9+ Things to Do in Dhaka Bangladesh

Let me tell you a bit about Bangladesh.

Now, most of the country is as flat as a pancake, but don’t let that fool you.

It’s home to two powerhouse rivers, the Ganges and the Jamuna, which come together right before the capital city of Dhaka.

And man, when those two bad boys converge, they create a waterway maze that’ll blow your mind.

I remember when I visited Dhaka, I was blown away by the size of the delta that these rivers form.

It’s massive, and it’s the gateway to the capital city.

But, yo, let me tell you, when those monsoon rains hit, those rivers turn into something else entirely.

They overflow like crazy, and it’s like the whole city is underwater.

But here’s the thing, folks.

While rural families live in communities of bamboo houses built on mud embankments along the river, travel by canoe and all that, the center of Dhaka is a whole different ball game.

It’s like two different worlds collide.

The urban city center is a stark contrast to the hard reality of the rural communities.

Anyway, if you’re ever in Bangladesh, don’t miss out on seeing these mighty rivers and the incredible delta they create.

Just make sure you bring a raincoat because those monsoons can sneak up on you real quick.

Best Time to visit Dhaka?

You’ve finally decided to embark on an adventure to the bustling city of Dhaka—get ready for a wild ride!

So, you’re probably wondering, “When is the best time to visit this vibrant city?” Well, let me spill the beans for you!

First things first, let’s talk about the weather.

Dhaka, oh boy, it can get hot and humid like a sauna on steroids!

Summer in Dhaka?

Unless you want to melt like an ice cream cone left out in the scorching sun, you might want to reconsider your timing.

Temperatures can soar up to a sizzling 35°C (95°F) with enough humidity to make your hair look like you just stepped out of a horror movie.

Now, don’t let that scare you away!

Dhaka has its charms in every season, and there’s a sweet spot you should aim for.

If you want to dodge the sweat-drenched shirts and stickiness, your best bet is to visit during the winter months, from November to February.

The temperature drops to a comfortable 20-25°C (68-77°F), and you can finally breathe without feeling like you’re inhaling steam.

But hey, keep in mind that winter in Dhaka means more than just pleasant weather.

It’s the perfect time to indulge in some local festivities!

Imagine strolling through the vibrant streets during the Dhaka International Trade Fair in January, surrounded by colorful stalls selling everything from traditional handicrafts to mouth-watering street food.

Or picture yourself grooving to the beats of the Dhaka World Music Festival, where you can witness talented musicians from all over the globe rocking the stage.

So, if you’re a fan of pleasant temperatures and exciting events, winter is your best buddy in Dhaka.

But hold your horses, we’re not done yet!

Let’s talk monsoon season, the time when Dhaka transforms into a water park without the slides.

From June to September, Dhaka experiences heavy rainfall, turning the streets into rivers and giving you a front-row seat to a real-life water ballet.

Now, I know what you’re thinking. “That doesn’t sound very appealing.” Well, guess what?

There’s a silver lining to this soggy situation!

The rain brings out a unique beauty in Dhaka, with lush greenery sprouting all around and the fragrance of wet soil filling the air.

Plus, who doesn’t love an excuse to indulge in delicious comfort food while watching the rain pour outside?

Dhaka’s street food scene is on fire, and you can cozy up with some mouthwatering biryani or crispy jhalmuri while nature puts on a watery show.

Best things to do in Dhaka

Alright, my friend, get ready to have a blast in Dhaka, the city that never sleeps (seriously, it’s like they gave the alarm clock to the entire population).

Now, let me tell you, Dhaka has so many amazing things to offer that you’ll be as excited as a kid in a candy store (but with way more cultural experiences and way fewer cavities).

From exploring historical sites that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a time machine to indulging in street food that will make your taste buds do a happy dance, Dhaka has got it all:

Liberation War Museum

The Liberation War Museum is located in the central part of the city and holds a lot of information about war and how the country was liberated from its early colonizers.

Aside from lots of images there is also a film that will make you understand the hardship this country has experienced as well as fully comprehend the birth of a nation and its journey to total independence — finally granted in 1971.

The bloody war, its gruesome atrocities, kidnappings, genocides, and the brave heroes who fought until the end are all proudly displayed inside this very touching museum about Bengali’s history.

The National Memorial

The National Memorial is an icon of the country that is worth visiting even if it is in the outskirts of Dhaka City.

This is a large memorial that commemorates the war with India and the creation of the state of Bangladesh.

The monument is very well maintained.

It does not take much time to visit the Memorial Center.

You don’t need a guide to understand what this monument means, you can simply ask any locals who frequent the place (mostly students) and they will proudly tell the story of the brave soldiers of Bangladesh and why they are being honored on this park and promenade area.

When in Dhaka, this monument is worth taking time to see; you will better understand its significant role in the nation’s history.

It’s great to take the family and enjoy a lovely afternoon at the National Memorial.

Take great care with the heat and take plenty of sunscreen as it gets very hot indeed especially during the humid summer season.

There are several parks nearby that you can also visit.

If you don’t have a car, try the rickshaw and you can safely go around the other points of interest in Dhaka City.

National Parliament House

The National Parliament House, popularly known as the Jatiyo Sangshad Building of Bangladesh, is situated in the capital city of Dhaka.

It was created by a world-famous architect named Louis Kahn and is one of the largest legal complexes in the world.

Unfortunately, public access is not allowed;

you can only visit the heavily guarded building and surrounding large open spaces from a great distance.

However, it is architecturally interesting and easily visible from all parts of the city.

Having no visitor access makes it quite inadequate as a major tourist attraction of the city.

Picture taking is allowed only from a distance with the imposing building serving as a good background.

Fun Things to Do in Dhaka?

Shahid Minar

During 1952, Bangladesh used to be controlled by Pakistan.

In order to enforce their superiority, they tried to wipe out the culture of the country by declaring Urdu (their national language) the official dialect of the people in Dhaka City.

But the students of Dhaka Medical College, the University of Dhaka, and a wide range of other colleges and private sectors protested against the implementation of such law.

They fought with the Pakistani soldiers in this area and they were all shot at, injured, ridiculed — and most of them died.

It happened on a fateful day, February 21, 1952 at this landmark that is now called the Shahid Minar.

In recognition of that bravery, the landmark was constructed and the horrible date was declared as a National Day of Mourning.

Today, these brave heroes are remembered annually with a commemorative celebration that is filled with songs, film showings, documentaries, prayers, and flowers offered for each of the departed ones.

Lalbagh Fort

The Lalbagh Fort is a beautiful mausoleum constructed and designed in Mughal style but do not expect a “Taj Mahal” (another good example of Mughal architecture), for it is totally different from the other famous tourist site in India.

The old building and fortress is well kept along with the garden and the walled semi-dilapidated mosque side.

It holds a small corner of the Mughal archeology in the now ultra-modern Dhaka.

Pictures can be taken and you can explore the Old Dhaka that is just right across this huge fort.

Once out, you can get lost in the alleys of old Dhaka and try the unique cuisine and special treat dhimaya.

Another Mughal mosque can also be found nearby if you exit to the right side of the fort.

Both sites can be visited and you can combine a tour of both attractions in one ticket.

The “Red Fort” is one of the important historic buildings in Dhaka that is within the proximity of the famous Buriganga River.

It can be visited every day for a small entrance fee.

It was in 1677 when the government began the construction of this fortress that served as a battlefield against the British forces.

Particularly worth seeing is the magnificent audience hall.

In the same building, you can check out the Hamman and a small museum.

Sunday is usually called “The Red Fort Tour” where families can extend their stay, use the garden for picnics, and enjoy long walks around the fort and the mosque.

These important landmarks are a must if you are in Old Dhaka.

Sonargaon

It is listed as a protected landmark UNESCO World Heritage Site, so it’s a bit disheartening to see that the old complex of buildings was not properly maintained even if they are worth saving.

On the other hand, it is still worth a visit.

The huge complex is still filled with souvenir shops and small workshops, where sari textile is processed and produced.

You will find not only pieces of clothing but bags and other personal items out of the fibrous material called jute.

The locals use jute because its tough fibers are the ideal materials to make rope, matting, and sacking. Bangladesh grows the best quality jute in the world and it is the country’s most important export.

In addition, the area of Sonargaon is also a growing area for the sweet lychee fruits.

If they are in season, the women make extra effort in tying them all up into bundles to sell to tourists or in the nearby local market.

The quality of the fruit is exceptional, juicy, and truly satisfying.

At about 18 miles from the city of Dhaka, you will find this ghost town created in the late 800 as a trading center for cotton during the British rule, but later abandoned following the separation from India in 1947.

Today, it is protected by the Department of Archaeology of Bangladesh.

More Places to Visit in Dhaka City

Ramna Park

It is situated at the center of Dhaka City and is a must-see attraction for its lush vegetation and lovely lakes.

It is areal oasis in the middle of a busy and humid city.

The park is also an ideal recreation area for people who need to stay fit.

There are lots of jogging paths and places to walk while they inhale the breeze of fresh air coming from the nearby lake area.

It is also a perfect spot for romantic couples for some quiet and intimate moments while admiring the view of the lakes and the entire city.

The best time to see this place is during special events like the celebration of New Year’s Eve and other national holidays.

It gets all lighted up and decorated in lots of colors that look more stunning at night.

A row of restaurants, pubs, and bars can also be found along this recreational park in Dhaka City.

Across the park you can see lots of stalls and food kiosks selling the local snacks and delicacies like the samosas, chicken dishes, sweets, and a serving of hot tea.

Ahsan Manzil Royal Palace

The Ahsan Manzil Royal Palace is one of the most famous tourist attractions in the ancient city of Dhaka.

It is located near the port and city center.

It is a nice building in the typical “zamindar” (landowner) style that is also seen in other parts of Bangladesh.

Inside you can visit the small museum with interesting objects collected by the Nawab Family, all from the colonial era.

It is another attraction that is definitely worth visiting if you are around in Old Dhaka.

It is detached from the hustle and bustle around the city and it is quite surprising to see a quiet and tranquil place that is just across from the busy traffic of Dhaka.

It is more commonly known as the “Pink Palace” that stands on the banks of the river of Buriganga.

The courtyard serves as a place of relaxation and recreation not only for the locals but also for the foreigners who frequent this place and have fallen in love with its huge garden that exudes good atmosphere and tranquility.

Dharmarajika Buddhist Monastery

The Dharmarajika Buddhist Monastery is a haven of peace in the middle of absolute chaos.

It is a beautiful complex of Buddhist monasteries complete with a giant golden Buddha column on the shores of the pond.

Upon entrance you will feel the solemnity of the place and the comfort of Buddha’s presence. It is a busy monastery that is situated close to the Kamalapur train station.

The complex incorporates a reflection room in the main prayer hall, a Bodhi tree and space for contemplation, and a separate prayer and chanting room.

Observe silence and wear modest clothing when you enter this sacred complex in the city. The monks here are very friendly and gladly welcome any visitor to observe their daily routine and ceremonies.

The lake inside the complex is utilized by local people to bathe in, and for its resident Hindus to perform their early morning rituals.

It’s additionally a decent cool spot to observe and unwind after a tour of the city.

The highlight of the tour happens during sunset.

Around this time, all of the monks gather around the Golden Buddha and perform their chants and praises.

This is visually stunning and truly worth waiting for.

You can also visit a small orphanage located inside the monastery complex and expect to see small faces smiling back at you while on tour.

Dhaka City Outdoor Activities

Hatirjheel

This place is an incredible presentation of present-day engineering and architectural design with phenomenal lighting during the evening.

In the event that you feel the need to delight and amuse your family or your partner, bring them to the Hatirjheel .

The place literally translates as the “Elephant Lake”.

The name itself is identified with the passion of Bangladeshis in raising elephants.

There are actual reserves and facilities that are really focused on the elephants here in Dhaka.

More than a hundred of them used to be brought here to Hatir just to take their routine baths and showers and they used to pass along the so-called Elephant Road.

Presently the government has rehabilitated the lake and constructed wide roads and bridges with a panoramic view of the city.

Hatirjheel is essentially an incorporated undertaking of the water refinery and the highway connecting Dhaka City to other towns in Bangladesh.

It was developed and fully upgraded for a straight 3 years before it was finally opened for free public use.

The effect was less traffic congestion, which has been very beneficial for a city that is striving hard to adapt modernization and an improved economy.

Aside from the connecting highways and roads, it is a cool place to see as it unites 6 major towns and locations to the business zones of the country.

Armenian Church of the Holy Resurrection

The Armenian Church of the Holy Resurrection is a surreal place and a good treat for travelers who are into discovering rare and peculiar places.

The church also serves as a museum of Orthodox faith and you can arrange a visit to see the items through its resident porter and friendly staff.

The church has a huge holding of relics from the past, some of which were donated by Armenian merchants, travelers and adventurers.

Most of them were items with colonial history, including gravestones with bronze-style and ark inscriptions and written in Armenian… lots and lots of history in a wonderful Orthodox church and all well kept.

There are many rarities inside and outside to be enjoyed if you love the genre.

It is advisable to give a tip to the porter if you want to open them all up the next time.

Bangladesh National Museum

The Bangladesh National Museum is very well located, has a large collection that is culturally rich, as are all other museums of Bangladesh.

A short visit can help you get acquainted and know the culture of this people even in a matter of hours.

Every artifact, images, and film showing is like a trip back in time when the city was still hounded by colonizers and territorial disputes with other countries.

There are lots of interesting exhibits on the customs and traditions of the country.

There are even exhibits about the difference between the poor and the rich population of the country.

The exhibition of the gods of the Hindu and the subsequent Buddha of the eighth century is also interesting.

Every important event and aspect of this country has been exhibited in every room.

One can also see the transition to Islam of the current population from the former Buddhist and Hindu state.

A tour of Dhaka City is an eye-opening experience.

There are lots of attractions to see: memorials, cultural landmarks, old fortresses that once protected the city, sacred temples, open markets, and modern structures to admire — all proudly highlighting the best of Dhaka’s  rich culture and colorful history.

Despite the extreme poverty that is evident in the rural areas, Dhaka is a safe city to explore and travelers can enjoy a holiday here without any hassles and worries.

Best Things to Do in Bangladesh

Beach Bliss in Cox’s Bazar: Sun, Sand, and Seashells

You know you’re in for a beach-tastic time when you visit Cox’s Bazar, home to the world’s longest natural sandy beach, stretching over 120 kilometers.

Imagine yourself strolling along the shoreline, feeling the warm sand between your toes, and collecting seashells like a true beachcomber.

And the cherry on top?

The breathtaking view of the Bay of Bengal, where you can witness glorious sunsets that will make you question if Instagram filters are even necessary.

Mangrove Magic in the Sundarbans: Lions, Tigers, and Crocs (Oh My!)

Get ready for a thrilling jungle adventure in the Sundarbans, the largest mangrove forest in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Here, you can channel your inner Mowgli and explore the dense wilderness, home to the majestic Royal Bengal Tigers, curious crocodiles, and an abundance of exotic bird species.

Just be careful not to venture too far into the mangroves, or you might end up having a wild encounter that not even Bear Grylls would envy.

Historical Marvels in Rajshahi: Temples, Palaces, and Ancient Wonders

Step into a time machine and travel back centuries as you explore the historical wonders of Rajshahi, a city rich in architectural heritage.

Marvel at the intricate terracotta temples of Puthia, which resemble something straight out of a Bollywood movie set.

Visit the magnificent Kantaji Temple in Dinajpur, a masterpiece of Hindu architecture that will leave you in awe.

And if you’re feeling extra adventurous, climb up to the ruins of the ancient city of Mahasthangarh and unleash your inner Indiana Jones.

Serenity in Sylhet: Tea Gardens, Waterfalls, and Tranquil Vibes

Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and find your zen in the serene landscapes of Sylhet, a region blessed with natural beauty.

Get lost in the sprawling tea gardens, where you can sip on the finest brews and pretend you’re a British aristocrat.

Take a break from your chai sessions and visit the mesmerizing waterfalls of Jaflong or the picturesque Ratargul Swamp Forest, where tranquility reigns supreme.

But beware, the tranquility might be interrupted by the sound of your jaw dropping at the sheer beauty of it all.

Thrills and Spills in Chittagong: Caves, Hill Tracks, and Adventure Galore

Ready for an adrenaline rush?

Head to Chittagong, where adventure awaits at every turn.

Explore the mystical caves of Bandarban, where you can feel like an explorer on a quest for hidden treasures.

Hike through the breathtaking hills of Rangamati and experience the thrill of conquering nature’s obstacles.

And if you’re feeling extra adventurous, try paragliding in Cox’s Bazar and feel like a superhero soaring through the sky (cape not included).

Remember, my adventurous friend, this is just a taste of what Bangladesh has to offer!