Dhaka is a vibrant riverside capital where historic quarters, busy waterways, and a fast-growing modern skyline sit side by side. You experience a city rich in craft, colour, and everyday energy.
Discover Dhaka
Discover Dhaka
Why visit Dhaka?
What to expect
Expect lively streets, bustling traffic, and friendly interactions as you explore old neighbourhoods, modern business districts, and green pockets along the citys lakes and canals.
Dhaka is a rewarding gateway to the culture and river landscapes of Bangladesh, with good connections to other regional cities. Plan extra time in the city to balance sightseeing with rest.
Top sights in Dhaka
Lalbagh Fort
Walk through this 17th century Mughal riverside fort complex, where gardens, gateways, and historic halls offer a calm contrast to the surrounding city.
Ahsan Manzil
Visit the former riverside palace of the Nawabs of Dhaka, with its distinctive pink façade and museum exhibits on the citys past.
Sadarghat Riverfront
Head to the Buriganga River to watch ferries, cargo boats, and small wooden craft criss-crossing in one of South Asias busiest river hubs.
Old Dhaka lanes
Explore the narrow streets of Old Dhaka, lined with historic houses, small shops, and characterful courtyards that reveal the citys layered history.
National Parliament House
See the striking modernist complex designed by Louis Kahn, set beside lakes and open lawns that draw visitors in the late afternoon.
Hatirjheel Lake
Stroll or take a boat ride along this urban lake development, known for its illuminated bridges and skyline views after sunset.
National Museum
Discover archaeology, traditional crafts, textiles, and artwork that trace the story of Bangladesh and the wider Bengal region.
Experience Dhakas everyday rhythm
Getting around
Use rideshare services, taxis, and the growing metro system for longer journeys, especially between the airport, Gulshan, and Old Dhaka. For short hops, cycle rickshaws offer a slower, more scenic way to move through backstreets and markets.
Local life & culture
You feel Dhakas rhythm in its river jetties, roadside stalls, and busy neighbourhoods such as Dhanmondi and Gulshan, where families, students, and office workers mix. Cultural centres and galleries host regular performances, exhibitions, and talks.
Where to unwind
Escape to Ramna Park, Hatirjheel, or the lakes around Dhanmondi for a walk, jog, or quiet bench in the early morning or just before sunset. Many hotels also offer spas and pools where you can recover from long flights.
A taste of Dhaka
Street food & local specialties
Try biryani, spicy curries, kababs, and sweet treats such as jilapi and mishti in Old Dhaka and around Chawk Bazar. Popular local eateries and small cafés serve snacks through the day and late into the evening.
Casual & modern dining hubs
Neighbourhoods like Gulshan, Banani, and Dhanmondi host casual restaurants, coffee houses, and global cuisine, often clustered in mixed-use buildings. Small plates and shared portions make it easy to sample several dishes with friends.
Signature & scenic dining
Look for rooftop restaurants in Gulshan and Banani for city views, or book a table at upscale hotel venues for refined takes on local and international favourites, ideal for business dinners or special occasions.
Retail therapy in Dhaka
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Visit large malls such as Bashundhara City and Jamuna Future Park for international brands, local labels, cinemas, and family entertainment, all under one roof and popular as social meeting spots.
Markets & local crafts
Explore New Market, Gausia Market, and Aarong outlets for handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs, including handwoven fabrics, leather goods, and home décor with regional designs.
Evening retail scene
Shopping streets and malls in areas like Gulshan and Dhanmondi stay lively into the evening, with illuminated storefronts and cafés nearby for breaks. Short taxi or rideshare trips make these districts easy to reach after dark.
Best time to visit Dhaka
Cool and dry season (peak season): November to February, with average temperatures around 18–25°C (64–77°F), clearer skies, and more comfortable humidity. Pre-monsoon and early monsoon (shoulder season): March to June, around 25–32°C (77–90°F), hot and humid with occasional storms but vivid greenery. Monsoon and late monsoon (low season): July to October, about 26–31°C (79–88°F), frequent rain and possible flooding, but fewer visitors and a lush landscape.