Flights from Surabaya (SUB) to Dhaka (DAC)

About Dhaka

Dhaka, a city of energy and heritage

Dhaka is a city that moves quickly yet rewards you when you slow down and look closer. Bustling streets, colourful rickshaws, and lively river ghats create a vivid first impression, while grand old buildings and tree-lined neighbourhoods reveal a quieter side just a few steps away. Whether you are visiting for business, family, or exploration, the city offers a rich sense of place.

As the capital of Bangladesh, Dhaka is a thriving centre for textiles, technology, and culture. You will find modern cafés, riverside promenades, and large shopping complexes alongside historic quarters and traditional markets. From its ever-present river life to its contemporary skyline, Dhaka invites you to experience both its heritage and its forward-looking spirit.

Spend time discovering Old Dhaka, exploring its narrow lanes and waterfront, then balance the day with a relaxed walk in one of the newer districts. With its warm hospitality and diverse neighbourhoods, Dhaka leaves you with lasting impressions and many reasons to return.

Top sights in Dhaka

Lalbagh Fort

Explore this 17th-century Mughal complex, with its manicured gardens, imposing gateways, and views over the old city.

Ahsan Manzil

Visit the former riverside palace, now a museum, to learn about Dhaka's history and admire its distinctive pink façade.

Sadarghat Riverfront

Experience the city from the Buriganga River, where ferries, boats, and bustling jetties create an unforgettable panorama.

National Parliament Complex

View the striking modernist architecture set amid serene lakes and open lawns in one of Dhaka's most recognisable landmarks.

New Market and Nilkhet

Browse through stalls and shops selling clothes, books, and everyday essentials in one of Dhaka's busiest commercial areas.

Experience Dhaka's daily rhythm

Dhaka is best discovered by immersing yourself in its everyday scenes. Join a guided walking tour through Old Dhaka to uncover hidden courtyards, waterfront views, and stories behind centuries-old buildings. Early in the morning, explore a local market to see traders arranging produce, textiles, and household wares, and gain a deeper understanding of how the city starts its day.

For a different perspective, take a short boat ride on the Buriganga River to watch the skyline and shorefront unfold from the water. In the newer districts, you can stroll around lakeside parks and landscaped avenues, which offer a calmer contrast to the busy inner city streets. Many visitors also enjoy photography walks, capturing the movement of rickshaws, reflections on the water, and the interplay of historic and modern buildings.

In the evening, spend time in one of Dhaka's vibrant neighbourhood hubs, where cafés, dessert shops, and small boutiques stay lively into the night. This is an ideal time to relax, meet friends or colleagues, and see how the city unwinds after a productive day.

A taste of Dhaka

Dhaka's food scene is hearty, aromatic, and generous. Across the city you will find family-run eateries, contemporary restaurants, and street-side stalls serving local favourites alongside regional specialities. Rice, grilled meats, fish, and slow-cooked dishes are at the heart of many meals, often accompanied by fresh vegetables, lentils, and flavourful sauces.

In Old Dhaka, follow the inviting aromas from busy kitchens and sample long-established recipes that locals cherish. In newer neighbourhoods, modern restaurants offer a relaxed setting for business lunches or family dinners, with menus that blend traditional flavours and international influences. You will also find bakeries and dessert shops with an array of sweets, pastries, and cool treats to enjoy in the afternoon or after dinner.

Cafés have become popular meeting spots, serving quality coffee, tea, and light bites. Whether you are seeking a quick snack between appointments or a leisurely meal with friends, Dhaka offers plenty of options to suit different tastes and occasions.

Retail therapy in Dhaka

Shopping in Dhaka ranges from lively markets to modern malls, giving you plenty of ways to bring home a tangible memory of your trip. Traditional markets and commercial streets are filled with textiles, clothing, accessories, and homeware, where you can browse at your own pace and discover unique pieces.

Dhaka is known for its garment and textile industry, so you will find a wide selection of ready-to-wear clothing and fabrics. Many visitors enjoy exploring local boutiques and smaller shops that highlight contemporary designs and everyday fashion. If you prefer a more structured environment, large shopping centres offer international brands, food courts, and entertainment, making them convenient for families and groups.

For thoughtful mementoes, look out for handicrafts, decorative items, and locally inspired designs in curated stores and craft outlets. Whether you have an hour between meetings or a full afternoon free, Dhaka's shopping districts offer plenty to explore.

Best time to visit Dhaka

Cool and dry season (November to February, shoulder season): Average temperatures range from 15°C to 26°C (59°F to 79°F), with lower humidity and clearer skies. This is a comfortable time for walking tours, outdoor sightseeing, and exploring markets throughout the day.

Pre-monsoon warm season (March to May, peak season): Temperatures typically sit between 24°C and 34°C (75°F to 93°F), with rising humidity and occasional showers. The longer days and lively city atmosphere make this an energetic period for cultural events, evening riverfront visits, and indoor-outdoor dining.

Monsoon and late-year season (June to October, low season): Expect temperatures of around 26°C to 32°C (79°F to 90°F), with regular rainfall that refreshes the city and surrounding countryside. Showers are often interspersed with bright intervals, offering a quieter time to enjoy museums, cafés, and scenic views after the rain.

Frequently Asked Questions