The best time to visit Dhahka, Bangladesh is during the winter months, from November to February, when the weather is cooler and drier. The temperature during this season is comfortable for exploring the city and participating in outdoor activities.
Top attractions in Dhaka include the Lalbagh Fort, Ahsan Manzil (Pink Palace), the National Parliament House designed by Louis Kahn, Dhaka University campus, the Liberation War Museum, the National Museum, Star Mosque, and the bustling markets of Old Dhaka like Shankharia Bazar.
Absolutely, Dhaka offers a variety of traditional Bengali dishes such as biryani, hilsa fish curry, pitha (traditional cakes), dhokar dalna, and various sweets such as roshogolla and sandesh. Street foods like fuchka (pani puri), chotpoti, and jhalmuri are also quite popular and worth trying.
Popular day trips from Dhaka include visiting the historic city of Sonargaon, the ancient Panam Nagar, the pottery village in Kakran, a river cruise on the Buriganga River, and the National Martyrs' Memorial in Savar.
Tourists should exercise general safety precautions while travelling in Dhaka, as in any major city. It is advisable to avoid carrying large sums of money, be wary of scams, and travel in a group if possible. Women should also be mindful of the local customs and dress modestly.
It is not recommended to drink tap water in Dhaka. Tourists should drink bottled water or water that has been boiled or treated to avoid waterborne diseases.
The currency in Dhahka is the Bangladeshi Taka (BDT). Currency can be exchanged at banks, hotels, and licensed money changers throughout the city. ATMs are also widely available for withdrawal.
The official language of Dhaka is Bengali (Bangla). English is also commonly used in business, hospitality, and by educated locals, particularly in tourist areas and among the younger population.
When visiting religious sites in Dhaka, it's respectful to dress modestly. For men, this means wearing trousers and shirts with sleeves. Women are advised to wear long skirts or pants and to cover their shoulders and head with a scarf. Removing shoes before entering a mosque or temple is also customary.
In Dhaka, it's important to show respect for local customs and traditions. Greet people with the salutation 'Salaam-Alaikum' or a simple 'hello'. It's customary to use your right hand for eating and greeting. Public displays of affection are frowned upon, and it's essential to ask for permission before taking photos of people or private property.
