Sal Welcome to Dhaka
Dhaka, the capital city of Bangladesh, is a bustling metropolis located along the banks of the Buriganga River. As the political and economic center of the country, Dhaka attracts thousands of visitors each year. While Bangladesh has a predominantly Muslim culture, the people of Dhaka are renowned for their hospitality towards tourists. As a foreign visitor to Dhaka, you can expect a warm welcome from locals wherever you go.
Getting Around the City
With over 8 million inhabitants, Dhaka is one of the largest and most densely populated cities in the world. However, as in many large Asian cities, getting around need not be complicated once you understand the transportation systems. Auto-rickshaws or CNGs (compressed natural gas powered three-wheelers) are ubiquitous and affordable for short journeys across the city. Buses and public minibuses cover longer routes, while ride-hailing services such as Uber and Pathao offer door-to-door transportation at reasonable rates. For tourists, hiring a vehicle with an English-speaking driver is recommended to navigate places easily.
Must-See Attractions in Old Dhaka
Old Dhaka, the historic quarter located south of the Buriganga River, is a fascinating area steeped in Mughal-era architecture and culture. Some of the top sights here include the 600-year-old Baitul Mukarram National Mosque, the largest mosque in Bangladesh housing the mausoleum of national poet Kazi Nazrul Islam. Closeby is the Ahsan Manzil or Pink Palace, a magnificent royal residential mansion showcasing the ornate lifestyles of the Nawabs of Dhaka in the late 19th century. Food lovers should not miss exploring the bustling alleys of Old Dhaka on foot to sample local delicacies like Shahi Biriyani and Pe chat.
Respecting Local Customs and Norms
When visiting a new country, it is important to be mindful of local cultural norms and customs. In conservative Bangladeshi society, certain behaviors are deemed disrespectful or offensive. As the majority follows Islam, tourists should dress modestly covering shoulders and knees, avoid public displays of affection, and refrain from consuming alcohol in public areas. It is also advisable not to photograph people without permission to respect individuals’ privacy.
Interacting with Locals Respectfully
Most Bangladeshis are very warm and helpful towards visitors, eager to assist tourists navigating the city. However, understand they come from a culture that values humility, patience and modesty in interactions. Avoid aggressive bargaining when shopping and tipping is not expected, though small acts of kindness and smiles will go a long way in making positive impressions. When asking for directions or assistance, using polite formal terms like “please” and “thank you” in Bengali helps break the ice respectfully.
Cultural Etiquette at Mosques
As places of worship, mosques require maintaining decorum and following certain protocols for entry. For tourists of other faiths, it is respectful to ask permission from mosque authorities before visiting or photographing the premises. Footwear must be removed before entering prayer areas. Men and women should dress very modestly covering full body and sleeves. Avoid loud noises and conversations that may disturb those in worship. Cultural sensitivity and respect for local traditions will ensure smooth experiences visiting these significant religious sites.
Exploring Beyond Dhaka
No trip to Bangladesh is complete without experiencing the natural beauty and cultural heritage beyond the capital city. Day trips from Dhaka offer a change of pace and fascinating insights into rural Bangladeshi life and attractions.
Visiting Sonargaon
Just an hour’s drive from Dhaka lies the historic town of Sonargaon, situated on the banks of the River Dhaleshwari. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this was once the capital of ancient Bengal under the Delhi Sultanate and features well-preserved monuments from that golden era. Wander along the charming lanes spotted with mosques, madrasas and palaces constructed with terracotta and glazed tiled obra. Interact with friendly locals and sample fresh taka (river fish) brought down from nearby villages.
Exploring Bamboo Crafts in Bhola
The southern island district of Bhola is renowned as the heartland of Bangladeshi bamboo handicrafts with villages specialized in intricate weaving, basketry and furniture making using this versatile grass. Spend a day in a village learning traditional bamboo crafting techniques from veteran artisans or visiting their workshops. Admire the ingenious items available for purchase as souvenirs, from bamboo baskets and mats to household accessories, all eco-friendly products adding to Bhola’s reputation as the “Bamboo Island”.
Enjoying Bengali Cuisine
No trip to Bangladesh is complete without indulging in the rich flavors of Bengali cuisine. Ingredients prominently featuring rice, lentils, seasonal vegetables and fish dishes cooked in mustard oil form the staple diet of locals. Visitors should make it a point to sample some of the iconic dishes in restaurants or take home cooking lessons from home chefs.
Shahi Biryani: The Royal Rice Dish
One of Dhaka’s most famous culinary specialties is Shahi Biryani, an aromatic basmati rice pilaf layered with spices and tender pieces of meat or vegetables such as eggs and potatoes. Traditionally an elaborate Mughlai dish, various restaurants in the city offer their unique takes on this rice-based royal feast. Be sure to enjoy it with a spicy onion or mint sauce.
Trying Homemade Shondesh
No Bangladeshi meal is complete without dessert, and one local favorite is homemade Shondesh, soft balls of chhena (cheese) soaked in syrup lending a sweet ending. Sample these in tea stalls throughout Old Dhaka or take a short trip out of the city to Munshiganj famous for its traditional Shondesh makers. Learn the secret recipes straight from community kitchens visiting local family homes for an intimate cultural experience.
Exploring Natural Beauty
Beyond its vibrant urban centers and historic towns, Bangladesh is blessed with scenic natural landscapes and wetland ecosystems home to rare wildlife. Eco-tourism is gaining popularity among foreign visitors keen to experience the country’s environmental treasures.
Visiting the Sundarbans Mangrove Forest
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Sundarbans mangrove forest straddling the India-Bangladesh border is the largest such habitat in the world and home to the famous Royal Bengal Tiger. Board cruise ships from Khulna for a memorable day trip navigating the vast labyrinthine network of rivers and spotting wildlife including estuarine crocodiles, monkeys and diverse birdlife up close in their natural habitats. Guided nature walks through the dense forest offer memorable encounters.
Birdwatching at Himchari National Park
The island of St. Martin’s in Cox’s Bazar is home to the scenic Himchari National Park , with pristine beaches and tropical rainforests perfect for relaxing and wildlife viewing. Bird lovers will find joy spotting rare migratory birds that flock here seasonally including finches, orioles, parakeets and more than 200 other resident bird species. Well-maintained trails and amenities with knowledgeable guides ensure comfortable wildlife watching.
Safety Tips for Travelers
While most tourists find Bangladesh quite safe overall, it is advisable to remain alert and follow basic security precautions common in many developing nations.
- Keep personal documents and valuables secure at all times. Use hotel safety deposit boxes when provided.
- Avoid deserted lanes especially at night and any large political gatherings for your security.
- Only take registered taxis or auto-rickshaws from reliable hotels or reputed radio taxi services like Uber for last mile commutes.
- Beware of casual acquaintances requesting favors like changing money or keeping items temporarily to avoid scams.
- Consult your hotel staff or guides about any unfamiliar neighborhoods you may need to visit.
- Drink only bottled water and avoid raw foods from street vendors to sidestep any digestive issues.
- Register your trip details with your country’s high commission and carry essential medicines/first aid as a precaution.
By exercising basic vigilance and utilizing pre-paid transport where possible, foreign visitors can safely enjoy exploring Bangladeshi attractions and hospitality. As long as cultural norms are respected, a fulfilling travel experience awaits in this diverse South Asian nation.
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