Flights from Busan (PUS) to Dhaka (DAC)

About Dhaka

Dhaka, a city of energy and heritage

Dhaka is a city that moves with purpose. From its bustling streets and colourful rickshaws to its riverside life, the capital of Bangladesh offers an immediate sense of energy and possibility. As you arrive, you will find a metropolis where the old and the new sit side by side in surprising ways.

The city is rich in history, with Mughal-era architecture, leafy university campuses, and atmospheric neighbourhoods along the Buriganga River. At the same time, modern Dhaka is defined by thriving business districts, contemporary galleries, and a growing café culture. Whether you are visiting for work, family, or exploration, Dhaka rewards curiosity at every turn.

Step into its markets, sample local flavours, and linger in its quieter corners, such as green parks and lakeside promenades. Dhaka can feel intense at first, but with time you will discover its warmth, resilience, and a distinctive cultural identity that is deeply rooted yet always evolving.

Top sights in Dhaka

Lalbagh Fort

Explore this unfinished 17th-century Mughal fort complex, with its red-brick walls, manicured gardens, and views over Old Dhaka.

Ahsan Manzil

Visit the iconic pink palace on the banks of the Buriganga River and learn about the lifestyle of Dhaka’s former elite.

Sadarghat Riverfront

Experience the lively river terminal where ferries, boats, and people converge, offering a vivid snapshot of daily life on the water.

National Parliament House area

Admire the striking modernist architecture of the parliament complex from outside and stroll around its expansive, green surroundings.

Armenian Street in Old Dhaka

Wander through narrow lanes lined with historic buildings, hidden courtyards, and traces of Dhaka’s trading past.

Experience the spirit of Dhaka

To get a feel for Dhaka, start with a walking tour through Old Dhaka. Here, you can weave through atmospheric alleys, discover traditional houses, and pause at roadside tea stalls watching the city rhythm unfold. A short boat ride on the Buriganga River offers a different perspective, as you glide past cargo vessels, passenger launches, and riverside markets.

Dhaka also rewards slow exploration of its greener districts. Around the National Parliament House and nearby lakes, you can enjoy open spaces that contrast with the city’s busy core. Jogging paths and lakeside walks are popular with residents, and early morning or late afternoon is an inviting time to join them.

For a more contemporary view of the city, visit newer neighbourhoods, where you will find art galleries, design studios, and small cultural centres hosting exhibitions, talks, and performances. These spaces highlight Dhaka’s creative side and give insight into how a new generation is shaping the city’s future.

A taste of Dhaka

Dhaka’s food scene is rooted in bold flavours and generous hospitality. Traditional eateries serve fragrant rice dishes, slow-cooked meats, and freshwater fish, often accompanied by seasonal vegetables and tangy condiments. Street-side stalls and small cafés are ideal for trying savoury snacks, breads, and sweet treats alongside a cup of hot tea.

Across the city, you will find a growing number of modern restaurants and bakeries, many of them in the newer districts. These venues often combine local ingredients with global influences, offering everything from grilled specialities to inventive takes on classic desserts. Rooftop spots are popular, giving you a chance to dine above the bustle and enjoy evening breezes.

Do not miss the city’s love of sweets and bakery items, which range from delicate milk-based confections to flaky pastries. Visiting a well-known sweet shop or bakery is a simple way to experience a cherished part of local daily life, whether you are picking up gifts or enjoying an afternoon break.

Retail therapy in Dhaka

Shopping in Dhaka brings together lively markets, contemporary malls, and small boutiques. Traditional bazaars are packed with textiles, everyday goods, and household items, offering a full sensory experience with bright colours, brisk bargaining, and constant movement. These are good places to feel the pulse of the city while browsing for fabrics and practical souvenirs.

Modern shopping centres provide a more relaxed experience, with air-conditioned spaces, international brands, and local designers under one roof. Here, you can explore clothing, accessories, and homeware at an unhurried pace, often with cafés and casual dining options close at hand.

For something more distinctive, look out for shops specialising in handwoven textiles, embroidery, and locally crafted products. These stores highlight the skills of artisans from across Bangladesh and offer items with stories behind them, from finely worked fabrics to contemporary craft pieces that reflect both tradition and modern design.

Best time to visit Dhaka

Cool and dry season (November to February, peak season). During these months, Dhaka enjoys pleasant temperatures of around 18–25°C (64–77°F) and lower humidity. Clearer skies and comfortable evenings make it an inviting time for walking tours, river trips, and outdoor dining across the city.

Pre-monsoon warm season (March to May, shoulder season). As temperatures rise to about 25–34°C (77–93°F), Dhaka becomes warmer and more humid, with occasional thunderstorms. This season brings lush greenery and dramatic skies, and with sensible pacing and mid-day breaks, you can still make the most of sightseeing.

Monsoon season (June to October, low season). Expect regular rainfall, high humidity, and temperatures typically between 26–32°C (79–90°F). Showers can be intense but often come in bursts, leaving fresh, cooler air. This is a good time to focus on indoor attractions, cafés, and markets while enjoying the city at a calmer travel period.

Frequently Asked Questions