Dhaka
Dhaka is the capital city of Bangladesh, located in the central part of the country. It is known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and delicious cuisine. Dhaka is home to many famous landmarks, including the Lalbagh Fort, the Ahsan Manzil Palace, and the Dhakeshwari Temple. The city is also famous for its delicious cuisine, which includes traditional dishes such as biriyani (a rice dish with meat or vegetables) and curry dishes. Dhaka has a tropical monsoon climate, with hot and humid weather throughout the year.
The public transportation system in Dhaka includes buses, rickshaws, and a modern metro system, providing easy access to all parts of the city. However, traffic can be congested during peak hours, so many locals and tourists opt for taxis or ride-hailing services like Uber or Pathao. Dhaka is also a major transportation hub, with an international airport serving domestic and international flights.
- Country: Bangladesh
- Population: 21.9 million
- Language: Bengali
- Currency & Exchange Rate: Bangladeshi taka (BDT), 1 BDT = 0.012 USD (as of February 2023)
- Area size: 306.4 km²
- Main airport: Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport
- Visitors per year: Approximately 1 million
- Official website for visa application: https://www.visa.gov.bd/
Best Things To Do in Dhaka
Here are the top 10 must-visit activities in Dhaka, Bangladesh:
- Ahsan Manzil: A beautiful and historic palace located in the heart of Dhaka, with many interesting designs and features, as well as many cultural events and shows.
- Price: BDT 75 (approx. USD $0.88) for standard admission
- Opening Hours: 9am to 5pm, closed on Thursdays
- Lalbagh Fort: A fascinating and informative archaeological site located in the heart of Dhaka, with many exhibits and artifacts showcasing the history and culture of Bangladesh, as well as many temporary exhibits and events.
- Price: BDT 20 (approx. USD $0.23) for standard admission
- Opening Hours: 10am to 6pm, closed on Thursdays
- Dhakeshwari Temple: A beautiful and historic temple located in the heart of Dhaka, dedicated to the goddess Dhakeshwari, with many interesting designs and features, as well as many cultural events and shows.
- Price: Free
- Opening Hours: 6am to 8pm
- Star Mosque: A beautiful and historic mosque located in the heart of Dhaka, with many interesting designs and features, as well as many cultural events and shows.
- Price: Free
- Opening Hours: Always open
- National Museum of Bangladesh: A fascinating and informative museum in Dhaka, with many exhibits and artifacts showcasing the history and culture of Bangladesh, as well as many temporary exhibits and events.
- Price: BDT 20 (approx. USD $0.23) for standard admission
- Opening Hours: 10am to 5pm, closed on Sundays and Mondays
- Website: http://www.bangladeshmuseum.gov.bd/
- Dhanmondi Lake: A popular and picturesque lake in Dhaka, with many opportunities for relaxation, boating, and picnicking, as well as many small restaurants and cafes.
- Price: Free
- Opening Hours: Always open
- Bangladesh National Zoo: A unique and interesting zoo in Dhaka, with many exhibits and animals showcasing the diversity and beauty of Bangladesh’s wildlife, as well as many educational programs and events.
- Price: BDT 30 (approx. USD $0.35) for standard admission
- Opening Hours: 9am to 6pm, closed on Sundays
- Website: https://bnzoo.org/
- Dhaka University: A beautiful and historic university located in the heart of Dhaka, with many interesting buildings and features, as well as many cultural events and shows.
- Price: Free
- Opening Hours: Always open
- Website: https://www.du.ac.bd/
- New Market: A popular and bustling market in Dhaka, with many vendors selling a wide range of goods and souvenirs, as well as many small restaurants and cafes.
- Price: Free
- Opening Hours: Varies
- Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Novo Theatre: A unique and interesting planetarium and science center in Dhaka, with many exhibits and shows showcasing the wonders and mysteries of the universe, as well as many educational programs and events.
- Price: BDT 60 (approx. USD $0.70) for standard admission
- Opening Hours: 10am to 6pm, closed on Tuesdays
Here are the top 10 activities for kids in Dhaka, Bangladesh:
- Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Novo Theatre: A planetarium and science center, with shows and exhibits on astronomy, space, and technology, as well as a library and a gift shop.
- Price: Tk. 50 (approx. $0.60 USD) per person, free for children under 5
- Website: http://www.novotheatre.gov.bd/
- Bangladesh National Zoo: A zoo and animal park, with over 2,000 animal species, including tigers, lions, and bears, as well as picnic areas and playgrounds.
- Price: Tk. 20 (approx. $0.25 USD) per person, free for children under 3
- Website: http://www.bnzoo.org/
- Dhaka Planetarium: A planetarium and science center, with shows and exhibits on astronomy, space, and technology, as well as a library and a gift shop.
- Price: Tk. 20 (approx. $0.25 USD) per person, free for children under 5
- Ahsan Manzil Museum: A museum and historical site, with exhibits on the history and culture of Dhaka, including paintings, furniture, and artifacts, as well as guided tours and a gift shop.
- Price: Tk. 20 (approx. $0.25 USD) per person, free for children under 6
- Lalbagh Fort: A historic fort and landmark, with ornate architecture, gardens, and a museum, as well as regular cultural events and festivals.
- Price: Tk. 50 (approx. $0.60 USD) per person, free for children under 6
- Bangladesh National Museum: A museum and cultural center, with exhibits and programs on the history and art of Bangladesh, including paintings, sculptures, and artifacts, as well as guided tours and a gift shop.
- Price: Tk. 20 (approx. $0.25 USD) per person, free for children under 5
- Website: http://www.bangladeshmuseum.gov.bd/
- Dhaka Art Center: An art gallery and cultural center, with exhibits and programs on contemporary art and design, as well as workshops and classes for children and adults.
- Price: Free admission, some events may have a fee
- Website: http://www.dhakaartcenter.org/
- National Botanical Garden: A botanical garden and recreational area, with over 500 species of plants, as well as walking trails, picnic areas, and a lake.
- Price: Tk. 10 (approx. $0.12 USD) per person, free for children under 5
- Fantasy Kingdom Amusement Park: An outdoor amusement park and entertainment center, with rides, games, and attractions, such as roller coasters, bumper cars, and water slides, as well as food courts and shops.
- Price: Prices vary depending on the rides or activities
- Website: http://fantasykingdom.net/
- Baldha Garden: A botanical garden and landmark, with a collection of rare and exotic plants, as well as ponds, fountains, and a greenhouse.
- Price: Tk. 20 (approx. $0.25 USD) per person, free for children under 6
Here are the top 10 neighborhoods in Dhaka, Bangladesh:
- Gulshan: An upscale and affluent neighborhood that is located to the northeast of the city center, Gulshan is known for its high-end shopping, fine dining restaurants, and beautiful parks.
- Banani: A trendy and up-and-coming neighborhood that is popular with young professionals, Banani is known for its hip cafes, art galleries, and boutique shops.
- Dhanmondi: A peaceful and residential neighborhood that is located to the southeast of the city center, Dhanmondi is known for its beautiful homes, parks, and family-friendly atmosphere.
- Uttara: A planned community that is located to the north of the city center, Uttara is known for its beautiful homes, parks, and family-friendly atmosphere.
- Mohammadpur: A bustling and diverse neighborhood that is located to the west of the city center, Mohammadpur is known for its street markets, authentic cuisine, and lively community events.
- Mirpur: A vibrant and bustling neighborhood that is known for its shopping malls, restaurants, and community events.
- Baridhara: An upscale and affluent neighborhood that is located to the northeast of the city center, Baridhara is known for its high-end shopping, fine dining restaurants, and beautiful parks.
- Old Dhaka: The historic and cultural heart of Dhaka, Old Dhaka is known for its stunning mosques, colorful buildings, and bustling street markets.
- Tejgaon: A diverse and multicultural neighborhood that is located to the north of the city center, Tejgaon is known for its street markets, authentic cuisine, and lively community events.
- Gulistan: A bustling and vibrant neighborhood that is known for its street markets, authentic cuisine, and lively atmosphere.
Here are the top 10 restaurants in Dhaka, Bangladesh:
- Pan Tao: Upscale Chinese restaurant offering a menu of Cantonese and Szechuan cuisine.
- Price range: $$$$ (expensive)
- Location: 24, Gulshan Ave, Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Website: https://www.pantao.com.bd/
- Bengal Art Lounge: Upscale restaurant offering a menu of Bangladeshi and international cuisine, with art gallery and cultural events.
- Price range: $$$$ (expensive)
- Location: House 60, Road 7A, Dhanmondi, Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Website: http://www.bengalartlounge.com/
- Spice & Rice: Fine-dining restaurant offering a menu of Bangladeshi and Indian cuisine.
- Price range: $$$ (moderate)
- Location: Level 7, The Westin Dhaka, Main Gulshan Avenue, Plot-01, Road 45, Gulshan-2, Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Website: https://www.marriott.com/hotels/hotel-information/restaurant/details/dacwi-the-westin-dhaka/6037641/
- The Atrium Restaurant: Buffet restaurant offering a menu of international cuisine.
- Price range: $$ (affordable)
- Location: Parkway Square, 368, Elephant Road, Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Website: http://the-atrium-restaurant.business.site/
- Bar-B-Q Tonight: Casual restaurant offering a menu of Pakistani cuisine.
- Price range: $$ (affordable)
- Location: House 6, Road 19, Sector 3, Uttara, Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Website: https://www.barbqtonight.com/bangladesh/
- The Kitchen: Chic and trendy restaurant offering a menu of international cuisine.
- Price range: $$$ (moderate)
- Location: Radisson Blu Dhaka Water Garden, Airport Road, Dhaka Cantonment, Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Website: https://www.radissonhotels.com/en-us/hotels/radisson-blu-dhaka-water-garden/restaurant-bar/the-kitchen
- Olive Garden: Casual and trendy restaurant offering a menu of Italian cuisine.
- Price range: $$$ (moderate)
- Location: House-14, Road-56, Gulshan 2, Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Website: https://olivegardenbd.com/
- Dhaba: Casual and trendy restaurant offering a menu of Indian cuisine.
- Price range: $$ (affordable)
- Location: 18 Gulshan Avenue, Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Website: https://dhababd.com/
- Hajir Biriani: Casual restaurant offering a menu of Bangladeshi cuisine, specializing in biryani.
- Price range: $$ (affordable)
- Location: 61 Siddique Bazar Road, Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Website: https://hajirbiriani.com/
- Bella Italia: Casual and trendy restaurant offering a menu of Italian cuisine.
- Price range: $$$ (moderate)
- Location: 12 Kemal Ataturk Avenue, Banani, Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Website: https://www.facebook.com/BellaItaliaBD/
here are the top 10 most popular bars/pubs in Dhaka, Bangladesh:
- The White Canary Cafe & Lounge – cafe and lounge with a modern decor and a variety of drinks and international cuisine in Gulshan area
- Santoor Restaurant & Bar – restaurant and bar with a rustic decor and a variety of drinks and Indian cuisine in Gulshan area
- Cloud 9 Restaurant & Bar – restaurant and bar with a rooftop setting and a variety of drinks and international cuisine in Gulshan area
- The Lounge Bar – bar and lounge with a modern decor and a variety of drinks and international cuisine in Banani area
- The Peninsula Chittagong Hotel & Residence Bar – bar with a contemporary decor and a variety of drinks in Chittagong area
- Sports Zone Cafe & Restaurant – cafe and restaurant with a sports theme and a variety of drinks and international cuisine in Gulshan area
- Sky Pool Bar – poolside bar with a variety of drinks and international cuisine in Pan Pacific Sonargaon hotel, Kawran Bazar area
- The Royal Park Residence Hotel Bar – bar with a modern decor and a variety of drinks in Banani area
- Peppers Lounge – lounge with a variety of drinks and international cuisine in Banani area
- Baristo Cafe & Restaurant – cafe and restaurant with a variety of drinks and international cuisine in Banani area
It’s important to note that alcohol consumption is heavily regulated in Bangladesh, and most bars and pubs are located in hotels or private clubs.
Therefore, there aren’t many rooftop bars or lounges in Dhaka.
However, here are some of the top rooftop venues in the city:
- The Westin Dhaka Pool Bar – rooftop pool bar with city views and a variety of drinks and international cuisine in Gulshan area
- H2O Pool & Bar – rooftop pool bar with city views and a variety of drinks and international cuisine in Dhaka Regency hotel, Uttara area
- Skyline Lounge & Restaurant – rooftop lounge with city views and a variety of drinks and international cuisine in Hotel Victory, Nayapaltan area
- The Rooftop Cafe – rooftop cafe with city views and a variety of drinks and international cuisine in Dhanmondi area
- Cloud 9 Restaurant & Bar – rooftop restaurant and bar with city views and a variety of drinks and international cuisine in Gulshan area
Here are the top 10 shopping areas in Dhaka, Bangladesh:
- New Market: This historic market is located in the city center and features many shops selling clothing, accessories, and souvenirs. It’s a great place to experience local culture and find bargains.
- Bashundhara City: This large shopping mall is located in the neighborhood of Panthapath and features many international fashion brands, department stores, and gourmet restaurants. It’s a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
- Jamuna Future Park: This large shopping mall is located in the neighborhood of Kuril and features many international fashion brands, luxury stores, and gourmet restaurants. It’s a great place to shop and dine in luxury.
- Eastern Plaza: This shopping center is located in the neighborhood of Hatirpool and features many shops selling clothing, accessories, and electronics. It’s a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
- Pink City: This shopping center is located in the neighborhood of Gulshan and features many shops selling clothing, accessories, and cosmetics. It’s a great place to find trendy items and accessories.
- Navana Tower: This shopping center is located in the neighborhood of Gulshan and features many shops selling clothing, accessories, and electronics. It’s a popular destination for both locals and tourists.
- Rapa Plaza: This shopping center is located in the neighborhood of Dhanmondi and features many shops selling clothing, accessories, and electronics. It’s a great place to find bargains and unique items.
- Aarong: This local chain of stores features many handmade products, including clothing, accessories, and home goods. It’s a great place to find unique gifts and support local artisans.
- Gulshan Pink City: This shopping center is located in the neighborhood of Gulshan and features many shops selling clothing, accessories, and cosmetics. It’s a great place to find trendy items and accessories.
- Jatra Bangladesh: This local chain of stores features many handmade products, including clothing, accessories, and home goods. It’s a great place to find unique gifts and support local artisans.
Here are the top 5 museums in Dhaka, Bangladesh:
- Bangladesh National Museum: A museum with exhibits related to the history and culture of Bangladesh, including artifacts, sculptures, and manuscripts, as well as temporary exhibitions and cultural events.
- Price: BDT 50 (about $0.60 USD) for adults, BDT 20 (about $0.25 USD) for students and seniors.
- Website: www.bangladeshmuseum.gov.bd
- Ahsan Manzil Museum: A museum with exhibits related to the history and culture of the Nawabs of Dhaka, including furniture, textiles, and household items, as well as guided tours and cultural events.
- Price: BDT 20 (about $0.25 USD) for adults, BDT 10 (about $0.12 USD) for students and seniors.
- Website: www.ahsanmanzil.gov.bd
- Liberation War Museum: A museum with exhibits related to the history of the Bangladesh Liberation War, including photographs, documents, and artifacts, as well as temporary exhibitions and cultural events.
- Price: BDT 100 (about $1.20 USD) for adults, BDT 50 (about $0.60 USD) for students and seniors.
- Website: www.liberationwarmuseumbd.org
- Bangladesh Police Museum: A museum with exhibits related to the history and culture of the Bangladesh Police, including uniforms, weapons, and equipment, as well as guided tours and cultural events.
- Price: Free admission.
- Website: www.police.gov.bd/content.php?id=11
- Bengal Museum of Fine Arts: A museum with exhibits related to the art and culture of Bengal, including paintings, sculptures, and installations, as well as temporary exhibitions and cultural events.
- Price: BDT 100 (about $1.20 USD) for adults, BDT 50 (about $0.60 USD) for students and seniors.
- Website: www.bengalmuseum.org
Here are the top 10 parks in Dhaka, Bangladesh, in no particular order:
- Ramna Park: This park is located near the city center and features several walking paths, a large green area, and several cultural landmarks, including the National Museum of Bangladesh and the Shikha Chironton monument. It’s a popular spot for cultural events and relaxation.
- Suhrawardy Udyan: This park is located near the city center and features several walking paths, a large green area, and several cultural landmarks, including the Shaheed Minar and the Bangabandhu Memorial Museum. It’s a popular spot for cultural events and relaxation.
- Botanical Garden: This park is located near the Mirpur area and features several walking paths, a large green area, and several natural landmarks, including several plant species and a lake. It’s a popular spot for nature lovers and relaxation.
- Dhaka University Campus: This park is located near the city center and features several walking paths, a large green area, and several cultural landmarks, including the Curzon Hall and the Dhaka University Central Mosque. It’s a popular spot for cultural events and relaxation.
- National Martyrs’ Memorial: This park is located near the Savar area and features several walking paths, a large green area, and a historic landmark, the National Martyrs’ Memorial. It’s a popular spot for cultural events and relaxation.
- Chadnighat: This park is located near the Gulshan area and features several walking paths, a large green area, and several natural landmarks, including a lake and a waterfall. It’s a popular spot for nature lovers and relaxation.
- Rabindra Sarobar: This park is located near the Dhanmondi area and features several walking paths, a large green area, and several sports facilities. It’s a popular spot for outdoor activities and relaxation.
- Fantasy Kingdom: This park is located near the Ashulia area and features several amusement rides, a large green area, and several entertainment options. It’s a popular spot for family outings and entertainment.
- Dhaka Zoo: This park is located near the Mirpur area and features several animal species, a large green area, and several educational programs. It’s a popular spot for wildlife watching and education.
- Shishu Park: This park is located near the Shahbagh area and features several amusement rides, a large green area, and several entertainment options. It’s a popular spot for family outings and entertainment.
Opening hours & prices are subject to changes. Please visit the website for updated information.
TOP 10 Things You Need To Know About Dhaka
Weather in Dhaka:
Dhaka has a tropical wet and dry climate with hot, humid summers and mild, dry winters. Here are the average temperatures in Dhaka throughout the year:
- Summer (April to June): 24-36°C (75-97°F)
- Monsoon (July to October): 24-32°C (75-90°F)
- Winter (November to February): 11-28°C (52-82°F)
Peak Season: Dhaka’s peak tourist season is during the winter months from November to February when the weather is mild, and many tourists come to enjoy the city’s historical and cultural attractions. This is also the busiest time, and prices for accommodations and attractions are higher.
Off-Peak Season: The best time to visit Dhaka in terms of smaller crowds and more affordable prices is during the monsoon season from July to October. Although the weather may be wetter, you can enjoy discounts on accommodations and attractions, and the city is less crowded.
In addition, visiting during cultural events such as the Dhaka Art Summit or the Boishakhi Mela (Bengali New Year festival) can be a unique and memorable experience.
In summary, the best time to visit Dhaka is during the winter months from November to February when the weather is mild, and the city is less crowded. If you’re looking for more affordable prices and don’t mind wetter weather, visiting during the monsoon season from July to October can also be a great option. Additionally, visiting during cultural events can offer unique opportunities to experience Dhaka’s vibrant culture.
Here’s a summary of transportation options for getting around Dhaka, Bangladesh:
- Rickshaw: Cycle rickshaws are the primary mode of transportation in Dhaka, especially for short trips within the city’s congested areas. The cost varies depending on the distance traveled, but it’s important to note that passengers should always negotiate the fare before starting the ride.
- CNG Auto-Rickshaw: Compressed natural gas (CNG) auto-rickshaws are also a popular mode of transportation in Dhaka, especially for longer trips. The cost varies depending on the distance traveled, but it’s important to note that passengers should always negotiate the fare before starting the ride.
- Bus: Dhaka also has a bus system that covers most parts of the city and some of the surrounding areas. A single ride typically costs BDT 5 to BDT 25 (about $0.06 to $0.30 USD), and there are various types of passes available. The official website for the map of the lines is http://www.brtc.gov.bd/.
- Taxi: Taxis are readily available in Dhaka, and they are metered. The cost varies depending on the distance traveled and the time of day, but it’s important to note that taxis in Bangladesh are generally quite expensive.
- Rideshare: Rideshare services like Uber and Pathao are available in Dhaka. The cost varies depending on the distance traveled and the time of day.
- Walking: Dhaka is a densely populated city, but walking can be a great way to explore specific areas of the city and avoid traffic.
Overall, Dhaka’s public transportation system can be challenging for visitors to navigate, but rickshaws and CNG auto-rickshaws can be useful for getting around the city’s congested areas. Buses can be a cheaper option, but they can be difficult to navigate. Taxis can be useful for short trips or exploring specific areas of the city, but they can be quite expensive. Rideshares can be a convenient option for longer trips. Walking can be a great way to explore specific areas of the city, but it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and take appropriate safety precautions.
Here are the top 10 celebrities from Dhaka, Bangladesh:
- Sheikh Hasina: born 1947 – politician and current Prime Minister of Bangladesh, known for her contributions to Bangladeshi politics and for her efforts in promoting economic growth and development
- Humayun Ahmed: 1948-2012 – writer and filmmaker, known for his contributions to Bangladeshi literature and his socially relevant films and television dramas
- Amitabh Reza Chowdhury: born 1974 – filmmaker and screenwriter, awarded the Bangladesh National Film Award and known for his contributions to Bangladeshi cinema and for his socially relevant films
- Kazi Nazrul Islam: 1899-1976 – poet, musician, and revolutionary, awarded the Independence Day Award and known as the national poet of Bangladesh for his contributions to Bengali literature and music
- Ziaur Rahman: 1936-1981 – politician and former President of Bangladesh, known for his contributions to Bangladeshi politics and for his role in the country’s liberation war
- Tahsan Rahman Khan: born 1979 – musician, actor, and television personality, known for his contributions to Bangladeshi music and for his work in Bangladeshi and international films and television shows
- Chanchal Chowdhury: born 1974 – actor and comedian, awarded the Bangladesh National Film Award and known for his contributions to Bangladeshi cinema and television
- Mosharraf Karim: born 1972 – actor and playwright, awarded the Bangladesh National Film Award and known for his contributions to Bangladeshi theatre, cinema, and television
- Rubayyat Jahan: born 1996 – model and beauty pageant titleholder, awarded Miss Bangladesh World and known for her contributions to the fashion and beauty industry in Bangladesh
- Syed Shamsul Haque: 1935-2016 – writer and poet, awarded the Independence Day Award and known for his contributions to Bangladeshi literature and for his role in shaping modern Bengali poetry and drama.
Here are 5 notable movies that were filmed in Dhaka, Bangladesh:
- Television (2012) – This drama is set in Dhaka and follows the story of a television journalist who becomes disillusioned with the media.
- Guerilla (2011) – This political thriller is set during the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971 and features several scenes shot on location in Dhaka.
- Shankhachil (2016) – This drama, set in Dhaka, tells the story of a family torn apart by the India-Bangladesh border.
- Dhaka Attack (2017) – This action thriller is set in Dhaka and follows the story of a police officer who must stop a terrorist attack.
- Made in Bangladesh (2019) – This drama is set in Dhaka and follows the story of a young woman who becomes a union leader in a garment factory.
Here are 10 interesting facts about Dhaka, Bangladesh:
- Dhaka is the capital city of Bangladesh and is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and bustling streets.
- The Lalbagh Fort is a popular attraction in Dhaka that dates back to the 17th century and features a variety of historic buildings and beautiful gardens.
- Dhaka is known for its delicious street food, including dishes such as samosas, fuchka (a type of snack made with crispy shells filled with spicy potato or chickpeas), and jhal muri (a type of spicy snack made with puffed rice).
- The Ahsan Manzil Palace is a popular attraction in Dhaka that was the former residence of the Nawabs of Dhaka and now serves as a museum.
- Dhaka is a city of textiles, with a variety of traditional textiles and fabrics produced in the city’s markets and factories.
- The Dhaka University area is a popular destination in the city that features beautiful architecture, green spaces, and a variety of shops and restaurants.
- Bangladesh is known for its traditional handicrafts, including pottery, weaving, and woodcarving. Visitors can find a variety of traditional handicrafts in Dhaka’s markets and bazaars.
- The Dhaka Zoo is a popular attraction in the city that features a variety of animals and birds, including Bengal tigers and white peafowl.
- Dhaka is a city of contrasts, with modern high-rise buildings and trendy neighborhoods sitting alongside historic landmarks and traditional bazaars.
- The National Martyrs’ Memorial is a famous landmark in Dhaka that is a tribute to the soldiers who died in the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971. It features a beautiful monument and a large reflecting pool.
Here are ten popular entertainment venues in Dhaka, Bangladesh:
- Bangabandhu International Conference Centre – a large indoor venue that hosts major concerts, shows, and exhibitions
- Shilpakala Academy – a cultural center that includes multiple exhibition spaces, a performance hall, and a library for various shows and performances
- Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy – a performing arts center that includes multiple theaters and hosts a variety of shows, including theater, music, and dance performances
- Bioscope Dolby Atmos – a modern cinema that showcases local and international films, as well as hosts seminars, workshops, and other cultural events
- Dhaka Art Center – a popular art gallery that showcases contemporary art, as well as hosts cultural events and exhibitions
- Bengal Art Lounge – a contemporary art gallery that showcases works by emerging and established artists, as well as hosts cultural events and exhibitions
- Bangladesh National Museum – a museum that showcases the history and culture of Bangladesh, as well as hosts cultural events and exhibitions
- Gulshan Club – a popular social club that offers various entertainment options, including restaurants, bars, and sporting facilities
- Jamuna Future Park – a large shopping mall that includes various entertainment options, such as a cinema, an amusement park, and a bowling alley
- Bangladesh Film Development Corporation – a state-owned film studio that produces various films and hosts cultural events and exhibitions.
Here are the top 10 dishes to try in Dhaka, Bangladesh:
- Biryani – This fragrant rice dish is a staple of Bangladeshi cuisine, featuring long-grain rice that’s cooked with meat or vegetables, along with a variety of spices.
- Kacchi Biryani – This special type of biryani features marinated meat (usually beef or mutton) that’s layered with rice and cooked in a clay oven.
- Chapli Kebab – This flavorful kebab features a spiced beef or mutton patty that’s often served with a side of naan bread.
- Fuchka – This popular street food features small, crispy shells that are filled with spiced mashed potatoes and a tangy tamarind water.
- Haleem – This hearty and flavorful stew features a variety of lentils, meat, and spices, often served with a side of naan bread.
- Pitha – This popular dessert features sweet cakes that are made from rice flour, coconut, and jaggery (a type of sweetener).
- Rasgulla – This classic Bangladeshi dessert features soft and spongy cheese balls that are soaked in a sweet syrup.
- Lassi – This refreshing drink features yogurt that’s blended with water, sugar, and sometimes fruit like mango or strawberry.
- Chola Bhuna – This flavorful dish features spiced chickpeas that are cooked in a tomato-based sauce, often served with a side of naan bread.
- Jilapi – This popular dessert features spiraled fried dough that’s soaked in a sweet syrup and often served hot and crispy.
Here are the top 10 events in Dhaka, Bangladesh:
- Dhaka Art Summit: A contemporary art event featuring local and international artists, with exhibitions, performances, and workshops
- February
- Various venues throughout Dhaka
- https://www.dhakaartsummit.org/
- Ekushey Book Fair: A book fair featuring local and international authors, with book launches, readings, and other literary events, held in commemoration of the Bengali Language Movement
- February
- Bangla Academy, Dhaka
- http://www.banglaacademy.org.bd/
- Pohela Boishakh: The Bengali New Year, celebrated with cultural events, music, and traditional food
- April 14th
- Various locations throughout Dhaka
- Dhaka International Film Festival: A film festival showcasing international and Bengali films, with screenings, panel discussions, and other events
- January
- Various venues throughout Dhaka
- http://www.dhakafilmfestival.org/
- Dhaka Fashion Week: A fashion event featuring local and international designers, with runway shows and exhibitions
- March/April
- Various venues throughout Dhaka
- http://www.dhakafashionweek.net/
- Dhaka International Trade Fair: A trade fair featuring local and international businesses, with exhibits and product launches
- January/February
- Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, Dhaka
- http://epb.gov.bd/
- Dhaka Lit Fest: A literary festival featuring local and international authors, with book launches, readings, and other literary events
- November
- Bangla Academy, Dhaka
- http://www.dhakalitfest.com/
- Dhaka Art Biennale: A contemporary art event featuring local and international artists, with exhibitions, performances, and workshops
- February/March
- Various venues throughout Dhaka
- http://dhakaartbiennale.com/
- Dhaka International Theatre Festival: A theater festival featuring local and international theater groups, with performances and workshops
- January
- Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy, Dhaka
- http://www.shilpakala.gov.bd/
- Bangladesh International Children’s Film Festival: A film festival showcasing films for children from around the world, with screenings and workshops
- January
- Various venues throughout Dhaka
- http://cfsbangladesh.org/





