Flights from Shanghai (PVG) to Dhaka (DAC)

About Dhaka

Dhaka, a city of rivers, rickshaws, and energy

Dhaka is a city that moves at its own vibrant pace. Set on the banks of the Buriganga River, the Bangladeshi capital blends historic quarters, bustling markets, and a growing modern skyline. You will find narrow streets filled with cycle rickshaws, colourful shopfronts, and the sounds of trade, conversation, and street life at every turn.

Beyond the first impression of busy roads and vivid crowds, Dhaka offers quiet corners, leafy neighbourhoods, and cultural institutions that tell the story of the nation. Lakeside walks in Gulshan and Dhanmondi, galleries showcasing local artists, and small cafes serving rich local tea create a different rhythm to explore. Whether you are travelling for business, to visit family, or to see somewhere new, Dhaka rewards unhurried discovery.

As one of South Asia's key commercial and cultural centres, Dhaka is also a place of opportunity and connection. New developments sit alongside traditional crafts, and modern restaurants operate close to historic bazaars. This contrast gives the city its distinctive character and makes each visit feel dynamic and personal.

Top sights in Dhaka

Lalbagh Fort

Explore this 17th-century Mughal fort complex with its imposing gateways, manicured gardens, and atmospheric views over Old Dhaka.

Ahsan Manzil

Visit the pink-domed former palace on the riverfront, now a museum that offers insight into Dhaka's architectural and social history.

Sadarghat Riverfront

Head to the busy river terminal to watch ferries and boats come and go, capturing the city’s daily life along the Buriganga River.

National Parliament House area

Admire the striking modernist architecture of the National Parliament House complex and stroll around its surrounding lakes and green spaces.

New Market and surrounding bazaars

Browse through clothes, fabrics, books, and daily essentials in one of Dhaka’s most popular shopping areas, full of local character.

Experience Dhaka's everyday culture

To experience Dhaka, spend time walking through its neighbourhoods at different times of day. Early mornings bring quieter streets, tea stalls setting up, and shop shutters lifting in Old Dhaka. Later, the city gathers pace, with roadside food vendors, rickshaw art gliding past, and lakeside paths filling with walkers and families. A guided walking or rickshaw tour can help you navigate the winding lanes and learn more about the stories behind the buildings and markets.

For a different perspective, take a short boat ride from the Sadarghat area and watch the city from the water. The constant movement of ferries, cargo vessels, and small wooden boats gives you a sense of how closely Dhaka is tied to its rivers. In the newer districts, you can explore galleries, design studios, and cultural centres that promote local crafts, textiles, and contemporary art.

Evenings are an ideal time to discover Dhaka's social side. Lakeside areas in Dhanmondi and Gulshan become popular for strolls and outdoor snacks, while local cafes and restaurants fill with friends meeting after work. Whether you choose to sit in a quiet tea shop, visit a performance venue, or simply watch the city go by, you will find many small moments that reveal the character of Dhaka.

A taste of Dhaka

Dhaka's dining scene is shaped by rich regional flavours and a strong street food culture. You can enjoy fragrant rice dishes, grilled and marinated meats, and a wide variety of vegetable curries and lentil preparations. In traditional eateries, meals often arrive with a selection of side dishes, pickles, and fresh herbs that allow you to personalise each bite.

Across the city, small snack stalls and bakeries play an important role in daily life. You will find savoury pastries, fried snacks, and sweets that pair perfectly with a cup of strong local tea. Exploring these neighbourhood spots is a simple way to experience how Dhaka eats and socialises during the day.

In the newer districts, you can choose from modern restaurants offering both local and international menus. Many places focus on fresh ingredients and generous sharing plates, making them ideal for group meals. From family-run establishments that have served the same recipes for decades to contemporary cafes experimenting with new ideas, Dhaka offers memorable meals for every taste.

Retail therapy in Dhaka

Shopping in Dhaka ranges from lively street markets to spacious malls. Traditional bazaars are packed with textiles, clothing, household goods, and everyday items, with vendors ready to help you find exactly what you need. The atmosphere is energetic, and you can easily spend an afternoon exploring the different sections and side streets.

Dhaka is known for its textile and garment industries, and you will see this reflected in the range of fabrics, ready-made clothing, and tailoring services available. From everyday wear to more intricate pieces, there is plenty of choice if you enjoy browsing for wardrobe additions or gifts. In some markets and smaller shops, you can also find handicrafts, home accessories, and decorative items with local designs.

If you prefer a more structured environment, modern shopping centres bring together international brands, local labels, cafes, and cinemas under one roof. These complexes are popular meeting points for residents and offer a comfortable place to shop, dine, and relax between sightseeing or meetings. Wherever you choose to go, set aside a little time to explore beyond the main entrances, as many of Dhaka's most interesting finds are tucked just around the corner.

Best time to visit Dhaka

Cool and dry winter season (November to February, shoulder season). Average temperatures range from 15°C to 26°C (59°F to 79°F). Days are generally clear and comfortable, ideal for walking tours, riverfront visits, and outdoor markets, with lower humidity making the city feel pleasantly refreshing.

Pre-monsoon warm season (March to May, peak season). Temperatures usually stay between 24°C and 34°C (75°F to 93°F). Hotter afternoons are balanced by lively evenings, when locals head outdoors, and this period is well suited to indoor attractions, shopping, and exploring Dhaka's dining scene.

Monsoon season (June to October, low season). Average temperatures range from 26°C to 32°C (79°F to 90°F), with higher humidity and regular rainfall. Showers often come in bursts, leaving cooler moments in between, and this season gives the city a lush, green feel that adds atmosphere to lakes, parks, and riverside areas.

Frequently Asked Questions