Things to Do at Ahsan Manzil

Ahsan Manzil, known as the Pink Palace, is one of Dhaka's most iconic landmarks and a testament to the city's rich Mughal and colonial heritage. Built in 1872 by Nawab Abdul Ghani, this magnificent Indo-Saracenic architectural masterpiece served as the official residential palace and seat of the Dhaka Nawab Family. The palace's distinctive pink facade and elegant domes make it one of the most photographed buildings in Bangladesh. Today, Ahsan Manzil operates as the Bangladesh National Museum, housing an extensive collection of artifacts, furniture, household items, and portraits that chronicle the lifestyle of the Nawab family and the socio-cultural history of Bengal. The palace stands as a symbol of the golden era of Dhaka's aristocracy and offers visitors a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of 19th-century Bengali nobility. Its strategic location on the banks of the Buriganga River adds to its historical significance as a center of political and cultural influence in the region.

Ahsan Manzil is located in Old Dhaka's Kumartoli area, easily accessible by various transportation modes. From central Dhaka, take a rickshaw, CNG auto-rickshaw, or taxi to this destination area and walk 5 minutes to the palace. The nearest landmark is this destination Launch Terminal. If using public transport, take a bus to this destination and walk to Kumartoli. For international visitors, it's about 30-45 minutes from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport by car, depending on traffic. The palace is well-signposted and most local drivers are familiar with its location.