dhaka tourist places in bangladesh

13 Places to visit in Dhaka you can’t miss on your trip

A list of the best places to visit in Dhaka City (New & Old Dhaka) you must not miss on your trip to Bangladesh, for a memorable experience.

Dhaka is the capital city of Bangladesh, a residence of 16 million population and growing every day. It is one of the most densely populated cities in the world, full of activities – a paradise for street photography. If you like street or portrait photography, Dhaka is your city. You’ll find unlimited subjects here to shoot for several days.

Other than photography, Dhaka has many interesting sites to visit from the Mughal and colonial periods. In this article, you’ll find some of the best places to visit in Dhaka City (New & Old Dhaka) that you must not miss on your first trip to Bangladesh.

Table of Contents

• Ahsan Manzil (Pink Palace)
• Lalbagh Fort
• Sadarghat Waterfront
• Kawran Bazar
• Dhaka Shipyards
• Armenian Church
• Dhakeshwari Temple
• Star Mosque
• Parliament Building of Bangladesh
• Shakhari Bazar
• Mridha Mosque
• Bait-ur-Rouf Mosque
• Liberation War Museum

Ahsan Manzil (Pink Palace) in Old Dhaka. © Photo Credit: Raw Hasan.

Best places to visit in Dhaka City (New & Old Dhaka)

1. ahsan manzil (pink palace) one of the best places to visit in dhaka city for history.

Ahsan Manzil, also known as the Pink Palace, was the residence of the wealthiest family of Dhaka during British rule. Dating from 1740, Ahsan Manzil was a small entertainment house of a local landlord, which later became a French trading house. After exchanging ownership between the French and the British a few times, it was purchased in 1830 by Khwaja Alimullah, the established feudal landlord of Dhaka. After his death, his son Khwaja Abdul Gani made a massive development to the property and named it “Ahsan Manzil” after his son Ahsan Ullah. It was two one-storied buildings at that time.

In 1888, the building was severely damaged by a tornado. Khawaja Abdul Gani and his son Ahsan Ullah then reconstructed the buildings, making them two-storied, adding the dome, and connecting the two buildings with a wooden gangway. After the British rule, when the family’s descendants could not maintain the property and made it a slam by renting its rooms individually, the then Pakistan government acquired this property from them in 1952 and put it under a trust.

In 1985, Dhaka National Museum acquired this property, renovated it, and opened it as a museum for the public. Since then, it has become a key tourist attraction in Dhaka. Ahsan Manzil is one of the best tourist attractions in Dhaka City someone should not miss on their first visit.

Visiting Ahsan Manzil

You can book our Dhaka City Tour to visit Ahsan Manzil along with other major attractions of both the New and Old Dhaka conveniently on a day tour, including a boat ride on Buriganga and a rickshaw ride on the backstreets of Old Dhaka. Also can book our 5-day Dhaka, Bagerhat & Sundarban Tour or any of our Bangladesh holiday packages to visit Ahsan Manzil.

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• Ahsan Manzil (Pink Palace): The residence of the feudal landlords of Dhaka .

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Lalbagh Fort in Old Dhaka. © Photo Credit: Raw Hasan.

2. Lalbag Fort One of the top places to visit in Dhaka City for history

Lalbagh Fort is a 17th-century Mughal fort and one of the key tourist attractions in Dhaka. The fort’s construction was started in 1678 by Prince Muhammed Azam, the third son of Aurangazeb, during his vice-royalty in Bengal. He returned to the capital Delhi after 15 months when his father called him to take part in a war, leaving the fort unfinished.

The construction work was then handed to the next governor of Dhaka, Shaista Khan, a maternal uncle of Muhammed Azam. Shaista Khan didn’t finish it because of the death of her young daughter Pari Bibi in 1684. He started thinking the fort ominous and never finished it. It is said that Pari Bibi was engaged with Muhammed Azam at that time. Aurangazeb never told him anything about finishing the fort and later donated it to Shaista Khan in memory of his daughter. The fort lost popularity because Bengal’s capital shifted from Dhaka to Murshidabad in 1704 after Shaista Khan left Dhaka. After the royal Mughal period, the fort became abandoned.

In 1853 during the Pakistan Period, the fort was used as the cantonment. After its independence in 1971, the Bangladesh government renovated and opened it for visitors. There is the tomb of Pari Bibi inside the fort, wrapped in expensive marble, which is its main attraction. Also, the residential building of the governor is being used as a small museum, displaying Mughal paintings and calligraphy, along with swords and firearms. Lalbagh Fort is number two on our list of the best places to visit in Dhaka.

Visiting Lalbagh Fort

You can book our Dhaka City Tour to visit Lalbagh Fort along with other major attractions of both the New and Old Dhaka conveniently on a day tour, including a boat ride on Buriganga and a rickshaw ride on the backstreets of Old Dhaka. Also can book our 5-day Dhaka, Bagerhat & Sundarban Tour or any of our Bangladesh holiday packages to visit Lalbagh Fort.

• Lalbagh Fort: An unfinished Mughal fort at Old Dhaka in Bangladesh .

Sadarghat Waterfront: One of the best places to visit in Dhaka City. © Photo Credit: Raw Hasan.

3. Sadarghat Waterfront One of the must places to visit in Dhaka City for photography

Sadarghat is Dhaka City’s busy waterfront, harboring the Sadarghat River Port and many other small ports. Sadarghat River Port is one of the largest river ports in Asia, passing about 30,000 passengers daily. The riverfront is full of big passenger ferries, cargo vessels, and tiny wooden rowing boats crossing the passengers across the river. You’ll get a truly authentic taste of Dhaka by visiting this live and vibrant place. Sadarghat is a must-visiting tourist attraction in Dhaka you can’t miss.

• Sadarghat: The live and vibrant river port and waterfront of Old Dhaka .

Kawran Bazar: One of the best places to visit in Dhaka City. © Photo Credit: Nijhoom Tours.

4. Kawran Bazar One of the best places to visit in Dhaka for photography

Kawran Bazar is the largest wholesale market in Dhaka city. It is full of activities and a gem for photographers. Trading starts here at midnight and ends around 8.30 in the morning. The permanent shops on the market will remain open the whole day though. Kawran Bazar is a must-visiting tourist attraction in Dhaka for people who love photography.

Watch video of Kawran Bazar, a much visiting tourist attraction of Dhaka city

Work in Dhaka Shipyards. © Photo Credit: Tony Eales.

5. Dhaka Shipyards One of the best places to visit in Dhaka City for photography

Located on the bank of river Buriganga, Dhaka Shipyard is a busy place for repairing and sometimes making new passenger ferries and cargo boats for the rivers. Passenger ferries of Sadarghat come here for occasional overhauling and repairs. Workers work here from dawn to dusk, beating their hammers on the boats and rubbing new paints. Endless workshops make huge propellers for the boats, melting still. Full of activities, Dhaka Shipyard is one of the best places to visit in Dhaka City which you should not miss.

P.S. Don’t confuse this with the infamous ship graveyard of Bangladesh, which is located about 250 km away from Dhaka. You can check out our Chittagong Ship Breaking Yard Tour to visit that site on a convenient day tour from Dhaka using an internal flight and express train.

Armenian Church in Old Dhaka. © Photo Credit: Raw Hasan.

6. Armenian Church of The Holy Resurrection One of the most beautiful places to visit in Dhaka for history

Armenian Church of the Holy Resurrection is located at Armanitola in Old Dhaka, a place named after the Armenian colony that settled here in the late 17th century. The church is the soul of this now almost extinct community. Dates from 1781, it is an oasis of tranquility in the heart of the crowded city and a must-visiting tourist attraction in Dhaka.

Visiting Armenian Church

You can book our Dhaka City Tour to visit the Armenian Church along with other major attractions of both the New and Old Dhaka conveniently on a day tour, including a boat ride on Buriganga and a rickshaw ride on the backstreets of Old Dhaka. Also can book our 5-day Dhaka, Bagerhat & Sundarban Tour or any of our Bangladesh holiday packages to visit Armenian Church.

• The Armenian Church in Old Dhaka: A quiet colonial era church .

Dhakeshwari Temple: One of the beautiful places to visit in Dhaka City. © Photo Credit: Raw Hasan.

7. Dhakeshwari Temple

Dhakeshwari Temple is a state-owned 500 years old Hindu temple built by one Mangat Ray, who was also known as Ballalasena, the younger brother of Arakanese king Shri Sudharma, son of famous Arakanese king Raja Malhana alias Husen Shah. This is the center of the Hindu religion and culture in Dhaka City. You’ll find devotees coming here in colorful sarees, ringing the bell on the door while entering the temple, and doing many ceremonies. Every major Hindu festival in Dhaka starts here, so you’ll always find a festive atmosphere here. Dhakeshwari Temple is one of the best places to visit in Dhaka city.

Visiting Dhakeshwari Temple

You can book our Dhaka City Tour to visit Dhakeshwari Temple along with other major attractions of both the New and Old Dhaka conveniently on a day tour, including a boat ride on Buriganga and a rickshaw ride on the backstreets of Old Dhaka. Also can book our 5-day Dhaka, Bagerhat & Sundarban Tour or any of our Bangladesh holiday packages to visit Dhakeshwari Temple.

• Dhakeshwari Temple: The center of Hindu religion and festival in Old Dhaka .

Start Mosque: One of the must places to visit in Dhaka City. © Photo Credit: Raw Hasan.

8. Star Mosque (Tara Masjid) One of the top places to visit in Dhaka City

Star Mosque is one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions in Dhaka, dating from the early 18th century. The whole walls of the mosque are decorated with mosaic stars, from where the name derived. It was originally built in the typical Mughal style, with four corner towers, but radically altered later.

Visiting Star Mosque

You can book our Dhaka City Tour to visit Star Mosque along with other major attractions of both the New and Old Dhaka conveniently on a day tour, including a boat ride on Buriganga and a rickshaw ride on the backstreets of Old Dhaka. Also can book our 5-day Dhaka, Bagerhat & Sundarban Tour or any of our Bangladesh holiday packages to visit Star Mosque.

• Star Mosque (Tara Masjid): A mosque decorated with star motifs made with China clay mosaic .

Parliament Building of Bangladesh: One of the best places to visit in Dhaka City. © Photo Credit: Kawe Safavi-Bayet.

9. Parliament Building A must visiting tourist attraction in Dhaka for architecture

The parliament building of Bangladesh is the finest architecture of world-renowned American architect and Yale University Professor Louis I. Kahn. Originally commissioned by the Pakistanis when Bangladesh was known as East Pakistan after the Partition of the Indian Sub-Continent, was meant to serve as the second seat of the national parliament. Construction started in 1964 but halted due to the Bangladeshi War of Independence, and was finally completed in 1982. If you like architecture, this is one of the two must-visiting tourist attractions in Dhaka for you.

• Bangladesh Parliament Building: A stunning architecture of Louis Kahn in Dhaka .

An artisan making deities in Shakhari Bazar. © Photo Credit: Eric Lynn.

10. Shakhari Bazar (Hindu Street)

Shakhari Bazar, also known as the Hindu Street, is a unique street in Dhaka City and the center of Hindu culture and community in Old Dhaka. Old buildings are raised on both sides of the street, full of jewelry shops, local musical instrument shops, Hindu bridal shops, kite shops, cookery shops, temples, rickshaws, and people. A live and vibrant street of Old Dhaka, Shakhari Bazar is one of the best places to visit in Dhaka City.

Visiting Shakhari Bazar

You can book our Dhaka City Tour to visit Shakhari Bazar along with other major attractions of both the New and Old Dhaka conveniently on a day tour, including a boat ride on Buriganga and a rickshaw ride on the backstreets of Old Dhaka. Also can book our 5-day Dhaka, Bagerhat & Sundarban Tour or any of our Bangladesh holiday packages to visit Shakhari Bazar.

Khan Mohammad Mridha Mosque in Old Dhaka. © Photo Credit: Eric Lynn.

11. Khan Mohammad Mridha Mosque

Erected in 1704-5, this Mughal structure is stylistically similar to Lalbag Fort, built on a raised platform, up to a flight of 25 steps. Three squat domes, with pointed minarets at each corner, dominate the rectangular roof. There are a series of vaulted rooms on the ground floor, which was used for living purpose. Located about half a mile from Lalbagh Fort, Khan Mohammad Mridha Mosque is beautiful architecture and one of the must-places to visit in Dhaka City.

Visiting Khan Mohammad Mridha Mosque

You can book our Dhaka City Tour to visit Khan Mohammad Mridha Mosque along with other major attractions of both the New and Old Dhaka conveniently on a day tour, including a boat ride on Buriganga and a rickshaw ride on the backstreets of Old Dhaka. Also can book our 5-day Dhaka, Bagerhat & Sundarban Tour or any of our Bangladesh holiday packages to visit Khan Mohammad Mridha Mosque.

• Khan Mohammad Mridha Mosque: A unique Mughal mosque in Old Dhaka .

Bait-ur-Rouf mosque: One of the best places to visit in Dhaka City. © Photo Credit: Aga Khan Award for Architecture.

12. Bait Ur Rouf Mosque A must-visiting tourist attraction in Dhaka for architecture

Bait Ur Rouf Mosque is the winner of the Aga Khan Award for Architecture 2014-2016. Designed by architect Maria Tabassum, this is a modern architecture hidden in a very dense neighborhood in Dhaka city. The design of the mosque is exceptional. Unlike any other mosques in Dhaka city, the symbolic elements of any mosque are absent from it, e.g mineral, dome. Inspired by the Sultanate mosque architecture, it breathes through porous brick walls, keeping the prayer hall ventilated and cool. Natural light brought in through a skylight is ample for the daytime. If you like architecture, this is one of the two must-visiting tourist attractions in Dhaka City for you.

Liberation War Museum in Dhaka. © Photo Credit: Wikipedia.

13. Liberation War Museum One of the top places to visit in Dhaka to know Bangladesh’s history

Liberation War Museum in Dhaka is an exceptional museum. It commemorates the Bangladesh Liberation War that led to the independence of Bangladesh from Pakistan in 1971. It showcases the genocide the Pakistani military committed in Bangladesh during the war, and how Bangladesh was born. A must visit tourist-attraction in Dhaka to know the history of Bangladesh.

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Have you ever visited Dhaka? How interesting have you found the tourist attractions in Dhaka? Have I missed something here? Share your experience and opinion with us in the comments.

You might also be interested in reading 17 Best places to visit in Bangladesh not to miss and 101 Things to know about traveling to Bangladesh .

• 13 Places to visit in Dhaka you can't miss on your trip
• 7 Best things to do in Dhaka for the ultimate experience
• Ahsan Manzil (Pink Palace): The residence of the feudal landlords of Dhaka
• Lalbagh Fort: An unfinished Mughal fort at Old Dhaka in Bangladesh
• Sadarghat: The live and vibrant river port and waterfront of Old Dhaka
• The Armenian Church in Old Dhaka: A quiet colonial era church
• Dhakeshwari Temple: The center of Hindu religion and festival in Old Dhaka
• Star Mosque (Tara Masjid): A mosque decorated with star motifs made with China clay mosaic
• Bangladesh Parliament Building: A stunning architecture of Louis Kahn in Dhaka
• Khan Mohammad Mridha Mosque: A unique Mughal mosque in Old Dhaka
• 17 Best places to visit in Bangladesh you can't miss on your holiday
• Bangladesh visa on arrival: Everything you need to know about
• 16 Top Bangladeshi food you must try on your visit

Check out our Dhaka City Tour to visit the key attractions of New and Old Dhaka. The full-day tour starts from $70* US with an air-conditioned car, an English-speaking guide, all entrance tickets, lunch at a local restaurant with authentic local food, a rickshaw, and a boat ride.

Check out our 1-7 days Bangladesh tour packages and 8-28 days Bangladesh holiday packages to visit Bangladesh with comfort.

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I am the Owner & CEO of Nijhoom Tours, a multi-award winning local tour operator in Bangladesh specializing in organizing memorable holidays in Bangladesh for western travelers. Connect with me on Facebook or Mastodon , or join our Facebook group Let's Go To Bangladesh for updates and help about traveling to Bangladesh.

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Dhaka is not a quiet, retiring place. The city, bursting with nearly 17 million people (most of whom often seem to be stuck in the same traffic jam as you), is a gloriously noisy and chaotic place, bubbling with energy.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions for your itinerary.

Running calmly through the centre of Old Dhaka, the Buriganga River is the muddy artery of Dhaka and the very lifeblood of both this city and the nation…

Shankharia Bazar

Clouds of incense and a bursting paintbox of colours signal a welcome to so-called Hindu Street. Lined on either side with old houses, garlands of lurid…

National Museum

The excellent National Museum, sprawling over several floors, begins with the geological formation of Bangladesh, whisks you through a rundown of the…

Lalbagh Fort

The half-completed Lalbagh Fort and its well-tended gardens are an excuse to escape Old Dhaka’s hustle and bustle for an hour or so. The fort is…

Ahsan Manzil

Dating from 1872, the must-see Pink Palace was built on the site of an old French factory by Nawab Abdul Ghani, the city’s wealthiest zamindar (landowner)…

Botanical Gardens

The shady, tranquil botanical gardens, stretch over 40 hectares and contain over 1000 species of local and foreign plants, as well as lots of birdlife…

Liberation War Museum

Housed in a beautiful whitewashed colonial-era building, this small museum chronicles the 1971 War of Independence, one of the 20th century’s more deadly…

National Assembly Building

In 1963 the Pakistanis commissioned Louis Kahn, a world-renowned American architect, to design a regional capitol for East Pakistan. Due to the liberation…

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8 best places to visit in Dhaka

20/12/2021 by Roobens 8 Comments

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No gibberish, I’ll go straight to the point. I didn’t like at all my stay in Bangladesh , precisely in Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh. I had planned to stay more or less two weeks in the country : arrive in Dhaka, visit the tea plantations in Srimangal, hang around the Kaptai lake, see Chittagong, and also Cox’s bazar, the most popular beach resort of the country. I finally left after six days, and I only stayed in Dhaka. I checked the places to visit in Dhaka, but I can’t tell I liked my stay.

Just to make sure I’m clear, I’m not saying “ Don’t go there, this is a shitty country, etc… “. I’m repeating myself but you’re reading a blog, not a travel guide. And in this blog, I write about my experiences on the road. If I like a place, I write about it. If I don’t like a place, I also write about it. And regarding Dhaka… I really didn’t like it. It didn’t happen since Kiev in Ukraine …

Some people told me I was a bit harsh with a poor country , others told me a country doesn’t boil down to its capital and that “ you should have been elsewhere in the country, too! “. Oh and some people told me that even for the Bengalis, Dhaka is a chaotic city. But feel free to go if you’re attracted by this country, I saw on the internet that other bloggers really liked Bangladesh. Anyway, enough talking, lemme explain myself.

Table of Contents

Description of Dhaka

Before talking about the places to visit in Dhaka (that’s what you want to know!), let me tell you exactly why I didn’t like my stay, and my experience there. Bangladesh is one of the first countries where I really had a hard time finding reliable information. Very few tourists go there, bloggers are usually not attracted by this country either. The few bloggers who went there, as is often the case in the travel blogging thing, loooved the place , wonderful, people so nice, blablabla… It was a bit difficult to prepare properly my stay, but I overcame the lack of information.

And my first contact with the Bengalis was at the Kathmandu airport, waiting for our plane going to Dhaka (I know they were Bengalise because apart from a few ones, the whole plane used the national citizen line at the customs in Dhaka). The voice of the airport announces that we need to get ready, because the boarding will start very soon. I was about to get up, but I finally decided to sit back down. Because after the announcement, in like fifteen seconds, the line looked like this :

Guys literally all squeezed in together. Knowing myself, I’d be fucking pissed to have someone else glued to me like this. It seems that it didn’t bother them. The notion of personal space is different there, it must be cultural. Anyway, I let everyone get in the plane, and I was the last one to board. You need to know something, in the picture you can roughly see 20 people. But there were actually 300 people, the same way, all squeezed in together, and the line was like dozens of meters long. A girl I know in Paris told me “ Holy shit, those guys are humping one another! I guess you understand what we, girls, have to endure in the subway in Paris! It’s the same thing, there’s always a perv trying to rub against you! ” OMG yes now I understand…

I finally arrived in Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh. Bangladesh, as we know it today, used to belong to Pakistan (it was called East Pakistan, separated geographically from current Pakistan by India). In 1971, with the support of India, the Bangladesh liberation took place, East Pakistan became independent and is now called Bangladesh. Its capital will be Dhaka! Bangladesh is a country with one of the highest population density : 170 millions inhabitants for a country barely bigger than Greece (the few countries with a higher population density are the tiny ones like Monaco, Singapore , Malta, Maldives, Bahrein, etc…). Anyway, with this population density, I guess they’re used to be all squeezed in together, and it might explain the waiting line at the airport…

One of the first things I noticed when I arrived in Dhaka : there’s almost no women in the street. I remember I made the same comment to myself in New Delhi , but it was worse in Dhaka. Women are present, they’re just not visible. The few ones I saw were running shops outside or in the mall. By the way, Bengali women are not very tall. But apart from the storekeepers… Almost only men. Check the picture of the waiting line above again, there’s not a single woman. I decided to count, out of 300 people boarding, I spotted five women. In the street in Dhaka, it was the same, just men…

I’m used to it now but in Dhaka it was really special : the locals kept staring at me, gazes glued to me. As I said, locals were already staring at me in Central Asia , in Iran , a bit in Eastern Europe and also in India . But here in Dhaka, it was too much. It wasn’t the admiring and friendly look like in Central Asia or Iran, nor the surprised look like in Eastern Europe (it’s normal, they rarely see a black person in real life in the street!). No, this time, the stares were a lot less friendly, from guys ready to confront me. Several times, some guys (old ones only) were staring at me and moving their arms up and down. If anyone knows what it means… Oh and a local told me “ You have a problem? ” from his tuktuk passing by.

Since we talk about tuktuk (they called them CNG in Bangladesh). It reminds me that the traffic in Dhaka is hardcore! Worse than India! Just like Tehran , you need to check everywhere before crossing the street. This is a real chaos, horn blasts, pollution… By tuktuk, it took one hour and forty minutes to travel 12 kilometers (7.5 miles). I would have been faster if I had gone jogging! I was talking about the population density and I can tell : there are people EVERYWHERE! 17 million people live in Dhaka and its conurbation and with all those people outside, it’s impossible for me to take good pictures.

In Nepal, I wasn’t worried. Not too many people, and the locals were not really staring at me. Here in Dhaka, it was every single person, all the damn time! Men, women, young, old… I went to a grocery to buy a few things (there are shops everywhere!), and slowly, a small gathering formed around me “ Where are you from? What are you doing here? ” A bit stressful… And I was also frustrated just like the days I was in Delhi, Agra , and Jaipur in India : Bangladesh is the kind of countries where it’s difficult to have real interactions with the locals , and I don’t even talk about women, it’s pretty much impossible to talk with them.

Oh and I almost forgot to talk about it. Dhaka is a dirty city. Very dirty. Garbage all over the place. I thought it was worse than New Delhi. Be prepared. It didn’t help, but it rained for a few days during my stay. Therefore there was mud everywhere. Like in Pokhara , they all spit on the floor, clearing their throats with an unbearable noise before expelling their gob of spit. I already smelled it would be dirty as soon as I landed, at the airport. I was looking for a bin to throw a paper away and I’m serious, two employees from the foreign exchange counter, seeing I kept wandering around, told me “ No worries, put your paper down, on the ground “. They repeated it and insisted when they noticed I didn’t want to throw the paper on the ground…

I wasn’t really struck by this but let’s face it, Bangladesh is a poor country. I saw many homeless people in the streets of Dhaka. And big surprise, I saw some black guys there. Very few but I met some. Students coming from Nigeria, who were surprised to see me walking by myself outside “ Be careful, especially in the evening. Some locals might be looking for trouble. We never walk alone, always small groups of two or three people “. They’re probably right, I was in a tuktuk and a guy walking called me “ Kalu! Kalu! ” (“ Nigger! Nigger! “). Yep, it already happened three times in India , and it started again in Dhaka…

The lack of women outside, the garbage, people staring at me like a circus freak, the chaotic traffic… You understand why I lost my motivation to do a 10-hour ride in a bus to go elsewhere in the country. Fortunately, everything is not negative in Dhaka, far from it. All right, they stare at me, but no one bothers me to sell me useless shitty stuff (unlike India , Sri Lanka  or Nepal ).

As you might imagine, life is cheap there, I had a dish and a drink for around 1.80€. Some people greeted me in a friendly way, some teens timidly asked me if they could get a picture with me , and they gave me some tips about the city. And I can’t forget those two Bengali girls who were staying at the same apartment as me. We talked and they were very kind. I also can’t forget the guy working in that apartment, an open-minded Bengali guy who gave me advice about Dhaka. And of course the manager of the restaurant located two minutes away from the place where I was staying. He was very smiling and also open to talk, and so was his 6 years old son. Not everyone was hostile towards me, far from it, but too many people didn’t seem happy to see me.

It’s not a surprise, there are very few tourists in Dhaka, and in Bangladesh in general. I didn’t see any tourists outside, not even one! There was a couple from Scandinavia, a Brazilian guy and a girl from Malaysia in the place where I was staying. They were the only tourists I saw, and it was always in the apartment. Outside, not a single tourist! Cause or consequence I don’t know, but there’s not many places to visit in Dhaka.

Things to do in Dhaka

Lalbagh fort.

Therefore I just wandered in the streets of Dhaka, especially in the south of the city, supposedly more “touristic” (everything is relative). I passed by the Bahadur Shah Park, the Armenian church, the botanical garden, a few mosques and temples and the Lalbagh fort. It’s 200 takas (2 euros) to get in, and the fort is surrounded by a big garden. A lot of teens relax there, and I also spotted a few couples. The fort was lively when I was there, because there was an event with the cricket team of the city, the Dhaka Dynamites!

National parliament house of Bangladesh

This is the largest legislative complex in the world. It was completed in 1982, and it’s divided into three parts : main plaza, south plaza and presidential plaza. It’s surrounded by gardens and an artificial lake. You can stay outside and admire the architecture of the building, or decide to get in. In order to get in, you have to fill a form clicking here at least a day ahead.

Dhakeshwari Mandir

It’s an Hindu temple, and Dhakeshwati means “goddess of Dhaka”. The temple is owned by the government and was built in the 18th century. The temple looks modern but it was destroyed several times, notably during the liberation war in 1971. It’s free to get in.

Ahsan Manzil

Also known as the pink palace, it’s one of the main tourist attractions in Dhaka. The architecture reminds of Europe because for some time, it belonged to French merchants. It’s a complex with a main building and a large garden. It belonged to the Nawab family, and you can now visit it, although the interest is really in the building itself.

Curzon Hall

It was built in 1904 and named after Lord Curzon, the viceroy of India of the time. This is where you’ll find the university of Dhaka. It’s well-preserved and the architecture is beautiful. It’s open to anyone, feel free to go there.

Bangladesh national museum

If you wanna know more about the history of Bangladesh, head to the national museum. You’ll find out how they obtained independence, you’ll learn about plants and animals in the country, ethnic groups, work of art…

Baitul Mukarram National Mosque

Completed in 1968, it’s considered the national mosque of Bangladesh, it can accommodate 30000 people! It’s the 10th largest mosque in the world! Unfortunately, you won’t be able to get in if you’re not Muslim, but you can admire the building from the outside. In Dhaka, you can also visit Star Mosque. You can get in even if you’re a non-Muslim.

When I started my trip in India, in New Delhi, I also had to face the lack of women, the poverty, the traffic, the stray dogs, etc… But unlike many people, I didn’t hate Delhi, there were places to visit, and I made local friends. I knew perfectly well that there were very different places in the country and I wanted to see. But in Bangladesh, unlike India, it was impossible to know what to expect leaving Dhaka, because of the lack of information. And I didn’t see myself spending hours in a bus, to live the exact same thing in another city in Bangladesh. The few ones who went to Bangladesh loved it, it was awesome, etc… Not reliable enough for me. I decided to leave.

The icing on the cake was in the plane, leaving Bangladesh to go to Yangon in Myanmar . First, there was no safety instructions from the cabin crew before taking off. Not a big deal. But most importantly, for the first time in my life, I saw cockroaches in a plane! During the flight! Having a nice little walk on a seat! All right, we don’t always win when we travel, and my experience in Bangladesh wasn’t the most positive I had. It happens, it’s time to move on and visit new places.

How to get to Dhaka

You’ll probably get to Dhaka by plane. Click here to check the latest flight prices.

Be careful, before getting your visa, you’ll have to show the immigration an onward ticket , otherwise they won’t let you enter the country!  I didn’t have an onward ticket… And they still let me go 😀 Some blathering, a few jokes, a little bit of French and some pertinent questions about Bangladesh to the custom officers and they stamped my passport 😀

Check the visa policy of Bangladesh here . All Western countries can get a visa on arrival if you arrive by plane (most likely) at the Dhaka airport. You’ll have to pay 50 US dollars or 4200 takas.

Citizens from Israel cannot go to Bangladesh. They can’t even transit via Bangladesh.

How to get around in Dhaka

You’ll have to take tuktuks because the city is huge. Always negotiate before getting in the tuktuk! If you’re in the south of the city, you’ll be able to walk a bit to visit Dhaka. If you’re in the north, you’ll have to take tuktuks!

Where to stay in Dhaka

I stayed at Golpata Bed & Breakfast, and it went very well! It’s a small apartment. Click here to book your stay . There’s also the Hotel 71, a mid-range hotel, that travelers really like. Click here to book your stay . If you’re into luxury hotels, go to the Intercontinental Dhaka. Click here to book your stay . Otherwise click here to check what are the hotels available in Dhaka. You’ll notice accommodation is expensive compared to the neighboring countries, since tourism is not very developed in Bangladesh. You don’t always get what you pay for.

Finally, if you prefer to stay in an apartment, click here to check the apartments available on Airbnb.

Other things to do in Bangladesh

As I said, I just visited Dhaka, but you can go elsewhere! Apparently Srimangal is a beautiful place, so is the Kaptai lake. Cox’s bazar is the most popular beach resort in the country, and this is where all the locals go. I talked to the owner of the apartment where I was staying (a German woman, in her sixties, who’s been spending several months a year in Bangladesh for the past 13 years). I questioned her about Cox’s bazar. She told me the beach is nothing special for us Westerners. But for the Bengalis, who are used to live all squeezed in together in the city, Cox’s bazar is exceptional!

Dhaka travel tips

• Traveling soon? Check out my travel resources page! This list of travel accessories can also be useful!
• Definitely don’t go to Bangladesh without a travel insurance !  Here’s why you should buy travel insurance !
• Want a tailor-made trip to Bangladesh? Get a free quote here !

• Always use a VPN when traveling. I use ExpressVPN and I love it! Here’s why use a VPN when traveling !

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Reader Interactions

31/03/2018 at 20:05

A really interesting account of your trip. Unfortunately, not all travel is a positive experience! I don’t think I’d be too good with those crowds either! Happy travels ?

01/04/2018 at 03:07

Thanks! Yeah it’s not always positive. It’s ok, I went there and now I know I probably won’t go back 🙂

08/11/2019 at 08:20

The mistake was staying too long in Dhaka.. he could do the foowing: 1) Visit Cox’s Bazar. But how? Catch the aircondition train to Chittagong. Spend a couple of days its beautiful. Book a cab and go to Cox’s Bazar. 2) Then book a cab and go to Kaptai dam. Book a speed boat there on the spot and take a ride to Rangamati and ask the cab driver to meet you there across. I did that when I went with my family . And then return to Chittagong with the same cab 3) Another one is to take a boat ride from Khulna to Dhaka by the Rocket. Book an A/C csbin. This is through the Sundarban jungles. It is beautiful. 4) Another place is Sylet. I have not been bit it should be nice. Tea garden area. Can go by train A/C compartment or 1st. Class. These are my suggestions.

08/11/2019 at 12:25

Thanks for your suggestions!

17/12/2019 at 16:43

As a native resident of Dhaka, I’m sorry you had to go through an unpleasant experience during your travel here. While I can understand you not risking travel to the other cities of Bangladesh based on your time in Dhaka, I must humbly urge you to give Bangladesh a second chance if you ever find yourself again in this side of the world, if you can! Some of the places you mentioned (Cox’s Bazar, Sreemangal, Chittagong Hill Tracts) will definitely give you a completely different experience from Dhaka. Plus, the major cities near those places are connected by air as well as rail.

Best of luck for your future travels!

19/12/2019 at 00:43

Hey! Thanks a lot for your kind message! Yeah I might give it another try one day. I guess my experience will be a lot different with locals

18/02/2020 at 09:19

We fail to understand what is your motive? Who has paid you to insult us. You appears to be a psychological case. See a doctor asap.

18/02/2020 at 16:10

I don’t see where I’m insulting “you”, nobody’s paying me to write this. I’m telling people what my Dhaka visit was like. Oh and thanks for the concern but I don’t need to see a doctor.

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Bangladesh Scenic Tours

Leading Tour Operator in Bangladesh

11 must visiting tourist attractions in Dhaka

Dhaka is the capital city of Bangladesh and it is a magical city. There are a lot of tourist attractions in Dhaka that you can’t miss. In this article, we give you a complete guideline for visiting Dhaka.

A complete guide to visit Dhaka

Want to check-in all the tourist attractions in dhaka.

Bangladesh is located in Southeast Asia and Dhaka is its capital. This is a small city with a huge population. It holds around 16 million people and the number is increasing day by day as people come here to start their life and career in this capital.

Besides, this is the place for street photography . A large number of events are available in the city to be captured. The subjects are varied and it will take around a week to cover only a portion of them.

Moreover, you can see Dhaka in some different other aspects. There are several attractive places to explore. This is the place to visit the past and create the bondage with present.

The structural relics from Mughal, colonial, and other periods will take you back in those days instantly.

If you want to know more about the old Dhaka tour , click here . You can know all the necessary information for your day-long tour in the capital city of this country.

Top tourists attractions of Dhaka

Dhakeshwari Temple

This is one of the oldest temples in the country. The saying goes that it is 1200 years old. Mangat Roy built the temple. And he was also the younger brother of Arakanese king Shri Sudharma. The person was also famous in the name as Ballalasena.

Currently, the temple is the center of activities for the Hindus living in the capital.

Read more:: Dhakeshwari Temple – The center of Hindu religion in Dhaka

Lalbagh Fort

One of the most attractive places in the capital is the Lalbagh Fort . This is a 17-th century Mughal structure. Prince Mohammed Azam started the construction of the fort. And then he handed it over to Shaista Khan, the governor of the city to end the construction. Unluckily, Shaista Khan could not complete the entire construction due to the death of Pari Bibi, his beloved daughter. The tomb of Pari Bibi is still visible in the center point of the fort. However, you will find a museum inside the fort premise exhibiting different artefacts and paintings of the Mughal era. Surely, you will feel surprised at the artefacts.

Read more:: Lalbagh Fort – interesting facts and figures

Khan Mohammad Mridha Mosque

The mosque was established in 1706 and one of the most prominent structures in the capital. It is almost similar to the fort in Lalbagh. You have to take 25 steps to get inside the mosque. The number of squat domes in the mosque is three.

Moreover, there are minarets in each corner of the mosque platform and they are pointed. So, this is the must-visit tourist attraction in Dhaka.

Read more: Khan Mohammad Mridha Mosque in Old Dhaka

Armenian Church

Armenian Church is located in Armanitola in the capital. The church derived the name from the nearby colony of Armenian people during the last part of the 17th century.

Notable numbers of Christians visit the church regularly. This is a place of tranquility. You will find a congenial atmosphere inside the church building.

Read more: Armenian Church in Old Dhaka

Star Mosque

Star Mosque is the other prime destination in the capital city of Dhaka. The mosque was built in the 18th century. Originally the mosque was built in a Mughal style. The addition of stars on the outer shell and portions brought the name as Star Mosque.

The mosque is locally known as Tara Masjid. ‘Tara’ is the Bengali synonym for Star.

There are towers in four corners of the mosque but those were altered later.

Read more: Beautiful Star Mosque (Tara Masjid) in Old Dhaka

Ahsan Manzil

Khwaja Abdul Ghani was the wealthy landlord in Dhaka in the 18th century. He was one of the planners of Dhaka city and introduced numerous modern systems for the local citizens. And Ahsan Manzil has been built on his site.

Earlier, the site that holds the building was a French Factory. And it was under the domination of Khwaja Abdul Ghani.

A terrible tornado, however, damaged Ahsan Manzil after 16 years of its construction. It was a boon for the building because it was built in a massive scale after the tornado damage.

Now, this is one of the prime visiting locations for the locals and global people as well.

Read more: Ahsan Manzil (Pink Palace) – The home of Dhaka Nawabs

River Port in Sadarghat

If you want to get some lively photos, this is a must-visit for you. You will find a large number of people of different ages and classes. They throng in the place for their respective purposes.

Besides, Sadargaht is a large river station (some term it as a river port as well) in the capital. Over 20,000 people use the port for different purposes.

Please remember, this is a place of chaos. But you will find dynamism as well in the place.

Based on all the factors, you must pay a visit to this place. Your level of experience will get a natural boost instantly after visiting the Sadarghat river station.

Read more: Sadarghat – The chaotic and dynamic river port of Dhaka

Parliament Building

US architect Louis I Kahn designed the national parliament of Bangladesh. In fact, this building is one of the finest buildings in the world too. The then government of Pakistan commissioned the parliament building to be used as the national parliament of East Pakistan.

After the partition in 1947, India and Pakistan’s separation is a historical event. And Bangladesh was known as East Pakistan. So, the construction of this finest structure aimed to hold the assembly of this part.

The construction of the National Assembly began in 1964. But due to the Liberation War of Bangladesh, there was a break in the construction. Later, the building was completed in 1982.

Now the government of Bangladesh holds assembly inside this wonderful building. You can pay a visit here and get some photos as well.

Read more: Parliament building of Bangladesh – The finest architecture of Louis Kahn

Karwan Bazar

While visiting Bangladesh, if you need something, you must visit Karwan Bazar. This is a commercial district and holds the largest wholesale market of the capital. The place is always lively and you will get lots of photography subjects.

Besides, the place is famous for the wholesale kitchen market. Interestingly, trading of the kitchen market begins at midnight and ends in the morning. The retailers get their products and reach their respective destinations with the goods to sell to customers on a daily basis.

Moreover, there some permanent shops as well and they run during the daytime too.

So, if you want to have some kitchen vegetables or any other products, you must visit the area.

Bait-ur-Rouf Mosque in Dhaka

Bait Ur Rouf Mosque

We have some preset ideas about mosques or any other religious places. But your perception level will have a change after visiting this Bait Ur Rouf mosque. This is the wonder of modern architecture.

But the typical elements that represent Islamic philosophy are absent. For instance, there are no minarets or domes in the mosque. Besides, there are porous brick walls for creating a calm prayer hall.

The skylight above provides a sufficient amount of light for conducting prayers. Architect Maria Tabassum designed the mosque following the Sultanate mosques.

You can visit the mosque too.

Liberation War Museum

If you want to know the history of the liberation of Bangladesh in brief, this is a must visiting place for you.

After a long and bloody battle with Pakistan, Bangladesh was born in 1971. A large number of people lost their lives, properties for the sake of the independence of the country. Some of the exhibits show how the sacrifices of the people were in those days.

The museum also contains the tokens of Pakistan’s military cruelty on helpless Bengali people.

So, this is another tourist attractions in Dhaka that you must visit.

You can visit us if you want. We are one of the leading tour operator in Bangladesh that provides various types of tour packages like Old Dhaka Tour , Dhaka Museum Tour , Dhaka Photography tour and National Assembly Tour . Thanks for reading this article. Stay with us. Happy travelling.

You may also like...

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• How To Reach Dhaka
• Restaurants in Dhaka
• Things To Do in Dhaka
• Dhaka Itineraries
• Dhaka Tours
• Dhaka Hotels

Top Tourist Attractions in Dhaka

• Things To Do In Dhaka

Best Things To Do in Dhaka, Bangladesh

Have you ever visited a new place and felt ‘wow’ about it? For many visitors, it happens at Dhaka.

Dhaka may not be as popular as other cities in Bangladesh, but don’t let that fool you. Dhaka is a smaller but beautiful upcoming tourist destination that is worth a visit. You will be surprised by some of the unique things to do and places you can explore at this hidden destination.

You might wish to revisit it someday again, to take a break and relax at Dhaka.

If you have plans to visit Bangladesh and are not sure if Dhaka should be included in your itinerary, keep reading. In this list, we have put together some of the things to do in Dhaka and around. We have a hunch that if you include this city in your travel plans, you will be thrilled you did so.

• Adventure activities in Dhaka
• Things to do with Family & Kids in Dhaka
• Leisure Activities in Dhaka
• Entertainment Activities in Dhaka
• Historical Places in Dhaka
• Museums in Dhaka

Tourist Attractions in Dhaka

Here is the list of things to do in Dhaka and tourist attractions in city.

Hatir Jheel

View Point, Bridge

Address: Dhaka, Bangladesh

Nandan Park

Outdoors, Amusement Park, Water Park, Entertainment

Address: Baroipara, Nabinagar - Chandra Highway, Savar, Dhaka, Bangladesh

Bangladesh National Museum

Address:  Shahbagh Rd, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh

Lalbagh Fort

Historical Site, Fort

Address: Lalbagh Rd, Dhaka, Bangladesh

Address: Moulana Bhasani Rd, Dhaka 1217, Bangladesh

Ahsan Manzil

Address: 2/3 Islampur Rd, Dhaka, Bangladesh

Gulshan Lake Park

Address: Rd No 63, Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh

Central Shaheed Minar

Address: Secretariate Road, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh

Bangladesh Air Force Museum

Specialty Museum

Address: BAF Base Bashar, Begum Rokeya Avenue, Dhaka, Bangladesh

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Home » Travel Guides » Bangladesh » 15 Best Places to Visit in Bangladesh

15 Best Places to Visit in Bangladesh

Covered in greenery as well as undulating hills. Bangladesh echoes with the Muslim call to prayer as well as Buddhist chants, and is one of the most mysterious and wonderful lands in Asia. Bangladesh is the neighbor of India, but you will find a less developed and more laid back atmosphere here.

The country had a tumultuous past that saw it gain freedom from first the British and then from Pakistani rule. When you consider that all this happened in the 20th century, it just goes to show what a turbulent recent past Bangladesh has had to endure. As a result, it offers a slice of authentic life to travelers who want an untainted image of the region.

The people of Bangladesh are famously friendly and welcoming and the country is full of cultural wonders such as the tea covered highlands of Srimangal to the gorgeous golden sands of Cox’s Bazar, which is actually the third longest beach in the world. Other highlights include bustling cities like Dhaka as well as areas of rural paradise like the Sundarbans National Park.

Here are the best places to visit in Bangladesh :

1. Cox’s Bazar

Spilling out into the Bay of Bengal is Cox’s Bazar, an area covered in salty fishing skiffs and bustling jetties.

This little town in the far south-east of Bangladesh is known for its stunning beach which stretches for an amazing 120 kilometers from north to south along the side of the balmy Indian Ocean.

This is the third longest beach on the planet and you will find local fishermen reeling in the day’s catch as well as bubbling rock pools and crashing turquoise waves that make this a great spot for surfing.

2. The Sundarbans

The Sundarbans are located at the point where the mighty waterways of the Brahmaputra and the scared Ganges crash into each other at the edge of the Bay of Bengal.

As you would expect, the area is also covered in spectacular wildlife and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Here you will find Bengal tigers stalking the mangroves as well as rhesus macaques swinging in the canopies.

Other highlights include chitals and you will also find local huts dotted around the area and hiding beneath waxy palm trees.

It may seem a world away from the wilds of area like the Sundarbans mangroves but the city of Dhaka offers you a jungle of a different kind.

Sprawling along the Buriganga River, Dhaka used to be the home of the British Raj during the colonial period as well as Mughal princes and the likes of Shah Jahan (the architect of the iconic Taj Mahal). Nowadays more than 17 million people call this city home and you can expect temples, churches, mosques monuments, and colorful and aromatic bazaars.

Make sure to also check out the curry and golap eateries of Old Dhaka while you are here.

4. Srimangal

Srimangal is the tea-growing capital of Bangladesh and the area is a riot of different hues of green.

The area is famous for its rains which help the tea to grow and you will find a sea of different plantations here as you explore the highlands and the hamlets that make up Srimangal.

On a trip here make sure to visit a local tea processing plant which will usually include a trip to a tasting house so that you can enjoy a cup of fragrant tea whilst enjoying the views over the rippling fields.

Hiking is also poplar in the area although the undulating landscapes mean that some hikes are more challenging than others.

5. Chittagong

Chittagong has a population of 2.5 million which is nothing when you compare it to other cities like Dhaka.

That said, this frenetic port town is still worth a visit, particularly if you are traveling to the beautiful Hill Tracts of Bangladesh.

These gorgeous trails that include pretty Foy’s Lake are hidden along scenic valleys and Chittagong is widely considered to be the jumping off point if you are planning a trek.

In the city proper you will find Chittagong Ship Breaking Yard where you can see hulking tankers being ripped apart, and other spots of interest include the shrine of Sufi Amanat Khan, one of the most revered saints in Bangladesh.

6. Rangamati

Set amongst the beautiful Chittagong Hill Tracts is the delightful mountain town of Rangamati which is a serene and peaceful alternative to many of Bangladesh’s frantic cities.

The town sits on the banks of Kaptai Lake which is known for its blue and green waters as well as the woodlands that surround it.

Small, colorfully painted boats bob on the surface of the lake and if you are lucky then you may see an Asian elephant strolled along the riverbank.

The main draw here is the hiking and wildlife excursions as well as the golden statue of Buddha Dhatu Jadi.

Other top spots to visit also include the Parjatan Hanging Bridge and the regal palaces of the old Chakma Raj.

7. Bandarban

Surrounded by the Muranja, Wayla, and Chimbook mountains that rise to nearly 1,000 meters above sea level is the stunning town of Bandaran.

The area is covered in misty green and is home to tobacco farms and hilltop lookouts and there is also a lively bazaar where you will find arts and crafts from the Shan tribes from Myanmar across the border.

Other reasons to come here include lazy bamboo boat rides along the majestic River Sangu as well as the mighty Nilgiri Hill and the crashing waters of the Jadipai Waterfall.

8. Saint Martin

The little enclave of Saint Martin is like nowhere else in Bangladesh as this is the only coral island in the country.

The region is covered in shifting sands and lapping seas, all nestled close to coconut groves.

In many ways it looks more like the Caribbean than South Asia, and you will find delicious seafood here including fiery curries.

Scuba diving is also a popular pastime, so if you want to check out some of the country’s amazing aquatic life then this is the place to do it.

9. Paharpur

Paharpur is a pint-sized town which is most well known for the Naogaon District where you will find UNESCO World Heritage Site ruins called Somapura Mahavihara.

This spot is said to be one of the most fascinating Buddhist archeological sites in South Asia and takes the form of a large redbrick quadrangle which is bisected with alleys and chambers that would have been meditation rooms in days of old.

Make sure to check out the ornate stone work which dates back to the 8th century.

10. Kuakata

Kuakata Beach juts out into the Indian Ocean from the southern side of the river islands of central Bangladesh.

One of the great reasons to come here is to watch the sunset over the sea with the glowing Sundarbans in the distance.

The beach is fringed with tropical palm trees and you will also find small rivers that cut through the land to the Bay of Bengal.

This area of Bangladesh is less visited by tourists so if you are looking for the road less traveled then this is a good spot to choose.

Some of the people you will see here are the local fisherman and you can sample delicious curried crab and lobster.

Located in the lush highlands of the north of the country, Sylhet is covered in tropical forests and tea plantations.

This part of Bangladesh has a history that dates back 800 years and you will find Hindu shrines in Jaflong that are slowly being taken over by the lush shrubbery.

In the center of Sylhet you will find markets selling piles of tea leaves and locals cycling around town.

You will also find the Bangladesh-India border here at Tamabil-Jaflong as well as the Lawacherra Rainforest which is known for its resident leopards.

12. Gaur (Lakhnauti)

The ancient city of Gaur sits on the Indian border and is located in north-eastern Bangladesh.

Nowadays the city is ruined and uninhabited and you will see red-hued arches as well as towers and crumbling monuments.

Power struggles between the Afghans and the Mughals meant that the town was abandoned in the 16th century and you should make sure not to miss the relics here such as the carved stone reliefs in the Eunuchs’ Mosque and the royal tombs.

13. Bagerhat

Bagerhat is not as famous as Dhaka or Srimangal but this peaceful city in the south west of the country has an array of historic attractions that you can enjoy at a slower pace.

The city was founded in the 15th century by the Sufi Saint Khan Jahan Ali and it is the home of the Shait Gumbad Mosque.

Here you will find towering domes and you can also take a trip to the tomb of Saint Khan Jahan Ali which is usually covered with offerings and surrounded by chanting pilgrims.

14. Barisal

If you were to look at Barisal from above then it would resemble a patchwork of muddy brown and deep green fields.

This river town on the Ganges Delta is covered in fields of shrimp farms and rice paddies and if you make it here then be sure to check out the floating markets that sell local vegetables, fruits, and seafood.

15. Sonargaon

Sonargaon used to be a thriving trading hub but now it is something of a ghost town that straddles the Ganges.

Here you will find eerie carved mansions and docks, old mosques, and jungle vines twisting in between everything.

If you want to see a completely different side of Bangladesh that many people don’t experience, then this is the place to come.

15 Best Places to Visit in Bangladesh:

• Cox’s Bazar
• The Sundarbans
• Saint Martin
• Gaur (Lakhnauti)

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The 20 Best Tourist Attractions You Must See in Dhaka Division

Dhaka is the capital of Bangladesh which is located in the central portion. It is a city of versatility and a lot of art & structure. There are a lot of places to go and things to do inside and near Dhaka.

Dhaka is famous for so many things. It is called the city of the mosque or the city of rickshaw (a local transport).

“Travel expands the mind and fills the gap.” ~ Sheda Savage

Here are the 20 best places to visit in Dhaka:

01. Lalbagh Fort (Also Fort Aurangabad)

It is located in the southern portion of the city which is called Dhaka south city. It is a well-preserved archeological structure that was built in the seventh century. A lot of people visit the place and enjoy the traditional food from Puran Dhaka nearby.

02. Ahsan Manzil

Ahsan manzil is also a historical structure that exhibits the engineering subtlety of hundred years earlier.

It is located in their southern part of the city beside the Buriganag River.

03. Sonargaon

Sonargapn has quite a lot of historical evidence. The ancient Panam city was very famous and it is located in narayongong which is not very far from Dhaka city.

04. Bangabandhu Safari Park

This safari park is located in a neighboring district north to Dhaka. There are a lot of animals and birds in the park. You can get on their special bus and roam around the park.

05. Curzon Hall

It is a very famous building in Dhaka city which was built during the British colonization. Now it is inherited by the University of Dhaka. It is also a very good spot to enjoy the evening with friends.

06. Bangladesh National Museum

Here you will find a lot of evidence of ancient civilization and early technological & archaeological structure remanence. There is a lot of significant things and evidence of the liberation war of the county.

07. Dhakeshwari Temple

It is a central temple of the people of the Hindu religion. During the festival of Durga pooja, a lot of people from home and abroad come here to visit the temple.

08. The National Parliament

The parliament of the country is a beautiful building surrounded by a lake. The view from the outside is amazing. Previously it was open for everyone now you can see the well-engineered building from the outside only.

09. Novo Theater

It is a place of fun activity. The building looks amazing from the outside and inside you can experience a 5D show.

10. Fantasy Kingdom

It is a theme park with a lot of amazing rides. There is a lot of water activities inside the water kingdom zone in the park.

11. Dhaka Zoo

Dhaka zoo is located in the northern town of Mirpur. There is a plethora of wild animals and unique birds there.

12. Shapla Bill

Recently it has been quite popular. It is a simple lake. But during the rainy season, a lot of water Lilly bloom here and make an amazing view. You can hire a bot to roam around the lake.

13. Shalbon (National Park)

The Dhaka-Mymensingh highway is an amazing road to go for a long drive or road trip.

In Gazipur you will find the Shalbon which is a beautiful jungle. The roadside views are just awesome.

14. Moinot Mini Beach

Basically, it is a bank of the river Padma. But the views are breathtaking and the waves come to the river give a vibe of the sea. There are seating arrangements with an umbrella.

15. Baitul Mukarram Mosque

It is the national mosque of the country. The mosque is huge and the looks amazing from the outside. A lot of people come here each week for Jumma prayer.

16. Independent Monument

It is a long glass tower located in Shworardi Uddan. It was built in the respect of the heroes of the liberation war.

17. Bashundhara City

It is a shopping mall with many facilities. There is a movie theater, food court, gaming zone, and other fun activities. Many people come here for shopping and others come here to visit.

18. National Martyrs' Memorial (Jatiya Smriti Saudha)

It is a large symbolic monument located in Savar. It was built as the memory of the liberation war in 1971. A lot of people visit the place every day.

19. Mausoleum of Three Leaders

It is located in Shourawardi Udyan. It is the cemetery of the 3 post fundamental leaders of the country.

20. Chuti Resort

It is a beautiful resort in Gazipur. You can go there to enjoy your family time.

The environment is very good and you will be able to connect to nature. They have BBQ facilities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

+ where should i go in dhaka division.

You can go to Lalbagh Fort, Sonargaon, Bangabandhu Safari Park, Ahsan Manzil, Bangladesh National Museum, Jatiya Smriti Saudha, Novo Theater, Fantasy Kingdom, Shapla Bill, Moinot Mini Beach, etc.

+ What should I do if I have seen everything in Dhaka Division?

You should visit most attractive tourist places in Cox's Bazar, Chittagong, Sylhet etc. Or shop at the Jamuna Future Park, Bashundhara City and any other local market.

+ What should you not miss in Dhaka Division?

You should visit Bangabandhu Safari Park at Gazipur.

+ What is worth visiting in Dhaka City?

A trip to Dhaka City isn't complete without a visit to the Lalbagh Fort.

+ What are the best outdoor activities in Dhaka City?

According to traveller and tourist guide, the best outdoor activities are 300 Feet Road, Dhaka Zoo, National Botanical Garden, Curzon Hall, Ramna Park, Baldha Gardens, Gulshan Lake, etc.

+ Is there have any lakes to outing in Dhaka city?

Yeah, there are several lakes within Dhaka city, including Dhanmondi lake, Gulshan lake, Banani lake, Baridhara DOHS, Ramna, Uttar, Hatirjheel, Shahjadpur and 300 Foot Road Prionti Lake.

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Places to Visit in Bangladesh

• Places To Visit

Tourist Places In Bangladesh

Here is the list of best places to visit in bangladesh:.

Rajshahi is a vibrant city located on the Padma River's plains bounded on the north, west, and east by Paba Upazila. It is situated near the Bangladesh-India border and is surrounded by the towns of Kathakali and Nowhata.  Rajshahi captivates travelers through its world-class architecture, cultural institutions, and narrow cobblestone streets. It overflows with storybook charm due to its colorful buildings, lush green spaces, picturesque gardens, and turreted castles.  If you're hunting for the best places to see in Rajshahi, you can visit the Varendra Research Museum, a storehouse of artifacts and architectural exhibits. You can also visit Hardinge Bridge constructed on the Padma river and take a fascinating tour of Paharpur Buddhist Bihar. If you're a spiritual enthusiast, you can also visit Puthia Temple Complex, which is a large Annik temple. No trip is complete without trying out some of the best activities that guarantee unlimited thrill and excitement to the visitors. You can seek enlightenment at Choto Sona Mosque and peek into the city's rich history at Mahasthangarh Museum. Rajshahi is the coldest region in Bangladesh, with an average high temperature of 30 degrees centigrade. The best time for traveling to this city is from October to March as the weather remains pleasant.

Sylhet is a beautiful city in Bangladesh located on the bank of the River Surma in northeastern Bengal. It is the district-headquarters and the divisional headquarters of Sunamganj, Moulvibazar, Habiganj, and Sylhet District. The postcard-perfect city has all the makings of an idyllic fairy tale world: a scenic harbor, sweeping views of the surrounding mountain group, and colorful rows of wooden houses. With its peaceful, tree-lined parks and cobblestone streets, it's not hard to see Sylhet as one of the most beautiful fairytale settings come to life. Sylhet is home to some of the most iconic sites you should definitely include in your bucket list. You can visit Manipuri Rajbari, a significant piece of Sylhet's architecture, and take a tour of Hakaluki Haor, a marsh wetland ecosystem with a wide range of biodiversity. If you're looking for endless fun and excitement, you can visit Dreamland Park that offers some of the best rides.  Some of the best activities that you must try in Sylhet are enjoying a boat ride, shopping at the local stores, and sampling the lip-smacking cuisines. You can enjoy camping on the riverbank, explore Crusader Shah Syed Nasir Uddin's shrine, and take a trip to the Ratargul Swamp Forest.  The weather in Sylhet is generally temperate and warm, with a good amount of rainfall. The average annual temperature ranges around 23.6 °C, and annual rainfall is 198.7 inches.

Dhaka is the largest city in South East Asia, situated on the northern side of the Buriganga River. It is situated in central Bangladesh on the lower reaches of the Delta Ganges.  Dhaka is Bangladesh's megacity with swathes of green spaces, beautiful museums, and storied red-brick facades. Here, glossy high-rises are beautifully juxtaposed against thousands-year-old mosques, giving the city a charismatic appeal you won't find anywhere else.  There are many popular attractions in Dhaka that will leave you spoilt for choices during your tour. You can visit the Ahsan Manzil museum to have a glimpse of the Mughal lifestyle and head to Lalbagh Kella that is renowned for its architectural beauty. Dhakeshwari Mandir, The Khan Muhammad Mirza Mosque, and Baitul Mukarram are the most famous spiritual attractions of the city.  Some of the best things to do in Dhaka for an ultimate experience are enjoying a boat ride to Buriganga, strolling around Gulshan Lake Park, and enjoying fun rides at Nandan Park. You can also learn about the rich history and culture of Dhaka by visiting the Bangladesh National Museum. Dhaka experiences a tropical wet, and humid climate with a distinct monsoonal season.  The temperature mostly varies from 93°F to 57°F and is rarely above 98°F or below 52°F.

Khulna is the third-largest city in Bangladesh, located in the central part of the country. It lies on the bank of the Rupsha river and is served by Port of Mongla which is the second-largest seaport in the country. Khulna remains a popular draw for the tourists due to its lush foliage, traditional shophouses, and best skylines. It is one of the most vibrant cities in Bangladesh that has glammed up with contemporary art galleries, religious centers, and boutiques. From fantastically craggy mountain ranges to beaches, you'll be greeted by spectacular vistas over here.  There are many impressive sites in Khulna that deserve the topmost spot in your itinerary. You can visit Shait Gumbad Mosque, Ron Jaipur Mosque, and Tomb of Khan Jahan Ali to satiate your spiritual soul. To learn about this city's rich history, you can take a tour of the Bagerhat Museum.  If you're looking for some of the best things to do in Khulna, you can admire the architectural beauty of the Nine-Domed Mosque and watch how the legal proceedings are carried out at High Court Building.  You can also learn about the life of Rabindranath Tagore at Kuthibari.  Khulna experiences temperate and humid weather with a good amount of rainfall. June is the wettest month, with 368mm rainfall on average.

Best of Kathmandu

Chattogram is a financial center and a major coastal city in Southeastern Bangladesh. It is situated on the banks of the River Karnaphuli between the Bay of Bengal and the Chittagong Hill Tracts. Chattogram is a wonderland for visitors looking for a digital detox from the fast-paced city life. On one side, you can see breathtaking mountain ranges overlooking the sea, and on the other is the vast ocean's tranquil water. Due to its geographical position, sea, lush greenery, and mountain, there is no other city in Bangladesh that offers similar geodiversity. If you're looking for the best places to visit during your Chattogram, you must head to Patenga Beach, where you can soak the sun and enjoy picturesque views. You should also visit Chandranath Hill & Temple, a popular pilgrimage site, and explore Rangamati, a hilly district.  Some of the best things that you can try during your Chattogram tour are enjoying a scenic walk in Sajek Valley and boating at Kaptai Lake. You can also hike up to Nilgiri Mountain and enjoy shopping at Cox's Bazar. Chattogram experiences dry and humid weather, and July is the hottest month of the year. January is the coldest month, with an average temperature of 15.8°C.

Best of Nepal

Other Attractions

Cox's bazar.

The Sundarbans

Lalbagh Fort

Saint Martin

Amiakhum Waterfall

Bangladesh National Parliament

Ahsan Manzil Museum

Liberation War Museum

Baitul Mukarram National Mosque

Banglar Taj Mahal

Armenian Church

National Botanical Garden Dhaka

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• Amusement Parks
• Nature Attractions
• Dhaka Division

Tourist Attractions in Dhaka

There are 56 tourist attractions found in Dhaka . This is 29% of all tourist attractions listed in Dhaka Division. The major types of tourist attractions listed here are landmarks and museums . Then there is also amusement parks listed in Dhaka. You may find a list of all categories of Dhaka attractions on this page. Click on a category to find all attractions of Dhaka of that type.

Nestled on the banks of the majestic Buriganga River , Dhaka , the vibrant capital city of Bangladesh, beckons travelers with its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. This sprawling district, encompassing two city corporations and five sub-districts including Dhamrai, Dohar, Keraniganj, Nawabganj, and Savar, holds a pivotal position as the economic, cultural, and political heart of the country.

Renowned for more than just being the capital, Dhaka encapsulates a tapestry of historical narratives, each corner echoing stories of Mughal emperors and the evolution of a thriving city. The very name "Dhaka" is steeped in legend, with roots traced back to the drumbeats ordered by Subadar Islam Khan upon its declaration as the capital by Mughal Emperor Jahangir.

Today, Dhaka stands as a bustling metropolis, housing the backbone of Bangladesh's economy — the apparel industry. The city and its sub-districts, particularly Savar, host a multitude of garment industries, playing a pivotal role in the nation's economic landscape and employment.

As you traverse this district, you'll encounter a blend of ancient and modern, with the old Dhaka along the Buriganga River boasting a history spanning over four centuries. Dhaka's historical landmarks, such as the National Museum , Lalbagh Fort , Ahsan Manzil , Bara Katra , Star Mosque , and the Satmasjid , tell tales of bygone eras.

This district is not just a testament to the past; it's a dynamic hub where history meets commerce and culture. The National Martyr’s Monument, Jatiyo Smriti Soudho , standing proudly in Savar, pays homage to the sacrifices that shaped the nation's identity.

Embark on a journey through Dhaka's top 10 places, each offering a glimpse into the cultural and historical soul of this magnificent city. Explore the stories woven into the fabric of Dhaka — where tradition meets modernity, and every corner invites you to unravel the layers of its captivating history.

Dhaka Map with Tourist Attractions

Find tourist attractions in Dhaka and nearby locations using the following map.

Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Dhaka

Visit the top tourist attractions in Dhaka . Click on a tourist attraction bellow to find the detailed information.

Dhaka Tourist Attractions in the Following Categories

All tourist places and attractions in Dhaka are grouped in the following categories. Click on a category bellow to find all the attractions of that type.

Directions to Go

Dhaka is accessible internationally by air and by land through India only. Most of the international aviation companies operate flights to Dhaka from many of the countries in the world including USA, Canada, Australia and many European and African nations.

Related Articles

The following articles will provide you with interesting information, useful tips and insights about tourist attractions in Dhaka.

Exploring Bangladesh: Perfect Tour Planning for Eid-ul-Adha Holidays

Historic landmarks of bangladesh, find in dhaka.

We have listed tourist places of Dhaka in the following categories. Please click on one of them to find all Dhaka attractions of that type.

• Amusement Parks (12)
• Museums (19)
• Landmarks (17)
• Nature Attractions (9)

Add New Attraction

Is there an interesting tourist attraction missing in Dhaka? Please spare a minute to inform us the details of this attraction.

United News of Bangladesh (UNB)

Stronger tobacco control law needed to ban designated smoking areas: Speakers

Posted: November 29, 2023 | Last updated: November 29, 2023

Dhaka, Nov. 29 -- A stronger tobacco control law is needed to abolish designated smoking areas in public places, said Aviation and Tourism Journalist Forum Bangladesh (ATJFB) on Wednesday.

This was said during a virtual meeting on strengthening the tobacco control law organised by Dhaka Ahsania Mission in association with media workers on Wednesday.

Mokhleshur Rahman, deputy director, Health Sector at Dhaka Ahsania Mission chaired the programme.

Programme Manager of Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids Bangladesh Abdus Salam Miah, Communication Manager Humaira Sultana and Tanjib Anwar, Online Incharge of BASS, and President of ATJFB were also present at the meeting.

Also read: DORP holds orientation program on strengthening tobacco control law

Md Shariful Islam, coordinator of Tobacco Control Project, presented the main article at the event.

Non-smokers are suffering from indirect smoking due to the presence of smoking zones in public places, restaurants, and public transport. This increases the risk of heart disease by 85 percent. On the other hand, 73 percent of restaurants use smoking zones to display tobacco company advertising materials, he said.

Already, 67 countries in the world have banned smoking in public places, he added.

Also read: Continued interference of tobacco companies a major obstacle to tobacco-free Bangladesh

If the draft that the Ministry of Health has prepared for further amendments to the Tobacco Control Act is passed, the law will be consistent and stronger with the FCTC in the country. As a result, by 2040, the establishment of tobacco-free Bangladesh announced by the Honourable Prime Minister will be accelerated, said Mokhleshur.

Non-smokers as well as service holders are victims of indirect smoking if there are designated smoking areas in various public places, including hotels, restaurants, and public transport. Several countries in Southeast Asia, including Thailand, Nepal, and Afghanistan, have done well in the smoke-free environment index, but Bangladesh is far behind in this regard, said Abdus Salam.

However, if the draft amendment containing the proposal to cancel DSA is passed, Bangladesh will also join the ranks of these countries.

DBC Special correspondent Rajeev Ghosh, Bangla Tribune Senior Reporter Akbar Hossain, Channel 24's Mahfuz Kamal, among others, attended the programmne.

Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from United News of Bangladesh.

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