hussaini Dalan is the complex (also called Imambara) of the Shia for religious gatherings.

It was built in the 17th century during the Mughal era. You will find the main building in the complex influenced by Mughal and British architecture. There are several entrances to this building, you need to take a short stair to go inside. Do not forget to take your shoe off if you wanna go inside.

A rectangular pond touches the building and makes it look lovely. I will not be surprised if you hear the voice of the goose. I saw some in the ponds. This places buzzes with festivity during the first 10 days of Muharram(the first month in the Arabic calendar).

Book Market of Nilkhet – Forget the Waterstones

I bet, you won’t get a single educated person in Bangladesh, who never set his foot in the Nilkhet. I am highly indebted to this book market. From literature to educational books (like medical or engineering books), this market is our major hope. Tons of small shops full of both Bengali and English books are placed like a maze – I could hardly find the same shop twice there. Even the footpaths are covered with books in Nilkhet.

The shops sell old books as well as new books. It’s a shame that some of them are pirated, but, I understand it. Bangladesh is not a lucrative market for western publishers, so they don’t send the latest books here – the shopkeepers download the book from the internet, print it, and sell it at times. This is comparable to the college street of Kolkata , although that of Kolkata has a larger collection of books.

Baitur Rauf Jame Masjid – Aga Khan Award for Architecture Winner

I didn’t know about this mosque before, how I knew about it was odd! I just came to know about an award named the Aga Khan Award for Architecture . I was going through the list and got pleasantly surprised by the beauty of the designs of the winners. There I found that the design of this mosque nailed it and I was not aware of it at all! Interestingly, a woman was the architect of this mosque which is not so common in Bangladesh. You won’t find many women designing a mosque.

This is designed in a way that, the children can play inside which is also pretty interesting for a place for prayer. Unlike other mosques, the building has no domes and minarets. What I loved about this mosque is its simplicity! While most of the designers focus on lavishness while designing a prayer room, this one is an exception to that.

Ramna Park – Jog and Relax in the Greeneries

Dhaka is extremely busy! You will always hear a lot of noises and experience heavy traffic in the street. It will be a good idea to visit Ramna Park in the morning to jog or run in the fresh air. It hosts more than 70 species of trees and a beautiful lake. You will not be alone in the park as it is a popular place for working out.

Chandrima Uddan – Another Place to Relax

Uddan means Park in Bangla. This is a green place full of trees where people come to relax. A trip to Chandrima Uddan can be tied up along with the trip to the national parliament as this is basically located to the backside of the parliament. The house of prime minister is also adjacent, so, the places is heavily guarded and do not think of flying drone here.

There is a huge lake adjacent to the Chandrima Uddan named Crescent Lake. The garden derived it’s name from Crescent which means Chandrima. A beautiful bridge connects the main road with this park. There are so many trees in the park – it’s a lovely places for the birds for chirping. During the early morning, group of people exercise together – be it yoga or a laughing club.

Walk further, you will find a beautifully designed shaded place. If you look closely, you will be amazed to discover a grave. That is the grave of Ziaur Rahman. Because of this grave, this park is also called Zia Uddan. Ziaur Rahman was an ex president of Bangladesh who took power being an army chief. Later, he formed a party which became one of the two major parties in Bangladesh.

The way he took power was not completely legal, but, he turned into a popular leader eventually. Sadly, he got brutally murdered in Chittagong. The remains of the body was brought here and buried. It also created some contradictions as the Chandrima Uddan is deemed to be a part of the parliament. And, many said that, a grave was not part of the design of Louis Kahn and it tampered the beauty of the complex.

Cross the grave and head towards the backside of the Chandrima Garden. This is my favourite part as it has a pond which gives me serenity. You can just sit on a bench or grass and spend some time. Try to go there during mid day to enjoy the tranquilty. This places becomes busy during evening.

Bashundhara City – Best Place for Shopping

This is a 19 stories shopping complex and the largest operational shopping mall in Dhaka. You can buy almost everything from here at a reasonable price – shirts, pants, shoes, mobiles, televisions, cameras, lenses, watches, musical instruments, and what not? You will even find a currency exchange to convert your dollar.

There are more than 2300 shops to choose from, a swimming pool and gymnasium to relax, a rooftop food court to cater to your appetite. It also hosts a multiplex for watching movies. Your eyes will surely catch the colorful dome on the top floor. They have toilets on each floor, well maintained, and free to use by anyone.

Swadhinata Stambha – Take your Photo here

Swadhinata Stambha means Independence Monument . This was erected in a historical place named The Suhrawardy Udyan. This place which was a racecourse before had two historical significance. In this place, the father of the nation Sheikh Mujibur Rahman delivered the most famous speech in the history of Bangladesh on 7 March 1971 which played an instrumental role in our independence. Later, on 16 December 1971, the Pakistani military force formally surrenders by signing a document in this place – that was the victory for us. A beautiful tower is erected here and inaugurated in 2011. An underground hosts a museum. It looks lovely at night when it emits light. Don’t take a photo of yours’ in front of it regardless of the time of your visit.

Shikha Chironton – The Eternal Flame

If you walk for two minutes from Swadhinata Stambha, you will find Shikha Chironton inside the Suhrawardy Uddan. To honor the liberation war of Bangladesh in 1971 this flame was lighted in 1997. During its inauguration, apart from the current prime minister of Bangladesh, two extremely popular persons in history were present – Nelson Mandela and Yasser Arafat. This flame is never supposed to die, the memory of the 3 million martyrs will be eternal in our hearts.

Four Famous Circles – I love each of them!

Don’t get confused, there is no place in Dhaka named three famous circles. I am talking about three roundabouts – Shapla Chottor, Doel Chottor, Balaka Chottor, and SAARC fountain.

Shapla Chottor

Shapla Chottor is located in Motijheel, the banking hub of Dhaka. It’s a sculpture of a water lily which is the national flower of Bangladesh. The water lily is wrapped with white and green petals with a yellow center. You will find a fountain surrounded by it. You will see some of the tallest buildings of Bangladesh from here.

Doel Chottor

You will find the sculpture of a pair of Magpie robins in front of the Curzon Hall. This black and white color pretty bird is the national bird of Bangladesh. If you go there, look out for the beautiful potteries and handcrafts items on the footpath, they are up for sale.

Balaka Chottor

Balaka is a type of white Stork and the logo of Biman, the national airline of Bangladesh. In front of the head office of Biman, 5 Balaka s are eyeing to fly in the sky.

SAARC Fountain

SAARC is a regional collaboration of 7 neighboring countries – Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Pakistan, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and the Maldives established in 1985 (Afghanistan joined later). Bangladesh hosted one of the summits and during that time, a wonderful sliver fountain was unveiled. It depicts the bondages among 7 countries together. Sadly, they put a screen for running some ads which put a dent in the beauty, I didn’t like it at all!

Rose Garden Palace – A Majestic Mansion

In the 1930s a landlord of Dhaka built this palace to host parties. During that time, he managed to grow different kinds of roses in the complex. Hence, people called it the rose garden palace and it holds the name. There is no rose there currently, but the beautiful white building will keep you in awe. Interestingly, one of the two largest political parties of Bangladesh, Awami League started its journey in 1949 from this building. When I visited there, it was closed because the government is planning to make it a museum. I could grab a photo from the backside standing on a railway line.

Location of the Places to visit in Dhaka

Hotels in Dhaka

Dhaka is not a backpacker’s heaven when it comes to accommodations. If you want to ensure a minimum quality of stay, you need to stay in a proper hotel. I have categorised a list of the best hotels in Dhaka according to your budget.

Luxury Hotels in Dhaka

• Le Meridien Dhaka
• Radisson Blu Dhaka
• The Westin Dhaka
• Pan Pacific Sonargaon
• Four Points by Sheraton
• InterContinental Dhaka

Mid Range Hotels in Dhaka

• Hotel Tropical Daisy
• Long Beach Suites Dhaka
• Hotel Sarina Dhaka
• Royal Park Residence
• Platinum Grand

Budget Hotels in Dhaka

• Hotel Shuktara
• Platinum Residence
• Hotel Dhaka Garden Inn
• Razmoni Ishakha

Festivals in Dhaka not to be missed

• Shakrain – 14 or 15 January – Kite festival in the old part of Dhaka when the sky is taken over by colorful kites.
• Book Fair – 1 February to 28 February – it’s not only a fair but also a festival.
• Pohela Boishakh – the Bengali new year – 14 April each year. You can’t move an inch without touching others, it’s such a large festival!
• Durga Puja – The largest festival of Hindu – Usually takes place for 10 days in October each year.

Street Foods of Dhaka

You have seen some of the best places to visit in Dhaka. However, that’s not everything Dhaka has to offer. Dhaka can give your taste bud a huge boost. It has so many restaurants, you cannot eat in each of them in your lifetime. To get familiar with it, read about the best street foods of Dhaka that Ii wrote for Chef Denise.

Wanna visit the best places in Dhaka with me?

I take a small group of people to show Dhaka city each Saturday and Sunday. If you wanna explore Dhaka with me, drop me a message .

Where else can I go from Dhaka?

• The national monument of Bangladesh – best day trip from Dhaka.
• Sajek Valley – an abode of clouds in the southern part of Bangladesh.
• The longest sea beach in the world – Cox’s Bazar .
• The most beautiful island in Bangladesh – Saint Martin’s .

Best places to visit in Dhaka as a Web Story

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Fuad loves to travel! A lot! Carrying a Bangladeshi passport means he needs a prior visa for visiting most of the countries. He got detained in many borders because of his nationality but; he didn’t give up - he set his foot to 40 countries . He believes, if he could travel the world despite all the odds, you can, too. Fuad is a Computer Engineer by profession, and author of a travelogue in Bangla . He currently lives in Dhaka, Bangladesh.

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I never imagined Dhaka having such magnificent architecture. Or that there was so much to see and do. Your post has certainly opened my eyes to a country I would never have thought of visiting.

Thank you for your comment, I am glad you liked. Dhaka is surely an interesting city, you can put it in your itinerary during a South Asia trip.

12 Best Places to Visit in Dhaka, BD (List of 2024)

Being a city built on the banks of the river Buriganga around 400 years ago, Dhaka has burgeoned into a densely populated megacity with a rich history and culture. It is a city that has embraced modernization while holding its roots firmly.

Consequently, numerous places of attraction both historical and relatively new have manifested within its proximity. All of these places portray and define the life of this city and are definitely worth giving a visit to.

Let’s begin with a list of the best places to visit in Dhaka so that you can know the city from ins and outs.

1. Ahsan Manzil

Built in 1872 on the banks of the river Buriganga, Ahsan Manzil is a relic of Dhaka’s history. It was named after the 3rd Nawab of Bengal, Khwaja Ahsanullah. Once the seat of the nawab of Dhaka, the palace has been converted to a museum since 1985. The palace is situated in Kumartoli area of Old Dhaka, near the Buriganga river.

2. Lalbagh Fort

Although never entirely completed following the actual plans, the Mughal emperor Muhammad Azam Shah started constructing the 17th-century fort complex situated in the present day Lalbagh area of Old Dhaka. Built on the bank of the Buriganga river, this fort cherishes the Mughal history of Bengal.

Once, this fort used to be the residence of the Mughal Governors of Bengal, in the house called Diwan-i-Aam, inside the fort. The place is enriched with a lot of stories and historical artifacts that reverberate the history of this city, mesmerizing its visitors.

3. The National Parliament House

The National Parliament House or the ‘Jatiya Sagshad Bhaban’ designed by the famous American architect Luis I. Kahn, is considered to be one of the largest legislative complexes in the world. Constructed on 200 acres of land at Sher-e-Bangla Nagar of Dhaka, this monumental structure was completed in 1982. This building seats the ‘Parliament of Bangladesh’.

For tourists, the parliament complex or ‘Jaitya Sangshad’ Complex, along with the crescent lake and the Chandrima Uddan is open at all times. People interested in morning or evening walks are particularly fond of this place. This structure is considered as a national treasure and visited by both domestic and foreign tourists every day.

4. Nuhash Polli

Situated on the outskirts of Dhaka in the Piruzali Village of Gazipur Sadar, Nuhash Polli was founded in 1997 on 13.61 acres of land (later 24.76 acres) by the famous Bangladeshi Novelist Humayun Ahmed. The entire place hosts a landscape of greenery with 300 species of trees and tea plants.

Furthermore, numerous types of locally made statues are placed within its premises. It is a great place for a day out and to experience the greener side of Dhaka.

5. Liberation war museum

The Liberation war museum is situated in the center of Dhaka City at Agargaon. Built in 1996 to preserve the memory of the liberation war, this museum hosted more than 21000 artifacts from the war, as of 2016. This structure is a representation of the indomitable spirit of the Bangladeshi people.

The numerous galleries within the museum represent the struggle, sacrifices, and determination of Bangladesh’s free-spirited people, which led to their freedom. It is definitely a worthwhile place to visit, to know the essence of this country as a whole.

6. Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Novo Theatre

Opened in 2004, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Novo Theatre is the country’s biggest planetarium. Located at the Bijoy Sharani Avenue of Tejgaon in Dhaka, it was previously named as the Bhashani Novo Theatre.

This planetarium offers astronomical shows with 3D projections of space, planets, and other celestial bodies. If you are someone trying to frame Bangladesh in the perspective of the universe, the Novo theater is your place to go.

7. Bangabandhu Military Museum

Inaugurated in 1987, the Bangabandhu Military Museum is a preservation of Bangladesh’s military history, heritage, success stories, and various weapons and ammunition. Located permanently in the Bijoy Sharani Avenue of Tejgaon, beside Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Novo Theatre since 1999, has become a trendy destination amongst youth in recent times.

In addition to the numerous galleries, the museum also has enabled Augmented Reality, Interactive Displays, Virtual Reality, Holograms, and other 3D visualizations throughout its premises that further enhance the experience of this Museum. It is one of the most picturesque museums in Bangladesh and undoubtedly a great place to visit.

8. Ramna Park

The Ramna park is one of the largest recreational parks in Bangladesh. Located in Ramna at the center of Dhaka, this park has had its roots since the inception of this city in the 1600s. In the 19th century, British officials took initiative to build the park in its present appearance.

The Park boasts a unique evergreen and serene ambience, with the presence of over 71 species of flowering trees, numerous walkways, and the Ramna Lake. Every year this place becomes extra special with the celebration of the much-anticipated Bengali new year’s celebration. Thus, this place should be at the top of the list of places to visit in Dhaka.

9. Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Safari Park

Encompassing 3810 acres of land, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Safari Park is the largest Safari Park in Asia. Inaugurated in 2013, this safari park is located in Gazipur, on the outskirts of Dhaka. More than 3000 animals and birds of 47 different species call this safari park their home.

The Park hosts great biodiversity amidst the Sal Forest, promoting a sense of adventure and excitement. Undoubtedly, it is one of the best tourist places in the country, and a must-visit for anyone who’s trying to explore Dhaka.

10. Panam City

Attaining prominence in the 19th century, during the Zenith of British rule in Bengal, Panam City or Panam Nagar began its journey towards becoming a key business center. It was a renowned textile trading center with diverse merchants constantly traveling towards the city, particularly to acquire unique cotton fabrics. Profiting from the textile trade, the residents built houses with exquisite architecture that can still be marveled at in this day and age.

Today only 52 of the original buildings of the city remain standing. The Baro Sardar Bari of Isa Kha, Kashinath House, etc. are some major attractions within the proximity of this historical place.

11. Golap Gram (The Rose Village)

Situated in the village of Saidullahpur next to birulia in savar, Golap gram has taken the shape of a major tourist attraction. With land after land of arable soil used for the cultivation of flowers, particularly roses, the place is a magnificent sight to behold. The rose gardens represent a sense of beauty and serenity that automatically elevates your mood.

In addition to enjoying the beautiful sight of roses, one can also buy them for very low prices. The beauty of the uninterrupted sight of roses attracts thousands of tourists in hopes of experiencing this sight of beauty and magnificence.

12. Justice Shahabuddin Ahmed Park

The Justice Shahabuddin Ahmed park is a lush open green park built on 9.55 acres of land in Gulshan Avenue of Dhaka. Despite being located in the most upscale commercialized neighborhood of the city, the park maintains a very soothing and natural ambiance. The Park is enriched with strong natural biodiversity. Within the boundary of the park lies more than 1500 trees belonging to 40 species.

Additionally, the park offers well-planned and maintained cycle lanes, walking lanes, a pond, and other amenities that enhance the experience of its visitors’ manifolds. Furthermore, being in proximity to the diplomatic zones of the city, it has been made one of the safest places in the country with strong security details followed meticulously by the park officials. Thus, this park is certainly a place worth giving a visit while exploring Dhaka.

Dhaka is a rich city teeming with places and activities for people to experience. The rich history, culture, and innovations of the residents of this city are a remarkable addition to this city’s character. Visiting Dhaka is tantamount to creating unique memorable experiences that can be cherished for a lifetime.

Rishun Islam is a content writer of Prothom Blog who is interested in history, finance and economics. Moreover, he loves adventurous tours to create memories and is fond of country-pop songs. Being from an economic student and tech enthusiast he writes mostly about tech, finance and business.

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Tourist spots and places to visit in Dhaka

If you are looking for a list of the places to visit in Dhaka you have come to the right place because this is what this article is all about.

Dhaka is not one of the most popular places to visit in Asia but it is one which I very much enjoyed exploring and which surprised me positively . 

I visited Dhaka with little expectations and without having done much research, I thought the best way to discover it would be by simply walking around since it is more a place to live than to go around ticking boxes. 

While this may be true, because the city does not have as many tourist attractions in the strict sense of the word, there are a few places to visit in Dhaka that you should make sure to add to your itinerary.

Best things to do and places to visit in Dhaka

Dhaka is a total explosion of colors, smells, sounds and even touch . It will assault your senses like any other place, and this comes from someone who has traveled to India more than 20 times, Dhaka is a step beyond India’s crowded cities.

But this is probably why I enjoyed my time there. 

Before we jump onto the list of things to do in Dhaka, I want to strongly suggest you consider exploring them with a guide , ideally, a private guided tour, so you can tailor your visit to your liking. 

This is for safety reasons, for practical reasons (traffic is appalling and English not spoken) and for convenience (distances are big and getting cabs/rickshaws is hard if you don’t speak the language). 

Perhaps most important of all, it’s so that you can make the most of your visit with insights and information you wouldn’t normally know. Bangladesh and Dhaka are not touristy destinations and the information that visitors know before coming is small, so without a guide you will miss all the interesting stories.

Here are the best options for a tour of Dhaka:

• A full small group tour (max 12 people) that includes everything below except for Sonargaon or the sights that are far away from the main tourist area. After this tour, there will be little for you to see independently. Book it here . This tour picks you up and includes lunch and even a theatre performance.
• Smaller group tour with only 6 people that also explores all the sights. This one has no theatre and the food is not included. Book it here .

Saat Gombuj Jaame Masjid

Located a bit far off the rest of the main places to visit in Dhaka, the pink Seven domed mosque , as its name translates, is one of the most historical places in Dhaka. The mosque follows a Mughal design and dates back to the 17th century. 

When I visited, it was being renovated which is good news as most tourist spots in Dhaka don’t get a lot of love, and bad news because previous renovation work was done without care for conservation principles.

The old structure is reminiscent of the Lalbagh Fort and has a central hall with three domes and four additional ones at each corner. The mosque used to be located by the shore of a river which was later deviated.

National Parliament House of Bangladesh

This octagonal building complex housing the country’s Parliament is one of the most interesting places to visit in Dhaka because of its universal design unlike any other in the city, and its pretty location between gardens and water.

The work of famous American architect Louis Kahn and possibly his magnum opus , the Parliament House is a fine example of form and functionality, it incorporates the essence of Bangladesh heritage and has been called Brutalist by some. 

Completed in 1982 as a modernist piece after Bangladesh independence and conceived as an ode to it, its exposed grey concrete and marble facade blends in well with the city’s concrete jungle.

But don’t stay outside, the Parliament building can be visited. You can apply by email by submitting the form available here at least a day ahead.

Karwan Bazaar

This business area cum vegetable bazaar named after an 18th century Merwari trader sprawling around a train track is one of the most colorful and buzzing parts of the city and one of the most fascinating places to visit in Dhaka. 

The working wholesale market overflowing with local farmers selling their produce and caddies carrying large baskets up and down the area is not a tourist attraction but a cultural experience. The area is known for hosting the offices of most of the media companies in the city too.

There are not a lot of foreigners in Dhaka, in fact, I did not see any in my entire time there, and Karwan Bazaar would have been the last place to find them, because it is not really a tourist spot in Dhaka, but what a shame that is.

The majority of the produce sold here is spread on the floor or comes out of sacs, in the open. Large piles of bananas, still attached to the branches, mountains of uneven potatoes, vegetables squashed by passing buyers. 

Lucky sellers have a small space in the covered area, and a colored lamp, the same shade as the vegetable they are selling (orange for carrots, red for capsicum) to enhance their appearance. 

The area is chaotic, and crowded in the wee hours of the morning , before 7am. By noon, most of the traders will be gone. Occasionally, a train runs through, on the overpass track. Don’t miss it, the image of locals sitting on its roof are a typical sight.

Beware of pickpockets and oncoming rickshaws that will pop up from anywhere. While I did not feel unsafe, the locals were unaccustomed to seeing foreigners (let alone uncovered women) and extremely curious but smiling. I visited with my partner and a local guide.

Bangladesh National Museum

The National Museum of Bangladesh hosts artifacts and information about the country’s history and its road to independence. There is everything here, from all the details about the country’s flora and fauna to how it obtained independence.

You will learn about the plants and animals of Bangladesh (including the tigers in the Sundarbans), archeological pieces recovered from across the country, ethnographic objects from the country’s many ethnic groups (there is a canon from Tipu Sultan ).

In the top levels of the museum there is a contemporary art exhibition from local artists. You should plan for a couple of hours here as the building has lots of rooms. More information here .

Dhakeshwari Mandir

This funky and modern-looking pink and red Hindu temple devoted to the Dhakeshwari Goddess is one of the most important religious places to visit in Dhaka.

While the majority of the population of Bangladesh is Muslim, this Hindu temple is revered and considered of high importance and it is believed to have given the city its name (Dhakeshwari = Temple of the Goddess of Dhaka). 

The temple is owned by the government and it was built by an agent of the East India Company in the 18th century over a previous 12th century construction making it an important historical place in Dhaka.

Legend has it that the temple was built by a Sena King who had a dream about a Durga statue hidden in a forest. He found it and placed it in the temple dedicated to Durga. 

The original 800 year old idol was either destroyed during the War of Liberation or taken to Kolkata in India to hide it, depending on who you ask (our guide assured us it was in India). The image you see today is a replica. 

The temple is an important center of Hindu life in the city and has suffered a lot through the years. The Liberation War against Pakistan caused several of the buildings to be destroyed and during Pakistan rule Hinduism and the temple were suppressed. 

The annual Bengali Durga Puja festival takes place in the temple every year and is the most important event. It is common to see locals preparing meals for services or for weddings taking place at the temple.

Dhakeshwari Temple is open to everyone, free of charge, and usually guarded by the police because of its religious importance, and it is a very peaceful place. Make sure you include it in your list of tourist spots in Dhaka. Read more about it here .

Lalbagh Fort 

Lalbagh Fort is the most beautiful of all the places to see in Dhaka and takes you miles away from the noise and chaos of Old Dhaka, just a few meters away. It is also one of the few tentative UNESCO sites for Bangladesh.

The fort is unfinished but its construction started in 1677 by Prince Muhammad Azam, Viceroy of Bengal, and was continued by his uncle, Shaista Khan when he had to travel to help his father, Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb in a war he was fighting. 

While away, his future wife, amicably known as Pari Bibi (Fair Lady) and daughter of Shaista Khan, died. Convinced that the fort was cursed, the uncle abandoned its construction and left it as it was. Some of the legends around the fort’s dark past have survived until today and locals still believe them .

Prince Muhammad Azam ascended to the throne after his father’s death in 1707, but was killed by his half-brothers in a battle for power just three months after. He was of the feared and regal Timurid lineage, considered to be direct descendants of Genghis Khan, thanks to his Persian mother.

Lalbagh Fort is a typical Mughal complex very similar in nature to Jahangir’s Tomb in Lahore , who was actually the Prince’s great grandfather and father of the creator of the Taj Mahal, and had it been finished, I have no doubt it would have been as grand and beautiful. 

Originally, the fort was built on the banks of the River Buriganga and was meant to be a palace fort whose walls and structure would protect the royal family living inside.

What we can see today is the renovation work of the fort done after independence by the Bangladeshi Department of Archeology. After its abandonment, the fort was unoccupied until 1844 when the successor of Shaista Khan leased it to the British and these turned it into the police headquarters.

Visiting the fort is a must thing to do in Dhaka and its rectangular grounds are a popular place for locals to come enjoy a picnic with friends and family in the evenings and weekends. There is little shade, other than the one provided by the buildings, but the green grass and well tended-to bushes very pleasant. 

There are currently three structures remaining aligned along the middle axis, as well as parts of the fortress walls and towers which has probably become the most popular tourist spot in Dhaka. 

In the middle is the Mausoleum of Pari Bibi who is buried here, to the right Quilla Mosque and to the left the Diwan, or Hall of Audience and residence of the Governor. 

The Diwan hosts a small museum of the fort, with the artifacts and objects recovered on display, including pictures of the Prince and his uncle. You can also see the hammam and some of their swords and clothes. 

The octagonal mausoleum is open to the public. The main room, in the middle, is covered in beautiful white marble from Jaipur, the tomb sits on a pedestal in the middle of the room and is made of black basalt rock. It is surrounded by eight rooms. There are (non working) fountains at either side of the building.

The mosque is still a working religious building so only accessible to Muslims. Its pink facade and three bulbous domes with three matching entrances are reminiscent of the Saracene architectural style of Chennai’s colonial buildings . 

What I found most interesting are the fortified constructions at each corner of the fortress walls which served as defensive structures. If you explore the one that is closer to the Diwan, in the south, you will see that it is in a more advanced state than the other ones. It’s three story minaret is beautiful. 

You can also walk over the fortress walls to the other side of the entrance to the fort and the bastions. It is common to see Bangadeshi teenagers sitting around or couples people watching and talking on this very historical place in Dhaka. 

Under the bastions on the southern walls are several passages and alleys and even a small maze that is thought to have been added to distract invading armies. 

Many legends point at the fact that the fort had a secret passage coming out at the other side of the river (our guide also shared that story with us) but the tunnel is no longer visible.

Baitul Mukarram National Mosque

Considered the national mosque of Bangladesh because of its size, which can accommodate 30,000 people , Baitul Mukarram National Mosque is among the top-10 largest mosques in the world and a unique tourist spot in Dhaka, mostly because it is not visited by many.

Unlike other historical places in Dhaka, this mosque is relatively new, completed in the 1960s, and has a very unique design which blends Mughal elements with a cubic shape that resembles the Kasbah in Mecca. It also lacks some of the typical mosque elements such as a cupola and minarets.

You won’t be able to go in as a non-Muslim but the building’s structure can be appreciated from the outside. Admire the white marble square and the golden dome. On Fridays, the holy day in Islam, the mosque is packed.

Old Dhaka is a pedestrian, bike, motorbike and rickshaw only area and it is where the action happens and the most popular tourist spot in Dhaka , visited by anyone who makes it to the city and probably the image that comes to mind when you think of it. 

Old Dhaka is the most interesting and colorful place to see in Dhaka and well worth at least half a day of exploration and try some Bangladeshi street foods .

I highly recommend getting a guide for your visit, not just because of safety or because you can’t do it alone but because they can provide commentary, explanations about the culture and point at things you would miss. They also help interact with the locals who don’t speak English.

There is close to no information online about all the sights in this part of the city so without a guide you will miss the cultural understanding of what you see. I hired a private guide and driver for the day to visit almost all of the places to visit in Dhaka on this list. 

Here are some options for a tour:

• Walking tour with a local of Old Dhaka, you can customise the tour to your liking and will explore on foot. If you want to enter into museums (i.e. Ahsan Manzil) or get food or drinks, then you will have to pay separately. This tour starts in the area you want to explore so you need to get there on your own, which is relatively easy with Uber from your hotel. Book it here .
• If you want to see what the city looks like at night, when it is less hot, this tour explores Dhaka after dark and also takes in Curzon Hall in the University of Dhaka and it is mostly about street food. Book it here .

Star Mosque

Popularly referred to as Tara Mosque or Star Mosque, this beautiful one storey mosque located near the Armenian Church in the heart of Old Dhaka is a slice of peace and tranquility among the nerve-wrecking rickshaw traffic that cloaks the streets of this part of the city.

Its name comes from the many star shapes on the walls and domes, and a tiled ablution fountain located in front of the mosque which is often empty.

The mosque is breathtaking for its interior walls covered in colorful tiles with flower patterns. The level of detail in every tile, coupled with the fact that all the walls and ceiling are covered in it gives the mosque a rather tranquil atmosphere. This is a must visit tourist spot in Dhaka.

But it was not built to be this way. 

The mosque was originally constructed sometime in the 18th or 19th century, the specific date is unknown because the mosque is not dated, but it was done during the Mughal Empire and was of smaller and more modest design, with only three domes, the ones on the left, and without any of the tiles that you can see today. 

It was a merchant who renovated and decorated the mosque in 1926 using the Chini Tikri technique which is similar to Gaudi’s “trencadis” technique used in many of his buildings such as La Sagrada Familia . He also added an arched verandah in front and the star-shaped fountain.

To do that, he imported fine colorful tiles from England and Japan and hired local artisans to use them to decorate the walls and domes of the mosque. He also built a school which still provides free education. The most beautiful part of the mosque are the blue star-shaped mosaics on the domes.

The mosque was expanded in 1987 by the government and part of the original structure was damaged. Two more domes were also added. The expansion was not done using the same type of expensive tiles but with a combination of tiles as well as direct painting. 

When you go inside you can see which part is the new and less delicate work vis-a-vis the original refined one financed by the wealthy trader.

This mosque can be visited outside of prayer times, just take your shoes off and leave them outside. Women should cover their heads and wear modest clothing, as for all of Dhaka. The prayer hall is covered in carpets as is common of mosques, and is remarkably cool even in the heat of Dhaka.

Armenian Church

The Armenian Church is the last vestige of Armenian heritage in Dhaka and can only be visited by appointment when the local caretaker will show you around (your guide will have his contact number to arrange). 

Alternatively, you can try your luck, knock on the gate and wait for him to come out and show you around this historical place in Dhaka.

The Armenian community used to amount to about 150 people in the past but they have all left so the church is no longer a continuous functioning religious institution. The caretaker is Muslim and the building is maintained as a heritage monument with the occasional service being held for special occasions with visiting priests. 

The church was built in 1781 by the local Armenian trading community and is a tall yet cozy building of white and yellow facades surrounded by tombs in a very large garden-cemetery. 

Inside, wooden benches are still intact from when it still held mass and there is a spiral wooden staircase that takes you to the upper balcony. The white marble altar is from 1915 and the painting of The Last Supper on the altar was painted and donated by Charles Pote in 1849. 

The tombstones outside will tell you more about the people who lived here, and help date the church and graveyard. The oldest tomb is from 1714 and belongs to Avietis Lazar, the first Armenian to die in Dhaka.

Similar to the Armenian community in Chennai, Dhaka welcomed many Amernians in the 17th and 18th century when the Mughal Empire’s official language was Persian and Armenian traders would come to the region in search of new opportunities.

Their presence and business success gave name to the street (Armenian Street) and the area it is located in Old Dhaka, known as Armenitola. The church has started the process to apply for UNESCO inclusion in 2019. You can find out about their events here .

Shankhari Bazaar Road

This buzzing and fascinating street in Old Dhaka is the heart of the neighbourhood and a place where you can spend hours just walking into tiny shops, admiring the narrowest of buildings and being entertained by the ongoing traffic of people and rickshaws. This was the place I enjoyed the most visiting and the number one tourist spot in Dhaka.

The name of the street comes from the group that originally inhabited the area, the Hindu Shankhari, which draw their name from a traditional conch shell bangle they make which the women wear when they get married. 

Shankha are given to the bride to be on the day of her marriage by the older women. You will see lots of shops selling them and it is well worth it to stop and get into a couple.

The bangles are not very expensive but they are hand carved in beautiful motifs. Once you put them in, you are never to take them out so they are admittedly very narrow and not flexible at all, so it might be a bit painful trying a few in and out until you find the one you like.

Buying some Shankha, a dying art, is one of the nicest things to do in Dhaka, not just for the experience, but also because you will be contributing a bit in keeping this tradition, which is threatened by cheap plastic versions, alive. 

Shankhari belong to an artisan Hindu cast and were brought here by the Mughal Emperor in the 17th century and have remained here. This means that the area is a known Hindu stronghold, in a primarily Muslim society, but is far smaller today since the War of Liberation and the massacre of Shankari carried out by the Pakistan Army.

What makes the street extra unique are the commonplace mesh of electricity cables hanging from the very narrow colonial buildings on the street and the designs of the older constructions. 

Some of the buildings here can be a mere meter wide, though the majority are about 2-3m wide, most are three storeys high, and have their facades painted in bright colors, some with verandahs with intricate carved designs. 

It is incredible to see the amount of people living in such a small street, 10,000 by some estimates, packed into 153 buildings along the 200m street with permanent traffic of rickshaws.

Apart from the Shankhari, you can also look out for another artisan group, the Panitola, who specialise in making statues from tin foil. You will see many shops selling them and artists at work. They produce mostly Hindu idols, on a basis of tin foil and colorful decorations.

Shankhari Bazaar is teeming with temples. Historically, each house had its own temple room, now not all may, but you will see temples and shrines all along.

Needless to say, this is one of the densest areas in an already intensely populated city and it can get a bit too much if you are not used to it so take it easy and always pay attention to oncoming traffic, especially rickshaws, other hand pulled carts and people.

Nawabpur Bazaar

This main road in Old Dhaka is not your usual tourist spot but an interesting place to stroll, since you will most likely come here for Shankhari Bazaar. This area is known as the place to come get spare parts and the street is lined by shop after shop selling all sorts of items. 

Ahsan Manzil Museum

This beautiful bright pink European-style palace on the banks of the Buringa River is a fine example of the blend of Mughal and European elements which had become pervasive and aspirational to the wealthy of Bangladesh during the time of the British Raj, in the 19th century and which has come to be known as Indo-Saracenic.

Ahsan Manzil is a complex made of the main building, sitting atop a platform which is 1m high and reached by a flight of stairs, and a large garden with grass and flowers. It is the beauty of the structure which makes it a must-see tourist spot in Dhaka.

At its peak, successful Europeans and dignitaries would arrive at Ahsan Manzil on their beautiful boats and ascend to the building via the staircase. 

The construction was carried out by a British company, Martin and Company, and started in 1859. The property had been acquired by Abdul Ghani, the Nawab of Dhaka, in 1830 from a French trading company who were using it as a factory and headquarters and had to be redesigned as his family’s residence.

The design of the building is symmetrical, as was common of the architectural style, and has a verandah that was not originally a European feature, but one that was typical of Indo-Saracenic structures like the ones in Chennai . 

The top dome dates from the renovation work carried out after a cyclone that destroyed much of the palace, in 1888. Ahsan Manzil reminded me a lot of the Mysore Palace in India’s state of Karnataka .

The Nawab were important land owners and businessmen in Dhaka at the end of the 19th century. When the Mughal left Dhaka, they started to occupy important positions and gained relevance. 

Abdul Ghani was part of the Viceroy’s Council and contributed to the city’s development. Thanks to his strong support and loyalty for the Raj, the family was favored and thrived. The palace was named after his son Ahsan, who took over his business.

They were involved in most of the developments that brought prosperity to the city, from educational institutions to lighting projects. Ahsan Mazil was also the place of many marked moments and hosted politicians and diplomats visiting Dhaka, making it one of the most historical places in Dhaka . 

In the middle of the 20th century, the Nawab’s influence and wealth had declined and the government bought the property. Not much was done with it so it became a squatter house until the government took over in 1985 and the building opened as a museum in 1992.

If you visit you can see the objects and possessions of the Nawab family but the interest is really in the building itself.

Take a rickshaw ride

Taking a rickshaw ride is one of the most fun and frightening things to do in Dhaka. 

Dhaka is the city of rickshaws . I had read that, I had heard friends say it, but I did not fully understand the meaning of these words. 

When they said it’s the city of rickshaws, they meant there are an estimated 1 million rickshaws, maybe more, the city even won a Guinness World Record for the most rickshaws. And that is in comparison with fewer than 300,000 cars. 

There are parts of Dhaka, the Old Town, where cars are banned and rickshaws dominate, but that doesn’t mean there are no traffic jams, they are just of a different kind.

The rickshaws in Dhaka are not like the ones in Thailand or anywhere else in India for that matter, they are bicycle rickshaws, physically pulled by the leg strength of the often very old rickshaw riders. 

They are also narrow, can barely fit two people, but will fit in incredibly small alleys, even if there is another one coming from the other side. They navigate the potholed streets, and the mud and rocks, and they battle the car traffic. 

Rickshaws are the answer to the lack of public transport and of sidewalks in a city with 26 million people (the fourth largest in the world ), the world’s most densely populated , and probably the one with the highest percentage of private drivers, if you are going to be stuck in traffic, you might as well do it in an air conditioned car someone else is driving and parking.

I can’t tell you if I enjoyed the ride in Old Dhaka or was too terrified to even open my eyes, probably a mixture of the two, but you can’t leave Old Dhaka without at least spending a few minutes seeing the city from a meter above the ground.

Dhaka Dockyard

The dockyards have to be the most impressive place to visit in Dhaka. This graveyard of old cargo ships and birthplace of new ones is an incredible place to observe, and one of the last tourist spots in Dhaka a visitor would think of.

Located across the river from Old Dhaka, you need to take a boat from the river port area near Ahsan Manzil and then get off on the other side, upstream, a few minutes after. Traffic on the river is constant and it’ll only cost a few Taka to get a boatman to cross you over. But make sure you pick a solid boat.

The boat ride is an experience in itself, the small wooden boats practically sinking in the filthy and contaminated water and shaking with every larger vessel that overtakes are a metaphor for Bangladeshi farmers, fishermen and the like in front of the goliath industries. 

I was frightened to the bones for the duration of the journey, fearing that we might capsize with the next wave and I would die, not because of drowning, but from the incredibly toxic water, black like the dark night. 

Once we made it to the other side, I sighed in relief and was glad we got there because this has to be one of the most fascinating things to do in Dhaka and Bangladesh, even though I had to step on the filthiest of mud, as dark as the river water.

The area is filled with old ships being dismantled and new ones being built. The catch is that everything here is done by bare hand with rudimentary tools and by hardened workers who fight under the blazing Bangladeshi sun, to beat the pieces of metal until they fall apart.

Bangladesh is a known port and its shipyard industry is one of the largest. In the port city of Chittagong, massive shipyards need up to a year to dismantle 30,000 ton container ships from all over the world, all under the tight supervision of the various local and international environmental agencies.

But in Dhaka, this is done at a slightly smaller scale in a way the looks painfully artisanal. Dwarfed by the size of the vessels they are trying to break down, tiny workers hang from the side of a ship, precariously held by basic ropes, barefeet, among starved dogs.

The opportunities for photography are endless and the locals are as curious as the visitor, asking for photos to be taken, smiling ear to ear. But you can’t forget that the underlying reality of life is really tough for these workers, and that safety standards are all but nonexistent.

Don’t get distracted by a photo opportunity and end up stepping on a sharp edge or a nail, or worse yet, falling on a tetanus infected rusted ship part. 

University of Dhaka, Curzon Hall

It might seem strange that a university building features in the list of places to visit in Dhaka but the Curzon Hall in the University of Dhaka complex is one of the most beautiful and well-preserved examples of Indo-Saracenic architecture in Bangladesh and also played an important role in the country’s independence movement. 

It was here that, after the unification of Pakistan and Bangladesh, the students mobilised to defend the Bengali language. When the government of Pakistan decided to name Urdu and English the official languages, the population demonstrated and the government banned any form of assembly. 

But the students continued. The university was the site of a massacre in 1952 when the army attacked students who were demonstrating.

If you visit today, it is interesting to see the red building and the classrooms, still keeping the former colonial architecture with the wooden benches and the high ceilings. At the back, there are the student residences hosted in equally pretty buildings.

The building was originally envisioned by a British Viceroy Lord Curzon who gave it his name at the beginning of the 20th century and was meant to be a Town Hall. But when Bengal broke away the building to become part of the University of Dhaka Science Faculty.

Entrance is free and open to anyone as this is a working university, and the students are always quite curious to see visitors. Coming here, and chatting to the students, who are likely to speak English, is one of the nicest things to do in Dhaka.  

Shahbagh flower market

This is the largest wholesale market in the city and is an explosion of colors and smells. As a working market, you will see the artisans creating beautiful flower garlands and decorations which is why a visit is one of the nicest things to do in Dhaka. 

Many stalls have books filled with the types of decorations they can prepare, wedding couples come here to choose the design for their big day, to cover the dining hall, etc. 

The market is set along a road, on the sidewalk, and it is usually quite crowded so beware of pickpockets. Locals are friendly and will smile at you. Although this is a wholesale market, there are lots of retail products to buy too , including flower crows, for a fraction of the price in the West. 

This is one of the best places to visit in Dhaka for photography enthusiasts as the buzz of people and the beautiful flowers create great contrast.

Half day trip to the ancient capital of Sonargaon

You cannot visit Dhaka and not make it to the ancient capital of Sonargaon, also known as Suvarnagram. In fact, visiting Sonargaon was one of the things to do in Dhaka I was most excited for and it did not disappoint .

First things first. 

You don’t actually see the ancient capital city of Sonargaon, because there is little left of that, you visit Panam Bazaar which is nearby and is a street lined with colonial mansions from the 19th century. 

Sonargaon is about an hour’s drive from Dhaka and used to be one of the medieval capitals of East Bengal and an important port in the 13th century during the Deva Dynasty. The city continued to be one of the main administrative hubs of the Bengal and Delhi Sultanates until 1610 when the Mughals arrived. 

When they moved the capital to today’s Dhaka, Sonargaon declined in importance and it was abandoned. The British took over the area during the time of the Raj and Panam Nagar was developed as a neighbourhood of Sonargaon but the original buildings have mostly disappeared.

A day trip to Sonargaon should include all the below places to visit.

Panam Nagar Bazaar

Panam Nagar Bazaar is a 600m long street in the old Panam Nagar neighbourhood of Sonargaon with about 52 remaining Hindu mansions that were abandoned when the textile industry declined and the area became a part of Pakistan and have been left almost as they were. 

They are in varying degrees of conservation, some are in very good state and you can even see the stained glass windows and the intricate wood carved designs on verandahs and door frames, others are little more than ruins.

Panam Nagar was founded by Hindu traders in the 19th century who settled here when the British East India Company opened a textile fabric manufacturing facility and the buildings were constructed following the Indo-Saracenic style of the time, with Mughal (Islamic and Persian) and European elements fused to create a unique appearance typical of the Indian subcontinent. 

The buildings were made with brick covered in plaster, some conserve the original plaster designs and paint, most just show the exposed brick. Here, you can also see a bit of the Chini Tikry technique used in Star Mosque, although not much is left of that. 

At the back of the buildings there are gardens, grass, wells and ghats that face the canals which were used to transport the textiles in and out of Panam Nagar. Locals come here for picnics and the weekends see more movement but generally, Panam Nagar is a very peaceful place.

You can get in and up the upper floors of some of the buildings, look out for the open doors, but be careful as some of them are in dire need of conservation and could collapse, as indicated  by the fact that they have been added in the watch list by the World Monuments Fund. 

There are no signs in the area, and very little information online, so without a guide to tell you more you will be lost of commentary. 

The caretaker will get your entrance ticket. He lives onsite with his family in the first construction you see when you enter Panam Bazaar, by the parking lot. If you ask him nicely, he will let you go into his house. 

Zainul Folk Art & Crafts Museum in Sadarbari

This museum is as important for its building as for its contents . Housed in a mansion from 1901 called Sadarbari, the Folk Art and Crafts Museum showcases pieces from the area. The mansion is stunning, with a rear facade facing the river which is one of the most photographed places in Sonargaon.

Goaldi Mosque

This small square mosque built in exposed red brick is not open to the public so you cannot get in, but you can walk around it in the small fenced garden that guards it. 

It was built in the 16th century and it is one of the few remaining structures from the medieval period. It’s conservation state is the result of the government’s efforts to restore what was left of it after it collapsed.

Boidar Bazaar Boat Terminal

You came all the way here so you might as well make the most of your time here by taking a small wooden boat excursion on the river Meghna and to the small colonies on the other side.

The boats are very much like the picturesque houseboats in Kerala , and the area looks a bit similar too, but there are no narrow canals here, the river and its many affluents are wider.

Along the river you will see boats that are extracting sand for sale and the majority of the people in the area either live off that or are fishermen. On the other side of the river, there are a few islands where the wives and children of the fishermen and sand workers live.

Take a boat and go to the other side, ask the boatsman to wait for you and explore the small islands. You will not be able to walk long before a local woman will invite you in for a drink and some snacks, like biscuits or crackers. 

It pays to come here with a guide because otherwise you won’t be able to communicate, but it is nonetheless interesting to see how the wealthier yet rural communities live.

Houses are made of brick and tarpaulin with intricate facades with carved wooden details indicating how wealthy the family is. 

Inside, they are spacious, and clean, many have TVs and are fully furnished, with fridges. There is electricity on the island, sometimes coming from a generator. 

Jamdani sari making

Sonargaon and Panam thrived thanks to the textile industry and, most notably, the cotton muslin fabric that is incredibly fine and made Bengal famous the world over since the times of Ibn Battuta and Marco Polo. 

Muslin grew particularly well in Bengal , and especially around Sonargaon, because of the type of cotton plant which loved the weather and soil around the River Meghna and the constant level of humidity. 

The fabric was so thin that it is said an entire sari could fit in a matchbox. It became the official fabric of the Mughal Emperor and it was exported to Europe where the royal families and nobles in France and England wore it for special occasions. 

The textile industry is the original reason why Panam was created by the British East India Company who set up a factory here to export Muslin. 

At the same time, the British set their own textile industries in the UK, in Lancashire, to compete with the handmade muslin, and eventually starved the demand from Bengal. Weavers left their craft and changed professions and trade declined.

To top it all off and ensure that no muslin would ever be made again, legend has it that the British cut the thumbs of all the artisans so that the skill would completely and surely disappear. Our guide insisted this to be the case.

While muslin is no longer made and the original cotton plants and techniques are gone, some NGOs and companies have tried to bring it back in a new modern form, and you can read more about it here or even buy it on Amazon . 

Today, most saris are made with machinery, but there is a small town halfway between Sonargaon and Dhaka called South Rupshi filled with textile workshops where Jamdani saris are still made using the Indian pit treadle looms. 

These saris are the cousins of muslin fabric and are as light and airy as these were, only they are weaved into patterns, and embroidered into beautiful designs while muslin was a white fabric. 

The word jamdani comes from the Persian for flower vase, and was given by the Mughals in the early 17th century, and they are as pretty as this sounds. UNESCO also thinks so and included jamdani weaving in its list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Jamdani thrived during the Mughal Empire but declined with the British arrival and competition from cheaper mass-produced textiles. They have however remained as a refined and premium fabric used to make the most beautiful saris, like the ones worn by the Bangladeshi Prime Minister, or Priyanka Chopra .

Jamdani saris are sold in shops near the workshops, they also sell scarves and other textiles and you can see how they make them in the open workshops.

Book a tour : I would highly recommend coming to Sonargaon and Panam on a tour, not just for convenience (the buses take forever) but also for commentary and safety. You will also have access to buildings you would otherwise not have access to because the guide knows the caretaker. Here are the tours I recommend:

• Sonargaon and Mainamati tour which also includes a visit to these mounds which are included in Bangladesh tentative UNESCO list. As this may be a group tour (min 2 people) you may not be able to include visits to the Jamdani village or the boat trip on the Meghna River. Book it here .
• Sonargaon and Meghna River tour. This one includes the river component and all of the places above but the Jamdani village. Book it here .

Where to stay in Dhaka

I am a luxury travel blogger, but also one that travels to out of the ordinary and unknown places. Bangladesh, and Dhaka, are not luxurious places, they are fascinating and interesting for many other reasons but there aren’t many luxury hotels for the leisure traveler.

However, there are a few 4 to 4.5 star business hotels targeting business travelers and the area around Gulshan, in the northern part of the city closer to the airport, has a few international chain hotels.

One of my best tips for exploring all the things to do in Dhaka is to pick a hotel wisely because it will determine how long you spend in traffic and how restful you sleep. Peace and quiet after a day in the cacophony of the tourist spots in Dhaka is essential. 

I stayed at The Westin in a Junior Suite and found the hotel to be very good. The service was friendly and useful, the room was nice and spacious, and everything went well. We also had access to the lounge which had snacks and drinks.

Talking to local contacts and clients of my partner everyone agreed that The Westin was the best hotel in Dhaka but I think the newly refurbished Intercontinental is probably equally as good, just not in Gulshan where all the business travelers go for meetings. 

The Westin brand dominates in the business districts across India and Bangladesh, they have a solid offer targeted at business customers and they deliver. I stayed at the one in Hyderabad and Gurgaon and the one in Dhaka was very similar.

The Westin location also meant that we could walk to dinner as there are lots of restaurants nearby.

Book now on Booking.com |   Agoda

Intercontinental Dhaka

The Intercontinental Hotel in Dhaka is the best option to visit all the tourist spots in Dhaka. It is the closest to Old Dhaka and most of the sites from all the hotels on this list and has a nice relaxed and resort feel to it with pool cabanas. 

The hotel underwent renovations in 2018 and has come out refreshed and has been getting glossy reviews.

Pan Pacific

This is one of only two hotels located relatively central in Dhaka, not in Gulshan but half way between Gulshan and Old Dhaka.

As opposed to the other business focused hotels, this one has a slightly more leisure friendly vibe with a resort-feel to it thanks to the two pools. As this is Bangladesh, expect them to be empty.

Located near The Westin with views over the lake this smaller hotel is another great option in Gulshan, slightly cheaper than The Westin, with nicer views and a more boutique vibe.

Other planning tips for your trip to Dhaka

Dhaka is one of those places where it pays to plan ahead and think about what and how you want to spend your time.

Plan by geographic area

Dhaka is a difficult place to visit, not because it is extremely dangerous or because people are not friendly, but because the traffic can and will determine your time there and getting around is challenging. 

If you don’t plan well, you will end up spending literally hours getting to and from places so it is important to organise your days by area.

Start early, Dhaka is up with the sunrise, so organise your days to follow an early morning. The markets open with the first rays of sunlight so they are a good place to start. Old Dhaka can be explored on foot and by rickshaw, set a day aside for all that is there.

The museums are spread out, so you will need a car and you can leave them all aside for a specific day, knowing that you might end up spending more time in traffic than there.

Sonargaon can be seen in half a day, returning after lunch and leaving at the crack of dawn to avoid the traffic. It pays to go for dinner somewhere near the hotel, walking distance even. All the luxury hotels above have lots of restaurants nearby.

How to get around in Dhaka

Because of the lack of public transport, the only way to get around is by car and rickshaw, but this poses additional problems.

If you need to take a cab, make sure that the hotel gets one for you or helps you with Uber because while the service works wonders, you won’t easily be able to determine if a car is yours. Here’s why.

Firstly, the traffic is insane so spotting a car plate is tough but secondly, and more importantly, the numbers are written in Bengali so they are not in the Roman alphabet making it impossible to translate the number shown on the Uber app into a Bengali sign. It is therefore best to simply ask the driver who took you somewhere to wait for you.

When taking rickshaws, note that the driver will almost surely not speak English and literacy rate among the drivers is low so he might not be able to read either. You should make sure you have the place name written down and get someone to read it for them.

Because of the above, I strongly recommend you explore the majority of the sights on a tour so that you don’t have to worry about transport and can be taken places.

Book a tour/guide

I said this before, but this is the one tip I firmly believe in for Dhaka . 

I am not a tour person and I only ever hire private guides. But when I do, it is because I am hiring a person to tell me more about a destination so the guide’s knowledge and their interactions with us is what I am paying for. 

In Dhaka, a guide is incredibly useful and will make your trip orders of magnitude more interesting. Language is a barrier and English is not spoken, and most visitors know little about the country, so you can’t guess what things mean or get answers when something catches your attention. 

A guide can answer questions, tell you more about something you see, bring historical facts and anecdotes and act as an interpreter. In my opinion, having a guide with us during our time in Dhaka made our trip much more personally enriching than if we had visited alone.

As a recap, these are two tours of Dhaka that include most of the places to visit mentioned above:

Cash is king

Credit cards will be accepted only at hotels and at few higher end restaurants, the rest is all cash. Make sure to always have some small amounts, rickshaws cost very little and will not have change.

Dress appropriately

Men and women should dress appropriately, not just for religious and conservative reasons but for the weather and pollution.

Women should have a scarf with them, but no need to wear it, it will be useful to protect from the sun, and to enter mosques. Long trousers or skirts are a must, and long sleeves are recommended, again useful for the sun. I always dress in long tunics and leggings.

I strongly recommend a hat, the sun can be really strong, and to bring a mask if you have respiratory problems. IQAir’s report in conjunction with Greenpeace revealed that Dhaka is the 17th most polluted city in the world and has pollution levels at unhealthy or very unhealthy levels according to the WHO all year round.

And lastly, because of how the city is, wear closed toe shoes, you will walk in mud, dust and potholes, there is garbage, smashed fruits and vegetables and all sorts of animal poop everywhere, walking in Dhaka is an obstacle race so closed shoes will be safer.

Google Maps are a godsend

Get a SIM card, do not even consider not getting one, just get it, because you will need it for Uber and for Google Maps and to get out of the mess of Old Dhaka and onto a road that has traffic (from where you can get an uber or taxi), or to find a place to eat nearby. Internet is a must in Bangladesh.

Also, SIM cards are very cheap so getting one is a no brainer. And on the topic of Google Maps, unlike in other places like Berat (in Albania ) or even Macedonia, they are pretty accurate but may not always perfectly and accurately determine where you are because the signal and GPS may be challenged by high buildings and density of people.

Safety in Dhaka

I traveled to Dhaka with my partner, who looks like a local and can muster a few words, we hired a guide for two of the days, not because of safety concerns but because we wanted someone to tell us more about the places since there is no information online.

For the rest of the time we were in Dhaka we had a private driver and a 4×4 car with diplomatic plates from one of his local clients. We tried to use Uber on a couple of occasions and found it really hard because we couldn’t know what car it was, or talk to the driver, so had to get help from passersby.

When walking around with the guide he was constantly keeping an eye on me, so was my partner. I walked around with my camera bag, taking the camera out to take pictures when necessary. There was no point in trying to hide since it was obvious I was a foreigner and had some sort of money.

Was I concerned about my safety? Never, but I was not alone, and the fact that I had male company also deterred a lot of curious faces I saw staring at me. 

I will also be honest, I was expecting far more attention from men, constant stares and people taking photos of me. Because this happens a lot in Southeast Asia and is a constant in India and Pakistan . But in Bangladesh people stared far less than I expected and I barely saw anyone taking photos of me.

• Check if you need a visa, get help processing it at iVisa .
• Never ever leave without travel insurance. Get affordable coverage from World Nomads or long term insurance from Safety Wing .
• I find all of my flights on KAYAK . Check their Deals section too.
• Search for all your transportation between destinations on the trusted travel booking platform Bookaway .
• I book all my day trips and tours via GetYourGuide , they are the best and their tours are refundable up to 24h in advance.
• Get USD35 off your first booking with Airbnb .
• Compare hotels EVERYWHERE at HotelsCombined and book with Booking.com .
• Compare car rental prices at Rentalcars.com

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Tourist Places to Visit in Dhaka

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Places to Visit in Dhaka

Dhaka has a rich history, dating back to the 7th century when it was part of the Pala Empire. The city has been ruled by various empires and dynasties over the centuries, including the Mughal Empire, the British Raj, and the Pakistani military regime. Dhaka is known for its vibrant culture, which includes literature, music, dance, and cuisine. The city is also home to several mosques, museums, art galleries, and cultural centres.

Things To See & Do

National Museum Bangladesh-Dhaka

A notable museum.

Suggested Time

A Recreational Spot

Khan Mohammad Masjid

Impressive mughal architecture.

Bangladesh National Zoo

Experience wildlife.

A Mughal Era Garden

Armenian Church

A historic church.

Baitul Mukarram National Mosque

One of the largest mosques.

Central Shaheed Minar

In memory of the martyrs.

Tara Masjid

The star mosque.

Liberation War Museum

Honouring the sacrifices.

Dhakeshwari National Temple

Hindu and islamic architecture.

Bangladesh National Parliament

A symbol of democracy.

Ahsan Manzil Museum

A cultural landmark.

Lalbagh Fort

An unfinished mughal fort, best time to visit dhaka, perfect destination for a culturally rich and unique trip., peak season, moderate season.

• What To Expect : During this time, the city is bustling with tourists and locals alike, and you can expect to see a lot of activity around the major landmarks and attractions.
• Things You'll Love : Many festivals and events take place in Dhaka during the peak season, including Pohela Boishakh (Bengali New Year), Durga Puja, and Victory Day, among others.

FESTIVALS AND EVENTS

Dhaka International Trade Fair January

Eid ul: Fitr: May or June

Dhaka Art Summit February

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Best places to visit in dhaka.

Dhaka, the capital city of Bangladesh, is a bustling and vibrant destination that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modernity. With its stunning architecture, diverse attractions, and lively atmosphere, Dhaka is the perfect destination for travellers seeking to experience the heart of Bangladesh. Here are some of the best places to visit in Dhaka.

National Museum-Bangladesh

This impressive museum showcases a vast collection of art, history, and culture, offering visitors a fascinating insight into Bangladesh's rich heritage.

A beautiful urban park featuring picturesque lakes and bridges, Hatirjheel is a perfect place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Dhaka.

This historic mosque, built in the 18th century, features stunning architecture and intricate designs, making it a must-visit destination for those interested in Islamic history.

Home to numerous species of animals and birds, the Bangladesh National Zoo offers visitors an opportunity to observe wildlife up close and learn about conservation efforts.

A sprawling green oasis in the heart of Dhaka, Ramna Park is a popular spot for picnics, leisurely walks, and outdoor activities.

Places to See in Dhaka with Family

This 18th-century church, built by Armenian settlers, showcases beautiful architecture and offers a tranquil atmosphere for visitors to enjoy.

Baitul Mukkaram National Mosque

The largest mosque in Bangladesh, Baitul Mukkaram National Mosque is an important place of worship and features impressive modern architecture.

A symbol of national pride, Central Shaheed Minar is a monument commemorating the brave souls who fought for the Bengali language during the Language Movement in 1952.

Also known as the Star Mosque, Tara Masjid is a beautiful historic mosque adorned with intricate mosaic designs made from shards of ceramics and glass.

Places to go in Dhaka with Friends

Dedicated to the memory of those who fought for Bangladesh's independence, the Liberation War Museum showcases a collection of artefacts, photographs, and documents related to the Liberation War.

The most prominent Hindu temple in Dhaka, Dhakeshwari National Temple is an important centre of worship and a testament to the city's religious diversity.

A stunning example of modern architecture, the Bangladesh National Parliament building, designed by renowned architect Louis Kahn, is a must-see attraction in Dhaka.

A former palace turned museum, Ahsan Manzil showcases the lavish lifestyle of Dhaka's former Nawabs and offers a glimpse into the city's rich history.

An incomplete Mughal fort, Lalbagh Fort features beautiful gardens, historical structures, and offers a fascinating insight into Bangladesh's Mughal past.

Best Time to Visit Dhaka

The best time to visit Dhaka is from October to February when the weather is cool and pleasant, providing the perfect conditions for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

There are a lot of places to visit in Dhaka with family and friends. Dhaka offers a diverse range of attractions for visitors of all ages, making it an ideal destination for a fun and memorable trip with family and friends.

Good Places to Visit at Night in Dhaka

For those looking to enjoy Dhaka's nightlife, there are several options to choose from, such as the vibrant restaurants and cafes in Gulshan and Banani, or the lively street food scene in Dhanmondi.

Here are a few restaurants in Dhaka that you can explore:

• Cafe Social
• Hazir Biryani

Places to Visit Dhaka in 1 Day

If you have just one day to explore Dhaka, focus on visiting the National Museum-Bangladesh, Baitul Mukkaram National Mosque, and Central Shaheed Minar to get a taste of the city's history , culture, and iconic landmarks.

Places to Visit Dhaka in 2 Days

With two days in Dhaka, you can explore the National Museum-Bangladesh, Baitul Mukkaram National Mosque, and Central Shaheed Minar on the first day. On the second day, visit Lalbagh Fort, Ahsan Manzil Museum, and the Armenian Church for a mix of history, architecture, and cultural diversity.

Places to Visit Dhaka in 3 Days

A three-day itinerary in Dhaka allows you to explore the city's historical landmarks, cultural attractions, and natural beauty at a leisurely pace. In addition to visiting the National Museum-Bangladesh, Baitul Mukkaram National Mosque, Central Shaheed Minar, Lalbagh Fort, Ahsan Manzil Museum, and the Armenian Church, you can also visit Hatirjheel and Ramna Park for some relaxation and outdoor activities.

Places to Visit Dhaka in 4 Days

With four days in Dhaka, you can explore the city's historical landmarks, cultural attractions, and modern entertainment options. Additionally, you can take a day trip to nearby destinations like the Bangladesh National Parliament, the Liberation War Museum, and the Bangladesh National Zoo to experience more of the region's rich history and culture.

Places to Visit Dhaka in 5 Days

A five-day itinerary in Dhaka allows you to explore the city and its surrounding attractions at a relaxed pace. In addition to visiting the National Museum-Bangladesh, Baitul Mukkaram National Mosque, Central Shaheed Minar, Lalbagh Fort, Ahsan Manzil Museum, Armenian Church, Hatirjheel, and Ramna Park, you can also take day trips to nearby destinations like Khan Mohammad Masjid, Tara Masjid, Dhakeshwari National Temple, and the Bangladesh National Zoo to experience more of Dhaka's unique history and attractions.

In conclusion, Dhaka is a captivating destination that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and modernity. With its stunning architecture, diverse attractions, and lively atmosphere, Dhaka is a must-visit destination for travellers seeking to experience the heart of Bangladesh. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore this enchanting city and create memories that will last a lifetime.

FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions about Dhaka

What are the top things to do in dhaka.

Dhaka is an incredibly lively place and is popularly known for its topmost things to do like National Museum Bangladesh-Dhaka, Hatirjheel, and Khan Mohammad Masjid. You will have a great time here, then why wait? Book your trip now!

What are the activities you can explore during the peak season and moderate season in Dhaka?

In the peak season months October, November, December, January, February and March you will experience during this time, the city is bustling with tourists and locals alike, and you can expect to see a lot of activity around the major landmarks and attractions wherein around moderate season i.e. August, September and October you will enjoy during the moderate season in Dhaka, visitors can expect clear blue skies, plenty of sunshine, and a comfortable climate for outdoor activities such as sightseeing, shopping, or dining. Whatever that suits your calendar, Dhaka awaits you for a good time.

For which type of travelling is Dhaka a perfect destination?

Dhaka is a perfect destination for Domestic themed holidays.

Destinations Near Dhaka

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10 places around Dhaka for day trip

The Covid-19 pandemic is far from over. However, if you are looking for suggestions to go somewhere to take a breather, here is a list of 10 places you can visit while maintaining the health guidelines. Do not forget to wear a mask carry a hand sanitiser.

Mawa A day trip to Mawa offers the scenic view of the river Padma, and fresh 'ilish'. You can also visit Padma Resort. The ferry ghat is a 2-hour drive from Gulishtan.  Mawa is the place for an ultimate cheap and chill trip.

Zinda park This green park is very close from Kuril Bishwaroad. It's a quiet and hassle-free park where you can enjoy a good time with the whole family, unlike other parks in Dhaka. The entry fee for adults is 100 and 50 for children.

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Sonargaon   The history of Sonargaon dates back to the fifteenth-century Bengal when it was the capital. Sonargaon is adorned by architecture from the Sultanate, Mughal, and colonial periods. You can also visit Panam city. These are great places for history and architecture enthusiasts.

Gazipur Gazipur has become a new destination for anyone who wants to have a relaxed weekend. There are plenty of resorts that offer over day trips and night stays for a range of prices. Choose one that suits you. 

Nikli Haor Nikli Hoar is in Kishoreganj district. It takes about 4 hours to get there from Dhaka. It is a long journey but the peace and tranquillity that Nikli offers will take away any tiredness. You can reserve a boat and indulge yourself in the beauty of the haor.

Baliati Jamidar Bari Situated in Manikgonj district, the Baliati Jamidar Bari bears the testimony of the Renaissance era. It is about 2 hours away from the capital. There are also many old architectures in Manikgonj along with boat rides in the rivers.

Moinot ghat Moinot ghat is also called the 'Mini Cox's Bazar'. It is a popular tourist spot that's in Dohar upazila of Dhaka. You can enjoy a beautiful sunset over the Padma River and get boat rides too. 

Mohera Jamidar Bari Mohera Jamidar Bari is one of the most well kept piece of old architecture in the country. It is about 2.5 hours away from Dhaka in the Tangail district. The entry fee is Tk 80. You can even stay the night with your family for Tk-3,000 to Tk10,000.

Chandpur Chandpur is also a good option for a day trip. It is also quite cheap. You can go there by launch which is an experience by itself. Visit boro station park and spend the evening at the Meghna Mohona. A hand paddled boat ride is very much recommended.

Siberian Huskey Kennel The Siberian Huskey Kennel is just a 30 min ride from Mirpur technical. Recently they changed their policy and now anyone can pet the huskies and stay for as long as they want from 9 am to 6 pm with a fee of Tk 250. 

mawa / Husky / nikli / Sonargaon / Chandpur

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10 places to visit in Dhaka during Eid holidays

Although these places remain open during public holidays, sometimes the authorities may keep them closed due to renovation works and other issues

With Eid-ul-Fitr only several hours away and countless people having left the capital for the long Eid holidays, the usually busy Dhaka is now almost empty. This is the perfect time for people who stayed back in Dhaka to do some sightseeing. 

People spending the Eid holidays in the capital can easily visit some of the scenic and traditional places in Dhaka. 

Although these places remain open during public holidays, sometimes the authorities may keep them closed due to renovation works and other issues.

To help the readers of Dhaka Tribune make the Eid holidays memorable, here are 10 places of interest they can visit:

Ahsan Manzil

Ahsan Manzil is one of the most famous residential buildings of the Nawabs of Dhaka situated on the banks of the river Buriganga. This historical building will catch the eye when you come in front of Wise Ghat and look straight ahead at Bulbul Fine Arts Academy. To enjoy the touches of the Nawab's aristocracy with family members could be grand fun.

Lalbagh Fort

Lalbagh Fort is known as a unique historical monument built during the Mughal period. Every day thousands of people flock to the spectacular red brick fort. You can also see the historic Lalbagh Shahi Mosque located next to the fort.

Baldha Garden

Baldha Garden located in Wari of the capital has about one and a half thousand species of trees. There is a beautiful pond here. Surrounded by natural beauty, the garden has a variety of trees as well as a guest house for tourists. 

Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban

The Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban on Manik Mia Avenue in the capital is an example of one of the best architectural styles not only in Bangladesh but also in the world. Designed by American architect Louis Kane, the state-of-the-art building is popular for its exceptional size and design. 

Although the building is inaccessible to the general public, the surrounding environment, the artificial lake and the temporary food stalls on the road become crowded in the afternoon.

Shishu Mela currently known as DNCC Wonderland in Shyamoli has various opportunities for children to play sports and have fun. Interesting rides can be an ideal object of entertainment for them, while the adults can help add memories to their childhood. So everyone can visit the children's park during the Eid holidays.

Curzon Hall is located in the Dhaka University area, east of Oxford, in the capital's Shahbag. The 115-year-old building is a part of Dhaka University. The two-storey building is named after Lord Curzon, then viceroy and governor-general of India.

There is a beautiful flower garden in front of the ornate building with red bricks. Behind the building are the 400-year-old historic Musa Khan Mosque and a huge pond.

The whole Hatirjheel area can be toured by the passenger water bus that runs from Mogbazar to Rampura and Gulshan at fixed rates. If you want to enjoy the real beauty of Hatirjheel, you can visit the scenic beauty of Hatirjheel at night. Bridges of light and cold air will brighten up the mind and soul.

Ramna Park is located in the Mintu Road area of Shahbagh and Bailey Road in the capital. The park has a variety of trees and a beautiful natural environment. Ramna Park can be an ideal place to have a picnic with your family.

National Zoo

Animal lovers can visit the National Zoo in the capital Mirpur during the Eid holidays. The zoo will feature a wide variety of wildlife, from the Royal Bengal Tiger to the lion king of the forest. About three million people flock to the National Zoo every year.

National Museum

The National Museum is located in Shahbag in the capital. The museum is well-organized and also unique in ethnographic and decorative aspects. Each room of this huge building is arranged into different sections like the Department of Art, Department of History and Classical Art, Department of Natural History, and Department of Contemporary or World Civilization. All of which can not be toured in one day. The museum has a very rich library.

If you want to learn from home and abroad, acquire knowledge and enjoy travel at the same time, you can put the National Museum at number one on your travel list during the Eid holidays.

Bangladesh celebrates Eid with prayers, festivities

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Weekly News Quiz: April 25, 2024

By Alexandra Banner and James Grant

A protest movement. A dust storm. A virus outbreak. What do you remember from the week that was?

Keep up with the news you need. Sign up for the 5 Things newsletter.

College campuses across the US have erupted with pro-Palestinian protests. Which university emerged as the epicenter of the demonstrations?

A pro-Palestinian encampment at Columbia University prompted similar protests at colleges across the country . Hundreds of demonstrators were arrested this week.

Which European city was blanketed by an orange-colored haze this week?

An orange haze of dust from the Sahara Desert covered parts of Greece , prompting authorities to issue health warnings.

President Joe Biden signed a $95 billion foreign aid package that could lead to a nationwide ban of which app?

A wide-ranging foreign aid package meant to support Israel and Ukraine poses a serious risk to TikTok. Under what is now US law, TikTok will be forced to find a new owner within months or be banned from the US entirely .

Roughly what percentage of people in the US live with unhealthy air pollution?

Nearly 40% of people in the US are living with unhealthy air pollution, according to a new report from the American Lung Association. The report showed several populous cities also received "F" grades for ozone smog , a form of pollution caused by emissions from cars, power plants and refineries.

According to a new bill in Tennessee, which public service workers may now carry guns in the workplace?

Tennessee lawmakers passed a bill allowing teachers to carry concealed handgun s on school grounds if they meet certain conditions.

Which automaker recently reported a 48% plunge in earnings?

Tesla reported an ugly financial performance for the first quarter of the year. However, the embattled company is promising a cheaper car model will still go into production in 2025.

Which type of livestock in the US is being impacted by a bird flu outbreak?

Viral particles of H5N1 bird flu viruses have been detected in dairy cows . The FDA believes most milk products on US grocery shelves are still safe to drink because the viruses will likely be killed during the pasteurization process.

NASA is aiming to install a 4G network on the moon that could enable texting and streaming on the lunar service. Which company is NASA partnering with on the venture?

NASA and Nokia are working to take 4G into space later this year. It could lay the groundwork for an off-world internet similar to Earth's.

Which theme park reported a ride collision this week that injured more than a dozen people?

A tour tram at Universal Studios Hollywood crashed and "ejected multiple passengers," according to California authorities. Fifteen people were taken to a hospital for treatment with minor to moderate injuries.

Which artist was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame this week?

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame has announced their 2024 class of inductees , which includes Cher, Mary J. Blige and Dave Matthews Band. The induction ceremony will take place in October.

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This Quaint Town in Portugal Was Just Named the Best Place to Invest in Europe — and It Has Stunning Beaches

Lush pine forests, cobblestone streets, endless ocean views, and low real estate prices await in this quaint community in northern Portugal.

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Portugal is on everyone's mind these days. The country's sunny weather , many beaches , and affordable cost of living have made it a popular choice for retirees and digital nomads. However, as is often the case, real estate prices in some of its most sought-after regions, like the capital, Lisbon and Algarve , have soared. But that doesn't mean you should give up on your dream of owning property in Portugal.

A new report by International Living ranked the small, under-the-radar- town of Caminha the best place to invest in real estate in Europe for its value and growth potential. 

The community is located in the northwest along the mouth of the Minho River, which separates Portugal from Spain, and is home to about 16,000 residents. International Living gave Caminha a perfect score of 10 in the relative value category and nine for quality of life and stability.

"Caminha, which is only separated from Spain by a river, completely charmed me," Ronan McMahon, founder of Real Estate Trend Alert and author of International Living's Global Real Estate Index, told Travel + Leisure . "It has a beautiful Old Town surrounded by a verdant and bucolic countryside, with mountains, rivers, forests, and fields overflowing with brightly colored flowers and fruit trees heavy with their bounty. And then there are the stunning Atlantic beaches."

The ancient town has plenty of character, with fountains, churches, and other buildings dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries. And it's easily accessible from Porto, which is just an hour and 15 minutes south, providing access to an international airport. 

Jeff Opdyke, International Living's personal finance editor, called Caminha a "holdover of Portugal before tourism and modernity swept over Lisbon, the Algarve, and Porto," where affordable real estate is still the norm. 

Potential buyers can find apartments downtown for as low as $150,000 and stand-alone houses for $280,000 .

And while Caminha is the best place to invest in Europe, another destination took the top prize for global real estate value: Mexico's Los Cabos. International Living ranked first with almost perfect scores in categories such as income potential, climate, and international appeal. Riviera Maya and Estepona in Spain, a town in the country's famous Costa del Sol region, are tied for the third place.

You can see the full ranking at internationaliving.com .

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Biden signs foreign aid bill, says weapons to be sent to allies within hours

In the minutes after Biden announced he signed the bill, the Pentagon unveiled a $1 billion aid package for Ukraine, supplying the country with much-needed air defense systems, artillery rounds and anti-tank weapons. 

That includes 155mm artillery rounds, including dual-purpose improved conventional munitions, or DPICMs; 60mm mortar rounds; additional ammunition for High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems; Bradley Fighting Vehicles; Javelin and AT-4 anti-armor systems; precision aerial munitions; and more. 

The capabilities, which will be pulled from existing U.S. stockpiles and sent abroad, represent the first tranche of military support for Kyiv since mid-March, when Defense Department officials cobbled together savings from a number of previous Army contracts to cover a $300 million shipment of equipment. 

But the Pentagon’s ability to support Ukraine further had been hampered since December by the lack of funds to backfill U.S. military inventories. Though some $4 billion had remained in Presidential Drawdown Authority for Ukraine, officials were reluctant to tap into that authority without additional replenishment funds, or money that’s used to buy back capabilities sent overseas. 

That changed with the signing of the supplemental bill, which allocates $23.2 billion to replenish U.S. defense articles and defense services provided to Ukraine, $11.3 billion for current U.S. military operations in that region and $13.8 billion for the procurement of still more weapons and services.

Briana Reilly and David Lerman contributed to this report.

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