Things to Do in Dhaka

About Dhaka

Dhaka is home to seventeen million people who live in organized chaos. Ancient Mughal buildings stand next to glass towers, and the Buriganga River cuts through the middle of everything. Rickshaw bells ring constantly. Street vendors cook biryani on every corner, and you'll hear Bengali, English, and Hindi in the same conversation. Old Dhaka moves slowly. The alleys twist and turn, packed with muslin weavers working their looms and locals arguing about politics over tea. The city doesn't just sit there—it moves, shifts, and pulls you into its rhythm if you planned for that or not. You'll eat well here. Every sunset over the rickshaw traffic is worth seeing.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Use Uber or Pathao ride-hailing apps—airport to Gulshan costs 250-400 taka ($2.36-$3.77). Local buses cost 5-15 taka ($0.05-$0.14) but are extremely crowded. CNG auto-rickshaws charge 30-80 taka ($0.28-$0.75) for short trips—negotiate before entering.

Money: Exchange US dollars at Islami Bank or Dutch-Bangla Bank for rates around 106 taka per dollar. ATMs accept international cards but charge 100-200 taka ($0.94-$1.89) fees. Budget 1,000-2,000 taka ($9.43-$18.87) daily for meals and local transport.

Cultural Respect: Greet with 'as-salamu alaykum' and use your right hand for eating and greetings. Dress modestly covering shoulders and knees. Remove shoes when entering homes and mosques. Friday prayers (12-2 PM) affect business hours.

Food: Try biryani at Star Kabab & Restaurant where portions cost 120-250 taka ($1.13-$2.36). Sample street food like fuchka (pani puri) for 10-20 taka ($0.09-$0.19) per piece at New Market area. Drink fresh coconut water for 15-30 taka ($0.14-$0.28) from street vendors.

When to Visit

Dhaka's climate divides into three distinct seasons, each offering unique experiences. The cool, dry winter (November-February) presents ideal conditions with temperatures ranging 12-25°C, minimal rainfall (less than 10mm monthly), and crystal-clear skies perfect for exploring. This peak season sees hotel rates increase 40-60%, but coincides with lively festivals like Poila Boishakh (Bengali New Year, April 14) and winter cultural events. The hot summer (March-May) brings sweltering heat (25-35°C) with moderate rainfall increasing toward May. Accommodation drops 30% during this shoulder season, making it budget-friendly for heat-tolerant travelers. The monsoon season (June-October) transforms the city with heavy rains (200-300mm monthly), temperatures of 24-32°C, and dramatic humidity. While hotel rates plummet 50-60% during this off-peak period, travel can be challenging due to flooding and transportation disruptions. Eid celebrations (dates vary yearly) create magical atmosphere but also crowded conditions and higher prices. Winter months are perfect for first-time visitors and cultural ensoiasts, while budget travelers and monsoon lovers will appreciate the dramatic beauty and lower costs of the rainy season.