Flights from Penang (PEN) to Dhaka (DAC)

About Dhaka

Discover Dhaka

Why visit Dhaka?
Dhaka is a fast-growing city where historic quarters, waterways, and a vibrant street scene come together. You will find lively neighbourhoods, bustling rickshaw-filled roads, and a warm, energetic atmosphere that rewards curious travellers.

What to expect
The city stretches along the Buriganga River, with busy commercial districts, older quarters lined with heritage buildings, and newer areas dotted with lakes and parks. Expect crowded streets, colourful markets, and a constant sense of motion, balanced by calm corners where locals gather to relax.

Plan your trip
Dhaka works well as both a primary destination and a gateway to explore wider Bangladesh. You can base yourself in the central districts for easy access to business, shopping, and cultural sights, then branch out to riverside areas and nearby towns for day trips and longer journeys.

Top sights in Dhaka

Ahsan Manzil

Visit this striking pink riverside palace to explore grand interiors and learn about the city’s historic elite families.

Lalbagh Fort

Stroll through this 17th-century Mughal-era complex, with gardens, gateways, and impressive architectural details.

Sadarghat Riverfront

Head to the busy river terminal to watch passenger launches, cargo boats, and small craft criss-crossing the waterway.

Old Dhaka streets

Wander narrow lanes filled with traditional shops, historic facades, and a constant flow of rickshaws and pedestrians.

Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban area

View the striking modern parliamentary complex from outside and enjoy the surrounding open spaces and lakeside paths.

Hatirjheel Lake

Spend an evening by the water, where illuminated bridges and walkways create a scenic urban backdrop.

New Market and Nilkhet

Browse a wide range of stalls selling clothing, books, and everyday goods in a classic Dhaka retail district.

Experience Dhaka’s everyday rhythm

Getting around
Rickshaws are among the most distinctive ways to move through central Dhaka, especially for short hops between markets and sights. For longer journeys, you can use ride-hailing cars or local taxis, then walk the final stretch through side streets to soak up the city’s atmosphere.

Local life & culture
Daily life in Dhaka unfolds on the streets, from morning market trading to evening gatherings by the lakes. Each district has a different character, with commercial hubs buzzing during office hours, and older neighbourhoods retaining traditional trades, family-run businesses, and strong community ties.

Where to unwind
Lakeside promenades and neighbourhood parks offer calm spots away from the busiest roads. Early mornings and evenings are ideal for gentle walks, when temperatures are cooler and locals head out to exercise, socialise, and relax beside the water.

A taste of Dhaka

Street food & local specialties
Dhaka’s food scene is rich with rice-based dishes, grilled meats, savoury snacks, and sweet treats. Busy local streets and traditional eateries are the best places to try everyday favourites, from fragrant rice plates to snacks served from small stalls.

Casual & modern dining hubs
You will find casual restaurants and cafes clustered in commercial districts and shopping areas, offering both local dishes and international flavours. Menus often feature sharing plates and smaller portions, making it easy to sample a variety of tastes in a single meal.

Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable experience, seek out venues that overlook lakes, rooftops with city views, or riverside settings. Dining in these locations combines thoughtful cooking with the chance to watch Dhaka’s skyline and lights as the city moves into the evening.

Retail therapy in Dhaka

Malls & lifestyle hubs
Modern shopping centres in Dhaka bring together international brands, local labels, and everyday services in one place. These air-conditioned complexes often include cafes and family-friendly entertainment, making them convenient meeting points for residents and visitors.

Markets & local crafts
Traditional markets and commercial streets are ideal for browsing clothing, textiles, and handcrafted items. Areas such as New Market, Bashundhara, and older trading quarters are known for tightly packed stalls and small shops where you can explore a wide range of goods.

Evening retail scene
After sunset, many shopping streets and mall districts remain active, with bright shopfronts and a steady flow of visitors. Night-time bazaars and illuminated roadside stalls add to the atmosphere, and local transport options make it straightforward to reach these areas and return to your hotel.

Best time to visit Dhaka

Cool and dry season (Shītkal, November to February, peak season)
During the cool season, temperatures usually range from 15°C to 26°C (59°F to 79°F). The air is drier, skies are often clear, and outdoor sightseeing feels more comfortable, making this a popular time for business trips and city exploration.

Pre-monsoon warm season (Grīṣhma, March to May, shoulder season)
The months leading into the monsoon bring warmer days, with temperatures around 24°C to 34°C (75°F to 93°F). Occasional showers help clear the air, and longer daylight hours give you more time to explore markets, riversides, and neighbourhoods.

Monsoon season (Bārṣā, June to October, low season)
Monsoon months typically see temperatures of 26°C to 32°C (79°F to 90°F), with frequent rain and lush greenery. Showers often come in bursts, leaving calm periods in between, and the city’s rivers and lakes take on a distinctive, atmospheric character.

Frequently Asked Questions