Is Dhaka safe for solo female travelers?

Exercise caution. Dress conservatively, avoid isolated areas at night, use reputable ride-hailing apps, and stay in well-reviewed accommodations. Joining group tours can enhance safety.

What is the must-try food in Dhaka?

Do not leave without trying Haji Biriyani in Old Dhaka, traditional Bengali fish curries (like ilish), street snacks like fuchka and jhalmuri, and sweet mishti doi (sweet yogurt).

Do I need a visa to visit Dhaka, Bangladesh?

Yes, most foreign nationals require a visa. Tourist visas can often be obtained on arrival at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport for many nationalities, but check requirements with the Bangladesh embassy beforehand.

What is the best area to stay for tourists?

Gulshan, Banani, and Baridhara are the most popular for tourists, offering a range of hotels, restaurants, and relative calm. Uttara is also good, being close to the airport.

Can I use credit cards in Dhaka?

Major hotels, upscale restaurants, and malls in Gulshan/Banani accept international credit cards (Visa/Mastercard). However, carry sufficient Bangladeshi Taka (BDT) cash for markets, rickshaws, and smaller establishments.

Most nationalities need a visa; e-Visa available for many. Check with the Bangladesh High Commission.

What currency is used?

Bangladeshi Taka (BDT). ATMs are common, but carry cash for small vendors.

Is English widely spoken?

Limited English; basic Bengali phrases help. Younger people in cities speak some English.

What is the local cuisine like?

Rich and spicy, with rice, fish, and lentils. Must-try: biryani, hilsa fish, and pithas.

Is it safe to eat street food?

Popular but choose busy stalls with high turnover. Avoid raw salads and unpeeled fruits.

Lightweight, modest clothing. Women may wear salwar kameez or loose trousers. Carry a scarf for mosques.

How do I get from the airport?

Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport is 20 km from city center. Use Uber or prepaid taxi (approx. $10-15).

What are the main attractions?

Lalbagh Fort, Ahsan Manzil, Star Mosque, Sadarghat River Port, and the National Museum.

Can I use credit cards?

Accepted in upscale hotels and restaurants, but cash is king for most transactions.

What is the tipping etiquette?

Not mandatory, but 5-10% in restaurants is appreciated. Small tips for hotel staff and guides.

Are there any cultural taboos?

Avoid showing the soles of your feet, pointing with your finger, and using your left hand for eating.

Dhaka

DivisionBangladesh, Asia

Dhaka is a STATE in Bangladesh, Asia.

Dhaka Division, the vibrant heart of Bangladesh, offers an exhilarating immersion into South Asian culture. As the nation's capital region, it pulses with energy, from the chaotic charm of Old Dhaka's narrow lanes to the modern high-rises of Gulshan. History whispers through the 400-year-old Lalbagh Fort and the stunning pink Ahsan Manzil palace. The bustling Sadarghat river port on the Buriganga River is a mesmerizing spectacle of constant movement. For respite, explore the lush Ramna Park or the National Parliament House, an architectural masterpiece by Louis Kahn. Dhaka is a city of contrasts—spiritual serenity at the historic Star Mosque with its intricate mosaic work, juxtaposed with the sensory overload of bustling markets like New Market. The culinary scene is legendary, from street-side fuchka (pani puri) to elaborate biryanis. While intense, Dhaka's raw authenticity, profound hospitality, and rich tapestry of Mughal, colonial, and Bengali heritage create an unforgettable travel experience for those seeking cultural depth.

Best time to visit Dhaka

November to February (cool season). This period offers pleasant, dry weather with cooler temperatures (12-25°C), making it ideal for sightseeing. This is also the festival season, with celebrations like Durga Puja and Christmas, culminating in the vibrant Bengali New Year (Pohela Boishakh) in mid-April. The monsoon (June-September) brings heavy rain, flooding, and high humidity, while the pre-monsoon (March-May) is extremely hot and humid.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather: Post-monsoon 22-30°C

Travel notes

Crowds: Moderate
Prices: Moderate

Rain decreases

Know before you go

Getting there

DAC

Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport

International

20 km away

Getting around

"Navigating Dhaka is challenging but an adventure. Ride-hailing apps like Uber and Pathao (for cars and motorbikes) are reliable and recommended for avoiding fare negotiations. CNG auto-rickshaws (three-wheelers) are ubiquitous and cheap for short trips; agree on a fare beforehand. Traditional cycle rickshaws are best for short distances in less congested areas. Public buses are extremely crowded and not recommended for most tourists. The Dhaka Metro Rail (MRT Line 6) is a new, efficient option for north-south routes. For river crossings, the Sadarghat launch terminal offers cheap ferries. Walking is difficult due to traffic, pollution, and lack of sidewalks."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

20 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Available in hotels and cafes

Local SIM

Local SIM available at airport from $3

Calling code

+880

Stay safe

Overall

7/10

Petty crime is common; stay vigilant in crowded areas.

Night safety

6/10

Petty crime is common; stay vigilant in crowded areas.

Transport

8/10

Scam risk

5/10

"Exercise increased caution due to crime and occasional political unrest. Petty crime like pickpocketing and bag snatching is common in crowded areas (markets, train stations). Use registered taxi services (like Uber or Pathao) or hotel transport. Avoid walking alone at night. Be vigilant in Old Dhaka due to narrow, crowded lanes. Political gatherings and demonstrations can occur unexpectedly; avoid them. Scams include overcharging by unofficial taxi/rickshaw drivers and fake tour guides. The diplomatic zones of Gulshan and Banani are generally safer. Keep valuables secure and copies of your passport."

Police

999

Ambulance

199

Fire

199

Tourist Police

+880 2 8360249

Entry and health

Health information

"Travelers should ensure routine vaccinations are up-to-date and consider Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and possibly Japanese Encephalitis and Cholera. Dengue fever is common, especially during the monsoon; use mosquito repellent. Air pollution is severe; those with respiratory issues should take precautions. Drink only bottled or purified water and avoid street food if you have a sensitive stomach. Quality medical care is available at private hospitals in Dhaka like Apollo Hospitals, United Hospital, and Square Hospital. Travel health insurance with medical evacuation coverage is strongly recommended. Carry a basic supply of personal medications."

Culture

Local customs

"Dress modestly, especially for women (cover shoulders and knees). Remove shoes before entering homes and mosques. Use your right hand for eating and giving/receiving items. Greetings often involve a slight nod or saying \"Assalamu alaikum\" (peace be upon you). Public displays of affection are frowned upon. Tipping is not customary in local eateries but appreciated in upscale restaurants and for services (5-10%). Bargaining is expected in markets. Always show respect during religious observances, especially during Ramadan. When visiting religious sites, women may need to cover their heads."

Bengali (Bangla)English

Costs and practicals

Currency

Bangladeshi Taka (BDT) · ৳

Cost level

Budget

Meals

$3-5 | a cheap local meal costs around $3-5

Hotels

$20-50 | budget hotels range $20-50/night

Local transport

$0.50 | local rickshaw ride ~$0.50

Cost notes

Dhaka is very affordable for budget travelers.

Timezone

Asia/Dhaka +06:00 (GMT)

More facts

Population

44,000,000

Area

20,688 km²

Government

Divisional Administration headed by a Divisional Commissioner

ISO code

Type

Division

Frequently Asked Questions

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