Authentic Dhaka City Tour
Description
This isn't just a sightseeing tour—it's a deep dive into the stories, struggles, and soul of Dhaka. Whether you're here for a day or a week, this experience will leave you with memories and insights that last a lifetime.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Discover one of the most iconic architectural masterpieces of the 20th century, designed by renowned American architect Louis I. Kahn. The National Parliament House of Bangladesh is an engineering marvel and a symbol of modern civic design. Surrounded by lush gardens and a serene lake, this site is ideal for photos and a short walk while your guide shares insights about its unique geometric design and historical significance.
Visit the spiritual heart of the city at the Dhakeshwari Temple, the national temple of Bangladesh and a sacred Hindu site. Originally built in the 12th century, this vibrant complex is an active place of worship where you can observe daily rituals and festivals. Learn about the cultural diversity of Dhaka and the historic importance of this temple in local Hindu traditions.
Lalbagh Fort, an incomplete yet majestic 17th-century Mughal fort complex started by Prince Muhammad Azam. Stroll through the meticulously landscaped gardens and explore key structures like the Tomb of Pari Bibi, the Lalbagh Mosque, and a small museum showcasing Mughal-era artifacts. This fort offers a glimpse into the region’s imperial past and architectural splendor.
Marvel at the intricacy of Islamic artistry at the Star Mosque, an architectural gem in Old Dhaka. Famous for its unique mosaic of stars and floral motifs, this mosque was originally built in the 18th century and later decorated with imported Japanese and Chinese tiles. The calm and beauty of the mosque make it a favorite stop for both architecture enthusiasts and photographers.
Hidden in the streets of Old Dhaka lies the Armenian Church of the Holy Resurrection, a tranquil reminder of the once-thriving Armenian community in Bangladesh. Built in 1781, this quiet sanctuary features beautifully preserved tombstones, antique furniture, and stunning stained glass. It offers a rare glimpse into the city’s multicultural past.
Take a walk through time in Shankhari Bazar, a narrow but vibrant lane showcasing the rich heritage of Dhaka’s Hindu artisan community. This street is filled with centuries-old temples, colorful houses, traditional craft shops, and lively street scenes. It's one of the oldest residential areas in Dhaka and offers a deeply immersive cultural experience.
Experience the beating heart of Dhaka’s transport system at Sadarghat, one of the busiest river ports in the world. Located on the Buriganga River, this area is teeming with activity as hundreds of boats and launches ferry passengers and goods. A short boat ride here gives visitors an unforgettable look into the everyday life and vibrancy of riverine Bangladesh.
Tour the lavish Ahsan Manzil, also known as the Pink Palace, a 19th-century residence of the Nawabs of Dhaka. The building has been beautifully restored into a museum, showcasing historical artifacts, furniture, and photographs from the colonial period. Its grand staircase, pink façade, and riverside location make it one of the most photogenic spots in Dhaka.
Explore the gritty yet fascinating Ship Repairing Yard along the banks of the Buriganga River in Dhaka. This lesser-known attraction offers a raw, up-close look at the city’s thriving maritime industry. Watch skilled laborers dismantle, repair, and repaint massive vessels by hand using traditional methods. The yard is a vivid contrast to the city’s historic sites—a place where hard work, craftsmanship, and industrial life come together in a dramatic riverside setting. A must-visit for photographers, adventurers, and those interested in Dhaka's working-class culture.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Reviews(8)
i left the country some days ago and my mind is still there for all the mix of feelings i felt been there. i didn't have many expectacions about this country because of the lak of information about it. first of all i met Opu he understood the way i wanted to get to know the country. the most local way possible. The first day we went to the capital of Dkaga a Chaos but inside the chaos there is beautiful it was the monzón season but even that i enjoyed the life in the city and we took the ship all night to get to Barisal. all locals were very kind with me , they are happy having you , the appreciate you going there to visit their country. once we got to Barisal early in the morning we went to the floating market and to some villages next to the market been deeper in the local life. All the locals will invite to have some tea with them to have a conversation. After that we went to Sreemangal we took al kinds of public transport i enjoyed all of them. Once we got to screemangal we went to visit the tea plantations and the village around it.In some places was very crowded because they were celebration the Eid al -Adha ' festival of sacrifice'. We went to find some wildlife to Lawachara national park , we saw some but you know the nature is impredictable even that i enjoyed the walk there and the people.Then we went to Chittagong the second big city of Bangladesh we went to the boat's cementery is crazy but it is very worth 100% and after that we went to see some factorys it was very special too. After that we went Cox's bazar the beach Bazar the vibe there was amazing there, i watched and amazing sunset and we rented a motorbike to to go to see the moon boats they are traditional from Bangladesh and suddenly we came trough with a celebration of a sport called " boli khela" playing drummers , playing carts..... it was magical when it happens is special. you have to come to Bangladesh to experience this and very more. i didn't wanna leave i wanted to be exploring more i left the country wanting to come back again and this not always happen. it was more than expected , i have many emotions been there , this country deserve to be known much more so don't hesitate to contact Opu because thanks to him Bangladesh is one of my favourites countries so far and he will be all the time taking care of you to give you he best experience you can.
The tour was very interesting and the guide was fun . Its a great way to see Dhaka if limited on time in the city
Had an excellent day tour in Dhaka with Opu Been. He was very communicative in advance, prompt and professional. Best part was that he listened to my preferences and tailored the day to suit me. I appreciated getting to know the city with a local who knows how to get around. It also helps to have a sense of humor when dealing with an intense population with throngs of people in the streets and insane traffic. Thank you for an unforgettable experience!
I visited Bangladesh as a solo traveller. I wanted to see as much as possible in 8 days. I took the ‘Bangladesh South Tour’ and it did not disappoint. After meeting Opu at the hotel I was sure we would get on. Next morning we took a bus to Sreemangal and visited tea plantations. Our transport there was a tuk tuk driver, a friend of his. The highlight there was visiting the different ethnic groups who worked on the tea plantations. Opu proved to be an excellent guide, very knowledgable and obviously loves his country. If I wanted anything eg. take a photo of something. The car would stop so I could. He would suggest where to go not on the itinerary. Places to eat, what to eat. Opu helped with everything if I wanted. The interactions with the people were the highlight of my trip. They were so inquisitive and with easy smile. Certainly an unforgettable trip with a fantastic guide/friend.
In addition to being a true professional, Opu is also a great person, and I am glad that I started our relationship for work reasons, and remained very good friends. Opu knows all the secrets of Dhaka: a city in many ways misunderstood and to be discovered, with its pitfalls and difficulties, as everywhere: with Opu you will feel at home, with a dear friend by your side!
Opu provided a unique, insightful and enjoyable tour around Dhaka’s most famous as well as lesser known sites and sounds. A tremendously enriching opportunity to fall in love with Bangladesh’s soul!
I have travelled to many countries as a solo traveller. However I decided that Bangladesh would be better with a guide. I am very glad that I did so. This is one of my favourite countries. It is so interesting ,from chaotic Dhaka to river travel, to the hill tribes, the sundarbands and so on. The people are extremely friendly and inquisitive. I have been twice and might well visit again. Opu Been is both a great guide and also a really nice guy. As others have said , you are in very safe hands. Professional, reliable and friendly. You will see so much. I loved my tours and have so many great photos. (You cannot help but take great photos in Bangladesh) This country is very under visited and overlooked but it’s a gem!
With BeenTours we did not only the city tour, but also a multi-day trip to the northwest of the country. It was a great tour, well organized and in very good English we received many explanations. Opu Been knows his country and loves it. He took us to the sights like the temples of Gauda or Mahasthangarh and Bogura, but also showed us lesser known grandiose places. Thanks to his contacts we were able to get in touch with the locals and even visit a Roma village. Been Tours is a very good option to experience Bangladesh, a country not yet flooded with tourism. We felt very safe and comfortable all the time.
