Dhaka Division

Dhaka, Bangladesh

Dhaka Division is a STATE in Dhaka, Bangladesh.

Dhaka Division is a sensory overload in the best possible way, where ancient Mughal monuments stand alongside chaotic megacity energy. The capital Dhaka is a swirling mass of colour and noise: rickshaws painted with film-star faces clog narrow lanes, the Buriganga river teems with wooden cargo boats, and the air carries aromas of biryani and street-side jhalmuri. Lose yourself in Old Dhaka’s labyrinthine bazaars, marvel at the pink Lalbagh Fort and the grand Ahsan Manzil palace, then escape to the quieter countryside of Sonargaon, once a thriving medieval capital. Beyond the city, the division unfolds into lush green rice paddies, serene rivers, and artisan villages where Jamdani weavers create UNESCO-recognised textiles. Sunrise over the Sadarghat waterfront is unforgettable, while a river cruise offers a gentle perspective on life along the waterways. The warmth of Bangladeshi hospitality and the sheer vitality of everyday life make this a destination that rewards curious, patient travellers with a truly authentic South Asian experience.

Best time to visit Dhaka Division

The optimal window is November to February, when the weather is pleasantly cool and dry with average highs of 25°C (77°F). March to May brings intense heat and humidity, peaking before the monsoon. The monsoon season from June to October delivers heavy rainfall and occasional flooding, which can disrupt travel but paints the countryside a vivid green. For the best mix of comfortable sightseeing and cultural festivals, winter is unbeatable.

October

Now

Right now

Condition
Clear
Temperature
27°
Feels like
31°
Humidity
78%
Wind
6 km/h
Precipitation
0 mm

Typical for October

Weather
Post-monsoon 25-32°C

Travel notes

Crowds
Moderate
Prices
Moderate

Durga Puja celebrations; good time to visit

Weather from Open-Meteo

Know before you go

Getting there

DAC

Shahjalal International Airport

International

20 km away

CGP

Shah Amanat International Airport

International

230 km away

Getting around

"Dhaka’s iconic cycle rickshaws are perfect for short distances—agree on a fare before starting. CNG auto-rickshaws (green three-wheelers) are faster for medium trips. Ride-hailing apps Uber and Pathao operate widely and provide air-conditioned comfort at reasonable prices. Public buses are extremely crowded and confusing for visitors; trains connect Dhaka with satellite towns but are often packed. For exploring outside the capital, hiring a private car with driver is the most convenient option, though you’ll still face legendary traffic jams. River ferries and small boats offer a scenic, relaxed way to reach riverside destinations."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

20 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Widely available in hotels and cafes in cities

Local SIM

Local SIM available at airport or shops for $2-5; registration with passport

Stay safe

Overall

6/10

Traffic chaos is the biggest daily risk. Petty theft low but pickpocketing in crowds; avoid political protests.

Night safety

4/10

Traffic chaos is the biggest daily risk. Petty theft low but pickpocketing in crowds; avoid political protests.

Transport

5/10

Scam risk

6/10

"Dhaka Division is generally safe for tourists, but need for heightened awareness. Petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag-snatching occurs in crowded markets, buses, and train stations. Keep valuables secure and avoid displaying expensive items. Political rallies and hartals (strikes) can disrupt traffic and occasionally turn violent; avoid large gatherings. Road safety is a major concern—traffic is chaotic, with frequent accidents. Use registered ride-hailing apps (Uber, Pathao) or hotel taxis rather than hailing street vehicles. Women should dress modestly and avoid walking alone after dark. Scams targeting tourists are uncommon but haggle firmly with rickshaw drivers and vendors. The nationwide emergency helpline 999 connects to police, fire, and ambulance."

Entry and health

Health information

"Consult a travel health professional at least 6–8 weeks before departure. Recommended vaccines include hepatitis A and B, typhoid, tetanus, meningitis, and rabies (if extended stay or rural travel). Dengue fever is a risk year-round, especially during monsoon; use DEET-based repellent, wear long sleeves, and sleep under nets. Malaria risk is low in Dhaka city but present in rural areas. Drink only bottled or boiled water; avoid ice and raw salads. Street food is tempting but choose freshly cooked, piping-hot items. Air pollution can be severe, particularly in winter; pack N95 masks. Medical facilities in Dhaka range from basic clinics to modern private hospitals, but serious emergencies may require evacuation. Comprehensive travel insurance is essential."

Culture

Local customs

"This is a predominantly Muslim region; dress conservatively, covering shoulders and knees—women may wish to carry a scarf for religious sites. Remove shoes before entering mosques and private homes. Use the right hand for eating, passing objects, or greeting. The polite greeting is 'Assalamu Alaikum', with the response 'Wa Alaikum Assalam'. Public displays of affection are frowned upon. During Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours. Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated in restaurants and for personal services."
Bengali (official)EnglishChittagonianSylhetiRangpuriBengali

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Budget

Meals

$1-2 | a cheap local meal (curry, rice) costs around $1-2

Hotels

$15-80 | budget hotels from $15, mid-range $40-80/night

Local transport

$0.50-2 | rickshaw or bus ride approximately $0.50-2

Cost notes

Incredible value for money; Dhaka is one of Asia’s cheapest capital cities.

Timezone

Asia/Dhaka
Local time 20:38

More facts

Population

45,000,000

ISO code

BD-81

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Gazipur, Jaydebpur, Joydebpur, Joydeypur, gajipura, gajipuru, gazipura, gaziፑri, ghazy pwr, ghazybwr, ghazy‌pwr, Газипур, Газіпур, غازي پور, غازيبور, غازی پور, غازی‌پور, गाजीपुर, গাজীপুর, ਗਾਜ਼ੀਪੁਰ, ጋዚፑር, ガジプール, ঢাকা বিভাগ, Dháka, Division Dhaka, Dacca División, Dacca Division, ढाका विभाग, ダッカ, 다카주, 達卡;达卡, BD-C, دكا, Dəkkə, Дакка, Дака, དྷ་ཁ།, ޑާކާ, Ντάκα, Dako, Daca, Dhaka, داکا, Daka, Dacca - ঢাকা, ઢાકા, דאקה, ढाका, Dakka, Դաքքա, Dacca, დაკა, ಢಾಕಾ, ഢാക്ക, ဒါကာမြို့, Даккæ, டாக்கா, ఢాకా, ธากา, داككا, ڈھاکہ, דאקא, داكا, Deka, Дгака, Dakk

Major HubHistoric CityCulturalRiver CruiseStreet FoodBustling MarketsMughal ArchitectureRickshaw RideUrban Adventure