The Top 10 Things To Do in Dhaka, Bangladesh

The Top 10 Things To Do in Dhaka, Bangladesh

With its colourful history and rich cultural traditions, Dhaka – the capital and largest city of Bangladesh – is known the world over as the ‘City of Mosques’.

Having attracted travellers from near and far throughout the ages, things to do in Dhaka are limitless. It has grown into a mega city of around 15 million people and the hub of the nation's industrial, commercial, cultural, educational and political activities today. Its Muslim influence is reflected in more than 700 mosques and historic buildings found throughout the city.

Dhaka is located in the geographic centre of the country; in the great deltaic region of the Ganges and Brahmaputra rivers. The city is within the monsoon climate zone and is in one of the world's leading rice and jute or natural raw jute growing regions. Its economy is mainly driven by the jute textile industries, muslin and cotton industries as well as food processing; in particular, rice milling.

If you are visiting Dhaka for the first time, consider this list of the top 10 activities to do, courtesy of the team at Pan Pacific Sonargaon Dhaka.

 

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Where to Stay in Dhaka

outdoor swimming pool at Pan Pacific Sonargaon Dhaka outdoor swimming pool at Pan Pacific Sonargaon Dhaka

 

Step into a tranquil retreat in the heart of the city at Pan Pacific Sonargaon Dhaka. Enjoy the luxurious comfort with the Premier Room with breathtaking panoramic views of the city or pool. After a day of exploring, unwind in the cosiness of your ensuite bathroom, where a separate refreshing shower awaits. 

Bask in the blissful warmth of tropical Dhaka as you enjoy a leisurely swim in the hotel's inviting outdoor swimming pool. Or experience ultimate relaxation at the salon, where highly skilled professionals offer a range of treatments for both men and women. Indulge your senses and rejuvenate your mind, body, and spirit to take on the best that Dhaka has to offer. 

 

Experience old and new Dhaka in this vibrant precinct

Experience old and new Dhaka in this vibrant precinct, with its busy streets and filled with shoppers, diners and travellers passing the transportation hub.

Discover one of Dhaka’s most vibrant neighbourhoods with a visit to Shahbag. Located on the border of Dhaka’s Old and New Town, Shahbag has been a prominent part of the city since the seventeenth century. Today, this bustling neighbourhood is a hotbed of activity and a curious mix of cultures, influences and lifestyles. There are historic buildings tucked between modern skyscrapers, traditional bazaars beside busy street markets and important cultural landmarks alongside contemporary shops and restaurants.

In addition to being a popular tourist destination, Shahbag is also home to many of the city’s public institutions and is a hub of transportation in Dhaka. From here, visitors can easily connect to the rest of the city by train, bus or taxi.

 

Getting to Shahbag

Whether visiting the area for business or leisure, guests at Pan Pacific Sonargaon Dhaka are well placed to take advantage of Shahbag’s many charms. The hotel is just a short 5-minute drive from the shops, restaurants and cultural attractions of Shabag, making it easy to explore the area on your own schedule.

 

Explore the Historical Sites of Dhaka

Ahsan Manzil front view Ahsan Manzil front view

 

Unearth the fascinating history of Dhaka by exploring its numerous historical sites. Begin your journey at Ahsan Manzil, the pink palace that once housed the Nawabs of Dhaka and is now a museum showcasing their lifestyle and history.

From there, take a stroll through the captivating gardens and palaces of the Mughal-era Lalbagh Fort, known for its unique blend of Islamic and European architectural styles and collection of artefacts and exhibits from the Mughal era.

Next, pay homage to the Dhakeshwari Temple. One of the oldest Hindu temples in Bangladesh, it represents the city's rich religious diversity and heritage. It is also believed to be one of the 51 Shakti Peethas. (Shakti Peethas are sacred places associated with the goddess Shakti — a deity known for her divine feminine energy. These sites are spread across the South Asian subcontinent and are believed to have originated from the body parts of the goddess Sati, the first wife of Lord Shiva.)

Move on to marvel at the stunning colonial architecture of the Armenian Church, built in 1781 by the Armenian community in Dhaka as a testament to their influence on the city.

Then, explore Curzon Hall, named after the former Viceroy of India, now a hub for cultural events and exhibitions, before paying your respects at the Shaheed Minar, a monument honouring the Bengali Language Movement martyrs. These martyrs were individuals who sacrificed their lives in the struggle for the recognition of Bengali as an official language during the 1952 protest in East Pakistan, now Bangladesh, against the imposition of Urdu as the sole national language.

Finally, admire the intricate mosaic tiles and decorations of the Star Mosque, a stunning early 19th-century mosque in Old Dhaka, as you conclude your journey through the city's captivating past.

 

Get directions to Ahsan Manzil

Get directions to the Lalbagh Fort from Ahsan Manzil

Get directions to Dhakeshwari Temple from Lalbagh Fort

Get directions to the Armenian Church from the Dhakeshwari Temple

Get directions to Curzon Hall from the Armenian Church

Get directions to the Star Mosque from Curzon Hall

 

Visit the Unique Sadarghat River Port


Experience the busy Sadarghat River Port, one of the top attractions in Dhaka and a must-visit for any traveller to the city. The port is not only one of the busiest river ports in the world — it is also a vibrant hub of activity and commerce, where you can witness the daily lives of locals as they commute by boat and trade goods. 

From the colourful wooden boats to the chaotic atmosphere, the Sadarghat River Port offers an enchanting glimpse into the heart of Dhaka's culture and way of life.

 

Get directions to the Sadarghat River Port

 

Sample the Local Dhaka Cuisine

Mughlai Paratha Mughlai Paratha

 

Dhaka's local cuisine uniquely blends Bengali, Indian, and Middle Eastern flavours, making it a must-try for food lovers. Savour Bangladeshi culinary delights such as biryani, a delectable rice dish mixed with meat or vegetables, Mughlai paratha, a stuffed flatbread with minced meat or vegetables, and pitha, a sweet rice cake typically enjoyed during festivals and special occasions. These dishes are essential to Dhaka's culinary culture, offering you a memorable and delicious gastronomic experience.

 

Venture on a Rickshaw Ride in Dhaka

A rickshaw ride in Dhaka is not just a means of transportation but a cultural experience that captures the essence of the city's bustling streets. These three-wheeled, pedal-powered vehicles are an iconic symbol of the city, with a history spanning over a century. 

The leisurely pace of a rickshaw ride allows you to explore Dhaka's narrow alleys, colourful markets, and reverential historical sites while taking in the sights, sounds, and smells of the city. It is an inexpensive way to travel, and the rickshaw drivers, also known as rickshaw wallahs, are knowledgeable and friendly, making the experience even more memorable. 

 

Gain an Insight into the City at the National Museum

The National Museum in Dhaka offers a comprehensive overview of Bangladesh's rich history and cultural heritage. Established in 1913, this museum has an impressive collection of over 80,000 objects, including archaeological finds, fine arts, and ethnographic materials. Its three gallery halls offer a glimpse into the country's historic times: the Mughal Empire; the British colonial period; the Language Movement of 1952; and the Liberation War of Bangladesh. 

Visitors can explore the world-famous Pala sculpture collection and the metal sculptures of the Pala-Sena period. The museum also has an extensive collection of folk art, traditional clothing, and handicrafts, providing insights into the country's diverse cultural heritage. 

 

Get directions to the National Museum

 

Attend a Cricket Game in Dhaka


Attending a cricket match at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium is a must-do for sports fans visiting Dhaka. Cricket is a passion that runs deep in Bangladesh's cultural fabric, and the stadium is the premier cricket venue in the country. 

With a seating capacity of over 25,000, the stadium is located in the Mirpur area of Dhaka and has hosted numerous international matches. Attending a game offers a unique opportunity to witness the excitement of Bangladeshi fans and their love for the game. 

You will see enthusiastic crowds cheering on their favourite players, waving flags, and chanting team slogans. The stadium also offers local snacks and street food sold by vendors, adding to the overall experience. A cricket game offers an electrifying atmosphere guaranteed to stay with you long after you depart for home.

 

Get directions to Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium

 

Go on a Cruise Along the Buriganga River

A sunset river cruise along the Buriganga River is a mesmerising way to see the beauty of Dhaka from a riverine perspective. The river is an integral part of the city, and the cruise takes you past historic landmarks, bustling markets, and waterfront neighbourhoods. 

The cruises typically last about two hours. They depart from Sadarghat River Port, showcasing the stunning view of the city skyline as it comes alive with lights during the sunset. You will pass by some of the city's most iconic landmarks, such as the Ahsan Manzil Palace, the Lalbagh Fort, and the colourful Sadarghat River Port.

The boats are comfortable and equipped with basic amenities, allowing you to relax and enjoy the cool river breeze while sipping tea or coffee and listening to traditional Bengali music. Remember to capture the breathtaking views of the city with your camera! 

 

Get directions to the Buriganga River

 

Gain an Insight Into Bengali Arts and Culture

If you want to experience the richness of Bengali art and culture, head to the Shilpakala Academy in Dhaka. Established in 1974, this institution is dedicated to preserving and promoting traditional and contemporary Bengali art, music, dance, and theatre. 

The academy’s 14-acre campus features an art gallery, an auditorium, music and dance studios, and exhibition halls. Within its gallery, you can gaze at a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, and handicrafts by both established and emerging artists. 

Fancy capturing a live performance? The auditorium here hosts regular music, dance, and theatre performances by some of the best performers in the country. In addition, the academy offers workshops, seminars, and training programs in various art forms. 

Visitors can choose to attend a performance or exhibition, take a guided gallery tour, or participate in a workshop to learn about traditional Bengali art and culture. 

 

Get directions to the Shilpakala Academy

 

Shop Local Handicrafts in Dhaka

To fully experience the rich cultural heritage of Bangladesh, go shopping for local handicrafts in Dhaka. The New Market in the heart of the city is a bustling destination for visitors looking for handcrafted textiles, pottery, and jewellery at affordable prices. 

For a unique shopping experience, head to Mirpur's Jamdani weavers specialising in the traditional weaving technique unique to Bangladesh. Visitors can watch skilled weavers at work and purchase one-of-a-kind customised items like sarees, scarves, and shawls. Supporting local artisans by purchasing their handicrafts is a great way to take home a piece of Bangladesh's culture.

 

Get directions to Dhaka New Market

 

Embark on a Day Trip to the Outskirts of Dhaka

Explore the stunning countryside around Dhaka by signing up for a day trip to nearby areas. The ancient Buddhist ruins at Mainamati, located about 114 km southeast of the city, are a must-visit destination for history buffs. Here, visitors can explore extensive ruins, including temples, stupas, and monasteries, and learn about the fascinating history of the region.

Other nearby areas worth exploring include the historic town of Sonargaon, located about 27 km from Dhaka. This ancient capital of Bengal has a rich history and is home to several interesting monuments, including the magnificent Panam City, a collection of beautifully preserved 19th-century mansions.

 

Get directions to Mainamati

Get directions to Sonargaon

 

Explore Dhaka's hidden gems with our Destination Insights guide, featuring top historical sites, cultural landmarks, trendy neighbourhoods, and vibrant markets. Contact our friendly team at Pan Pacific Sonargaon Dhaka for recommendations on the city's best restaurants, shopping spots, and unique attractions.

 

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