Dhaka is classified as a megacity and beta-global city by the Globalisation and World Cities Research Network based on its urbanization, financial and major economy network in Bangladesh and the world. This city is also the cultural hub of Bangladesh, especially in the Old Town, where visitors can find traces of the Mughal Empire to British Colonial from the buildings architecture and national monuments. Visitors can also enjoy the vibrant colors of Dhaka from its local festivals and cityscape.

Airports in Dhaka

Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport

Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport is the main international airport in Bangladesh. This airport was named after a Sufi saint named Shah Jalal. At a capacity of more than 18 million passengers, Shahjalal Airport is by far the largest airport in the country. There are almost 30 airlines currently operating at this airport for domestic and international destinations. Shahjalal Airport is also the primary hub for the national Biman Bangladesh Airlines. Passengers from Kuala Lumpur can reach Dhaka directly by taking flights by AirAsia, Malaysia Airlines, Malindo Air, Regent Airways Biman Bangladesh Airlines and US-Bangla Airlines. Shahjalal Airport has a modern terminal interior and has facilities such as café and duty-free shops. This airport is located only 17 kilometers away from the city center. Upon your arrival, passengers can take the railway from the Airport Railway Station to reach the city. Alternatively, visitors can take taxis to reach your destinations.

How to Get Cheap Flights to Dhaka?

Traveloka is a travel search engine that makes it easy for travelers to find the cheapest flights to Dhaka. Key in the information in the search box and the application will recommend the best trip according to your budget. It compares flight prices across some trusted airlines to help you to get the best possible deal. Use Traveloka’s price alert feature to be notified of flights in your desired price range to get the best flight price to Dhaka.

When is the Best Time to Fly to Dhaka?

Dhaka experiences a tropical savannah climate with a distinct monsoonal season. Weather is generally hot and humid throughout the year, with temperature averaging at 26 degrees centigrade. Temperature can also vary between 21 to 31 degrees. It is essential to know that the monsoon season takes place between May to October. Visitors are advised to avoid visiting during this period as the rainfall is the heaviest and has risks of flooding. November to March is the dry period whereby the weather is more moderate, cooler and less humid. Traveling during these months would be more comfortable for visitors.

Rich with culture and history, Dhaka celebrates a wide variety of festivals annually. One of the most famous festivals celebrated is the Pahela Baishakh, the first day of the Bengali calendar. The new year is celebrated in most joyous mood whereby colorful music and dance performances, as well as traditional competitions, can be watched. Traditional procession Mangal Shobhajatra held during this festival has been recognized as cultural heritage by the UNESCO. Another traditional celebration is Nabanna. It is a harvest festivities celebrated on the first day of Agrahayan month in the Bengali calendar. Dhaka also celebrates its patriots in its Independence Day on 26 March and Victory Day on 16 December. As Dhaka people embrace different religions, various religious festivals are celebrated including Eidul Fitr and Eidul Adha by the Muslims, Durga Puja by the Hindus, Buddha Purnima by the Buddhists and Christmas Day by the Christians.

What are the Top 3 Things to Do in Dhaka?

Dhaka is one of the most visited cities in the world. Many attractions can be found in Dhaka.

Lalbagh Fort - Located in Lalbagh in the Dhaka Old Town, Lalbagh Fort is the most famous historical fort in Bangladesh. Also called Fort Aurangabad, this attraction is a Mughal Empire remnant which was built in the year 1678 by a Mughal prince. The fort construction was left incomplete during the 1700s due to unfortunate events throughout the construction period. Lalbagh Fort consists of a three-domed mosque, the Tomb of Pari-Bibi, Residence of the Governor, the South Gate and secret tunnels. Exquisite details of the interior and architecture can be viewed at the mosque and the tomb. The mosque is still actively in use and can be accessed for free, whereas the rest of the fort is accessible for only 200 TK (MYR 10).

Dhakeshwari Temple - Only one kilometer away from Lalbagh Fort is the Dhakeshwari Temple. It is the main Hindu temple in Dhaka which has a unique architectural style influenced by Arakanese religion and deities from Tantric Buddhism of the Maghs. Dhakeshwari Temple buildings consist of four small buildings of equal size with beautiful floral and motif carvings on the wooden doors. The temple is opened for free to everyone except between 2 pm to 4 pm.

Bangladesh National Parliament - Bangladesh National Parliament is also known as Jatiyo Sangsad Bhaban in Bengali. Designed by a famous American architect, the locals regarded it as a masterpiece due to its stunning and unique architecture. Visitors will find modern-looking concrete buildings with circular windows and doors, designed to combine old and new architectural elements, by the Crescent Lake.