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Lalbagh Fort is a stunning Mughal architecture without which your visit to Dhaka is incomplete. Although the fort was built in the 17th century, it still exudes a charm which takes you back straight into the Mughal era. Besides the architectural beauty, the historical significance makes this place popular. Tourists from across the nation as well as abroad come here to marvel at the Mughal structure. Standing in Dhaka city, the fort is now a popular tourist spot and offers a glimpse into the past.
Quick Details About Lalbagh Fort
Lalbagh Fort Address: Lalbagh Rd, Dhaka 1211, Bangladesh
Lalbagh Fort Timings: 10 AM – 1 PM, 1:30 PM – 6 PM
Lalbagh Fort Ticket Price: BDT 20 / ₹14 for locals; BDT 100 / ₹70 for foreigners
Opened In: 1678 AD
Nearest Railway Station: Kamalapur Railway Station
Nearest Airport: Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport
About Lalbagh Fort
Photo: Abu Rayhan M / Wikimedia Commons
Originally, Lalbagh Fort was built to honour and display the dominance of the Mughal Bengal as ordered by Prince Muhammad Azam Shah. However, construction was halted due to the early demise of Shaista Khan’s daughter, and work was never resumed. The design of this fort is highly influenced by the Mughal style forts like the Red Fort of Delhi. Even the designs on the walls, the wide garden in front, and the right proportional designs symbolise the typical Mughal architecture. Here, you will get to witness its beautiful interiors, filled with stunning gardens, intricate carvings and attractions such as the Pari Bibi ka Makbara. It indeed will be a memorable journey giving you an opportunity to interact with the past and the charm of Mughal Bengal.
How To Reach
Photo: Md Shaifuzzaman Ayon / Wikimedia Commons
Reaching Lalbagh Fort Dhaka, Bangladesh isn’t complicated as it is located centrally. Depending on your preference, you can choose one of the following modes of commute:
By Air: If you are flying from a nearby city or country, Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport is the closest airport to Lalbagh Fort. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or use ride-sharing services to reach the fort.
By Rail: Kamalapur Railway Station is the main railway station in Dhaka and is about 6.2 km from Lalbagh Fort. Once you arrive at the station, you can take a rickshaw or a local bus to reach the fort.
By Road: You can drive or use local buses to reach Lalbagh Fort. The city’s road network offers good access, with buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws available from various parts of Dhaka to get you to the fort.
Things To Do At Lalbagh Fort
Visiting Lalbagh Fort is about immersing yourself in its history and learning more about the region’s cultural legacy with these things to do:
1. Admire The Fine Architecture
Photo: Saiful786 / Wikimedia Commons
The Lalbagh Fort though an unfinished monument, still is an important site to learn about the supreme artistry of the Mughal architecture. Located at the scenic Buriganga River, it still creates a treat for the eyes. The fort includes gardens, a mosque, and the tomb of Pari Bibi. In its present state, the Diwan-i-Aam is a heritage site. The intricate carvings still are enough to show how beautiful the Mughal architecture was.
2. Take A Guided Tour Of The Lalbagh Fort Museum
Photo: Riads08 / Wikimedia Commons
The Lalbagh Fort Museum tour is the best way to learn about the Mughal era and its rich history. You can explore artefacts including ancient coins, detailed weaponry, and exquisite paintings that represent this influential time. You can opt for guided tours by official guides where they teach about the fort’s construction and important historical figures. This enhances your understanding of Bangladesh’s cultural heritage and impactful history. The tour is highly recommended if you are passionate about history and exploring cultural depth.
3. Have A Photography Excursion
Photo: Mamun Ismail / Wikimedia Commons
Lalbagh Fort is a photographer’s paradise, with its intricate architecture and lush gardens providing perfect settings for remarkable Lalbagh Fort pictures. The soft morning and evening light enhances the fortress’s beauty, making it a favourite spot for photography enthusiasts. Whether you’re an amateur or a professional, the fort provides a wealth of perspectives, detailed compositions, and unique angles that beautifully showcase its historical charm and tranquil ambience.
Places To Visit Around Lalbagh Fort
While Lalbagh Fort is a must-see, there are several other fascinating places nearby that you can explore to enhance your Dhaka experience:
1. Star Mosque
Photo: Dead.rabbit / Wikimedia Commons
When visiting Lalbagh Fort, you cannot afford to miss the Mughal-style construction of the Star Mosque (Tara Masjid), which is located at a very short distance. Originally built in the 18th century, the mosque went through renovation in the early 20th century with stars giving the mosque its unique identity. The walls, domes, and ceilings of the mosque feature vibrant blue stars made using English and Japanese porcelain tiles. The mosque has 5 domes, and each of them has the same work of stars, which creates a beautiful illusion.
Distance From Lalbagh Fort: 1.6 km
Timings: 24*7
2. Ahsan Manzil
Photo: Ehsanul Siddiq Aranya / Wikimedia Commons
Ahsan Manzli, famous as a Pink Palace, is a legendary symbol of Mughal influence in the country. Constructed somewhere in the middle of the 19th century, the palace serves as the residence for the Nawab family of Dhaka. The architecture displays the amalgamation of the European and Indo-Saracenic styles and features the typical grand dome, embellishments, and Corinthian Columns. It also served the Britishers as their centre for social and political activities during the colonial era. The era of Nawabs might have gone, but the charm is still intact and allows you to reflect on the bygone era.
Distance From Lalbagh Fort: 2.7 km
Timings: 10.30 AM – 5.30 PM
3. Dhakeshwari Temple
Photo: Ragib Hasan / Wikimedia Commons
Dhakeshwari Temple, located in Dhaka, Bangladesh, stands as a historic symbol of the city’s rich heritage. Known as the ‘Goddess of Dhaka,’ the Hindu temple dates back to the 12th century, believed to have been built during the Hindu Sena dynasty. Renovated by figures like Ballal Sen and Mughal general Mansingh, the temple blends traditional Hindu and local architectural elements. The complex includes the main temple, four smaller shrines dedicated to Shiva, and a large courtyard, bustling during vibrant festivals like Durga Puja.
Distance From Lalbagh Fort: 600 meters
Timings: 6 AM – 12:30 PM
Where To Stay
Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
As located centrally in Dhaka, there are plenty of options when it comes to finding an ideal accommodation as per your needs. Some of the options to consider are Hotel Nurjahan, The Westin Dhaka, and Lalbagh Inn. These have decent facilities for all kinds of travellers.
Where To Eat
Photo: Kritzolina / Wikimedia Commons
After a day of exploring Lalbagh Fort, you can treat yourself to some delicious local cuisine at nearby dining spots. You can try visiting Bhoj Restaurant, Nirob Hotel Restaurant, and Star Kabab & Restaurant.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Badolkhan / Wikimedia Commons
The best time to visit Lalbagh Fort in Dhaka is from November to early March. During winter, from November to early March, the weather is more pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 12 to 25°C. Clear, sunny days are perfect for visiting the gardens and structures of the fort, allowing you to enjoy the sights without being overwhelmed by the heat.
Tips For Travellers
Photo: Shmunmun / Wikimedia Commons
To make your visit to Lalbagh Fort more comfortable, here are some useful tips:
- Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking through the fort’s expansive grounds.
- Bring water and sunscreen, especially if you’re visiting during the warmer months.
- Arrive early to avoid crowds, as Lalbagh Fort is a popular tourist destination.
- Allocate 2 – 3 hours for a thorough exploration of the fort and its surroundings.
Lalbagh Fort is not just a fort, but a living proof of the mighty Mughal Empire and its influence in Bengal. Its rich history, captivating architecture, and serene gardens make it an unforgettable destination. History buffs will have an amazing time witnessing the marvellous wonders of this fort. Explore this magnificent Mughal relic by planning an ideal trip with TripXL to Bangladesh.
Cover Photo: Sohid Hasan / Pexels
