Flights from San Francisco (SFO) to Dhaka (DAC)

About Dhaka

Discover Dhaka

Why visit Dhaka?
Dhaka is a dynamic megacity where historic quarters, riverfront life, and a fast-growing modern skyline sit side by side. You will find colourful streets, bustling rickshaws, and a welcoming atmosphere that offers an authentic taste of everyday Bangladesh.

What to expect
The city is dense and energetic, centred around areas such as Old Dhaka, Motijheel, and Gulshan. You can explore grand architecture, walk along the Buriganga River, or discover calmer residential and lakeside districts that reveal a more relaxed side of the capital.

Plan your trip
Dhaka is an excellent base for exploring wider Bangladesh, with road, river, and air links to Cox's Bazar, Sylhet, and the Sundarbans region. Plan time for both the city and day trips, and use the capital as your starting point to experience the country’s diverse landscapes.

Top sights in Dhaka

Lalbagh Fort

Explore this 17th-century Mughal complex, with its gates, gardens, and river views offering a glimpse into Dhaka’s historic past.

Ahsan Manzil

Visit the iconic pink palace on the Buriganga River, now a museum telling the story of Dhaka’s elite families and city life.

Sadarghat Riverfront

Take in the sights of bustling river traffic, wooden boats, and passenger launches along one of the city’s liveliest waterfronts.

National Parliament House

Admire the striking modernist architecture of this landmark complex, set amid tranquil lawns and water features.

Bangladesh National Museum

Discover art, archaeology, and cultural exhibits that trace the history and heritage of Bangladesh in an accessible way.

Hatirjheel Lake

Stroll or relax by the water in this planned lakeside area, with bridges and walkways illuminated after dark.

Gulshan and Banani

Explore these modern neighbourhoods known for cafés, restaurants, and boutiques set along leafy streets.

New Market

Wander through aisles of clothing, books, and household items in one of Dhaka’s most established shopping complexes.

Experience Dhaka’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Cycle rickshaws are a distinctive way to travel short distances and experience the city at a slower pace. For longer trips, use ride-hailing services or private cars, especially between central districts and the airport. Walking is best kept to shorter stretches within familiar areas.

Local life & culture
Dhaka’s streets are full of energy, from riverside jetties to roadside stalls and neighbourhood parks. Residential areas such as Dhanmondi and Gulshan reveal a café-focused lifestyle, while Old Dhaka offers narrow lanes and historic buildings that show how the city has grown over centuries.

Where to unwind
Lakeside promenades in Dhanmondi and Hatirjheel offer space to sit, stroll, or take a short boat ride, particularly pleasant in the late afternoon. Parks and greener university campuses provide pockets of calm within the city, ideal for a quiet break from busy roads.

A taste of Dhaka

Street food & local specialties
You can sample savoury snacks, sweets, and hearty rice dishes from roadside vendors and small eateries across the city. Old Dhaka is especially known for long-established spots where recipes have been passed down through generations.

Casual & modern dining hubs
In neighbourhoods like Gulshan, Banani, and Dhanmondi, you will find casual restaurants offering both local flavours and international cuisines. Many places serve smaller plates or shared dishes, making it easy to try a variety of tastes in one meal.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable evening, choose a restaurant overlooking a lake, busy avenue, or rooftop view of the city lights. Some hotels and standalone venues offer refined settings where you can enjoy attentive service along with a cityscape backdrop.

Retail therapy in Dhaka

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Modern shopping centres in areas such as Gulshan, Dhanmondi, and Uttara bring together international brands, local labels, and family-friendly facilities. They often combine shops, cafés, and entertainment, making them comfortable places to spend a few hours.

Markets & local crafts
For a more local experience, visit New Market, Bashundhara City’s smaller outlets, or neighbourhood streets in Old Dhaka. These areas are good for textiles, readymade clothing, books, and simple souvenirs that reflect everyday life in the city.

Evening retail scene
After sunset, many streets and malls stay active, with illuminated shopfronts and busy food corners creating a lively atmosphere. Night-time browsing in central districts is popular, and widely available transport options help you return to your accommodation easily.

Best time to visit Dhaka

Shītkal (cool, dry season, November to February, shoulder season)
During Shītkal, temperatures are usually around 18–25°C (64–77°F), with cooler mornings and low humidity. Clear skies and comfortable conditions make city sightseeing, walking tours, and riverfront visits especially pleasant.

Grīṣhmakal (hot, pre-monsoon season, March to May, peak season)
Grīṣhmakal brings warmer weather, typically 28–35°C (82–95°F), and rising humidity. The city feels vibrant, and long daylight hours are ideal for planning day trips or exploring different neighbourhoods with regular breaks indoors.

Barṣakal (monsoon season, June to October, low season)
Barṣakal features frequent showers and temperatures of about 27–32°C (81–90°F). Rainfall refreshes the city and river scenery, and indoor attractions, cafés, and malls provide plenty of options between lighter spells of rain.

Frequently Asked Questions