Old Dhaka

Introducing Old Dhaka

Old Dhaka refers to the historic old town of Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, situated on the banks of the Buriganga River. It was one of the largest and most prosperous cities in South Asia and a global hub for the muslin trade. With the rise of Calcutta during British rule, Dhaka began to decline and became known as the "City of Magnificent Ruins."

Old Dhaka is famous for its wide variety of food and harmonious living of all religions.

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 day

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Most Popular FAQs for Old Dhaka

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

Old Dhaka, the heart of the capital city, has a rich history, dating back to the Mughal era. It served as the capital of Bengal under the Mughal rule and is home to many historic structures, vibrant bazaars, and cultural landmarks. It reflects the traditional lifestyle, architecture, and heritage of the region.

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

Old Dhaka is located in the central part of Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh. You can easily reach it by taxi, rickshaw, or public buses. The city does not have a metro system, so taxis or auto-rickshaws are the most convenient way to get there.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

• Old Dhaka is accessible at all hours, but specific sites like Lalbagh Fort and the National Museum have set opening hours, usually from 9 AM to 5 PM.
• The best time to visit is during the cooler months from November to February, avoiding the intense summer heat and monsoon rains.

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

• Most sites in Old Dhaka, like the Lalbagh Fort and Ahsan Manzil, have an entrance fee of 20-50 BDT for locals and 100-200 BDT for foreign tourists.
• Tickets can be bought on-site, though some attractions may offer online booking options.

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

Booking tickets in advance is generally not necessary for individual visits, but it can be useful for group tours or busy seasons.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

To explore the main attractions of Old Dhaka, such as Lalbagh Fort, Ahsan Manzil, and the markets, you will need around 4-5 hours. If you want to visit more sites or take a boat ride on the Buriganga River, you should plan for a full day.

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

• Lalbagh Fort: A Mughal-era fort with beautiful gardens and historical significance.
• Ahsan Manzil: The Pink Palace, showcasing the grandeur of Dhaka's colonial past.
• Chawkbazar: A bustling area famous for its street food and vibrant market life.
• The Buriganga River: A must-see for a boat ride to experience Old Dhaka from the water.
• Hussaini Dalan: A historical mosque and one of the oldest in the area.

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

Guided tours are available in English and Bengali. They can be booked on-site or through local tour operators. Audio guides are not commonly available.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The roof of Ahsan Manzil offers a panoramic view of Old Dhaka and its surroundings.
• From the boats on the Buriganga River, you can capture stunning photos of the riverbanks and old buildings.
• Chawkbazar at night is also a fantastic spot for vibrant street photography, capturing local life and colorful food stalls.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start with a visit to Lalbagh Fort to explore its gardens and historical structures.
• Then, head to Ahsan Manzil to admire the architecture and enjoy the views from the rooftop.
• Walk through Chawkbazar for street food and local shopping.
• Finish your day with a boat ride on the Buriganga River to get a different perspective of the city.

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

Night visits are available in some areas like Chawkbazar, which is famous for its nighttime street food scene. However, light shows or special tours are not commonly offered in Old Dhaka.

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

• Old Dhaka can be crowded, especially on weekends and public holidays. The streets and markets are particularly busy in the afternoon and evening.
• To avoid the crowds, visit early in the morning or on weekdays.

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

• Public toilets are available near major attractions like Lalbagh Fort and Ahsan Manzil.
• Food and water can be found in local shops and street food stalls around Chawkbazar and other markets.
• Rest areas are limited, but many cafes and small restaurants offer a place to sit and relax.

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

• Old Dhaka is not very wheelchair-friendly due to narrow, crowded streets and uneven pathways.
• The area is accessible for children, but elderly visitors may find the area’s hustle and bustle difficult to navigate.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

• Cash is mostly used in Old Dhaka, especially for small purchases in markets and street food stalls.
• Some larger establishments may accept cards or mobile payments, but it is safer to carry cash in Bangladeshi Taka (BDT).

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Nearby restaurants include Star Hotel, Old Dhaka's famous Bismillah Hotel for traditional Bangladeshi dishes, and Fakhruddin Biryani for local biryani.
• There are also numerous street food stalls around Chawkbazar offering snacks like fuchka (pani puri) and chotpoti.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

• Vegetarian and vegan options are available in some restaurants, especially those serving traditional Bangladeshi meals.
• Halal food is widely available in Old Dhaka, with many restaurants and street vendors offering Halal-certified food.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• For a budget stay, consider the Hotel Victory or the Sultana Hotel, both located near the city center.
• There are also mid-range hotels like the Dhaka Regency Hotel for more comfortable accommodations close to Old Dhaka.

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

• The National Museum of Bangladesh is located nearby and offers a deeper look into the country's history and culture.
• Visit the Baitul Mukarram Mosque, one of the largest mosques in Dhaka.
• The Liberation War Museum is another must-see for history enthusiasts.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

• Souvenir shops are common in Old Dhaka, selling traditional handicrafts like textiles, jewelry, and pottery.
• You can also find religious items like prayer rugs and Quranic calligraphy, as well as locally made spices and teas.

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

• You can continue your journey by taxi or auto-rickshaw, which are readily available in Old Dhaka.
• For longer trips, you can use local buses or hire a car for more comfort.