Flights from Phuket (HKT) to Dhaka (DAC)

About Dhaka

Discover dynamic Dhaka

Dhaka is a city of energy, colour, and constant movement. As the capital of Bangladesh, it blends modern development with atmospheric neighbourhoods, busy waterways, and a rich history visible in its architecture and everyday life. You will find bustling streets, lively markets, and warm hospitality at every turn.

Each district has its own character, from the older quarters near the Buriganga River to newer areas filled with cafes, galleries, and boutiques. Whether you are travelling for business, visiting family, or exploring somewhere new in South Asia, Dhaka offers a compelling mix of culture, commerce, and creativity.

Behind the fast pace, there are calm corners to discover, including leafy lakesides, historic mansions, and contemporary cultural centres. Give yourself time to explore, pause at a tea stall, and experience how tradition and modern city living come together in Dhaka.

Top sights in Dhaka

Lalbagh Fort

Explore this 17th-century Mughal riverside complex, with its gardens, ornate gateways, and historic buildings offering a glimpse into old Dhaka.

Ahsan Manzil

Visit the distinctive pink riverside palace, once a grand residence and now a museum showcasing artefacts and stories from Dhaka's past.

Sadarghat River Port

Experience the busy heart of Dhaka's waterways, where ferries, small boats, and people constantly arrive and depart along the Buriganga River.

Dhaka University area

Stroll through one of the city's greenest districts, with leafy avenues, public art, and several of Dhaka's key cultural institutions nearby.

Gulshan and Banani

Explore these modern neighbourhoods known for international dining, stylish cafes, boutique shops, and a growing contemporary arts scene.

Experience Dhaka's everyday life

A visit to Dhaka is as much about soaking up everyday scenes as it is about ticking off landmarks. Take a rickshaw ride through the narrow lanes of Old Dhaka to see traditional workshops, aromatic spice stalls, and street vendors preparing snacks. Along the way, you will notice historic buildings and vibrant street life unfolding around you.

For a different perspective, join a boat ride on the Buriganga River and watch the city from the water as cargo boats, ferries, and small craft navigate the busy channels. Back on land, you can explore museums and galleries that highlight Bangladeshi art, textiles, and design, offering deeper insight into the country’s creative heritage.

In the evening, Dhaka slows slightly as residents gather at lakeside promenades and local parks. This is a good time to enjoy a walk, sample street food, or relax at a cafe in Gulshan, Banani, or Dhanmondi while the city lights come on around you.

A taste of Dhaka

Dhaka’s dining scene brings together traditional Bangladeshi dishes, regional South Asian flavours, and a growing choice of international cuisines. You can start with local favourites such as fragrant rice dishes, slow-cooked meat and fish, and richly spiced vegetable plates, often accompanied by fresh breads and tangy side dishes.

Street food is an essential part of the experience. In busy neighbourhoods you will find vendors preparing snacks to order, from savoury fritters to layered flatbreads and sweet treats. Eating at roadside stalls offers a close-up view of Dhaka’s social life, as friends, families, and colleagues gather over quick, flavourful meals.

If you prefer a slower pace, modern restaurants and cafes in Gulshan and Banani serve both local and international menus in relaxed settings. Many places stay open late, making it easy to end your day with tea, coffee, or dessert as the city continues around you.

Retail therapy in Dhaka

Shopping in Dhaka ranges from lively traditional markets to contemporary malls. Old-established bazaars offer an array of textiles, clothing, and everyday goods, where you can browse colourful fabrics, embroidered items, and handcrafted pieces that reflect regional styles.

For a more modern environment, visit the city’s shopping centres, where international brands sit alongside local designers and lifestyle stores. These malls also house cafes and entertainment options, making them a convenient stop between meetings or sightseeing.

If you are interested in local crafts, look out for outlets specialising in handmade goods and textiles. These shops often showcase work from across Bangladesh, giving you the chance to bring home items that highlight the country’s weaving, stitching, and design traditions.

Best time to visit Dhaka

Cool and dry season (November to February, peak season). Average temperatures range from 15°C to 26°C (59°F to 79°F). Clearer skies and lower humidity make it comfortable for walking tours, exploring Old Dhaka, and enjoying evenings by the city’s lakes and rivers.

Pre-monsoon warm season (March to May, shoulder season). Temperatures typically sit between 24°C and 34°C (75°F to 93°F). Days are warm and often sunny, ideal for indoor attractions, shopping, and sampling Dhaka’s diverse dining scene, with refreshing evenings after brief showers.

Monsoon season (June to October, low season). Expect temperatures of 26°C to 32°C (79°F to 90°F), with frequent rain and lush greenery. This period brings dramatic skies, quieter tourist spots, and a fresh look to parks and riversides, rewarding travellers who plan flexible, weather-aware itineraries.

Frequently Asked Questions