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Dhaka, বাংলাদেশ - Things to Do in Dhaka

Things to Do in Dhaka

Dhaka, বাংলাদেশ - Complete Travel Guide

Dhaka, the vibrant capital of Bangladesh, is a city of contrasts where ancient history meets modern urban life. With over 9 million inhabitants, this bustling metropolis sits on the banks of the Buriganga River and serves as the country's political, cultural, and commercial heart. The city's rich heritage spans over 1,000 years, evident in its magnificent Mughal architecture, colonial buildings, and traditional markets that create a sensory tapestry of sights, sounds, and aromas. From the historic Old Dhaka with its narrow lanes and centuries-old mosques to the modern business districts of Gulshan and Banani, Dhaka offers travelers an authentic South Asian experience. The city is renowned for its textile industry, delicious Bengali cuisine, warm hospitality, and vibrant rickshaw culture. Despite its chaotic appearance, Dhaka reveals its treasures to those willing to explore its labyrinthine streets, bustling bazaars, and architectural marvels that tell the story of Bengal's glorious past.

Top Things to Do in Dhaka

Explore Old Dhaka's Historic Quarter

Wander through the narrow streets of Old Dhaka, home to 400-year-old buildings, traditional craftsmen, and bustling markets. Visit the iconic Pink Palace (Ahsan Manzil), explore the Armenian Church, and experience the authentic local life in this UNESCO World Heritage site candidate area.

Booking Tip: Best explored on foot or by rickshaw in early morning (7-10 AM) to avoid crowds and heat. Hire a local guide for $15-20 per day to navigate the maze-like streets and provide historical context.

Marvel at Lalbagh Fort Complex

Discover this 17th-century Mughal fort complex featuring beautiful gardens, the tomb of Pari Bibi, and impressive Indo-Islamic architecture. The fort offers insight into the Mughal period in Bengal and provides peaceful respite from the city's hustle.

Booking Tip: Entry fee is around $0.50 for foreigners. Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds, and early morning or late afternoon for better lighting and cooler temperatures. Allow 2-3 hours for thorough exploration.

Experience Sadarghat River Port

Witness one of the world's busiest river ports where hundreds of boats and ferries create a spectacular scene of organized chaos. Take a boat ride on the Buriganga River to see Dhaka's skyline from the water and experience the lifeline of the city.

Booking Tip: Boat rides cost $2-5 per hour. Early morning (6-8 AM) or sunset times offer the best experience and photography opportunities. Negotiate prices beforehand and ensure life jackets are available.

Shop at New Market and Traditional Bazaars

Immerse yourself in Dhaka's shopping culture at the famous New Market, one of the largest shopping complexes in South Asia. Browse through traditional handicrafts, textiles, spices, and local products while practicing your bargaining skills.

Booking Tip: Best visited in late afternoon when it's cooler. Expect to bargain - start at 30-40% of the quoted price. Carry small bills and be prepared for crowded conditions, especially on weekends.

Savor Authentic Bengali Cuisine

Embark on a culinary journey through Dhaka's diverse food scene, from street food in Old Dhaka to traditional restaurants serving hilsa fish curry, biriyani, and sweets like rasgulla and sandesh. Experience the rich flavors that define Bengali cuisine.

Booking Tip: Street food costs $1-3 per meal, while restaurant meals range $5-15. Start with milder dishes if not used to spicy food. Popular areas include Puran Dhaka for street food and Dhanmondi for restaurants.

Getting There

Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (DAC) is the main gateway to Dhaka, located about 20 kilometers north of the city center. The airport connects to major international destinations across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. From the airport, taxis cost around $8-12 to reach central areas, while ride-sharing apps like Uber and Pathao offer convenient alternatives. Bus services are available but can be crowded. For overland travel, Dhaka is well-connected by train and bus to other major Bangladeshi cities, with the Kamalapur Railway Station serving as the main rail hub.

Getting Around

Dhaka's transportation system includes a mix of traditional and modern options. Colorful cycle rickshaws and auto-rickshaws (CNGs) are iconic and perfect for short distances, costing $0.50-2 per trip. The newly opened Metro Rail (MRT Line-6) provides fast, air-conditioned travel along major routes. Buses are extensive but often overcrowded, while ride-sharing apps offer comfort and convenience at reasonable prices. For exploring Old Dhaka, walking combined with occasional rickshaw rides works best. Traffic congestion is notorious, so allow extra time for all journeys, especially during rush hours (8-10 AM and 5-8 PM).

Where to Stay

Gulshan
Banani
Dhanmondi
Uttara
Old Dhaka
Motijheel

Food & Dining

Dhaka's culinary landscape ranges from humble street stalls to upscale restaurants, offering some of the best Bengali cuisine in the world. Old Dhaka is famous for its traditional biriyani at places like Hajir Biriyani and Fakruddin, while Dhanmondi and Gulshan areas house modern restaurants serving both local and international cuisine. Don't miss trying hilsa fish (national fish), various rice dishes, and traditional sweets from century-old sweet shops. Street food hotspots include Iftar markets during Ramadan, New Market area, and the lanes of Chawk Bazaar. Food delivery apps are widely used, and most restaurants cater to different spice tolerance levels.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Bangladesh

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

Amrit restaurant

4.7 /5
(1567 reviews)
spa

The Grove Bistro

4.5 /5
(1556 reviews) 3

Breeze Restaurant

4.5 /5
(1188 reviews)

Kacchi Bari

4.5 /5
(890 reviews)

The Garden Kitchen at Sheraton Dhaka

4.5 /5
(788 reviews)

The Dining Lounge Uttara

4.6 /5
(664 reviews) 2

When to Visit

The best time to visit Dhaka is during the winter months from November to February when temperatures are cooler (15-25°C) and humidity is lower. This period offers the most comfortable weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The monsoon season (June to October) brings heavy rainfall and high humidity, making travel challenging but offering lush green landscapes. Summer months (March to May) can be extremely hot and humid with temperatures reaching 35°C+. Winter also coincides with the dry season, ensuring clearer skies and better conditions for photography and river activities.

Insider Tips

Learn a few basic Bengali phrases - locals greatly appreciate the effort and it often leads to warmer interactions and better prices
Always carry cash in small denominations as many places don't accept cards, and bargaining is expected in markets and for rickshaw rides
Download offline maps and ride-sharing apps before arrival, and consider getting a local SIM card for better connectivity and navigation in this sprawling city

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