3-Day Bangladesh Tour: Historical Dhaka, Ancient Sonargaon and Luxury Boutique Hotel Stay

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On this tour, you will experience a Full-day sightseeing tour of historical & cultural city Dhaka and one full-day tour to the historic ancient capital Sonargaon with 2 nights in a Boutique Hotel.

Duration: 3 days

Cancellation: 24 hours

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Highlights

Dhaka

National Parliament House - Bangladesh National Parliament: This is a remarkable architectural work by Louis Kahn in Dhaka, and is a must-see in Bangladesh. Visitors can admire this architectural masterpiece from the outside, which stands as a significant achievement for the country. Designed by the renowned American architect and Yale University Professor Louis I. Kahn, it was initially commissioned by the Pakistanis when Bangladesh was East Pakistan after the Partition of the Indian Sub-Continent, intended to serve as the second seat of the national parliament. Construction began in 1964 but was interrupted by the Bangladeshi War of Independence, and was finally completed in 1982.

Bangladesh National Museum - Established in 1913, this museum is a four-story building with forty galleries across its four departments: Natural History, History and Classical Art, Ethnography and Decorative Art, and Contemporary Art and World Civilization. Note: The museum is closed on Thursdays.

University of Dhaka - The University of Dhaka is the oldest university in modern Bangladesh. Founded during the British Raj in 1921, it earned the nickname “Oxford of the East” in its early years and has played a pivotal role in the modern history of Bangladesh. After the partition of India, it became a hub for progressive and democratic movements in Pakistan. Its students and faculty were instrumental in the rise of Bengali nationalism and the independence of Bangladesh.

Shahid Minar - This monument symbolizes Bengali nationalism and was built to honor the martyrs of the historic Language Movement of 1952, the only language movement in world history. Every year on February 21, hundreds of thousands gather with floral wreaths and bouquets to pay their respects in a solemn atmosphere. Celebrations begin at midnight. In recognition of the language movement, the UN declared February 21 as International Mother Language Day in 1999, observed worldwide every year.

Lalbag Fort - A visit to Dhaka is incomplete without seeing Lalbagh Fort, also known as the Fort of Aurangabad, built in 1678 AD during the reign of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. This beautiful fort represents the unfulfilled dream of a Mughal Prince, with a sense of history and mystery embedded in its very foundation. Note: The fort is closed on Sundays.

Khan Mohammad Mridha Mosque - This mosque from the Mughal Dynasty, built in 1704 CE, is located in Old Dhaka, about 500 meters west of Lalbagh Fort. The mosque’s facade is adorned with paneling and ornamental merlons along the parapet. The entrances to the prayer hall are framed by multi-cusped arches and engaged columns on either side. The interior is divided into three bays by two lateral arches, each containing a mihrab marked by a multi-cusped arch within a rectangular panel. To view this walled mosque, enter through the main gate off the main road. Visitors of any religion are welcome inside. Tips for visiting: Avoid visiting during prayer times. Women should cover their heads to enter, and modest clothing is required. Shorts are not permitted for either gender.

Dhakeshwari Temple - As the National Hindu Temple, Dhakeshwari Temple is state-owned, earning it the title of Bangladesh’s ‘National Temple’. The name “Dhakeshwari” means “Goddess of Dhaka”. This temple is the most important Hindu place of worship in Bangladesh. Built during the Medieval era by King Ballal Sen of the Sena Dynasty in the 12th century CE, many believe the city was named after this temple. The current architectural style cannot be dated to that period due to numerous repairs over time. It is considered a vital part of Dhaka’s cultural heritage. Researchers suggest the temple is one of the Shakti Peethas, where a jewel from the crown of the Goddess Sati fell. The temple has been held in high regard for ages.

Star Mosque (Tara Masjid) - This is one of the most beautiful mosques from the Mughal dynasty, featuring an exquisite white marble structure adorned with engraved floral and star patterns. It captivates the attention of both locals and visitors. Unlike other Mughal architectures, there is no inscription indicating its founding year, but trustees believe it was built in 1711. Tips for visiting: Avoid visiting during prayer times. Women should cover their heads to enter, and modest clothing is required. Shorts are not permitted for either gender.

Shankhari Bazar - A walking tour through Shakhari Bazaar reveals a residential and commercial area primarily inhabited by the Hindu and Artisan Community. This vibrant area, over 400 years old, is a slice of Old Dhaka’s commercial life and showcases the artisan traditions of the Hindu community in Bangladesh. The area is filled with narrow streets and alleyways packed with tiny workshops where artisans and craftsmen practice age-old crafts, creating everything from kites to jewelry. Many artisans are descendants of the original Hindu residents, and their handicraft traditions have been passed down through generations. The constant hum of business and craftsmanship is infectious, and visitors will be captivated by the timeless atmosphere of the bazaar.

Armenian Church of the Holy Resurrection - This abandoned yet beautiful colonial church is a historically significant architectural monument located in the Armanitola area of old Dhaka, Bangladesh. It stands as a testament to the presence of a significant Armenian community in the region during the 17th and 18th centuries.

Sonargaon; the Ancient Capital

Ahsan Manzil - Known as the Pink Palace, Ahsan Manzil is situated in the heart of the old city, right beside the bank of the River Buriganga. The stunning architecture initially draws visitors, while its rich history keeps them intrigued. It reflects the lavish lifestyle of the Nawab dynasty and portrays its economic history as a trading house for French traders. Later, it became the residence of Khwaja Abdullah after the English-French struggle in the 18th century. Renovations and new additions have transformed this historic building into the popular Pink Palace it is today.

Sadarghat - Sadarghat Central River Port, located in the southern part of Dhaka on the River Buriganga, is one of the most bustling places in Dhaka. The Sadarghat Launch Terminal is among the largest river ports in the world, with about 200 large and small passenger launches departing and arriving daily. Terminal officials report that an average of 30,000 people use the terminal for departures and arrivals each day. Visiting this place offers a unique experience, showcasing the lifeblood of Old Dhaka. The River Buriganga, though muddy and odorous, is fascinating to watch as large river ferries, laden with people and local produce, engage in loading and unloading activities at the riverfront warehouses. Triple-decked ferries dock along the jetty while small wooden boats conduct trade in between. The shrill sirens sound like an air raid as boats depart and arrive from the countryside.