Dhaka district is the largest district in Bangladesh, housing the capital of the country, Dhaka city. It is located in the Central part of Bangladesh encompassing an area of about 1,463.6 square kilometers, and a population of around 14,734,025 people.
Dhaka is an industrial hub that acts as the most important part of the economy by sheltering industries such as RMG, jute, IT, and more.
How to travel to Dhaka from anywhere in Bangladesh?
Dhaka is the most accessible district in Bangladesh, it can be reached from any point of the country very easily. All most bus routes, train routes, air routes, and even launch routes will have services that provide services to travel to Dhaka.
10 Places to visit in Dhaka
1. Ahsan Manzil
Ahsan Manzil, was built in 1872 on the shores of the Buriganga River. It is a remnant of Dhaka’s past. It was named after Khwaja Ahsanullah, the third Nawab of Bengal. Since 1985, the palace, which served as the Nawab of Dhaka’s residence, has been a museum. It is located close to the Buriganga river in the Kumartoli neighborhood of Old Dhaka.
2. Lalbagh Fort
The 17th-century fort complex located in the modern Lalbagh area of Old Dhaka was built at the order of the Mughal ruler Muhammad Azam Shah. This fort, which was constructed on the Buriganga River’s shore, preserves Bengal’s Mughal past.
The house inside the fort known as Diwan-i-Aam once served as the home of the Mughal Governors of Bengal. The location is rich with tales and artifacts from the past that reverberate through the city’s history and enthrall tourists.
3. The National Parliament House
The National Parliament House, also known as the ‘Jatiya Sagshad Bhaban,’ was designed by the renowned American architect Luis I. Kahn and is one of the world’s largest legislative complexes. This massive structure, built on 200 acres of land in Dhaka’s Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, was completed in 1982. This structure houses Bangladesh’s Parliament.
The parliament complex, also known as the ‘Jaitya Sangshad’ Complex, as well as the crescent lake and the Chandrima Uddan, are open to tourists at all times. People who enjoy morning or evening walks adore this location. This building is a national treasure and is visited daily by both domestic and foreign tourists.
4. Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Safari Park
Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Safari Park is Asia’s largest safari park, covering 3810 acres of land. This safari park, which was opened in 2013, is situated outside the city of Dhaka in Gazipur. This safari park is home to over 3000 animals and birds from 47 different species.
Amidst the Sal Forest, the Park is rich in biodiversity, fostering a sense of adventure and excitement. Without a doubt, it is one of the finest places to visit in Bangladesh and an essential stop for anyone looking to explore Dhaka.
5. Bangabandhu Military Museum
The Bangabandhu Military Museum, which opened in 1987, preserves Bangladesh’s military history, heritage, success stories, and various weapons and ammunition. Since 1999, it has been permanently located on Tejgaon’s Bijoy Sharani Avenue, next to the Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Novo Theatre, and has become a popular hangout for young people.
Aside from the numerous galleries, the museum has enabled Augmented Reality, Interactive Displays, Virtual Reality, Holograms, and other 3D visualizations throughout its premises to enhance the visitor experience. It is unquestionably one of the most beautiful museums in Bangladesh and should not be missed.
6. Liberation war museum
The Liberation war museum is situated in the center of Dhaka City at Agargaon. This museum, which was built in 1996 to preserve the memory of the liberation war, accommodated more than 21000 artifacts from the war as of 2016. This structure epitomizes the indomitable spirit of the Bangladeshi people.
The museum’s numerous galleries depict the struggle, sacrifices, and determination of Bangladesh’s free-spirited people that led to their freedom. It is inarguably worthwhile to visit in order to grasp the essence of this country as a whole.
7. Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Novo Theatre
The Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Novo Theatre, which first opened its doors in 2004, is the country’s largest planetarium. It was previously known as the Bhashani Novo Theatre and is located on Bijoy Sharani Avenue in Tejgaon, Dhaka.
This planetarium features 3D projections of space, planets, and other celestial bodies for astronomical shows. The Novo theater is the place to go if you’d like to perceive Bangladesh in the context of the universe.
8. Panam City
Panam City or Panam Nagar rose to prominence in the nineteenth century, at the height of British rule in Bengal, and began its journey to becoming a key business center. It was a well-known textile trading center, with numerous merchants traveling to the city on a regular basis, particularly to acquire unique cotton fabrics. Profiting from the textile trade, the residents constructed houses with exquisite architecture that can still be admired today.
Only 52 of the city’s original buildings still stand today. Some of the major attractions nearby include the Baro Sardar Bari of Isa Kha, Kashinath House, and others.
9. Justice Shahabuddin Ahmed Park
On 9.55 acres of ground in Dhaka’s Gulshan Avenue, the Justice Shahabuddin Ahmed Park is a beautiful open-air green space. Despite being situated in the most affluent, commercialized area of the city, the park still has a very tranquil and natural character to it. Strong natural variety enriches the Park. Within the park’s boundaries, there are more than 1500 trees of 40 different species.
The Park also provides well-designed and maintained walking lanes, bike lanes, a pond, and other amenities that vastly improve the experience of its guests. Additionally, due to its proximity to the city’s diplomatic districts, it has been deemed as one of the nation’s safest locations thanks to strict security protocols carefully observed by park officials.
10. Fantasy Kingdom
Situated in Savar in the district of Dhaka, Fantasy Kingdom is one of the largest entertainment complexes in Bangladesh. The place boasts a theme park, one water park, dry park and Heritage Corner. It has more than 24 rides, a restaurant, and even a resort called Atlantis, to make for a memorable experience.
6 Foods to try in Dhaka
1. Biriani
Biryani is one of the most renowned rice dishes in Bangladesh. It can trace back its history to this land’s Mughal past. The Biryani of old Dhaka in particular is of significant interest.
The kacchi, chicken, and also beef biryani of the old Dhaka made with their aromatic rice and the myriad of spices and condiments, makes them one of the most desired foods that the city has to offer.
2. Bakorkhani
Bakorkhani is a thick flatbread, and a part of the Mughlai cuisine, that is renowned throughout Dhaka for its unique biscuit-like features. The bread is often taken alongside and sometimes even in Breakfasts. Bakarkhani can be commonly found in different bakeries and shops throughout Dhaka.
3. Local Drinks
In Dhaka, local drinks such as Borhani, Lassi, Laban, and more are extremely famous for their unique sweet and sour tastes. They are often used as staple drinks during celebrations such as weddings or parties, to go alongside other dishes like Biryani, and pulao.
4. Kebab and Naan
Kebab and Naan are a part of the Muslim gastronomic heritage that is borne by this region. Kebabs in Dhaka come in different forms ranging from Chap, Jali kebab, sheek kebab, and more. They come in the form of both chicken and beef.
5. Haleem
Halim is a savory lentil dish made with local spices. Meat, whether mutton, beef, or chicken, is an essential component of the dish. It is a highly renowned dish in Dhaka, and many popular shops in Dhaka make Halim in their own unique ways.
This traditional Bangladeshi dish is prepared in a large pot over a grill or burner and served hot.
6. Fuchka & Bhelpuris
Fuchka and Bhelpuris are some of the most delicious street foods that can be found in Dhaka. It is extremely popular amongst the youth due to their spicy and sour flavor, and crunchy taste. These items can be found throughout schools, colleges, and markets in Dhaka.
5 Places to stay in Dhaka
1. Pan Pacific Sonargaon Dhaka
Pan Pacific Sonargaon Dhaka is a 5-star luxury hotel located at 107 Kazi Nazrul Islam Avenue in Dhaka, Bangladesh. The hotel has a variety of amenities, such as an outdoor pool, a fitness center, several dining options, a spa, and a business center. The rooms and suites are eloquently furnished with modern amenities and provide breathtaking views of the city.
The central location of the hotel allows for easy access to major shopping, dining, and cultural attractions. The Pan Pacific Sonargaon Dhaka is generally praised by visitors for its excellent service, plush accommodations, and convenient location.
2. The Westin Dhaka
The Westin Dhaka is a luxurious five-star hotel located in the heart of Gulshan Avenue, one of Dhaka’s most prestigious districts. There are 235 well-appointed rooms and suites in the hotel, including a Westin Executive Club Floor. A spa, fitness center, outdoor pool, and several dining options are available to guests.
The Westin Dhaka has received overwhelmingly positive feedback for its excellent service, comfortable rooms, and convenient location.
3. Le Méridien Dhaka
Le Méridien Dhaka is a luxury hotel in Nikunja 2 of Dhaka, located at 79/A Commercial Area, Airport Road. The hotel has a fitness center, an outdoor pool, a spa, and several dining options. Guests can relax in the hotel’s modern rooms and suites with city views. Nonetheless, the hotel receives top ratings for its attentive service, excellent cuisine, and prime location near the airport.
4. Jiyon Boutique Resort
Jiyon Boutique Resort is located in Dhaka’s Aminbazar neighborhood. This luxurious resort has many amenities such as an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, and a spa. The rooms are tastefully decorated and equipped with modern conveniences such as flat-screen TVs, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi.
Jiyon Boutique Resort has received positive feedback from guests who praised its tranquil setting, delicious food, and excellent service.
5. Radisson Blu Dhaka Water Garden
Radisson Blu Dhaka Water Garden is a luxurious 5-star hotel located on Dhaka’s Airport Road. The hotel has a lovely garden and outdoor pool, as well as a fitness center, sauna, spa, and a variety of dining options, including Italian, Thai, and Indian cuisine.
The rooms are spacious and elegantly decorated, with modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi, 24-hour room service, and more. The hotel is praised for its superior service, cozy accommodations, and practical location close to the airport.
5 Things to do in Dhaka
1. Visiting historical sites
Dhaka has a rich history and numerous historical sites worth seeing. The Lalbagh Fort, which was built in the 17th century, is a popular tourist attraction that displays Mughal architecture. Another historic palace-turned-museum worth visiting is the Ahsan Manzil, also known as the Pink Palace.
2. Exploring the markets
Dhaka is renowned for its vibrant markets and bazaars. The New Market, also known as the Chandni Chowk Market, is an excellent location for purchasing traditional Bangladeshi clothing, fabrics, and handicrafts. For a more authentic experience, visit the Karwan Bazar market, which sells everything ranging from fresh produce to electronics.
3. Food Exploration
Dhaka is a foodie’s dream, and the gastronomic scene is no exception. The Old Dhaka neighborhood is well-known for its delicious biryani and kebabs, while the uptown restaurants in Gulshan and Dhanmondi offer a diverse range of delicious international cuisines.
4. Visiting Museums and galleries
Dhaka is home to numerous museums and both art and photo galleries. These are a great place to enjoy the aesthetics of the Bangladeshi culture and psyche in the form of arts and photos. These places enrich one’s experience of Dhaka.
5. Visiting Recreational places
The district of Dhaka is home to numerous theme parks, experience zones and other recreational places.
One should definitely experience the thrills of theme parks such as the Fantasy Kingdom and Nandan Park, or excitement of rides and activities of the Courtside, and even watch the latest movies at the cinema halls of the Star Cineplex scattered throughout the Dhaka city.
Conclusion:
The Dhaka district offers a lot of activities, foods, and places of interest to visit, explore, and get accustomed to. Dhaka is the central and the most integral part of Bangladesh, the journey to know Bangladesh begins from this place.
