Flights from Kathmandu (KTM) to Dhaka (DAC)

About Dhaka

Dhaka, a river city full of movement

Dhaka is a city that moves to its own rhythm, set along the banks of the Buriganga River. Rickshaws weave through colourful streets, river launches come and go at busy terminals, and markets spill out onto pavements. It is vibrant and compact, with new experiences at every turn.

Historic quarters like Old Dhaka offer narrow lanes lined with heritage buildings, while newer districts showcase glass-fronted offices, lakeside promenades, and modern cafés. Between the two, you find a city that is both energetic and welcoming, where everyday life plays out in public and visitors are quickly drawn into the flow.

Whether you are visiting for business, reuniting with family, or exploring Bangladesh for the first time, Dhaka rewards curiosity with characterful neighbourhoods, lively food scenes, and a strong sense of local identity.

Top sights in Dhaka

Lalbagh Fort

Explore this 17th-century Mughal complex with its red-brick walls, landscaped gardens, and atmospheric historic structures in the heart of Old Dhaka.

Ahsan Manzil

Visit the iconic pink palace on the Buriganga riverfront, now a museum showcasing the lifestyle and heritage of Dhaka’s former elite.

Sadarghat River Port

Watch ferries and river launches come and go at this bustling port, capturing the energy of Dhaka’s connection to its waterways.

National Parliament House area

Admire the striking modernist architecture of the Parliament complex from the outside and stroll around the surrounding lakes and open spaces.

New Market and nearby bazaars

Browse for clothing, textiles, books, and everyday items in one of Dhaka’s busiest shopping areas, where stalls and small shops line lively walkways.

Experience Dhaka’s everyday culture

To experience Dhaka, spend time in Old Dhaka’s lanes, where workshops, tea stalls, and family shops stand side by side. A guided walking tour can help you navigate the maze of alleys, discover traditional crafts, and hear stories behind some of the city’s most characterful buildings.

The city’s lakeside neighbourhoods offer a slower pace. Areas such as Dhanmondi Lake and Gulshan Lake have walking paths where you can unwind, watch the water, and see how residents use these green spaces for exercise and social time. Boat rides on the lakes provide a different angle on the skyline and are a gentle way to escape traffic.

If you would like to learn more about the country, set aside time for the National Museum, galleries, and cultural centres, which often host art exhibitions and performances. These venues provide an insight into Bangladeshi art, design, and storytelling, adding context to what you see on the streets.

A taste of Dhaka

Dhaka’s dining scene ranges from simple street-side eateries to contemporary restaurants. You can try local dishes such as biryani, rich meat curries, fish preparations, and a wide range of vegetable dishes, often served with fragrant rice or flatbreads.

Sweet shops are an essential stop, offering traditional desserts made from milk, sugar, and local ingredients. In the evenings, tea stalls and cafés fill with residents sharing snacks and conversation, making them a relaxed place to experience the city’s social life.

Modern districts feature cafés and restaurants serving regional and international flavours, often in comfortable, air-conditioned settings. Whether you choose a quick meal in Old Dhaka or a longer dinner in a newer neighbourhood, dining in Dhaka is as much about the atmosphere as it is about the food.

Retail therapy in Dhaka

Shopping in Dhaka is an opportunity to discover local textiles, clothing, and everyday items. Traditional markets and bazaars in Old Dhaka and around New Market offer fabrics, ready-made garments, and household goods in a lively, fast-paced environment.

Modern shopping centres, particularly in areas like Gulshan, Banani, and Dhanmondi, provide a more structured experience, with branded outlets, boutiques, and lifestyle stores under one roof. These are convenient places to pick up clothing, accessories, and homeware in a calmer setting.

If you are looking for locally made products, keep an eye out for outlets that highlight Bangladeshi crafts and design. From handwoven textiles to contemporary fashion inspired by local patterns, these stores offer meaningful mementoes of your time in the city.

Best time to visit Dhaka

Cool dry season (November to February, shoulder season): During this period, Dhaka enjoys mild temperatures of around 18–25°C (64–77°F) with lower humidity and clearer skies. It is a pleasant time for walking tours, outdoor cafés, and exploring the city’s lakes and riverfront without intense heat.

Pre-monsoon warm season (March to May, peak season): Temperatures rise to about 26–34°C (79–93°F), with warm afternoons and lively evenings. This is a good time to experience Dhaka’s energetic street life, extended daylight hours, and long, bright days that suit sightseeing and shopping.

Monsoon season (June to October, low season): Expect temperatures of roughly 27–32°C (81–90°F) with regular rainfall and lush greenery. Showers bring fresher air and dramatic skies, and indoor attractions, museums, and modern malls make it easy to enjoy the city between bursts of rain.

Frequently Asked Questions