Dhaka Travel Guide – Best Attractions, Food & Tips for Visiting Bangladesh

Dhaka . Bangladesh

🏙️ Dhaka – The Bustling Heart of Bangladesh

Best Time to Visit: November to February (cool and dry weather)
Ideal For: History enthusiasts, food lovers, cultural explorers, urban travelers

📍 Overview

Dhaka, the capital city of Bangladesh, is a dynamic metropolis and the country's political, cultural, and economic hub. Known for its colorful markets, historical sites, and vibrant street life, Dhaka is often described as the "City of Mosques" due to its many historic Islamic buildings. The city is a melting pot of cultures, where old and new blend together, offering visitors a unique look at the country's heritage and modern-day life.

🌆 Top Attractions in Dhaka

Place	Highlights
Lalbagh Fort	17th-century Mughal fort with beautiful gardens, mosques, and a museum
Ahsan Manzil	Iconic Pink Palace showcasing Dhaka’s rich history and colonial-era architecture
National Museum	A vast collection of artifacts showcasing Bangladesh's history and culture
Baitul Mukarram Mosque	National mosque of Bangladesh, known for its modernist architecture
Sadarghat	One of the busiest river ports in the world, offering boat tours on the Buriganga River
Jatiyo Sangsad Bhaban	The National Parliament House, an architectural masterpiece by Louis Kahn
Shahbagh and Botanical Garden	Lush greenery and peaceful walks amidst nature, away from the bustling city life
New Market	A vibrant shopping hub for traditional clothing, electronics, and local handicrafts

🍽️ Food & Dining

Dhaka is famous for its street food and Bengali cuisine, offering a variety of flavors that represent the culture and heritage of the country. You must try:

Biryani: A rich rice dish with meat, aromatic spices, and saffron, commonly served in Dhaka.
Fuchka (Pani Puri): Crunchy dough balls filled with spicy, tangy water and potatoes – a popular street snack.
Kebabs: Dhaka's kebabs, especially from the famous Haji Biryani shops, are a must-try.
Sweets: Rasgulla, Roshogolla, and Pati Shapta are popular Bengali sweets.
Beef Bhuna and Pulao: A common and flavorful dish found in both street food stalls and restaurants.
Tea: Chai (tea) is an essential part of the culture. Don’t forget to try Chaiwala-style tea from local vendors.

🏨 Accommodation Options

🔹 Luxury Stays:

The Westin Dhaka – A 5-star hotel with luxury amenities, great for both business and leisure.
Radisson Blu Dhaka Water Garden – A premium choice with elegant rooms, a lush garden, and a pool.
Pan Pacific Sonargaon Dhaka – Classic hotel with traditional Bangladeshi design and international facilities.

🔸 Mid-range:

The Palace Luxury Resort – Comfortable rooms and service, located in a prime area for city exploration.
Hotel Sarina – Affordable yet quality hotel with a nice selection of amenities.

🏠 Budget Stays:

Shanti Guest House – A budget-friendly option in the city center, ideal for solo travelers.
Khan Hotel – Basic but comfortable, located in a central location near local markets.

🚐 How to Reach Dhaka

By Air: Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport is the main gateway into Dhaka, with flights connecting to various international destinations.
By Train: Dhaka is connected to other major cities in Bangladesh via the Bangladesh Railway network.
By Bus: Several bus services operate from different parts of the country to Dhaka. Shyamoli Paribahan and Green Line are popular.
By Car: Dhaka is easily accessible from surrounding cities like Chittagong, Sylhet, and Rajshahi.

🧳 What to Pack

Essentials	Why?
Comfortable footwear	Dhaka requires a lot of walking, especially in markets and historical sites.
Light clothes (but modest)	Dhaka can be hot, but modest dress is often expected in religious or cultural sites.
Power bank	To keep your devices charged while exploring the city.
Water bottle	Stay hydrated, especially during the hot months (March–June).
Hand sanitizer and wet wipes	Useful for crowded public places, especially street food stalls.

🛑 Travel Tips

Traffic in Dhaka: The traffic can be hectic and congested. It’s best to plan your day with buffer time and avoid peak hours (morning and evening).
Language: Bengali is the official language, but English is widely spoken in most tourist spots and by the younger generation.
Respecting Local Culture: While Dhaka is a modern city, it’s still deeply rooted in tradition. When visiting religious sites, dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering.
Weather: The hot season (March–May) can be sweltering. The rainy season (June–September) brings heavy monsoons, so pack an umbrella.
Safety: While Dhaka is generally safe, exercise caution in crowded markets and while traveling on public transport.