With more than 19 million inhabitants, Dhaka is certainly a
megacity. Also known as the City of Mosques and the Rickshaw
Capital of the World, Bangladesh's capital is as frenetic as it is
welcoming.
The Buddhist kingdom of Kamarupa, the Hindu Sena Dynasty, and
the Islamic Mughal Empire all ruled for periods until the British
colonised the area. Bangladesh declared its independence from
Pakistan in 1971.
Since then, Dhaka has developed into a modern city and a centre
for culture, industry, commerce, and politics in South Asia.
However, a visit to Old Dhaka will give visitors a glimpse of a
more traditional way of life. Roadside bazaars and crowded docks
are a striking counterpoint to the gleaming shopping malls and
expensive restaurants of neighbourhoods such as Gulshan and
Banani.
Dhaka's colourful history means it has a wealth of churches,
mosques, temples, and monasteries. The Baitul Mukarram Mosque, the
Kamalapur Buddhist Monastery, and the Saat Masjid are among the
city's must-see places.
The Liberation War Museum, the National Museum, the Bangabandhu
Memorial Museum, and the Charukola Institute of Arts and Crafts are
also worth visiting. Other enjoyable activities include a cruise on
the Sadarghat River Front, an elephant ride at the Dhaka Zoo, or a
picnic in the lush Baldha Garden.
Dhaka is noisy, crowded and friendly. Adventurous travellers
will love its energy.