Things To Do
in Dhāka
Dhāka, India, is a vibrant and bustling city, known for its rich history, diverse culture, and dynamic economy. It serves as the capital of the Indian state of West Bengal and is a major urban center with a blend of tradition and modernity. The city is characterized by its intricate architecture, lush parks, and a lively street life filled with markets and food stalls.
Dhāka is also famous for its textile industry and serves as a gateway to many cultural and natural attractions in the region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Visit the iconic Victoria Memorial and enjoy its stunning gardens.
Explore the historic Fort William and the nearby Nizam Palace.
Stroll along the banks of the Hooghly River and enjoy a sunset view.
Start your day with a visit to the Indian Museum, the oldest museum in India.
Take a food tour in the bustling streets of Dhāka to sample local delicacies.
Enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant followed by a cultural performance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a restaurant | $5-15 |
| 🚌Public transport fare | $0.50 |
| 🏨Budget hotel (per night) | $20-40 |
| ☕Coffee at a café | $2-4 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (within the city) | $3-10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history.
- Delicious and diverse local cuisine.
- Vibrant street life and markets.
- Traffic congestion can be challenging.
- Air pollution levels can be high.
- Language barriers may exist for non-Bengali speakers.
- "আপনি কেমন আছেন?" - How are you?
- "ধন্যবাদ" - Thank you
- "দয়া করে" - Please
- "মাফ করবেন" - Excuse me/Sorry
- "হ্যাঁ" - Yes
Places to Visit in Dhāka
Visit one of these nice places.
This grand marble building is surrounded by lush gardens, perfect for capturing stunning photographs.
An iconic symbol of the city, the bridge provides a dramatic backdrop for photos, especially at sunset.
A beautiful temple complex by the river, ideal for capturing spiritual and architectural shots.
Food in Dhāka
Dhāka Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant rice dish made with marinated meat and spices, often served with raita.
Must-Try!
A popular street snack consisting of hollow puris filled with spicy tamarind water and chickpeas.
Hilsa fish cooked in mustard sauce, a traditional favorite.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can find a variety of street foods and local snacks.
Famous for its street food stalls serving delicious local dishes like phuchka and kathi rolls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always show respect for local customs and traditions, especially in religious sites.
Dress conservatively, particularly when visiting temples and rural areas.
A simple 'Namaste' with joined palms is a common and respectful way to greet.
Safety
Tipping in Dhāka
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated in restaurants and for services, usually around 10%.
Credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas; however, it's advisable to carry cash for smaller vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures make this the best time to visit Dhāka, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Temperatures start to rise; it's advisable to stay hydrated and wear light clothing.
Heavy rainfall can disrupt travel plans; be prepared for wet conditions and plan indoor activities.
The weather is pleasant with less humidity; a great time for photography and cultural festivals.
Dhāka at Night
Hiking in Dhāka
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located about 50 km from Dhāka, Ramnagar Hills offers picturesque hiking trails with scenic views of the surrounding countryside.
Approximately 150 km from Dhāka, this reserve provides hiking opportunities through lush forests and wildlife spotting in a natural setting.
Airports
How to reach Dhāka by plane.
Located about 17 km from Dhāka's city center, this airport serves as the main international gateway to the region, connecting to various global destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Dhāka, Bengalis are known for their rich cultural heritage, including literature, music, and art.
Another significant demographic group, Biharis have a distinct cultural identity and contribute to the diverse social fabric of the city.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is the most popular sport in Dhāka, with many local and national teams. The city often hosts international matches, and local matches draw enthusiastic crowds.
Football is also widely played and followed in Dhāka, with several clubs competing in the local leagues and attracting passionate fans.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Dhāka.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask for preparation methods to avoid any hidden meat products.
Bengali cuisine can be spicy; request milder versions if you're sensitive to heat.