3-Day Bangladesh Tour: Combining Hotel, Food, and City Sightseeing in Dhaka and Sonargaon

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This tour offers a full-day exploration of the historical and cultural city of Dhaka, along with a full-day visit to the ancient capital of Sonargaon.

Duration: 3 days

Cancellation: 24 hours

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Highlights

Dhaka

National Parliament House - Bangladesh National Parliament: This is a remarkable architectural work by Louis Kahn in Dhaka, and is a must-see in Bangladesh. Visitors can admire this architectural masterpiece from the outside, which stands as a significant achievement for the country. Designed by the renowned American architect and Yale University Professor Louis I. Kahn, it was initially commissioned by the Pakistanis when Bangladesh was known as East Pakistan after the Partition of the Indian Sub-Continent, intended to serve as the second seat of the national parliament. Construction began in 1964 but was interrupted by the Bangladeshi War of Independence, and was finally completed in 1982.

Bangladesh National Museum - Established in 1913, this museum is a four-story building with forty galleries across its four departments: Natural History, History and Classical Art, Ethnography and Decorative Art, and Contemporary Art and World Civilization. Note: The museum is closed on Thursdays.

University of Dhaka - The University of Dhaka is the oldest university in modern Bangladesh. Founded during the British Raj in 1921, it earned the nickname “Oxford of the East” in its early years and has played a pivotal role in the modern history of Bangladesh. Following the partition of India, it became a hub for progressive and democratic movements in Pakistan. Its students and faculty were instrumental in the rise of Bengali nationalism and the independence of Bangladesh.

Shahid Minar - This monument symbolizes Bengali nationalism and was built to honor the martyrs of the historic Language Movement of 1952, the only language movement in world history. Every year on February 21, hundreds of thousands of people gather with floral wreaths and bouquets to pay their respects in a solemn atmosphere. Celebrations begin at midnight. In recognition of the language movement, the UN declared February 21 as International Mother Language Day in 1999, observed worldwide every year.

Lalbag Fort - A visit to Dhaka is incomplete without seeing Lalbagh Fort, also known as the Fort of Aurangabad, built in 1678 AD during the reign of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. This beautiful fort represents the unfulfilled dream of a Mughal Prince, and its history and mystery are woven into its very foundation. Note: The fort is closed on Sundays.

Khan Mohammad Mridha Mosque - This mosque from the Mughal Dynasty, built in 1704 CE, is located in Old Dhaka, about 500 meters west of Lalbagh Fort. The mosque’s facade is adorned with paneling and ornamental merlons along the parapet. The entrances to the prayer hall are framed by multi-cusped arches and engaged columns on either side. The interior is divided into three bays by two lateral arches, each containing a mihrab marked by a multi-cusped arch within a rectangular panel. To view this walled mosque, enter through the main gate off the main road. Visitors of any religion are welcome inside. Tips for visiting: Avoid visiting during prayer times. Women should cover their heads to enter the mosque and wear modest clothing. Shorts are not permitted for either gender.

Dhakeshwari Temple - Dhakeshwari Temple is the National Hindu Temple of Bangladesh. It is state-owned, giving it the distinction of being the country’s ‘National Temple’. The name “Dhakeshwari” means “Goddess of Dhaka”. The temple is the most important Hindu place of worship in Bangladesh. Built during the Medieval era by King Ballal Sen of the Sena Dynasty in the 12th century CE, many believe the city was named after this temple. The current architectural style cannot be dated to that period due to numerous repairs over time. It is considered a vital part of Dhaka’s cultural heritage. Researchers suggest the temple is one of the Shakti Peethas, where a jewel from the crown of the Goddess Sati fell. The temple has been held in high regard for ages.

Star Mosque (Tara Masjid) - This is one of the most beautiful mosques from the Mughal dynasty. Its exquisite white marble structure, adorned with engraved floral and star patterns, is captivating. Even local residents often pause to admire its timeless beauty. Unlike other Mughal architectures, there is no inscription indicating its founding year. However, according to the mosque’s trustees, it was built in 1711. Tips for visiting: Avoid visiting during prayer times. Women should cover their heads to enter the mosque and wear modest clothing. Shorts are not permitted for either men or women.

Shankhari Bazar - Take a walking tour inside Shakhari Bazaar, a residential and commercial area predominantly inhabited by the Hindu and Artisan Community. This vibrant area, over 400 years old, is a hub of Dhaka’s Hindu community and showcases the artisan traditions of the Hindu community in Bangladesh. The area is a maze of narrow streets and alleyways filled with tiny workshops where artisans and craftsmen practice their age-old crafts, creating everything from kites to jewelry. Many are descendants of the original Hindu residents, and their handicraft traditions have been passed down through generations. The constant buzz of business and craftsmanship is infectious, and visitors will be captivated by the timeless atmosphere of the bazaar.

Armenian Church of the Holy Resurrection - This abandoned yet beautiful colonial church is a historically significant architectural monument located in the Armanitola area of old Dhaka, Bangladesh. The church stands as a testament to the presence of a significant Armenian community in the region during the 17th and 18th centuries.

Sonargaon; the Ancient Capital

Ahsan Manzil - Known as the Pink Palace, Ahsan Manzil is situated in the heart of the old city, right beside the bank of the River Buriganga. The stunning architecture is the main attraction for visitors, while its rich history keeps them intrigued. It reflects the lavish lifestyle of the Nawab dynasty and portrays the economic times it experienced in its early life as a trading house for French traders. Later, it became the residence of Khwaja Abdullah after the English-French struggle in the 18th century. New additions and renovations have transformed this magnificent monument into the popular Pink Palace it is today.

Sadarghat - Sadarghat Central River Port, located in the southern part of Dhaka on the River Buriganga, is one of the most vibrant places in Dhaka. The Sadarghat Launch Terminal is one of the largest river ports in the world, with about 200 large and small passenger launches departing and arriving daily. According to terminal officials, an average of 30,000 people use the terminal for departure and arrival each day. Visiting this bustling place offers a unique experience. The River Buriganga, though muddy and odorous, is the lifeline of Old Dhaka. It’s fascinating to watch the large river ferries, crowded with people and local produce, and the loading and unloading activities at the riverfront warehouses. Triple-decked ferries are docked along the jetty while small wooden boats conduct their trade in between. The shrill of sirens resembles an air raid as boats depart and arrive from the countryside.