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Dhaka travel guide

Bangladesh

Basics

CountryBangladesh

Time zoneAsia/Dhaka

CurrencyBDT

Official language(s)Bangla

It's advisable to carry cash as prices are low.

Places to visit

National Parliament House

A modernist architectural landmark designed by Louis Kahn, known for its monumental geometry and reflective water features.

LocationSher-e-Bangla Nagar, Dhaka, Bangladesh

Nearest stationAgargaon

HoursExternal viewing varies by time

AdmissionFree exterior viewing

Travel tipThe exterior is the main draw, and sunset is often a good time for photos.

Lalbagh Fort

An incomplete Mughal fort with gardens and historic ruins. It is one of Dhaka’s most famous heritage sites.

LocationLalbagh, Dhaka

Nearest stationLalbagh

HoursDaily 09:00–17:00

AdmissionPaid

Travel tipVisit early in the day to avoid the heat.

Ramna Park

A large urban park ideal for walks, jogging, and relaxing. It is a good place to feel everyday local life in Dhaka.

LocationRamna, Dhaka

Nearest stationShahbagh

HoursOpen 24 hours

AdmissionFree

Travel tipEarly morning or late afternoon is the most pleasant time to visit.

Ahsan Manzil

An iconic Mughal-era palace and one of Dhaka’s most historic landmarks. Its riverside setting also makes it photogenic.

LocationKumartoli, on the bank of the Buriganga River, Dhaka

Nearest stationSadarghat

HoursDaily 09:00–17:00

AdmissionPaid

Travel tipThe afternoon light brings out the building’s color beautifully.

Bangladesh National Museum

A flagship museum covering Bangladesh’s history, art, and archaeology. It is a great first stop to understand the city and the country.

LocationSheikh Mujib Road, Shahbagh, Dhaka

Nearest stationShahbagh

HoursDaily 10:00–18:00

AdmissionPaid

Travel tipThe collection is large, so start with the main galleries first.

Bait Ur Rouf Mosque

An iconic landmark of modern Bangladeshi architecture, known for its distinctive design. As it is an active mosque, dress modestly.

LocationGulshan, Dhaka

Nearest stationGulshan 1

HoursDaily 08:00–20:00

AdmissionFree

Travel tipIt can be busy during prayer times, so plan a flexible visit.

Shaheed Minar

A monumental tower commemorating the Language Movement of Bangladesh.

Hours09:00 - 17:00

AdmissionFree

Travel tipLearn about the historical significance of the Language Movement inside the associated museum.

Food to try

Star Kabab & Restaurant

A long-loved Dhaka favorite for kebabs and traditional dishes, suitable for both local meals and casual dining.

LocationDhanmondi, Dhaka, Bangladesh

Nearest stationDhanmondi

HoursGenerally daily 12:00–23:00

AdmissionMid-range per dish

Travel tipIt can get busy in the evening, so visiting outside peak hours is more comfortable.

Events

Dhaka Art Summit

A major art event focusing on Bangladesh and South Asian contemporary art, with exhibitions and talks.

WhenUsually around January to February in biennial years

LocationShilpakala Academy / selected venues in Dhaka, Bangladesh

Nearest stationKamalapur / Shahbagh area

HoursDepends on the event schedule

AdmissionMostly free or partly ticketed

Travel tipThe venues are large, so it helps to plan which sections you want to see first.

Pohela Boishakh Festival

The most important annual celebration of the Bangladeshi New Year. In Dhaka, it is lively with street processions, traditional music, and food culture.

WhenAround April every year

LocationAcross Dhaka

Nearest stationShahbagh

HoursTemporary event

AdmissionFree

Travel tipIt gets very crowded, so plan extra time and use public transport.

Dhaka International Trade Fair

A large fair featuring companies, local brands, food, and lifestyle products. It is a good way to experience local products and atmosphere while traveling.

WhenAround February every year

LocationSher-e-Bangla Nagar, Dhaka

Nearest stationAgargaon

HoursRuns during a specific period each year

AdmissionPaid

Travel tipWeekends are especially busy, so a weekday visit is easier.

Language Movement Day

A day recognizing the language and culture of Bangladesh.

WhenLanguage Movement Day every year on February 21

Travel tipVarious events take place on this commemorative day.

Basic travel phrases (English)

Hello

Hello · Greeting

Thank you

Thank you · Thanks

Nice to meet you

Nice to meet you · Nice to meet you

Have a great day

Have a great day · Wishing a good day

Welcome

Welcome · Welcome

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