Bangladesh is one of the most densely populated countries on earth, and this is most apparent when exploring the older parts of Dhaka. While many expats and tourists elect to stay in the newer Gulshan area of Dhaka, a tour of Old Dhaka is a necessary experience when visiting Bangladesh.
Cultural Tourism in Dhaka, Bangladesh
The intensity of the crowds, the air of commerce, and the sense of lively growth out of decay characterize Old Dhaka. Experiencing Bangladesh means engaging with the Bengali people, and Old Dhaka has a variety of venues in which to interact with locals from all walks of life. Walking through this party of the city means navigating a labyrinthine set of alleyways. Looking up it’s possible to see tangles of electricity wires along with interesting architectural features on the close packed houses. Getting lost in the maze of streets is easy, but part of the adventure.
There are several major landmarks in Old Dhaka. Ahsan Manzil, or the Pink Palace, is now a museum where it is possible to find many Bengalis lounging in its garden passing the day. The palace hints at the city’s old grandeur, and is in walking distance of the Shankaria Bazar.
Located a few blocks north of the Sadarghat boat terminal, Shankaria Bazar, also known as Hindu Street offers a wealth of experiences. On this street of artisans it is possible to see people making gold jewelry, selling conch shell bracelets, offering tabla drums and harmoniums as well as other traditional instruments, and if close to a puja (Hindu festival), visitors will see huge clay statues of Hindu gods being sculpted and painted.
Early morning walks through Old Dhaka will allow the visitor to see the city awaken. As this part of the city is very compact, walking is usually the best option. It is possible to see local barbers plying their trade on the street alongside street dentists offering their services. It is possible to walk fairly directly from the edge of Old Dhaka to the main boat terminal in forty minutes, however if wanting to explore a larger swath of the city a rickshaw or a horse drawn carriage is a good option.
It is possible to walk to Dhaka University slightly north of the old city where it is possible to see students and roads lined with towering trees. A ride in a rickshaw or CNG can also take the visitor to Bicycle Rd. where slightly pricey examples of rickshaw art may be purchased. Shops and eateries, including ones selling Bengali desserts (mishti) are numerous in this part of the city allowing the visitor to take their time as they explore the eclectic buildings that dot the area.
On the River in Bangladesh
Sadarghat is the main boat terminal in Dhaka, and should not be missed. It is a staging area for adventures in Southwest Bangladesh, and the market next door offers traditional clothing for wholesalers. Entering the terminal for a nominal fee allows the visitor to see the river boats (launches) that ferry passengers around the country. Hiring a small boat to explore this bustling part of the river is also possible.
By taking a launch south it is possible to see river life in Bangladesh. The launches on well traveled route are reasonably safe, and offer sleeper cabins. On the rooftop it is possible to see Bengali men take in the sunset before saying their evening prayers towards Mecca, while the first floor of the ship will have families spread out on mats. The river is often cold, and it is wise to bring extra clothing despite the tropical daytime heat.
Arriving to Dhaka on the boat is also an incredible experience off the tourist trail in Bangladesh. As boats approach Dhaka it is possible to see the brick kilns that mark the landscape. Smoke stacks from the brick factories litter the view and is a marked change from the river scenes and rice fields experienced earlier in the approach to Dhaka. Seeing a variety of boats from small fishermen’s vessels to larger ships sucking up silt from the river’s bottom along with construction workers moving earth on the shore, and maybe a gangetic dolphin, also leaves an indelible impression.
Brian Jungwiwattanaporn - Living an eclectic life, Brian has found online writing a great way to share and explore his interests. Having recently complete a ...
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