Flight Destinations
Flights to Dhaka
Places in Bangladesh
The capital and largest city of Bangladesh is Dhaka, situated on the banks of the River Buriganga in central Bangladesh. This is one of the world’s most densely populated cities so it’s not a destination for travellers who prefer peace and quiet! However, it is a vibrant and culturally rich city with plenty to offer apart from the crowds.
Flights to Dhaka
International flights to Dhaka arrive at the country’s busiest airport, the Zia International Airport (airport code: DAC) located 13 miles north of the city. From the UK flights to Dhaka are available through various airlines, all with at least one connection. Choose from airlines such as Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways, Emirates, Virgin Atlantic Airways, British Airways, Thai Airways International, Qantas Airways, and BMI. These airlines offer one-stop flights to Dhaka from the UK.
Dhaka Tourist Attractions
Dhaka is a city full of beautiful old mosques, forts and palaces, and although it also has a bustling modern side too, it’s these older and culturally important buildings that take centre stage for most visitors to Dhaka.
Ahsan Manzil
Ahsan Manzil is called the ‘pink palace’ and you’ll know why the moment you see it! The striking milkshake pink would look out of place in many cities but not here on the colourful streets of Dhaka. This palace was the official presidential residence and is now a museum of which visitors can take tours. There’s an exhibition that tells the history of the palace and gardens which was constructed between 1859 and 1872.
Lalbagh Fort
Lalbagh Fort is a Mughal palace fortress on which construction began in 1678. Although over 300 years have passed since then, the fort technically still remains incomplete! You can tour the main buildings of the fort – the Diwan-i-Aam with large hammam, the Tomb of Bibi Pari, and the mosque.
The Star Mosque
Dhaka is home to hundreds of mosques so it’s easy to miss some of the best ones when visiting this large city. The Star Mosque is one of the most notable, taking its name from the fact that there are thousands of ornate blue stars decorating its walls. This mosque was built in the first half of the 19th century, but if you want to see an earlier example visit the Seven Domed Mosque, constructed in the 17th century.
Jatiyo Sangshad Bhaban
Dhaka also has some striking modern architecture as well as the historical. The National Assembly Building of Bangladesh (called Jatiyo Sangshad Bhaban) is one such example. This huge building was constructed between 1961 and 1982 and is made of reinforced concrete, so is quite a contrast to places like the colourful pink palace! This is one of the largest legislative buildings in the world, and some parts are open to visitors.
Museums in Dhaka
Dhaka is also home to many museums. As a tourist you might like to concentrate your time in the National Museum, though the Liberation War Museum is also interesting if you’re interested in Dhaka’s fight for independence.
When Should You Visit Dhaka?
Dhaka’s tropical climate means the city is hot and humid with temperatures not varying much across the course of the year. Average high temperatures range between 24C and 33C (76 and 91F) and there is a distinct monsoon season between May and October. The remaining months are actually very dry and winter temperatures are also a little milder, making this a good time to visit Dhaka.