Dhaka Full-Day City Tour: Explore Vibrant Street Life, Key Attractions, and Traditional Rides

Immerse yourself in the vibrant street life of Dhaka on a full-day city tour. Explore key attractions, experience traditional rides, and capture stunning street photography.

Duration: 8 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • National Parliament House - Bangladesh National Parliament: Great architecture of Louis Kahn in Dhaka.

Jatiyo Sangsad Bhaban (the Bengali name for the building), or Bangladesh National Parliament is one of the must-sees of Bangladesh, an architectural masterpiece and a real accomplishment for the country. It was designed by world renowned American architect and Yale University Professor Louis I. Kahn. Originally commissioned by the Pakistanis when Bangladesh was known as East Pakistan after Partition of the Indian Sub-Continent, was meant to serve as the second seat of the national parliament. Construction of Bangladesh National Parliament started in 1964 but halted due to the Bangladeshi War of independence, and finally completed in 1982.

  • Bangladesh National Museum - The Museum was established in 1913 is a four storied building with forty galleries under its 4 departments of natural history, History and Classical Art, Ethnography and decorative art and Contemporary art and World civilization. Note: Thursday is off-day. Friday 2nd Half open.
  • University of Dhaka - The University of Dhaka is the oldest university in modern Bangladesh. Established during the British Raj in 1921, it gained a reputation as the “Oxford of the East” during its early years and has been a significant contributor to the modern history of Bangladesh. After the partition of India, it became the focal point of progressive and democratic movements in Pakistan. Its students and teachers played a central role in the rise of Bengali nationalism and the independence of Bangladesh.
  • Shahid Minar - Symbol of Bengali nationalism. This monument was built to commemorate the martyrs of the historic Language movement of 1952(only and one languafe movement in the world’s history). Hundreds and thousands of people with floral wreaths and bouquet gather on 21 February every year to pay respect in a solemn atmosphere. Celebrations begin at zero hour of midnight. As recognisation of the language movement UN declear 21 February as International mother language day in 1999, which ovsreve all over the world every year on 21 February.
  • Lalbag Fort - No trip to Dhaka city is fulfilled without a trip to the Lalbagh Fort or also known as the fort of Auranagabad which was built in 1678 AD during Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. The beautiful fort represents the dream of the Mughal Prince which stayed unfinished. So the whole fort has a sense of history and mystery entwined in the very bricks of the foundation. Note: Sunday is Off-day. Monday Half Day (2nd Half Only).
  • Dhakeshwari Temple - Dhakeshwari Temple is the National Hindu Temple. It is state-owned, giving it the distinction of being Bangladesh’s ‘National Temple’. The name “Dhakeshwari” means “Goddess of Dhaka”. The Temple has assumed status as the most important Hindu place of worship in Bangladesh.

The Dhakeshwari temple was built in the Medieval era during Sena Dynasty, (12th century CE) by King Ballal Sen, and many say the city was named after this temple. The current architectural style of the temple cannot be dated to that period because of the numerous repairs have taken place over time. It is considered an essential part of Dhaka’s cultural heritage. Many researchers said that the temple is also one of the Shakti Peethas, where the jewel from the crown of the Goddess Satihad fallen. Since ages, the temple has been held in great importance.

  • Star Mosque (Tara Masjid) - One of the most beautiful Mosque from Mughal dynasty. an exquisite white marble structure superbly decorated with engraved floral and star patterns will surely capture your attention. Even the local residents of the area often stop for a while to have a look and be amazed with its perpetual beauty. Unlike other Mughal architectures, there is no inscription found in the mosque mentioning its founding year. However, according to the trustees of the mosque, it was built in the year 1711.

Tips for visiting Mosque: Do not go to visit Mosque during prayer times. For ladies, covering the head is necessary to enter the mosque. Also need to wear modest cloths. Entering the mosque wearing shorts will not be possible for both men and women.

  • Shankhari Bazar - Walking tour inside Shakhari Bazaar, the residential and commercial area of mostly Hindu and Artisan Community. The present area is over 400 year old center of Dhaka’s Hindu community, this colorful and vibrant area is a slice of the commercial life of Old Dhaka, and reveals the artisan traditions of the Hindu community in Bangladesh. The area is crisscrossed and narrow streets with alley ways packed with tiny workshops where artisans and craftsmen practice their age old traditional crafts; making everything from kites to jewelry. Many are descendants of the original Hindu residents of the area, and their handicraft traditions have been handed down from generation to generation. The area’s constant hum of business and craftsmanship is infectious, and visitors will not fail to be entranced by the ageless atmosphere of the bazaar.The present area is over 400 year old center of Dhaka’s Hindu community, this colorful and vibrant area is a slice of the commercial life of Old Dhaka, and reveals the artisan traditions of the Hindu community in Bangladesh. The area is crisscrossed with alley ways packed with tiny workshops where artisans and craftsmen practice their age old traditional crafts; making everything from kites to jewelry. Many are descendants of the original Hindu residents of the area, and their handicraft traditions have been handed down from generation to generation. The area’s constant hum of business and craftsmanship is infectious, and visitors will not fail to be entranced by the ageless atmosphere of the bazaar.
  • Ahsan Manzil - Known as the Pink Palace, Ahsan Manzil is located within the midst of antique metropolis, simply beside the bank of the River Buriganga. The amazing structure was the primary factor that attracts traveler to the palace; its rich history is what kept travelers intrigued. It reflects the lavish way of life of the Nawab dynasty, and portrays the economical instances it experienced in its in advance lifestyles as a trading house for the French traders. later on, it became the house of Khwaja Abdullah after the English-French struggle in the 18th century. New additions to the antique constructing and renovations has made this stunning monument into ever popular pink palace it is today. Note: Thursday off Day. Friday Half Day (Open after 2:30PM to 4:00PM Ticket counter close).
  • Sadarghat - Sadarghat Central River Port, located in the southern part of Dhaka, on the river Buriganga, is one of the most dynamic places in Dhaka. Here, the Sadarghat Launch Terminal is one of the largest river ports in the world. About 200 large and small passenger launches depart and arrive at the terminal every day. According to the officials at the terminal, 30,000 people, in average, use the terminal for departure and arrival every day. Visiting this place is a pandemonium, you may see what you can never experience in this world. The River Buriganga, though smelly and muddy, is the lifeblood of Old Dhaka. It’s fascinating to watch the large river ferries, overladen with people and local produce, and the loading and unloading activities to ramshackle warehouses on the riverfront. Triple-decked ferries are docked along the side of the jetty while small wooden boats pile their trade in between. The shrill of sirens sound like an air raid as boats depart and arrive from the countryside.
What's Included
  • National Museum Entry Fees
  • Tour with vast local information
  • Professional Art & Historian guide
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Bottled water
  • Private Transfer
  • Traditional Wooden Rowboat Ride
  • Mode of Transportation: One way Car, Took Took, Pulling Rickshaw all old town, Wooden Rowboat
  • Lunch
  • Walking tour through small narrow streets around the old town
  • Traditional Pulling Rickshaw Ride
What's Not Included
  • Drinks both Soft and Hard
  • Tips
  • Any Expenses which is not mentioned.
  • Gratuities
Additional Information

Immerse yourself in the Everyday Life and Highlights of Dhaka City\nEmbark on an immersive journey through bustling Dhaka, home to a population of over 160 million. Revel in an extensive 10-hour tour complete with a cafe-served lunch. Witness the typical existence and significant sights amidst the disorderly charm of Dhaka. Explore the city’s main points of interest and the distinct tempo of life in the historic district. Delight in an exhilarating Rickshaw trek and traverse through constricted alleyways, engaging with the harmonious community of four religions. Navigate the frenetic crossways and transit over the River Buriganga by way of a traditional Rowboat. Dhaka is brimming with heritage and culture, offering a haven for enthusiasts of street photography.\n\nTour Features: Comprehensive visits to Prominent attractions, Street Photography Sessions, Interaction with Locals, Authentic Rickshaw Journey, Classic Rowboat Passage, Explorative Walking Tour.

  • Infant meals not included
Location
National Parliament House
Sher-e-Bangla Nagar,
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.8
(51 Ratings)
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1 star
Richard_g
Jun 10, 2024
Great Tour of Dhaka - I was picked up on time and went straight to see the Bangladesh parliament. It was a good view and explanation, however, we could only get so close as I am a foreigner. The flower markets were next along with the university, Hindu Temple, Star Mosque and Armenian Church. The lunch was good in a local restaurant along with the market walk and river boat ride. My favourite was seeing the Ashan Manzil (Pink Palace), seeing the architecture with my own eyes and listening to the history from the fantastic guidance of Nawabi, as he had been doing through the whole tour.
Review provided by Viator
Superg86
Jun 10, 2024
Great Day Tour of Dhaka - I was picked up on time and went straight to see the Bangladesh parliament. It was a good view and explanation, however, we could only get so close as I am a foreigner. The flower markets were next along with the university, Hindu Temple, Star Mosque and Armenian Church. The lunch was good in a local restaurant along with the market walk and river boat ride. My favourite was seeing the Ashan Manzil (Pink Palace), seeing the architecture with my own eyes and listening to the history from the fantastic guidance of Nawabi, as he had been doing through the whole tour.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Heathclayton
Jun 2, 2024
A fantastic day in Dhaka - We had a fabulous day tour with Al-amin Farazi. We started at 8 AM at our hotel and he reviewed the planned itinerary with us and made some modifications based on our feedback and wishes. Then we set off to explore Dhaka! The highlight was walking around old Dhaka and heading to the river to see the ferry boats and the “lifeline” of Bangladesh. Lunch was tasty and fun, and and we felt really safe and cared for throughout the day. If we return to Bangladesh, we hope to have him as a tour guide again.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Tdahlawi
Jun 1, 2024
Day around Dhaka - Immersive day tour of Dhaka. I enjoyed my time with Mahib, he’s an excellent guide as he’s familiar with the city and its culture and sights. I highly recommend booking this tour
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Linaoma
May 5, 2024
Wonderful way to see Dhaka! - My friend and I did this tour with Mahib. What an amazing experience. He was very knowledgeable about the country and he was happy to explain everything calmly to us. We had a lot of questions as it was our first time in Bangladesh and he was more than happy to answer our questions. He showed us a lot of interesting places and we were also able to try different Bangladesh foods. And the best part, he was a great photographer and was able to take wonderful pictures for us throughout the experience. Our driver was also amazing (though unfortunately I forget his name). If you are in Bangladesh for the first time I highly recommend this tour. What a wonderful experience we had! 10/10 would recommend especially with Mahib.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Reih588
May 1, 2024
Amazing day trip - My guide Mahib arranged the itinerary flexibly to meet my request. His profound knowledge is amazing. Highly recommend!!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Neeloy2019
Apr 16, 2024
Full of historical linked with all religion as well as a good food guide - It was my spl trip after Eid , therefore I had full access of comfort of an ac car while visiting the city because roads were not so jammed .. no need to take rickshaw.. wow it was amazing experience , like the old historical city as well as new modern city ..it covered all . For lunch always ask for dish like kachhi biriyani with chinigura rice at old Dhaka city resturant only .. it will blow your mind . Also in the morning near lalbag for there is a tea stall with snacks that was mind blowing taste just ask for it !!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Hiroki_s
Apr 2, 2024
Immerse Yourself in Dhaka's Vibrant Culture with Mahib's Exceptional Tour - Discover the heart of Dhaka with Mahib, an exceptionally friendly and knowledgeable local guide. His tour expertly navigates the city's bustling streets, providing a fascinating glimpse into Bangladesh's rich history and economy. Mahib's ability to adapt the itinerary ensures a seamless experience. A highlight is the unique boat ride, offering a fresh perspective on the city. However, cleanliness-conscious folks may prefer to skip this part. Throughout the tour, Mahib's attentive explanations make for an educational and engaging experience. His English proficiency makes this tour highly recommended for English-speaking visitors eager to immerse themselves in Dhaka's local culture.
Review provided by Viator
Muhammad_s
Mar 14, 2024
Amazing experience if interested in history - Liberation war museum. A great place to review the traumatic history of 1971 war. My guide Al Amin was an excellent guide and great companion.
Review provided by Viator
Brett_p
Mar 3, 2024
Great Day! Saw a lot in very short period of time - Had a great day with Farazi! Excellent communication, on time and adjusted the tour throughout the day to what I wanted to see. Felt very safe and saw all the major sites in one day. Thanks for a great day!
Review provided by Viator
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September 2024
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