Best things to do in Dhaka
Find out more about those top places in Dhaka
Dhaka Travel Guide: Top Attractions, Places to Visit, and Things to Do in Bangladesh’s Buzzing Capital
If you’re looking for peace and quiet, Dhaka might not be your scene—but if you’re into high-energy, color-splashed chaos with a side of spice and soul, then welcome to one of South Asia’s most electrifying cities. Dhaka (also spelled “Dacca” for the vintage vibe) is the capital of Bangladesh, and it doesn’t just beat to its own drum—it hosts a full-on percussion parade.
Home to over 18 million people (and approximately the same number of rickshaws), Dhaka is one of the most densely populated cities in Asia—and proud of it! The city doesn’t do “slow.” It’s a whirlwind of honking horns, aromatic street food, sari-clad crowds, and a whole lot of life packed into every square inch.
Places to Visit in Dhaka: From Mughal Marvels to Modern Hubs
Dhaka’s places to visit are as varied as its street food stalls. One moment you’re admiring Mughal architecture, and the next you’re navigating a futuristic shopping mall that looks like it belongs in a sci-fi movie.
Some top attractions in Dhaka include:
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Lalbagh Fort – A 17th-century Mughal fort that’s still unfinished (relatable), but stunning nonetheless. History, romance, and a mysterious tomb? Yes, please.
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Ahsan Manzil (Pink Palace) – This bright pink former royal residence is now a museum, and it’s basically Dhaka’s answer to Barbie’s dream house—if Barbie ruled Bengal.
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Star Mosque – A dreamy little mosque decorated with sparkling stars and intricate mosaic work. If you’re into sightseeing, this is a total show-stealer.
Things to Do in Dhaka: Chaos, Culture, and Curry
Wondering what things to do in Dhaka besides snapping selfies with historic buildings? No worries—this city delivers non-stop action.
Start your day with a boat ride on the Buriganga River (pro tip: hang on tight). Then dive into New Market or Bashundhara City Mall for everything from handcrafted souvenirs to neon sneakers. Dhaka’s shopping scene is loud, lively, and absolutely legendary.
Foodies, rejoice: Dhaka’s street food is bold, spicy, and borderline addictive. Grab a plate of biryani, munch on fuchka (pani puri), and try not to cry (from spice or happiness—we won’t judge). And don’t miss the chance to sip a sweet, steaming cup of local milk tea in a roadside stall while watching the world zoom by.
A Travel Guide Tip: Embrace the Beautiful Mayhem
Dhaka may not be the most conventional tourist destination, but it’s one of the most authentic. The locals are warm, welcoming, and always up for a chat (or a selfie). While the traffic might feel like a video game on hard mode, the rewards are worth it—Dhaka is a city that stays with you long after you leave.
Whether you’re exploring historical landmarks, diving into local markets, or simply people-watching while balancing a spicy samosa, sightseeing in Dhaka is a full-sensory experience. It’s not just a city—it’s a feeling.
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Dhakeshwari National Temple
The 12th century temple is one of the most sacred places in the city of Dhaka, the Dhakeshwari which means “Goddess of Dhaka” is said to have been built by Ballal Sen the then King of the Sena dynasty and still stands as the largest Hindu temple in Bangladesh. It has undergone many repairs and renovations which has put a considerable change on its core architectural work, most recently during the Bangladesh War in 1971. The best time to visit the Dhakeshwari National Temple is during one of cultural programs most especially the “Durga Puja” the most important celebration in the Bengali Hindu calendar.
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Lalbagh Fort
Just before the Buriganga River is the Lalbagh Fort, it is an uncompleted 17th century structure that has much historical relevance attached to it. The Lalbagh fort construction was led by then Emperor Subahdar Mohammad Azam Shah in 1678, it is a combination of three buildings (the mosque, the Diwan-i-Aam and the tomb of Bibi Para) and some underground tunnels. Most of its attractions are inaccessible except for the Di-wan-Aam which has a museum displaying some artifacts and a disused old Hammamkhana (Bath House).
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Shaheed Minar
Located at the University of Dhaka, the Shaheed Minar is a national monument established to commemorate the victims of the Bengali Language Movement demonstrations in 1952. The monument has been built and rebuilt a few times, the first one was demolished by the Pakistani Police and Army just days after it was inaugurated. The current monument was built using design of known architect Hamidur Rahman, it stands at a height of 46 ft (14.02 m).
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Bangladesh National Zoo
Perhaps the most visited of all Dhaka’s attractions, the zoo attracts over 3 million visitors yearly. Formerly Known as the Dhaka Zoo, it was established in 1974 and it is known as the largest zoo in Bangladesh covering an area of 186 acres. The zoo consists of over 2,150 animals from 134 species such as cheetahs, monkeys and baboons. Other activities at the zoo include elephant-back and horse-back rides and fishing as well.
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Bangladesh National Museum
The National museum of Bangladesh was set up for the preservation and conservation of the country’s history. The museum has been existing as far back as march 1913 under the name Dhaka Museum. Divided into several floors themed to represent different times in Bangladesh’s history, some of it exhibits include maps, statues and historic relics. A must for anyone seeking to know more about the history of Bangladesh.
