Flights from Xiamen (XMN) to Dhaka (DAC)

About Dhaka

Discover Dhaka

Why visit Dhaka?
Dhaka is a dynamic riverfront city where historic quarters, busy waterways, and modern districts sit side by side, giving you a vivid introduction to Bangladesh. You will find an energetic atmosphere, layered history, and a growing contemporary arts and café scene.

What to expect
You can explore the narrow lanes of Old Dhaka, cruise along the Buriganga River, then move into planned districts with wider roads, lakes, and green pockets. Traffic is intense, but the city rewards you with colourful neighbourhoods, friendly encounters, and plenty of opportunities to see everyday life up close.

Plan your trip
Dhaka works well as both a standalone destination and a starting point for journeys around Bangladesh, from river delta regions to tea-growing hills. With a growing choice of hotels and transport links, it offers a practical base for business travel, visiting friends and relatives, or wider exploration.

Top sights in Dhaka

Lalbagh Fort

Walk through this 17th-century riverside complex to see impressive Mughal-era architecture and tranquil gardens in the heart of the city.

Ahsan Manzil

Visit the iconic pink palace on the banks of the Buriganga River to explore its grand halls and learn about Dhaka's merchant heritage.

Sadarghat Riverfront

Head to the busy river terminal to watch boats of all sizes arrive and depart, offering a vivid snapshot of river life and trade.

National Parliament House Area

View the striking modernist architecture of the parliament complex from the surrounding parklands and lakeside walkways.

Old Dhaka Rickshaw Lanes

Ride or walk through the decorated rickshaw-filled streets to experience traditional shops, workshops, and lively street scenes.

Hatirjheel Lake

Stroll or take a boat ride around this urban lake development, especially scenic in the evening when its bridges and walkways are illuminated.

Dhaka University Area

Explore leafy avenues, historic academic buildings, and cultural venues in one of the city’s most established neighbourhoods.

Bangladesh National Museum

Spend time browsing galleries that present the country's art, archaeology, and cultural heritage in a single, accessible space.

Experience Dhaka's everyday rhythm

Getting around
Rickshaws, taxis, and app-based cars are the most flexible ways to move between districts, supported by expanding bus and rail links. For a different perspective, short river crossings by local boat can be memorable, while walking works best for final distances within compact neighbourhoods.

Local life & culture
You will notice streets filled with small shops, workshops, and roadside stalls where people pause to chat over tea. Cultural venues, galleries, and performance spaces are concentrated around central and university areas, where students, artists, and professionals shape a lively, social atmosphere.

Where to unwind
City lakes and parks offer welcome pauses from the busy streets, with paths suited to relaxed walks or gentle jogging. Early mornings and late afternoons are comfortable times to enjoy the waterfronts, when the light is softer, temperatures are milder, and families come out to socialise.

A taste of Dhaka

Street food & local specialties
You can sample traditional snacks and rice-based meals at small eateries and streetside stalls across Old Dhaka and busy commercial districts. These areas are ideal for trying fragrant rice dishes, grilled items, and savoury snacks that reflect local tastes and generous use of spices.

Casual & modern dining hubs
Shopping streets and newer neighbourhoods host cafés, bakeries, and restaurants serving a mix of Bangladeshi, Asian, and international flavours. Menus often feature sharing plates and smaller portions, making it easy to try several dishes in one sitting with friends or colleagues.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable evening, choose rooftop restaurants or hotel venues overlooking lakes, busy roads, or the wider skyline. These settings combine attentive service with city views, allowing you to watch Dhaka’s lights and traffic patterns while lingering over a relaxed meal.

Retail therapy in Dhaka

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Dhaka’s modern shopping centres bring international brands, local labels, and entertainment together under one roof. They are convenient places to find clothing, electronics, and homeware, and often include cafés and food courts where you can take a break between stores.

Markets & local crafts
Traditional markets and smaller shopping streets are ideal for browsing textiles, clothing, and handmade items. Areas such as New Market, Bashundhara, and Gulshan offer a mix of stalls and small shops where you can discover fabric, fashion, and locally made gifts.

Evening retail scene
After dark, many commercial streets and mall districts stay lively, with illuminated façades and a relaxed, social atmosphere. Night-time is a comfortable moment to explore, combining shopping with a stroll or a late meal, and local transport options make it straightforward to reach these hubs.

Best time to visit Dhaka

Cool and dry season (peak season)
From November to February, Dhaka enjoys cooler, drier weather with average temperatures around 20–25°C (68–77°F). Skies are often clear, making it a pleasant time for river trips, walking tours, and exploring the city’s outdoor spaces.

Pre-monsoon warm season (shoulder season)
March to May brings warmer conditions, with average temperatures rising to 28–32°C (82–90°F). Days are longer and brighter, and you can plan sightseeing in the mornings and late afternoons while enjoying air-conditioned comfort during the hottest hours.

Monsoon season (low season)
From June to October, Dhaka experiences increased rainfall and lush greenery, with average temperatures around 26–30°C (79–86°F). Showers are often intense but intermittent, so you can balance indoor museums, cafés, and shopping with refreshing breaks in the rain-cooled air.

Frequently Asked Questions