Dhaka

Introducing Dhaka

Dhaka is the capital of Bangladesh and the seat of the Dhaka Division. Nestled on the northern bank of the Buriganga River in the Ganges Delta, Dhaka is Bangladesh's largest city and one of South Asia's major metropolitan areas, with a population of over 12 million. The climate is warm and humid, with 2,500 mm of rainfall during the monsoon season. Banana trees, mango groves, and a variety of other trees abound in the city and its suburbs.

Dhaka is known as the "City of Mosques," boasting over 800 mosques, including the Star Mosque, the Bayit-ul-Mukarram Mosque, the Sagam Mosque, and the Seven-Domed Mosque. There's also the Hindu Dakswari Temple. The Bayit-ul-Mukarram Mosque, founded in 1960, is the largest, accommodating tens of thousands of worshippers simultaneously.

The main means of transportation in the city is a pedal or motorized tricycle, decorated with brightly colored patterns or colorful decorations, creating a street scene rarely seen in other modern cities.

Climate and best time to travel

Dhaka has a subtropical monsoon climate and is best visited in winter.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1-2 days

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Most Popular FAQs for Dhaka

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Dhaka is the capital of Bangladesh and its largest city. It has a rich history dating back to the Mughal era, when it was a key center for trade and administration. The city is known for its vibrant culture, historic architecture, textile industry, and its pivotal role in the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Dhaka is located in central Bangladesh on the banks of the Buriganga River. It is accessible via Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, intercity buses, trains, and private cars. Within the city, taxis, ride-sharing apps, auto-rickshaws, and walking are common for local transport.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Major attractions like Lalbagh Fort and Ahsan Manzil are usually open from 9 AM to 5 PM. The best time to visit is from November to February when the weather is cooler and more pleasant.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

• Lalbagh Fort: Approximately 30–50 BDT; tickets purchased on-site.
• Ahsan Manzil: Around 100 BDT; tickets available at the entrance.
• Dhaka Zoo: 20–30 BDT; purchased on-site.
• Most museums and heritage sites sell tickets offline; online options are limited.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Generally, tickets can be bought on-site. For group tours or special events, booking a few days in advance is recommended.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Exploring key sites in Dhaka typically takes 2–3 days, including forts, palaces, markets, and museums.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Lalbagh Fort and gardens
• Ahsan Manzil (Pink Palace)
• Dhakeshwari Temple
• Ramna Park and University of Dhaka campus
• Buriganga riverfront at Sadarghat
• Lalmatia and Old Dhaka markets
• Lalbagh Mosque and Tomb of Bibi Pari

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available at major sites in English and Bengali. Audio guides are rare but some private tour operators provide mobile app-based guidance.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Sunset along Buriganga River at Sadarghat
• Lalbagh Fort gardens and ramparts
• Ahsan Manzil exterior and courtyard
• Rooftop cafes in Old Dhaka
• Ramna Park for greenery and cityscape shots

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at Lalbagh Fort → Ahsan Manzil → explore Old Dhaka markets → visit Dhakeshwari Temple → take a boat ride at Sadarghat → end the day at Ramna Park.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

• Most heritage sites close by evening, but riverfront boat rides and city nightlife are options.
• Some hotels and private operators offer night city tours.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Dhaka is densely populated and crowded year-round. Weekdays and mornings are slightly less busy, especially in markets and public sites.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

• Most tourist sites have basic toilets and drinking water.
• Food stalls and cafes are available near major attractions.
• Markets and malls offer rest areas and shops.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Main sites like Ahsan Manzil and Lalbagh Fort have accessible areas for elderly and children, but some historical structures involve stairs and uneven pathways, limiting accessibility for disabled visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is widely used in markets and small eateries. Major hotels, malls, and some tourist sites accept cards and mobile payments.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Star Kabab & Restaurant – local cuisine
• Hazir Biriyani – traditional biryani
• North End Coffee Roasters – cafes in Gulshan area
• Bashundhara City Mall food court
• Dhaka Regency rooftop restaurants

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

• Vegetarian: Many local eateries offer vegetarian thalis and snacks
• Vegan: Some cafes provide plant-based options
• Halal: Most restaurants in Dhaka follow halal practices

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Pan Pacific Sonargaon – luxury hotel
• Radisson Blu Dhaka Water Garden – upscale stay
• The Westin Dhaka – business hotel
• Budget options: Hotel 71, Star Pacific Hotel

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Jatiyo Sangsad Bhaban (National Parliament House)
• Lalmatia and Old Dhaka walking tours
• Bangladesh National Museum
• Ramna Park and Suhrawardy Udyan

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

• Handicrafts, nakshi kantha embroidery, and jute products
• Local textiles and muslin fabric
• Traditional jewelry and pottery
• Street food snacks as edible souvenirs

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Ride-sharing apps and taxis for city travel
• Bus services for nearby cities and towns
• Train travel to Sylhet, Chittagong, and other regions
• Flights from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport for domestic or international trips