Where to Stay in Dhaka
Bangladesh
|Pop. 10.4M
|4 neighborhoods covered
Dhaka at a Glance
8 categories
Top Tips for Dhaka
Things to know before you go
Local Tip
Always have small denominations of Bangladeshi Taka (BDT) for local transport and street food; negotiate prices politely but firmly before commencing any journey or purchase.
Getting Around
Traffic is a major factor; always add significant buffer time for journeys, especially during peak hours. Use ride-sharing apps for predictable pricing and to avoid haggling.
Watch Out For
Overcharging by rickshaw/auto-rickshaw drivers (insist on meter or agree price beforehand).
Solo Female Travel
Exercise a high degree of caution. Dress conservatively to avoid unwanted attention. Stick to reputable transport like ride-sharing apps, and avoid traveling alone at night in less populated areas.
Hidden Gems in Dhaka
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Panam City
Explore the hauntingly beautiful ruins of this abandoned colonial-era city, where crumbling mansions tell stories of a bygone era. It's like stepping back in time to a forgotten world.
Shankhari Bazar
FREEWander through the narrow lanes of this vibrant Hindu street, filled with intricate temples, artisan workshops, and shops selling religious items and crafts. The atmosphere is lively and deeply cultural.
Baldha Garden
Discover a serene oasis showcasing a stunning collection of rare and exotic plants from around the world, meticulously arranged in different sections. It's a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle.
Star Mosque (Star Masjid)
FREEAdmire the unique architecture of this beautiful mosque adorned with thousands of stars made from Japanese ceramic tiles. The intricate blue and white patterns create a mesmerizing visual.
Dhaka Art Center
Immerse yourself in contemporary Bangladeshi art at this gallery showcasing works by emerging and established artists. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the nation's artistic pulse.
Haji Biryani
Savor the authentic and legendary flavors of traditional Dhaka biryani at this iconic eatery, a local favorite for generations. The aromatic rice and tender meat are a must-try culinary experience.
What It Costs in Dhaka
Daily budget per person in BDT
💡Premium destination pricing
BDT 3000/day
BDT 8000/day
BDT 20000/day
Where to Stay in Dhaka
Honest neighborhood guide: where to stay and where to avoid
Best for
Walk to
- Banani25 min
- United Hospital15 min
- Gulshan Lake10 min
Pros
- +Modern infrastructure
- +Good range of international dining
- +Relatively cleaner and better maintained
Cons
- -Can feel sterile and less authentically Bangladeshi
- -Traffic congestion is severe
Top stays in Gulshan
The Westin Dhaka
$$$Offers a luxurious stay with excellent amenities and dining options.
Radisson Blu Dhaka Water Garden
$$$Known for its beautiful garden setting and high-quality service.
Best Western Plus Dhaka
$$Reliable international chain offering comfortable rooms and good facilities.
Ascott Palace Dhaka
$$$Provides spacious serviced apartments for longer stays.
Best for
Walk to
- Gulshan25 min
- Banani Lake5 min
- Mirpur Road20 min
Pros
- +Abundant restaurants and cafes
- +Lively atmosphere
- +Good connectivity
Cons
- -Can be noisy due to nightlife
- -Traffic can be extremely bad
Best for
Walk to
- Dhanmondi Lake5 min
- National Museum of Science and Technology15 min
- New Market30 min
Pros
- +More green spaces and recreational areas
- +Access to museums and cultural sites
- +More affordable dining and accommodation options
Cons
- -Can be very crowded, especially near markets and educational institutions
- -Traffic is a constant issue
Best for
Walk to
- Ramna Park20 min
- Dhaka Stock Exchange5 min
- Sadharan Sangho10 min
Pros
- +Central location for business
- +Numerous local eateries and street food
- +Good access to public transport hubs
Cons
- -Extremely crowded and chaotic
- -Limited tourist-oriented amenities
- -Can feel overwhelming
Areas to be cautious
- Old Dhaka (Puran Dhaka) outskirts, particularly slum areas: While historic Old Dhaka has charm, its poorer peripheral areas can be unsafe and lack tourist infrastructure, posing risks of petty crime and unsanitary conditions.
- Isolated industrial zones: These areas are not tourist-friendly, often have poor road conditions, and can be unsafe due to lack of public presence and security.
Insider tip: Always have small denominations of Bangladeshi Taka (BDT) for local transport and street food; negotiate prices politely but firmly before commencing any journey or purchase.
Safety in Dhaka
Exercise cautionSolo Female Travel
Exercise a high degree of caution. Dress conservatively to avoid unwanted attention. Stick to reputable transport like ride-sharing apps, and avoid traveling alone at night in less populated areas.
At Night
Be aware of your surroundings, especially in less crowded areas. Stick to well-lit, busy streets and avoid displaying valuables. Some areas can become deserted and feel unsafe after dark.
Emergency
999
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Overcharging by rickshaw/auto-rickshaw drivers (insist on meter or agree price beforehand).
- 2Fake guides or touts offering unsolicited help.
- 3Pickpocketing in crowded markets and on public transport.
Getting Around Dhaka
Transport, connectivity, and costs
✈️
Airport to City
Uber/Pathao: BDT 1,000-1,800 (approx. 45-90 mins depending on traffic); Airport Taxi: BDT 1,500-2,500 (fixed rates).
🎫
Day Pass
Not applicable for most systems; single tickets or passes for Metro Rail are available.
Single: Rickshaw: BDT 50-150; Auto-rickshaw: BDT 100-300; Bus: BDT 10-30.
🚶
Walkability
Car NeededUber
📶
WiFi
Good15-30 Mbps
Public Transport
Rickshaws (ubiquitous for short distances, negotiate fare), Auto-rickshaws (CNG - metered but often require negotiation, ensure meter is used), Buses (crowded, complex routes), Metro Rail (limited lines currently, efficient but not comprehensive).
Ride-share
Uber, Pathao (motorcycle taxis are very common and cheap). Typical cost for a 5km ride: BDT 150-300.
Transport Tip
Traffic is a major factor; always add significant buffer time for journeys, especially during peak hours. Use ride-sharing apps for predictable pricing and to avoid haggling.
WiFi & Remote Work
Free WiFi
Hotels, upscale cafes, some shopping malls.
Coworking
Work Shed (BDT 500-1000/day), Impact Hub Dhaka (BDT 800-1500/day).
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Best months to visit: Jan, Feb, Dec
Hotels & Accommodation in Dhaka
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Who Is Dhaka Best For?
Matched recommendations for different traveller types
First-time Visitors
Offers familiar amenities, good hotels, and a relatively easier introduction to urban Bangladesh.
Foodies
Boasts a high concentration of diverse restaurants, cafes, and trendy eateries catering to various tastes.
Families
Provides access to parks, lakes, and museums, offering a more relaxed environment with family-friendly activities.
Budget Backpackers
Offers more affordable accommodation and dining options compared to upscale areas, with access to local life.
Digital Nomads
Central location for business, affordable living, and access to coworking spaces, though can be chaotic.
Luxury Travelers
Home to high-end hotels, fine dining, and upscale shopping, providing a comfortable and sophisticated experience.
Dhaka on TripAdvisor
Read traveller reviews, tips, and photos
About Dhaka
Dhaka ( DAH-kə or DAK-ə; Bengali: ঢাকা, romanized: Ḍhākā, pronounced [ˈɖʱaka] ), formerly known as Dacca, is the capital and largest city of Bangladesh. With an estimated population of 36.6 million, Dhaka is the second largest city by population in the world, and is widely considered to be the most densely populated built-up urban area in the world. Dhaka is an important cultural, economic, and scientific hub of Eastern South Asia.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dhaka
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Dhaka Guides by Traveller Type
Tailored neighborhood picks for how you travel