Dhaka is a fast-growing city where riverside life, historic quarters, and modern districts sit side by side. You will find busy streets, rich culture, and a warm welcome.
Discover Dhaka
Discover Dhaka
Why visit Dhaka?
What to expect
Expect lively traffic, colourful rickshaws, and a mix of old and new neighbourhoods from Old Dhaka to Gulshan and Banani. The city moves quickly, but quiet corners and green spaces offer balance.
Plan your trip
Dhaka works well as both a stand-alone city break and a starting point for exploring wider Bangladesh, from river cruises to tea regions. Build in time for traffic and enjoy slow, immersive days.
Top sights in Dhaka
Lalbagh Fort
Stroll through this 17th-century Mughal complex, with its gardens, gateways, and peaceful courtyards that contrast with the city outside.
Ahsan Manzil
Visit the striking pink riverside palace that once housed Dhaka’s elite, now a museum telling the story of the city’s past.
National Parliament House (Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban)
See one of the world’s most distinctive civic buildings, designed by Louis Kahn, set beside a lake and wide open grounds.
Sadarghat River Port
Head to the busy Buriganga River to watch ferries and boats arrive and depart, offering a vivid glimpse of river life.
Liberation War Museum
Explore thoughtful exhibits that trace the country’s modern history in a serene, contemporary building.
Curzon Hall
Walk the grounds of this grand red-brick university building, known for its blend of architectural styles and leafy setting.
Hatirjheel Lake
Enjoy an evening walk or boat ride around this urban lake, framed by bridges and city lights.
Experience Dhaka’s everyday rhythm
Getting around
Use ride-hailing cars or taxis for longer journeys between areas like Gulshan, Banani, and Old Dhaka. For short hops, cycle rickshaws offer a closer view of street life, while walking is best kept to compact neighbourhoods.
Local life & culture
Dhaka’s streets are full of small shops, roadside stalls, and neighbourhood mosques and temples, with evenings often spent socialising in tea stalls and lakeside promenades. You will see a strong sense of community and a relaxed approach to time.
Where to unwind
Escape to Ramna Park or Dhanmondi Lake for shaded paths and calm water views, especially in the early morning or at sunset. Many hotels also offer spas and rooftop pools where you can rest after a day in the city.
A taste of Dhaka
Street food & local specialties
Try biryani, kebabs, and rich curries in Old Dhaka, along with snacks such as chotpoti and fuchka from busy street corners. Sweet shops offer traditional desserts like rasgulla and sandesh.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In Gulshan, Banani, and Dhanmondi you will find cafés, bakeries, and restaurants serving Bangladeshi, Asian, and Western flavours. Menus often feature shareable plates, so you can sample several dishes in one meal.
Signature & scenic dining
Book a table at a rooftop restaurant in Gulshan or along the city’s lakes to pair your meal with skyline and water views. Many hotels also offer refined buffets and set menus for a relaxed, memorable evening.
Retail therapy in Dhaka
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Visit large malls such as Bashundhara City and Jamuna Future Park for international brands, local labels, cinemas, and family entertainment under one roof.
Markets & local crafts
Explore New Market, Gawsia Market, and neighbourhood bazaars for textiles, saris, handicrafts, and everyday items, where bargaining is part of the experience.
Evening retail scene
Many malls and markets stay lively into the evening, with bright lights and busy food courts. Central areas are easy to reach by ride-hailing services or taxis after dark.
Best time to visit Dhaka
Cool and dry season (peak season): From November to February, Dhaka is usually dry and comfortable, with average temperatures around 18–25°C (64–77°F). This is the most popular time to visit for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Hot pre-monsoon season (shoulder season): From March to May, temperatures rise to around 28–35°C (82–95°F), with higher humidity and occasional storms. Days can feel intense, but mornings and evenings remain manageable for exploring. Monsoon season (low season): From June to October, expect frequent rain and very humid conditions, with temperatures around 26–32°C (79–90°F). Travel is quieter, but you should allow extra time for journeys during heavy showers.