Things To Do
in Dhaka
Dhaka, the bustling capital city of Bangladesh, is known for its vibrant cultural heritage, historical landmarks, and as a major hub for trade and commerce in South Asia. It's a city where traditional rickshaws ply alongside modern vehicles on its teeming streets, showcasing a blend of ancient and contemporary lifestyles.
Despite facing challenges like overcrowding and pollution, Dhaka remains a city full of life, famed for its delicious cuisine, colorful festivals, and warm, welcoming locals.
- "Assalamu Alaikum" - Peace be upon you
- "Dhonnobad" - Thank you
- "Kemon aso?" - How are you?
- "Bhalo achi" - I am fine
- "Khobor ki?" - What's the news?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.20 - $0.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting Lalbagh Fort, a 17th-century Mughal fort complex. Enjoy the beautiful gardens and learn about the fort's fascinating history.
Head to the Ahsan Manzil, the Pink Palace, and delve into the history of the Nawabs of Dhaka. Appreciate the stunning architecture and the view of the Buriganga River.
Relax at Sadarghat riverfront, watching the vibrant boat traffic. Enjoy street food from local vendors while soaking in the lively atmosphere.
Visit the National Botanical Garden for a peaceful stroll among diverse plant species. Breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Explore the nearby Mirpur Zoo to see various animals and birds. It’s a great place for families to enjoy a leisurely afternoon.
End your day at Gulshan Lake Park. Take a walk by the water as the sun sets, and unwind in the tranquility of the park.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and diversity
- Vibrant street life and local markets
- Affordable cost of living
- Growing job opportunities in sectors like IT and textiles
- Delicious and diverse cuisine
- Severe traffic congestion and poor road conditions
- High levels of air and water pollution
- Overcrowding and inadequate infrastructure
- Regular flooding during monsoon season
- Challenges related to healthcare access and quality
Best Activities in Dhaka
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the history of Bangladesh's struggle for independence.
Experience the vibrant river life and see the city from a different perspective.
Enjoy a peaceful walk in the botanical garden with diverse plant species.
Tours
Uncover the best of Dhaka with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Dhaka
Visit one of these nice places.
Historical fort complex with gardens & mosques, offering panoramic views of Dhaka.
Pink palace turned museum with lush grounds & a grand dome, providing picturesque photo opportunities.
Artificial lake with walkways & bridges, boasting stunning views and great photo spots.
Food in Dhaka
Dhaka Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant rice dish cooked with aromatic spices, saffron, and marinated meat, typically chicken or mutton. Must-try at Haji Biriyani or Fakruddin Biriyani
Must-Try!
Fermented rice soaked in water, usually served with fried fish, pickles, and green chilies. Most authentic at Shad Tehari Ghar or Nana's
A classic Bengali fish curry made with the prized Hilsha fish, cooked in a flavorful gravy of mustard, turmeric, and other spices. Best at Bhoj Company or Kasturi Restaurant
Unique Experiences
Get to know Dhaka better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering a wide range of street food delights, from jhalmuri (spicy puffed rice) to fuchka (crispy stuffed dumplings), and traditional sweet treats. Visit in the evenings for the best experience.
A vibrant food market where you can sample local street food favorites like chotpoti (spicy chickpea salad), jilapi (syrup-soaked sweet spirals), and dahi vada (yogurt-soaked lentil fritters).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is important to greet people with a slight nod or a verbal greeting, and it is a sign of respect to use proper titles when addressing someone.
In Dhaka, personal space is generally smaller than in western cultures, so it is common for people to stand closer when conversing. It is important to respect this cultural difference.
Hospitality is highly valued in Bangladesh, so if invited to someone's home, it is customary to bring a small gift as a gesture of appreciation.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Dhaka with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Dhaka
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is generally not expected in Dhaka, Bangladesh, except in some high-end restaurants and hotels where a service charge may be included in the bill.
Cash is the most commonly used form of payment in Dhaka, although credit and debit cards are also accepted in many establishments, especially in urban areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Dhaka.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Dhaka with cooler and drier weather, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Expect hot and humid conditions, with occasional afternoon thunderstorms. It's a good time to experience local cultural events and festivals.
Prepare for heavy rainfall and high humidity, but the countryside becomes lush and green. It's an interesting time to witness the local way of life during the rainy season.
Mild and pleasant weather with the onset of the festive season, making it a great time to explore the city and enjoy the cultural celebrations.
Dhaka at Night
Hiking in Dhaka
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located in the Rangamati district, Sajek Valley is known for its stunning views, rolling hills, and vibrant tribal culture. The trails offer beautiful landscapes and a chance to experience the local lifestyle.
This scenic retreat in Gazipur was the home of the famous writer Humayun Ahmed. It features lush greenery and serene walking paths, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing hike.
Ruma is a picturesque upazila in the Bandarban district that provides various hiking trails leading to breathtaking hilltop views and waterfalls. It is perfect for both experienced and novice hikers.
While primarily known for its historical significance, the surrounding area has small trails and paths where one can walk along the Buriganga River, enjoying the scenery and the cultural heritage.
Located in the Tangail district, Madhupur Forest is a beautiful area of rolling hills, dense forests, and wildlife. It offers several hiking trails that allow visitors to explore its natural beauty and tranquility.
Just north of Dhaka, Bhawal National Park is a great place for hiking with its diverse flora and fauna, peaceful surroundings, and serene trails that are perfect for nature lovers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Dhaka through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Dhaka by plane.
The main airport serving Dhaka, it operates both domestic and international flights.
Located in India, it is approximately 100 km from the border and caters to limited international flights.
Located in Kolkata, India, it is one of the major international gateways to eastern India, approximately 600 km from Dhaka.
Located in Kathmandu, Nepal, it serves as an important hub for flights to and from the region, approximately 800 km from Dhaka.
Located in New Delhi, India, this major international airport is around 1,500 km from Dhaka.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Dhaka, comprising the majority of the city's population. They predominantly speak Bengali and are culturally linked to the broader Bengali culture of Bangladesh.
People of Bihar origin, who migrated to Bangladesh during the partition in 1947. They have distinct cultural practices and are primarily Urdu speakers.
Various indigenous communities residing in and around Dhaka, often with their own languages and cultural practices. They are a minority group within the city.
A business community originally from Rajasthan, India, who have settled in Dhaka. They play a significant role in the trade and commerce sector.
A small but notable community involved in business activities, particularly in the restaurant and construction sectors, with roots tracing back to migration in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Various smaller groups from neighboring South Asian countries, contributing to Dhaka’s multicultural fabric.
The Soul of Dhaka
Discover the essence of Dhaka through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is the most popular sport in Dhaka, with a massive following and numerous local and national tournaments.
Football has a significant following in Dhaka, with many local clubs and a passionate fan base supporting both local and international teams.
Kabaddi is a traditional sport that enjoys popularity in Dhaka, characterized by its unique style and competitive matches.
Badminton is widely played in Dhaka, with many schools and clubs promoting the sport for both recreation and competition.
Basketball is growing in popularity in Dhaka, especially among the younger generation, with increasing court facilities and leagues.
Tennis has gained a following in Dhaka with various clubs and competitions being organized throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Dhaka.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Bengali cuisine heavily features fish and meat, many restaurants and cafes in Dhaka offer vegetarian and vegan options such as dal (lentil curry), vegetable bhaji, and mixed vegetable jalfrezi. The Pit Beef, Govinda's, and Roll Express are excellent choices for vegetarian and vegan dishes.
Those with gluten intolerance can enjoy dishes like bhorta (mashed vegetables), bhuna khichuri (spiced rice and lentils), and various kebabs. Confirm the cooking methods and ingredients with the restaurant staff to ensure gluten-free options.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Dhaka with these cultural adventures.
