A Great River City
Dhaka stands on the banks of the Buriganga River, in the delta formed by the mighty Ganges (Padma), Brahmaputra and Meghna rivers. Long a trading centre, it rose to real prominence in 1608 when the Mughals made it the capital of Bengal — an era that gave the city much of its finest architecture.
Mughal Heritage
Old Dhaka is the historic heart, packed with monuments. The 17th-century Lalbagh Fort, the elegant pink Ahsan Manzil (the former palace of the Nawabs), the Sat Gambuj (Seven-Domed) Mosque and the beautiful Star Mosque, with its mosaic decoration, are among the highlights of a city rich in Mughal and colonial history.
The Rickshaw Capital
Dhaka is famously the “rickshaw capital of the world,” with hundreds of thousands of brightly hand-painted cycle-rickshaws crowding its streets. The traffic, noise and sheer press of people are overwhelming at first — but they are also part of what makes the city so vivid and unforgettable.
Good to Know
Bangladesh sees very few tourists, and Dhaka is challenging: it is crowded, hot and humid, service standards vary, and the region is prone to monsoon flooding and cyclones. But for travellers who embrace the chaos, it offers a genuinely off-the-beaten-track experience, a fascinating culture and some of the friendliest people in Asia. Check your government’s current travel advice before you go.
FAQ
Is Dhaka worth visiting?
For adventurous travellers, yes — its Mughal monuments, river life and vibrant street culture are rewarding, though it is a demanding, chaotic city rather than an easy holiday destination.
When is the best time to visit?
The cool, dry season from November to February is the most comfortable; avoid the hot pre-monsoon months and the June–October monsoon.
What is the nearest airport?
Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (DAC) in Dhaka is the country’s main gateway.