Dhaka is the capital city of Bangladesh, in southern Asia. Set beside the Buriganga River, it’s at the center of national government, trade, and culture. The Old Town of Dhaka is where the historic buildings of the city are concentrated, a fine example of 17th-century Mughal architecture that has remained well-preserved through the test of time.
Here you will find a list of the top 10 places to visit in Dhaka that you should not miss at all:
1. Ahsan Manzil (Pink Palace)
City's wealthiest proprietor, Nawab Abdul Gani built this Check out our Ahsan Manzil which used to be the main residence of the nawab and their seating. It was built on the site of an old French factory in 1872. Due to the natural climate, few portions of this place were destroyed by the storm after 16 years of its completion, however, it was rebuilt and made significant changes which expanded the vision of it, which ought not to be missed by the tourists.
2. Khan Mohammad Masjid
The mosque was built in the early 18th century by Khan Muhammad Mridha, a wealthy landlord and merchant who was a prominent figure in Dhaka during the Mughal period. The mosque is located in the heart of Old Dhaka, near several other historic landmarks, including Lalbagh Fort and Ahsan Manzil.
3. Lalbag Fort
Located inside the busy Dhaka city, this small fort is well maintained by the Government. The fort has a tomb inside which is locked for entry, it has a man-made fountain replicating the Mughal architecture of a fountain with a Garden. This fort houses a mosque, a dried lake, residential buildings for officials of the rulers, water storage facility. Also, it houses a bathhouse used by the royals with paintings of the usage of the bathhouse. Every day, a good number of people visit here. The entry fee is there.
4. Dhakeshwari Temple
Mangat Ray, renowned as Ballalasena, more enthusiastic kin of Arakanese lord Shri Sudharma, son of well-known Arakanese ruler Raja Malhana also known as Husen Shah capitalized 1,200 years of age Hindu sanctuary worked. This is the central zone of the Hindu religion in Dhaka. It is a place within the busy old Dhaka street, surroundings give a feel of a mixture of old and new Dhaka. Hindu religious believers worship here during Hindu festivals and Puja, this place is the most vibrant and festive.
5. National Parliament House
One of the finest structures in the world which is the round of Bangladesh and the best attraction of Dhaka city tour. This is a must-visit place in Dhaka city. A symbol of the people's power and the unique creation of the famous architect Louis Kahn. World's most beautiful Parliament Building according to The Time Magazine!
6. Shahid Minar
Symbol of Bengali nationalism. This monument was built to commemorate the martyrs of the historic Language movement of 1952(the only one-language movement in the world's history). Hundreds and thousands of people with floral wreaths and bouquets gather on 21 February every year to pay respect in a solemn atmosphere. Celebrations begin at zero hours midnight.
7. Armenian Church
The Armenian church, built in 1791, in Armenitola of old Dhaka is known as the 'Armenian Church'. This traditional church relates to the history of Armenians in Dhaka. The name Armenitola or some people say as Armanitola is also derived from the Armenian's presence in Dhaka. It is said that during their stay in Dhaka, they used this small place of worship before the construction of this historical church. Once there was an Armenian cemetery where the church now stands at this present day.
8. Star Mosque
In the mid-eighteenth century, the Mughal emperor built this mosque giving the flavor of their style which eventually became the City's most visited tourist spot in Dhaka. Though later on it was customized and made some changes, the sense of Mughal is still present there in the corner towers and it’s fully decorated with mosaic stars along with the name sparkling in front of it.
9. Bangladesh National Museum
The Bangladesh National Museum is a 3-floor museum that showcases the art, architecture, ecology, culture, and history of Bengal and Bangladesh. This museum is preserved by the government & there is an admission fee, however, it is very affordable relatively for the museum entry of a traveler. There is a section that showcases the daily cultural practices of Bangladeshis, such as spices, clothes, crafts, and farming practices. It also includes the history of the tribal people of Bangladesh. There is also an extensive art and archeological art collection, with terracotta, bronze, and other metalwork architectures, some of which date from back to 2 BC!
10. New Market
This market is where the locals go to buy their stuff. Most places in Dhaka are not for tourists, as there are none. But everybody is happy to see you!! This is a useful shopping place in the town; it is good for jewelry, groceries, ceramics, shoes & low-cost garments (non-branded). They have an open parking place. Not suitable for hot weather. Good for books also. This is a great place to bargain and make great deals!
The best time to visit Dhaka is between February and May when the temperatures are warm while remaining dry enough to explore the city. The Poila Baishakh festival which is Bengali New Year is celebrated in April, bringing a festive mood throughout the city, with parades running across the streets.