Dhaka is a vibrant riverside city where historic architecture, busy waterways, and creative energy come together. You will find a mix of heritage quarters, modern towers, and warm hospitality at every turn.
Discover Dhaka
Discover Dhaka
Why visit Dhaka?
What to expect
Expect lively streets, colourful rickshaws, and bustling markets alongside calm pockets of green and lakeside promenades. Old Dhaka offers atmospheric alleys and historic buildings, while newer districts feature contemporary galleries, cafés, and business hubs.
Plan your trip
Dhaka is a natural starting point for exploring Bangladesh, from riverine landscapes to tea gardens and coastal getaways. Give yourself time to adjust to the pace of the city, then use local flights or road and river links to venture further afield.
Top sights in Dhaka
Lalbagh Fort
Step inside this 17th century Mughal complex to wander peaceful courtyards, garden lawns, and ornate buildings contrasting with the busy city outside.
Ahsan Manzil
Visit the iconic pink palace on the banks of the Buriganga River, exploring its grand halls and learning about the history of Dhaka’s former rulers.
Sadarghat Riverfront
Head to the harbour area to see river life up close, with wooden boats, ferries, and cargo vessels creating a constantly changing scene on the water.
National Parliament House (Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban)
Admire one of the region’s most striking modernist buildings, set among expansive grounds and lakes that are especially atmospheric around sunset.
Dhakeshwari National Temple area
Explore the surrounding streets and historic structures near this important landmark, taking in layered history and local daily life.
Hatirjheel Lake
Stroll or take a boat ride around this central lake development, popular for its bridges, night-time lighting, and skyline views.
Bangladesh National Museum
Browse exhibits that trace the country’s art, archaeology, and cultural heritage, offering context for the places you see around the city.
Experience Dhaka’s everyday rhythm
Getting around
Combine ride-hailing cars, the growing metro system, and CNG auto-rickshaws to move efficiently between neighbourhoods in Dhaka. For short hops, cycle rickshaws give you a close-up view of street life, while walking works well within compact areas like Old Dhaka.
Local life & culture
Dhaka’s streets are full of craftspeople, students, and office workers, with pavements doubling as social spaces. Explore creative districts, art galleries, and riverside promenades to see how tradition, design, and a young population shape the city’s culture.
Where to unwind
Seek out city parks, botanical gardens, and lakeside paths for fresh air and quieter moments away from the traffic. Early mornings and late afternoons are the most pleasant times to enjoy open spaces before or after the day’s heat.
A taste of Dhaka
Street food & local specialties
Sample classics such as biryani, rich curries, and savoury snacks from long-running stalls in Old Dhaka and busy areas like Chawkbazar and Dhanmondi. Sweet shops and tea stands add another layer to the city’s street food culture.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In neighbourhoods such as Gulshan, Banani, and Uttara, you will find cafés, bakeries, and relaxed restaurants serving everything from regional favourites to international comfort food. Generous yet shareable portions make it easy to try a variety of dishes with friends or family.
Signature & scenic dining
Book a table at rooftop venues or restaurants overlooking lakes and city lights for a memorable evening in Dhaka. Many offer thoughtfully presented local and international menus that pair well with the skyline or waterfront views.
Retail therapy in Dhaka
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Spend time in large shopping centres such as those in Gulshan, Dhanmondi, and Uttara, where international labels sit alongside local brands, cinemas, and family-friendly entertainment. These complexes are popular meeting spots, especially on weekends.
Markets & local crafts
Browse traditional textiles, handicrafts, and everyday goods in places like New Market, Bashundhara City’s smaller stalls, and neighbourhood bazaars. These areas are ideal for finding hand-embroidered fabrics and locally made homeware.
Evening retail scene
As the sun sets, many malls and street-side markets stay lively with illuminated signs, food corners, and relaxed crowds. Taxis, ride-hailing services, and rickshaws make it straightforward to reach these shopping districts after dark.
Best time to visit Dhaka
Peak season (November to February) brings cooler, drier weather with average temperatures around 20–25°C (68–77°F), ideal for sightseeing and outdoor strolls. Shoulder season (March to May) is warmer and more humid, with averages of 25–32°C (77–90°F), suiting travellers who do not mind heat. Low season (June to October) coincides with the monsoon, when temperatures of 27–31°C (81–88°F) and frequent showers make the city quieter but lush and atmospheric.