Dhaka in April

April weather, activities, events & insider tips

April Weather in Dhaka

33°C (93°F) High Temp

24°C (75°F) Low Temp

127 mm (5.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is April Right for You?

Advantages

Pre-monsoon freshness - April gets the last weeks of relatively clear skies before the heavy rains arrive in May, with only 10 rainy days compared to 18-20 in peak monsoon months
Pohela Boishakh celebration (April 14) - Experience Bengali New Year with massive street festivals, traditional processions, and the entire city celebrating in colorful traditional dress
Perfect boat weather on Buriganga River - Water levels are ideal for river tours with 8-10 km (5-6 mile) visibility across Old Dhaka's historic waterfront before monsoon clouds roll in
Shoulder season pricing - Hotel rates drop 30-40% from winter peak season, and domestic flights within Bangladesh cost 20-25% less than March-February rates

Considerations

Rising humidity hits 70% daily by afternoon - The sticky heat becomes noticeable after 2pm, making extensive outdoor walking uncomfortable between 2-6pm
Unpredictable afternoon thunderstorms - Brief but intense 20-30 minute downpours can flood streets temporarily, disrupting transportation and outdoor plans
Air quality deteriorates before monsoon - Dust and humidity combine for hazier days with AQI often reaching 150-180, requiring masks for sensitive travelers

Best Activities in April

Old Dhaka Heritage Walking Tours

April's cooler mornings (24-27°C/75-81°F until 11am) are perfect for exploring the narrow lanes of Shakhari Bazar and Armenian Street before the afternoon heat builds. The pre-monsoon light creates excellent photography conditions for the 400-year-old architecture. Pohela Boishakh preparations add extra cultural activities throughout the month.

Booking Tip: Book morning slots (7-11am) through licensed heritage operators. Tours typically cost ৳1,500-2,500 ($14-23) and should include this destination, Armenian Church, and river ghats. Book 5-7 days ahead as New Year week gets busy.

Buriganga River Sunset Cruises

April's stable weather patterns make river conditions ideal with minimal current and excellent visibility across 8-10 km (5-6 miles) of historic waterfront. The golden hour lighting (5:30-6:30pm) illuminates this destination Port and creates impressive silhouettes of the boat builders at work. Less crowded than winter months.

Booking Tip: Traditional wooden boat tours cost ৳800-1,500 ($7-14) for 2-hour sunset trips. Licensed operators provide life jackets and experienced pilots. Book through established river tour companies 3-5 days ahead (see current options in booking section below).

Savar Archaeological Site Excursions

The 50 km (31 mile) journey to Buddhist ruins and independence monuments is comfortable in April's moderate temperatures. Clear pre-monsoon skies provide excellent views of the countryside and the National Martyrs' Memorial stands out dramatically against blue skies rather than monsoon gray.

Booking Tip: Day trips typically cost ৳3,000-4,500 ($28-42) including transport and guide. AC vehicle essential for comfort. Combine with nearby folk Yaounde visits. Book 7-10 days ahead for quality operators with insured vehicles.

Sonargaon Historic City Tours

April's dry conditions make the 29 km (18 mile) trip to the ancient capital ideal for exploring outdoor ruins and traditional craft villages. The Panam City ghost town and Folk Yaounde are best visited before monsoon humidity affects preservation displays. Jamdani weaving demonstrations are particularly active pre-New Year.

Booking Tip: Full day tours range ৳2,500-4,000 ($23-37) with transport and cultural guide. Include Goaldi Mosque and traditional boat building sites. Quality operators provide cultural context and village interaction opportunities (see booking options below).

Dhamrai Metal Craft Village Visits

The 40 km (25 mile) journey north to traditional brass and bronze workshops is perfect in April's clear weather. Artisans are particularly busy creating ceremonial items for Pohela Boishakh, offering visitors chances to see traditional techniques and purchase authentic pieces before the tourist season ends.

Booking Tip: Half-day cultural tours cost ৳2,000-3,500 ($18-32) including village interaction and craft demonstrations. Look for operators who coordinate with local artisan families. Book 5-7 days ahead, especially during New Year week.

Paharpur Buddhist Monastery Day Trips

April's stable weather makes the 275 km (171 mile) journey to this UNESCO World Heritage site comfortable before monsoon road conditions deteriorate. The 8th-century monastery ruins are spectacular under clear skies, and the surrounding countryside shows pre-monsoon green landscapes.

Booking Tip: Long day trips cost ৳8,000-12,000 ($74-111) with professional driver and archaeological guide. Requires 12-14 hour commitment. Book 10-14 days ahead through operators with highway-capable vehicles and heritage expertise.

April Events & Festivals

April 14

Pohela Boishakh (Bengali New Year)

The biggest cultural celebration of the year transforms Dhaka on April 14th. Massive processions start from Dhaka University with traditional masks, floats, and thousands in white and red traditional dress. Ramna Park hosts cultural programs, while the entire city celebrates with special foods, music, and street festivals lasting until evening.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight cotton or linen shirts - Avoid polyester in 70% humidity; natural fibers breathe better during 33°C (93°F) afternoon temperatures

Compact umbrella or light rain jacket - April's 10 rainy days bring sudden 20-30 minute downpours that can flood streets temporarily

SPF 50+ sunscreen and hat - UV index reaches 8 during clear pre-monsoon days with intense reflection off concrete and water

Comfortable walking shoes with good grip - Wet streets during afternoon storms become slippery, especially on Old Dhaka's stone surfaces

Breathable face masks - Air quality often hits AQI 150-180 in April's dusty pre-monsoon conditions, particularly around construction areas

Power bank and waterproof phone case - Humidity can affect electronics, and sudden storms may extend outdoor activities

Light scarf or shawl - Essential for mosque visits and provides sun protection during morning heritage walks

Insect repellent - Pre-monsoon humidity increases mosquito activity, especially near river areas and evening outdoor dining

Electrolyte packets - Easy dehydration in rising humidity and 24-33°C (75-93°F) temperature swings throughout the day

Insider Knowledge

Book accommodations in Gulshan or Banani rather than Old Dhaka in April - Better drainage during afternoon storms and AC reliability is crucial when humidity hits 70%

Schedule outdoor activities for 7-11am window - Locals avoid midday heat and afternoon storms by starting cultural activities early, ending before 2pm temperature peak

Carry small denomination notes (৳50-100) during Pohela Boishakh week - Street vendors and local transport get overwhelmed with large bills during festival chaos

Use ride-sharing apps during afternoon storms rather than waiting for CNG auto-rickshaws - Traditional transport often refuses short trips during heavy rain, but app-based drivers maintain service

Avoid These Mistakes

Assuming all of April is dry season - The last 10 days often bring preview monsoon showers that can disrupt outdoor plans if you don't have flexible indoor alternatives

Overdressing for morning activities - Many visitors pack for 33°C (93°F) heat but morning starts at 24°C (75°F), then strips down uncomfortably in public later

Skipping Pohela Boishakh cultural events thinking they're just for locals - This is Bangladesh's most photogenic and accessible cultural experience, but many tourists miss it entirely