Journey through Bangladesh and unlock the unique charm of Dhaka

In the northeastern part of the South Asian subcontinent, there is a vibrant and uniquely charming city—Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh and the heart of the country. Here, you'll find ancient historical sites alongside energetic modern neighborhoods, mouthwatering cuisine, and warm, hospitable people. Follow this guide to embark on an unforgettable journey through Dhaka!🎈 1. Best Time to Travel Dhaka has a subtropical monsoon climate with three distinct seasons: winter (November - February), summer (March - June), and monsoon season (July - October)🌞. The average annual temperature is 26.5°C. Winter is the most pleasant season, with the lowest temperature around 4°C. The weather is clear and dry, perfect for traveling. Summer temperatures can reach up to 45°C with high humidity. During the monsoon season, the average temperature is 30°C with frequent rainfall, so remember to bring an umbrella. If you want to avoid the heat and rain, the best time to travel is from November to February.❄️ 2. Must-See Attractions 1. Ahsan Manzil (Pink Palace): This palace resembles a fairytale castle, romantically painted in pink. It was converted from a warehouse by a wealthy landlord. The interior is exquisitely decorated, blending Islamic and European architectural styles. Taking photos here is a must📸, as you'll feel like you've stepped into a dream world. 2. Baitul Mukarram National Mosque: One of the most famous mosques in Dhaka and the largest in Bangladesh. Its unique architectural style is magnificent and can accommodate tens of thousands of worshippers at the same time. Step inside to experience the solemnity and sacredness of the mosque and immerse yourself in the rich Islamic cultural atmosphere.🕌 3. Dhaka Museum: The museum boasts a rich collection, covering stone tools, red pottery, bronze statues, coins, metalware, crafts, ivory carvings, and historical materials related to the War of Independence. Here, you can delve into the history, culture, and art of Bangladesh, making it an excellent place to explore the local past.🏛️ 4. University of Dhaka: The oldest university in Bangladesh, established in 1921 during British rule. The Curzon Hall on campus, built during the British colonial period, was originally intended as a town hall but later became the base of the Faculty of Science at Dhaka University. Stroll through the campus, soak in the academic atmosphere, and admire the historically significant buildings.🎓 5. Buriganga River: Although the river's hygiene needs improvement, it is the lifeline of Dhaka, witnessing the city's rise and fall. Take a ferry trip on the river, admire the scenery along the banks, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of Dhaka.🚢 3. Local Cuisine 1. Biryani: A beloved local dish, biryani is made with rice, spices, and meat (chicken, mutton, or beef). The aroma is enticing, and the rice is cooked to perfection, absorbing the flavors of the meat and spices. Every bite is incredibly satisfying.🍚 2. Kebabs: A common street food in Dhaka, kebabs are made with tender pieces of meat marinated in unique spices and grilled until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Served with special sauces, the kebabs are bursting with flavor and simply irresistible.🍖 3. Chapati/Paratha: These flatbreads come in various forms, from plain to those filled with vegetables, meat, or cheese. They are often eaten with curry, and dipping the chapati into the rich curry creates a delightful culinary experience. They are one of the local staple foods.🥞 4. Sweets: Dhaka's desserts are known for their sweetness. Gulab Jamun, fried dough balls soaked in sugar syrup, are sweet and soft. Ras malai, a cheese pudding-like dessert, is rich and creamy, sweet but not overpowering. Those with a sweet tooth should not miss these treats.🍮 4. Things to Note 1. Visa and Entry: It's recommended to obtain a tourist visa in advance. For a visa on arrival, you'll need a printed English itinerary, a printed English hotel booking confirmation (matching the flight dates), and a printed certificate of two vaccine doses or a negative nucleic acid test within 72 hours. Upon arrival, collect the arrival card to fill out, then pay the fee (USD 51 or RMB 450, small bills recommended) at the glass counter on the side. After payment, get the stamp at the counter and check the duration of stay. You can exchange currency on the second floor. Exchange points are limited in the city, mostly ATMs.👮‍♀️ 2. Transportation: Dhaka's traffic is quite chaotic, with pedestrians and vehicles sharing the roads. Main transportation options include taxis, auto-rickshaws (locally known as CNGs), and rickshaws. For short distances, CNGs are a good option, costing around 100-200 Taka. For longer distances, using ride-hailing apps like Uber is recommended to avoid communication issues. Allow ample travel time, as a 30-minute journey can take up to 2 hours due to traffic jams.🚗 3. Accommodation: Accommodation in Bangladesh is generally not cheap. Clean and comfortable hotels start from around 300 RMB, while those below 200 RMB may have subpar conditions. Choose rooms away from the street to avoid noise. For safety and comfort, consider staying near the embassy area or Dhaka University.🏨 4. Food and Hygiene: Street food hygiene standards in Dhaka vary, and those with sensitive stomachs may experience discomfort. It's advisable to bring some stomach medicine. Locals eat with their right hand, as using the left hand is considered impolite. Use your right hand for receiving items and shaking hands as well. Bangladesh is a Muslim country, and you'll hear calls to prayer from mosques throughout the day. Respect local religious beliefs.🍽️ 5. Cultural Differences: Bangladeshis are often curious about foreigners, and you may attract attention or even be asked for photos. Don't be alarmed; it's mostly out of friendliness and curiosity. When visiting religious sites like mosques, dress modestly and maintain a respectful silence.🙏 Dhaka, a city full of mystery and charm, awaits your exploration. Pack your bags and embark on a spontaneous adventure, creating your own beautiful memories in Dhaka!💕