Things To Do
in Savar
Savar is a suburban upazila just west of Dhaka, notable for the National Martyrs' Memorial and the large, leafy Jahangirnagar University campus. It is an industrial and educational hub with garment factories, university life, and busy local markets. Visitors will find a mix of quiet green spaces, busy bazaars, and working-class neighborhoods that show everyday Bangladeshi life.
Savar is convenient for day trips from Dhaka and is often visited for memorials, university grounds, and affordable local food.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the National Memorial at Savar, which serves as a poignant tribute to the martyrs of the Bangladesh Liberation War. As you stroll through the expansive grounds, the serene atmosphere allows for reflection and appreciation of the country's history. The morning light casts beautiful shadows on the memorial's striking architecture, providing perfect photo opportunities.
After a morning of reflection, head to the nearby Liberation War Museum to delve deeper into the nation's past through its engaging exhibits and artifacts. The museum's knowledgeable staff often provide insightful commentary, enhancing your understanding of the events that shaped Bangladesh. Enjoy a local lunch at a nearby eatery, savoring traditional dishes like Bhuna Khichuri or Chingri Malai Curry.
As the sun sets, take a leisurely walk along the banks of the Buriganga River, where you can witness the hustle and bustle of local life. The evening is perfect for enjoying street food from nearby vendors, with options ranging from spicy fuchka to sweet jalebi. Wrap up your day by enjoying a cultural performance or music session at a local venue, immersing yourself in Bangladeshi traditions.
Embark on a nature adventure at the Savar Botanical Garden, where you can explore diverse flora and fauna amidst well-maintained pathways. The morning is filled with the sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves, creating a serene escape from the city. Take your time to enjoy the blooming flowers and perhaps spot some local wildlife.
After exploring the gardens, visit the nearby Rajuk Urban Park, where you can enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by lush greenery. The park offers various recreational activities, including cycling and paddle boating, allowing you to connect with nature and unwind. Spend the afternoon relaxing under the shade of trees or participating in outdoor games with locals.
As dusk approaches, return to Savar and visit a local tea shop to enjoy a traditional Bangladeshi chai paired with snacks. The evening is a great time to engage with residents, learning about their daily lives and customs over a warm cup of tea. Consider ending your night with a scenic drive back, taking in the beauty of the illuminated streets.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍚Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-4 |
| 🚕Short tuk-tuk/auto-rickshaw ride (within town) | $0.30-1.50 |
| ☕Tea and snack at a café | $0.50-2 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room (per night) | $15-40 |
| 🛒Market groceries (basic weekly) | $10-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close to Dhaka while offering green spaces and quieter spots like Jahangirnagar University
- Affordable food and accommodation with authentic local markets
- Iconic national monument (Martyrs' Memorial) for history and photography
- Good base for day trips to nearby parks and rural landscapes
- Limited formal tourist infrastructure and modest nightlife
- Traffic congestion and fewer pedestrian amenities in many areas
- Industrial zones can be noisy and less scenic
- Monsoon season can disrupt travel with heavy rains and localized flooding
- "Assalamu alaikum" - Peace be upon you / Hello
- "Dhonnobad (ধন্যবাদ)" - Thank you
- "Doya kore (দয়া করে)" - Please
- "Ekhane shauchalay kothay? (এখানে শৌচালয় কোথায়?)" - Where is the restroom?
- "Koto? (কত?)" - How much?
- "Ami Bangla bolte pari na (আমি বাংলা বলতে পারি না)" - I don't speak Bengali
- "Shohayota! (সাহায্য!)" - Help!
Places to Visit in Savar
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic concrete monument with dramatic geometry and landscaped grounds — prime spot for sunrise/sunset shots and wide-angle compositions. Respect signage and restricted areas.
Expansive green campus with lakes, arched bridges, old trees and colonial-style buildings; excellent for portraits, nature and architectural photography.
Vibrant market life full of color, textiles, produce and daily commerce — great for candid street photography; ask permission before photographing people.
Seasonal agricultural landscapes around Savar offer golden fields, water reflections during monsoon and rustic rural compositions.
Food in Savar
Savar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Steamed rice with a light, spiced fish curry — a daily staple found at local restaurants and home-style eateries around Savar.
Must-Try!
Mashed vegetables or fish mixed with mustard oil, onions and chillies — often served as a side and available at local homes and modest restaurants.
When in season, sellers and restaurants offer hilsa or other freshwater varieties; try at local fish shops or standards eateries near the university.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The central market is a bustling place to sample roadside snacks, seasonal fruits, and quick lunches; try singara (samosa-like snack), chotpoti (spicy tangy snack) and egg or vegetable rolls from street vendors.
Small stalls near Jahangirnagar University sell tea, samosas, fritters and local sweets — great for a cheap, hot snack while exploring the campus.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Modest clothing is appreciated, especially for women; cover shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites or conservative areas.
A formal Muslim greeting (Assalamu alaikum) is common; handshakes are typical between men, but avoid initiating physical contact with members of the opposite sex unless they offer it first.
Remove shoes before entering mosques and some homes. Follow posted rules and gender-segregation guidelines at religious sites.
Always ask permission before photographing people, especially women and elders. Avoid photographing security-sensitive sites or inside restricted areas.
Haggling is normal in markets; negotiate politely and with a smile. Fixed-price stores will not expect bargaining.
Safety
Tipping in Savar
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected. Leave small change for porters and restaurant staff (around 5–10% in nicer restaurants). For taxis and rickshaws, rounding up the fare is customary.
Cash (Bangladeshi taka) is the most common payment method, especially for markets and small eateries. Larger restaurants and hotels may accept cards; mobile payments (bKash, Nagad, Rocket) and ride-hailing app payments (Pathao, Uber) are increasingly available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and increasingly humid; daytime temperatures often exceed 30°C (86°F). Carry water, sun protection, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Heavy rains and occasional localized flooding are common; some rural roads may be waterlogged. Bring waterproof gear, allow extra travel time, and monitor local weather.
Post-monsoon clarity returns, temperatures moderate and humidity drops — one of the most comfortable times to visit for outdoor photography and walking.
Cooler, dry and pleasant with daytime temperatures in the low 20s°C (70s°F) and chilly mornings. Ideal for sightseeing, though nights can be cool; bring a light jacket.
Savar at Night
Hiking in Savar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
About a short drive from Savar, the park offers light forest trails, shaded picnic areas and opportunities for wildlife spotting; suitable for easy hikes and nature walks.
Informal walking routes around campus lakes, groves and reedbeds — ideal for short hikes, birdwatching and photography within Savar.
For more substantial forested hikes, the Madhupur and adjoining tracts are a longer drive from Savar and better suited for a multi-hour or overnight excursion; check accessibility and guides before planning.
Airports
How to reach Savar by plane.
Dhaka’s main international airport — the most convenient gateway for Savar; expect a 45–90 minute taxi ride depending on traffic. Offers international and domestic connections.
Small airport in Dhaka used historically for domestic and military flights; limited civilian services and primarily of local/military significance.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant demographic group; local culture and daily life follow Bengali-Muslim customs and festivals.
Savar includes Hindu and other religious minorities who participate in local cultural life and festivals.
Jahangirnagar University contributes a large student population, bringing youth-oriented culture, events and cafés to the area.
Garment and other industrial workers form a significant portion of the workforce, influencing local markets and transport patterns.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Bangladesh; local matches and informal games are commonly played in school and university grounds in Savar.
Played by students and youth at community fields and university grounds; popular as a casual team sport.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Savar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available but many dishes include fish or shrimp paste. Ask for shobji (vegetable) or dal-based options; Indian vegetarian restaurants in nearby Dhaka offer more variety if needed.
Vegan choices are more limited because ghee and fish sauces are common; request no ghee/egg/fish and favor dal, plain rice, vegetable bhortas and salads, but always confirm with cooks.
Most meat served in Savar is halal; pork is uncommon. If you require certified halal handling, ask specifically at hotels or larger restaurants.
Cross-contamination is possible in busy kitchens and street stalls. Carry essential medication and a translated allergy note in Bengali to show vendors when necessary.