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As the capital city of Bangladesh, Dhaka never fails to grab the attention of tourists with its old-world charm and modern hustle. Located near the Buriganga River, Dhaka offers a unique experience to its visitors. From the colourful rickshaws to the bustling market areas, there’s something about the city that feels very close and familiar. Looking for the best things to do in Dhaka allows you to experience the city more intimately. So, if you are ready for an unforgettable journey through the streets of Bangladesh, make sure to add Dhaka to your itinerary.
10 Things To Do In Dhaka
Here is a list of things to do in Dhaka that help you to enjoy your stay to the fullest and not waste your time.
1. Seek Blessings At Dhakeshwari Temple
Photo: Ruhan / Wikimedia Commons
Dhakeshwari Temple, the national temple of Bangladesh is an important religious site that holds great significance for Hindus. According to reports, the temple is more than 800 years old and is dedicated to the goddess Dhakeshwari, the protector of Dhaka. As soon as you enter the temple, you are greeted by intricate sculptures and serene courtyards. Besides the main idol, you will find multiple Shiva lingas both inside and outside the shrine. If you want to experience Dhakeshwari Temple in its full glory, you should plan your trip during Durga Puja.
Location: Bakshi Bazar, Dhakeshwari Road, Dhaka
Timings: 8 AM – 12:30 PM and 4:30 PM – 7:30 PM
2. Visit Shankhari Bazaar
Photo: NEOSiAM 2024+ / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
One of the best things to see in Dhaka is to visit Shankhari Bazaar and watch artisans showcase their crafts. Also known as Shankhari Potti, Shankhari Bazaar is famous for shell carving, a centuries-old tradition. While walking through the bazaar, you will spot numerous shops selling handmade jewellery, snacks and other traditional items. But the speciality of this place is Shankha, bangles made of conch shells. These bangles are handcrafted by skilled artisans and used by Hindu women as a symbol of marriage.
Location: Near the intersection of Nawabpur Road and Islampur Road
Timings: 8 AM – 10 PM
3. Witness The Historical Sites
Photo: Rakib Bin Aziz / Unsplash
Dhaka, the megacity of Bangladesh not only has a rich past, but several historical sites to explore as well. From Lalbagh Fort to Ahsan Manzil, many of the major historical sites in the country are located in Dhaka. Featuring a mix of European and Islamic architectural styles, Lalbagh Fort offers a glimpse into the Mughal Era. On the other hand, Ahsan Manzil was the residence of the Nawab family several years ago. Other historic sites that may pique your interest include the Armenian Church and the Curzon Hall.
Location: Dhaka, Bangladesh
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
4. Spend Time At Sadarghat Port
Photo: Rezowan / Wikimedia Commons
When looking for things to see in Dhaka, it is not wise to miss out on the beautiful Sadarghat Port. Located on the banks of the Buriganga River, Sadarghat is one of the busiest ports in the world. Throughout the day, you will see numerous ferries, and cargos navigate the river and trade goods. Despite the chaotic environment of the port, it is a great place to take a boat ride and enjoy the scenic views. For the best experience, you should visit the port at sunset or sunrise. This allows you to enjoy a good photography session at the port.
Location: Southern part of Dhaka
Timings: 24*7
5. Feast On Local Cuisine
Photo: Aminul Islam Akil / Wikimedia Commons
There’s no denying that Dhaka has some of the best local and traditional cuisines to try, especially if you are fond of spicy foods. Here, you can taste an array of traditional Bangladeshi dishes and tantalise your taste buds. Some of the must-try dishes include kacchi biryani, hilsa curry, bhuna khichuri, and others. For those who are fond of street food, Dhaka has a variety of options including fuchka, chotpoti, kebabs, and a lot more. However, your feast remains incomplete without trying some of the popular sweet dishes like roshogolla, chom chom, and mishti doi.
Location: Dhaka
6. Shop Local Handicrafts
Photo: Lian Rodriguez / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
If you are fond of handicrafts and traditional items, you are likely to have a great time shopping through the streets of Dhaka. As one of the culturally rich cities in Bangladesh, Dhaka has many market areas that sell handicraft items. For a rich experience, you should start with the New Market, a bustling marketplace in the city. From handcrafted pottery to textiles, and jewellery, you will find a large variety of items in the market and that also at affordable rates. You can further enhance your shopping experience by visiting Mirpur Benaroshi Polli, a market famous for sarees.
Location: New Market; Mirpur Benaroshi Polli
Timings: 10 AM – 7 PM
7. Enjoy A Day Trip To The Outskirts of The City
Photo: Syed Rifat Hossain / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Taking advantage of your stay in Dhaka, you should plan for a day trip to explore the countryside with your loved ones. There are many beautiful places located near Dhaka that are worth exploring on a day trip. One of the prominent sites includes the Buddhist Ruins in Mainamati which offer a glimpse into the vibrant past of the region. Here, you can explore the ruins of the temples, monasteries, and stupas and also learn about their history. Other nearby places include Sonargoan, the old capital of Bengal that is famous for its rich history and 19th-century mansions.
Location: Outskirts of Dhaka
Timings: Sunrise to sunset
8. Explore The Mosques
Photo: Md. Nazmul Hasan Khan / Wikimedia Commons
Dhaka, also known as the “City of Mosques,” boasts an array of stunning Islamic architecture that is a must-visit for tourists. One of the largest mosques in South Asia, the Baitul Mukarram National Mosque is in Dhaka and stands as a symbol of spirituality. But for a historic charm, you should visit the Star Mosque and immerse yourself in the serene ambience. While we are on the topic, it is worth mentioning that mosques in Dhaka welcome tourists outside prayer times. So, before you plan a visit, it is wise to check the prayer time of the mosque.
Location: Dhaka
Timings: After prayers
9. Hang Out At The Public Gardens
Photo: Salim Khandoker / Wikimedia Commons
After exploring the city if you feel tired, Dhaka has many parks and gardens where you can unwind yourself. One of the most popular green spaces in the city includes Ramna Park, a popular site for both locals and tourists. As a sprawling green oasis, Ramna Park is perfect for walking, jogging, or enjoying serene views. Another place that you may like is the Suhrawardi Park which was built by the British and used as a racecourse. These gardens are not just mere green spaces, but they are steeped in history.
Location: Dhaka
Timings: 10 AM – 4 PM
10. Stroll Around The Dhaka University
Photo: Salim_Khandoker / Wikimedia Commons
Established in 1921, Dhaka University is a prestigious educational hub for the people of Bangladesh. Here, you can walk through the grounds of the university and explore the serene surroundings. Known as the “Oxford of the East,” Dhaka University has a rich history and a picturesque campus to explore on foot. As you move through the campus, you will come across beautiful buildings from the colonial era. Additionally, the place is surrounded by lush greenery and is home to famous landmarks like the Curzon Hall, and Shahid Minar.
Location: Nilkhet Rd, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh
Timings: 10 AM – 4 PM
The different places, attractions, and things to do in Dhaka make your trip to the city worthwhile. Whether you are a history buff, a food lover, or an adventurer, Dhaka has something for everyone. Dhaka, the bustling capital of Bangladesh, is a city rich in history, culture, and tradition. From historic forts and grand mosques to vibrant markets and tranquil parks, Dhaka has everything. Plan a trip with TripXL and explore everything.
Cover Photo: MH Jubran / Unsplash
