Things To Do
in Dhaka
Dhaka, the bustling capital of Bangladesh, is a vibrant metropolis where modern skyscrapers sit alongside centuries-old mosques and colonial buildings. The city pulses with colorful rickshaws weaving through congested streets and the mighty Buriganga River flowing at its heart. Dhaka offers a sensory feast of sights, sounds, and aromas—from aromatic street food stalls to the call to prayer resonating across narrow lanes.
Despite its frenetic pace, warm hospitality and rich cultural heritage make Dhaka a must-visit destination.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Wake early to wander the narrow streets of Old Dhaka as the city comes alive with vendors setting up their stalls. Sample traditional paratha and fried eggs from a local eatery for a hearty breakfast. Photograph the colonial-era facades and historic mosques bathed in gentle morning light.
Cross the Buriganga River by launch boat and explore the bustling Spice Market with its vibrant piles of turmeric, cumin, and chilies. Enjoy a riverside fish curry lunch at a local restaurant overlooking the waterway. Chat with merchants about centuries-old dyeing and printing techniques.
Return to the heart of Old Dhaka and lose yourself in the lively Bakarkhan market stalls selling sweets and savories. Take a rickshaw ride through narrow lanes adorned with twinkling lights. Listen to street musicians and try rosh and chanar doi from roadside vendors.
Arrive at the Mughal-era Lalbagh Fort before the crowds to admire its red sandstone ramparts and sprawling gardens. Join a guided tour to learn about 17th-century court life and architectural innovations. Capture the early morning glow on the river-facing walls and watch local families enjoy picnics on the lawns.
Visit the on-site museum to view royal artifacts, weaponry, and ancient manuscripts. Have lunch at a nearby traditional restaurant serving biryani and kebab platters. Wander through the adjacent Hussaini Dalan to see its striking black-and-white façade and historic courtyard.
Watch the fort’s silhouette at dusk as lanterns are lit along the garden paths. Savor street-side snacks like jhalmuri and roasted chickpeas sold by local vendors. Reflect on the day’s discoveries while enjoying a cup of sweet milky tea.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2–5 |
| ☕Coffee at café | $2–3 |
| 🚖Taxi (1 km) | $0.20–0.30 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $30–50 |
| 🍺Domestic beer (0.5 L) | $1–2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and historical sites
- Extremely affordable for most travelers
- Vibrant street food and local markets
- Friendly and hospitable locals
- Chronic traffic congestion and pollution
- High humidity and heat in summer
- Occasional flooding during monsoon
- Language barrier outside tourist areas
- "As-salamu alaykum" - Peace be upon you (formal greeting)
- "Dhonnobad" - Thank you
- "Kemon acho?" - How are you?
Places to Visit in Dhaka
Visit one of these nice places.
The pink palace along the Buriganga River, especially photogenic at sunset.
Intricately tiled mosque in Armanitola, offering beautiful mosaic detail shots.
Bustling boat traffic and colorful sampans—ideal for dynamic street photography.
Green oasis in the city center, with lotus ponds and colonial-era fountains.
Food in Dhaka
Dhaka Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Steamed hilsa fish marinated in mustard and spices, best found in specialty Bengali restaurants in Old Dhaka.
Must-Try!
Layered slow-cooked mutton and rice fragrant with saffron, widely served at eateries in Mohammadpur and Bashundhara.
Hollow, crispy puris filled with spicy tamarind water and chickpea mash, sold by street vendors citywide.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic shopping complex with stalls selling shingara, chotpoti, and jhalmuri—try them all in one spot.
Known for budget-friendly street food stalls offering kebabs, rolls, and biryani bowls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites or rural areas.
Always take off your shoes before entering homes, mosques, and some shops.
Avoid loud conversation or photography during prayer times, especially near mosques.
Safety
Tipping in Dhaka
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but rounding up fares or leaving 5–10% in restaurants is appreciated; small tips for hotel porters are welcome.
Cash (BDT) is king for street vendors and taxis; major credit cards are accepted in high-end hotels and restaurants. Mobile wallets like bKash are widely used.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
November to February brings mild temperatures (15–25°C), clear skies, and lower humidity—ideal for sightseeing.
March to June sees high temperatures (30–40°C) and humidity; afternoon thunderstorms can offer brief relief.
June to September brings heavy rains and flooding—carry waterproof gear and plan indoor activities.
Dhaka at Night
Hiking in Dhaka
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Dense sal forest 90 km north of Dhaka, with trails and wildlife spotting opportunities.
Scenic rainforest in Sylhet region (accessible via overnight trip) with boardwalks and birdwatching.
Airports
How to reach Dhaka by plane.
Main international gateway 20 km north of the city; taxis and ride-shares connect to all neighborhoods.
Located in Chittagong, reachable via a short domestic flight for onward travel to south-eastern Bangladesh.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Make up over 90% of the population, following Sunni Islam and Bengali culture.
Located largely in Old Dhaka’s camps, retaining distinct linguistic and cultural traditions.
Foreign diplomats, NGO workers, and businesspeople residing in Gulshan and Banani.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The national obsession; local grounds in Dhanmondi and Mirpur host club matches.
Widely played in schools and community fields, with local derbies drawing enthusiastic crowds.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Dhaka.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options include dal, vegetable curries, and paneer dishes at most restaurants; street food vendors may not label ingredients, so ask before ordering.
Most meat in Dhaka is halal; non-Muslim travelers should verify in non-Bengali or fusion restaurants.