Looking for cheap Flights to Dhaka, Zia, Bangladesh (DAC) airport?

Dhaka, accessible via cheap flights to DAC airport (Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport), is the vibrant capital of Bangladesh, where ancient history and modern chaos create a dynamic urban experience. Renowned for its Mughal architectural heritage, Dhaka is adorned with historic mosques and forts that echo its past as a thriving Mughal hub. The iconic rickshaw culture, with over 400,000 colorful cycle rickshaws navigating bustling streets, doubles as a mode of transport and a canvas of local artistry. Dhaka’s pivotal role in the 1971 Liberation War infuses the city with a resilient spirit, reflected in its memorials and museums. This unique blend of historical grandeur, cultural vibrancy, and national pride makes Dhaka an essential destination for travelers seeking an authentic South Asian adventure.

The Lalbagh Fort, a 17th-century Mughal marvel, stands as Dhaka’s crown jewel, featuring a mosque, the mausoleum of Pari Bibi, and an elegant Audience Hall that offers a glimpse into the empire’s opulence. The Ahsan Manzil, or Pink Palace, a stunning Indo-Saracenic palace turned museum, showcases the lavish lifestyle of Dhaka’s Nawabs. The Star Mosque, with its intricate star-patterned mosaics, dazzles as a unique architectural gem, while the Dhakeswari National Temple highlights the city’s religious diversity. The Sadarghat River Front, a lively port on the Buriganga River, pulses with the energy of traders and boats, offering a window into Dhaka’s riverine soul.

Dhaka’s streets burst with life, from the spicy aroma of Bengali biryani to the kaleidoscope of rickshaw art depicting floral designs and pop culture icons. Visitors can savor street foods like fuchka or indulge in sweets like roshogolla at local stalls. The city’s markets, such as Chawk Bazar, brim with textiles and crafts, while festivals like Pohela Boishakh fill the air with music and color. With discount airfare to Dhaka, this megacity invites travelers to immerse themselves in its rich Mughal legacy, vibrant street culture, and dynamic energy, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers.

Why Visit Dhaka, Bangladesh

Dhaka enthralls with its Mughal-era Lalbagh Fort, colorful rickshaw culture, and bustling Sadarghat River Front. Savor biryani, explore Ahsan Manzil, or delve into Liberation War history. With low-fare flights to Dhaka, it’s perfect for historical exploration, cultural immersion, and South Asian vibrancy.

Quick Facts & Highlights

• Population: ~21M (2023)
• Founded: 7th century
• Area: 306 sq km (118 sq mi)
• Key Highlight: Lalbagh Fort
• Notable Event: Pohela Boishakh, April
• Fun Fact: Dhaka has over 400,000 rickshaws, earning the title “Rickshaw Capital”
• Local Treat: Roshogolla
• Landmark: Ahsan Manzil

Geographic Location & Climate

Dhaka, on the Buriganga River in central Bangladesh, is 190 mi NE of Kolkata via NH112. Its tropical monsoon climate brings hot, humid summers (90°F/32°C, Apr-Jun) and mild winters (77°F/25°C, Dec-Feb), with 80 in of rain, mostly Jun-Sep. Nov-Feb is ideal for visiting Lalbagh Fort or Sadarghat with cheap tickets to Dhaka; April is perfect for Pohela Boishakh’s vibrant festivities.

Vital Statistics & Demographics In Dhaka, Bangladesh

Total Population

21M (2023), with 3% growth since 2020, driven by urbanization.

Age Distribution

Median age 28; 30% under 18, 15% 18-24, 40% 25-44, 10% 45-64, 5% 65+.

Ethnic & Racial Composition

Bengali 98%, Other (Bihari, indigenous) 2%.

Gender Breakdown

Males 51%, females 49%.

Household Types & Sizes

Avg household size 4.5; 80% family, 20% non-family; 45% with children.

Population Growth Trends

9% growth since 2020, projected 23M by 2028, fueled by trade.

Economy & Living Standards In Dhaka, Bangladesh

Major Industries & Employers

Textiles, trade, construction; top employers: Beximco Group (Tejgaon), Square Pharmaceuticals (Kaliakair), Grameenphone (Gulshan), BRAC (Mohakhali), Bangladesh Bank (Motijheel), Dhaka University (Ramna), Aarong (Gulshan), Renata Limited (Mirpur), Biman Bangladesh Airlines (Kurmitola), Walton Group (Bashundhara).

Employment Rate & Job Market

Unemployment 8%; jobs in textiles (40%), trade, services; tech startups growing.

Median Income & Cost of Living

Median income $3,500/yr; low cost of living; median home value $80,000.

Poverty Rate & Economic Challenges

Poverty 20%; challenges: overcrowding, infrastructure strain.

Business Environment & Investment Opportunities

Textiles, tech drive growth; opportunities in sustainable fashion, digital services.

Health & Wellness In Dhaka, Bangladesh

General Health Overview

Life expectancy 72 yrs; healthcare improving, challenged by density.

Common Health Issues

Diabetes (8%), respiratory issues, waterborne diseases; addressed by campaigns.

Fitness Centers & Wellness Studios

• Fitness First Dhaka, Gulshan
• Power Gym Dhaka, Banani
• Yoga Dhaka, Dhanmondi
• FitZone Dhaka, Uttara
• Wellness Hub Dhaka, Gulshan

Mental Health Resources

• BIRDEM Hospital Psychiatry, Shahbag
• Dhaka Wellness Clinic, Gulshan
• Mental Health Bangladesh, Dhanmondi
• PsyCare Dhaka, Banani
• Hope Counselling Dhaka, Uttara

Public Health Initiatives

Ministry of Health runs vaccination, diabetes, sanitation programs.

Hospitals & Clinics In Dhaka, Bangladesh

Top Hospitals & Emergency Services

• BIRDEM General Hospital, Shahbag
• Dhaka Medical College Hospital, Bakshibazar
• United Hospital, Gulshan
• Square Hospital, Panthapath
• Apollo Hospital Dhaka, Bashundhara

Urgent Care & Walk-In Clinics

• Health City Clinic, Gulshan
• Banani Medical Centre, Banani
• Dhanmondi Urgent Care, Dhanmondi
• Uttara Health Hub, Uttara
• Mirpur Clinic, Mirpur

Specialty Medical Centers

• National Heart Foundation, Mirpur
• Dhaka Eye Care Hospital, Dhanmondi
• Bangladesh Dental Clinic, Gulshan
• Pediatric Centre United Hospital, Gulshan
• Neurology Clinic Square Hospital, Panthapath

Telehealth & Remote Care Options

United Hospital, Square Hospital offer telehealth; Dhaka Wellness Clinic provides virtual counseling.

Veterinary Services & Pet Care In Dhaka, Bangladesh

Animal Hospitals & Emergency Vets

• Dhaka Vet Clinic, Dhanmondi
• Pet Care Dhaka, Gulshan
• Banani Animal Hospital, Banani

Pet Clinics & Routine Care

• Dhaka Vet Clinic, Dhanmondi
• Pet Care Dhaka, Gulshan
• Banani Animal Hospital, Banani
• Uttara Pet Clinic, Uttara
• Mirpur Vet Centre, Mirpur

Grooming & Boarding Facilities

• Paws & Claws Dhaka, Gulshan
• Pet Haven Dhaka, Dhanmondi
• Banani Pet Resort, Banani

Pet-Friendly Parks & Trails

• Ramna Park, Ramna
• Gulshan Lake Park, Gulshan
• Dhanmondi Lake Path, Dhanmondi
• Botanical Garden, Mirpur
• Hatirjheel Lake Path, Tejgaon

Local Government & Public Services In Dhaka, Bangladesh

City Hall and Administrative Offices

• Dhaka South City Corporation, Nagar Bhaban
• Dhaka North City Corporation, Gulshan

Public Records and Licensing

• Birth and Death Registration Office, Tejgaon
• Road Transport Authority, Mirpur

Planning and Zoning Departments

• RAJUK, Motijheel
• Urban Planning Directorate, Segunbagicha

Tax and Revenue Offices

• National Board of Revenue, Segunbagicha
• Tax Zone Dhaka, Kakrail

Police, Fire, and Emergency Services

• Dhaka Metropolitan Police, Ramna
• Bangladesh Fire Service, Mirpur
• Emergency Medical Services, Dhaka Medical College

Courts and Legal Aid

• Dhaka Metropolitan Court, Old Dhaka
• Legal Aid Bangladesh, Gulshan

Public Works and Utilities

• Dhaka WASA, Kawran Bazar
• Dhaka Power Distribution Company, Badda

Voter Registration and Civic Engagement

• Election Commission Bangladesh, Agargaon
• Community Services Office, Gulshan

Current Government Officials

Mayor (South): Sheikh Fazle Noor Taposh Mayor (North): Atiqul Islam Prime Minister: Sheikh Hasina

Education & Libraries In Dhaka, Bangladesh

Public School Districts

Managed by Ministry of Education.

Public School Names and Full Addresses

• Motijheel Government Boys’ High School, Motijheel
• Viqarunnisa Noon School, Bailey Road
• Dhaka Residential Model College, Mohammadpur
• Holy Cross Girls’ High School, Tejgaon
• Ideal School and College, Motijheel

Charter and Private Schools

• Scholastica, Gulshan
• International School Dhaka, Bashundhara
• Maple Leaf International School, Dhanmondi
• American International School Dhaka, Baridhara
• Oxford International School, Dhanmondi

Colleges and Universities

• University of Dhaka, Ramna; Majors: Arts, Science, Law
• BUET, Palashi; Majors: Engineering, Architecture
• BRAC University, Mohakhali; Majors: Business, IT
• North South University, Bashundhara; Majors: Economics, Computer Science

Public Libraries and Learning Centers

• Central Public Library, Shahbag
• University of Dhaka Library, Ramna
• BRAC University Library, Mohakhali
• Gulshan Community Library, Gulshan
• Dhanmondi Public Library, Dhanmondi

Flights & Travel Logistics In Dhaka, Bangladesh

Best Time to Book Flights

Book 2-3 months ahead for cheap round-trip flights to Dhaka; Nov-Feb for affordable air tickets; avoid Jun-Sep monsoons.

Airlines That Serve Dhaka, Bangladesh

DAC served by Biman Bangladesh Airlines, Qatar Airways, Emirates, Turkish Airlines, Air India.

Nearby Airports and Alternatives

DAC (10 mi from Dhaka); alternatives: Kolkata (CCU, 190 mi), Chittagong (CGP, 140 mi). Bus to Kolkata ($15).

Transportation After Arrival

Car rentals at DAC (Avis, local); taxis ($5-15 to Gulshan); rickshaws ($0.50-2); CNG auto-rickshaws ($1-5).

Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

Pack for humidity; book Lalbagh Fort tours early; try roshogolla; use rickshaws in Old Dhaka; visit during Pohela Boishakh. Book flight bargains to Dhaka for savings.

Where to Stay In Dhaka, Bangladesh

Budget-Friendly Accommodations

• Hotel 71, Motijheel
• Pan Pacific Sonargaon, Kawran Bazar
• Hotel Ornate, Motijheel
• Sel Nibash Hotel, Dhanmondi
• Hotel Lake Castle, Gulshan

Boutique Hotels and Inns

• Lakeshore Hotel, Gulshan
• Hotel Sarina, Banani
• Platinum Suites, Banani
• Hotel Bengal Inn, Gulshan
• Blossom Hotel, Dhanmondi

Luxury Hotels and Spas

• InterContinental Dhaka, Ramna
• Le Méridien Dhaka, Gulshan
• The Westin Dhaka, Gulshan
• Radisson Blu Dhaka, Airport Road
• Amari Dhaka, Gulshan

Family-Friendly Lodging

• InterContinental Dhaka, Ramna
• The Westin Dhaka, Gulshan
• Radisson Blu Dhaka, Airport Road
• Lakeshore Hotel, Gulshan
• Pan Pacific Sonargaon, Kawran Bazar

Vacation Rentals and Extended Stays

• Airbnb Gulshan Apartments, Gulshan
• VRBO Banani Condos, Banani
• Dhanmondi Rentals, Dhanmondi
• Bashundhara Suites, Bashundhara
• Uttara Vacation Homes, Uttara

Getting Around In Dhaka, Bangladesh

Public Transportation Overview

Buses ($0.20-1), rickshaws ($0.50-2), CNG auto-rickshaws ($1-5); Dhaka Metro (Line 6, $0.50) limited; taxis ($2-10).

Car Rentals and Ride Shares

Rentals at DAC (local); taxis ($2-10); Pathao, Uber ($1-8).

Walkability and Bike-Friendly Areas

Old Dhaka 70/100 walkable; Gulshan, Dhanmondi limited bike-friendly.

Parking Tips and Local Driving Rules

Limited parking in Old Dhaka ($0.50-2/hr); 40 km/h roads; heavy traffic.

Natural Wonders & Outdoor Activities In Dhaka, Bangladesh

National Parks and Scenic Areas

Bhawal National Park (25 mi); Buriganga River (central).

Hiking, Biking, and Nature Trails

• Ramna Park Path, Ramna
• Gulshan Lake Trail, Gulshan
• Dhanmondi Lake Path, Dhanmondi
• Botanical Garden Trail, Mirpur
• Hatirjheel Lake Path, Tejgaon

Wildlife Viewing

Birds, fish in Bhawal; river dolphins in Buriganga.

Lakes, Rivers, and Water Activities

• Buriganga River, Sadarghat; boat rides
• Hatirjheel Lake, Tejgaon; boating
• Gulshan Lake, Gulshan; paddle boating

Camping and RV Parks

• Bhawal National Park Campground, Gazipur
• Mirpur Camping Site, Mirpur

Seasonal Outdoor Adventures

Winter (Nov-Feb) for Bhawal hikes; spring (Mar-May) for Buriganga boating.

History & Heritage In Dhaka, Bangladesh

Founding and Historical Background

Dhaka, rooted in the 7th century, became a Mughal capital in the 17th century with landmarks like Lalbagh Fort. Its Buriganga River location fueled trade, and rickshaws became a cultural staple. The 1971 Liberation War shaped modern Dhaka, with sites like the Liberation War Museum honoring its resilience. Today, Dhaka blends Mughal splendor, colonial relics, and Bengali pride, seen in biryani and Pohela Boishakh.

Major Disasters and Events

Happy: Independence Day (Mar 26, 1971). Sad: 2013 Rana Plaza collapse, 1,134 deaths.

Recovery Efforts for Recent Disaster

Post-2013 Rana Plaza: $50M invested in factory safety, worker compensation by 2016.

Historical Landmarks

• Lalbagh Fort, Old Dhaka; 17th-century Mughal
• Ahsan Manzil, Old Dhaka; 19th-century palace
• Star Mosque, Armanitola; 19th-century mosaic
• Dhakeswari Temple, Old Dhaka; 12th-century Hindu
• Armenian Church, Armanitola; 1781 colonial

Museums and Cultural Centers

• Liberation War Museum, Agargaon; 1971 war
• Ahsan Manzil Museum, Old Dhaka; Nawab history
• Bangladesh National Museum, Shahbag; artifacts
• Shilpacharya Zainul Art Gallery, Ramna; Bengali art
• Rickshaw Art Museum, Mirpur; rickshaw designs

Local Folklore and Legends

Mughal ghosts in Lalbagh Fort; Buriganga river spirits; rickshaw artists’ tales.

Indigenous and Colonial History

Dhaka’s Buddhist, Hindu roots preceded 13th-century Islamic rule. Mughals (17th century) built forts, mosques; British rule (1757-1947) added Armenian Church. The 1971 Liberation War defined Dhaka’s Bengali identity, blending Mughal, colonial, and local traditions in roshogolla and markets.

Prominent Public and Private Personalities In Dhaka, Bangladesh

• Sheikh Mujibur Rahman: Founding father
• Zainul Abedin: Bengali art pioneer
• Muhammad Yunus: Nobel laureate, Grameen Bank

Arts & Culture In Dhaka, Bangladesh

Performing Arts Venues

• National Theatre, Shahbag
• Shilpakala Academy, Segunbagicha
• Guide House Auditorium, Dhanmondi

Art Galleries and Exhibitions

• Bangladesh National Museum, Shahbag
• Shilpacharya Zainul Art Gallery, Ramna
• Drik Gallery, Dhanmondi

Local Artists and Artisans

Rickshaw painters in Old Dhaka; Aarong weavers; Drik Gallery artists.

Cultural Festivals and Events

• Pohela Boishakh, Ramna Park
• Dhaka Lit Fest, Bangla Academy
• Ekushey Book Fair, Shahbag
• Independence Day Parade, Tejgaon

Music Scene and Live Performances

• Chhayanaut Cultural Center, Dhanmondi
• Bengal Music Cafe, Gulshan
• Old Dhaka Folk Stage, Old Dhaka

Food & Drink In Dhaka, Bangladesh

Restaurants by Cuisine

• Bengali: Kasturi Restaurant, Gulshan; Biryani
• Traditional: Fakruddin Biryani, Dhanmondi; Kacchi biryani
• International: The Atrium, Banani; Fusion
• Fine Dining: Izumi, Gulshan; Sushi
• Street Food: Banani Road Stalls, Banani; Fuchka
• Coffee Shop: North End Coffee, Gulshan; Bengali coffee
• Vegetarian: Star Kabab, Dhanmondi; Veggie biryani
• Bakery: Rosh, Banani; Roshogolla

Farm-to-Table and Local Ingredients

Fakruddin uses local fish, spices; Banani stalls source regional produce.

Street Food and Casual Dining

• Banani Road Stalls, Banani
• Old Dhaka Food Stalls, Old Dhaka
• Dhanmondi Street Market, Dhanmondi

Vegan, Vegetarian, and Dietary Options

Star Kabab offers veggie biryani; many restaurants provide gluten-free options.

Shopping & Leisure In Dhaka, Bangladesh

Local Boutiques and Artisan Shops

• Aarong, Gulshan
• New Market, Mirpur
• Chawk Bazar, Old Dhaka

Malls and Shopping Districts

• Jamuna Future Park, Bashundhara
• Bashundhara City, Panthapath
• Gulshan Avenue Shops, Gulshan

Antique Stores and Markets

• Chawk Bazar Antiques, Old Dhaka
• New Market Vintage Stalls, Mirpur

Souvenirs and Specialty Goods

• Aarong, Gulshan
• New Market Crafts, Mirpur
• Bangla Bazar, Old Dhaka

Events & Entertainment In Dhaka, Bangladesh

Annual Festivals and Parades

• Pohela Boishakh, Ramna Park
• Dhaka Lit Fest, Bangla Academy
• Ekushey Book Fair, Shahbag
• Independence Day Parade, Tejgaon

Farmers Markets and Local Gatherings

• New Market, Mirpur
• Chawk Bazar, Old Dhaka
• Gulshan Market, Gulshan

Sports Events and Recreational Leagues

• Bangladesh Premier League (Cricket), Mirpur Stadium
• Dhaka Marathon, Gulshan
• BFF Football League, Bangabandhu Stadium

Holiday Celebrations and Seasonal Fun

• Pohela Boishakh, Ramna Park
• Eid-ul-Fitr Markets, Old Dhaka
• Victory Day Parade, Tejgaon

Nearby Destinations In Dhaka, Bangladesh

Popular Day Trips

• Sonargaon (1 hr): Ancient capital, folk museum
• Savar (45 min): National Martyrs’ Memorial
• Mymensingh (2 hr): Rivers, cultural sites

Hidden Gems in Dhaka, Bangladesh

• Panam Nagar, Sonargaon (1 hr): 19th-century colonial ruins
• Baliati Palace, Manikganj (1.5 hr): 18th-century zamindar palace
• Dhamrai Metal Craft Village, Dhamrai (1 hr): Brasswork artisans
• Madhabpur Lake, Sylhet (4 hr): Lake, tea gardens

Scenic Drives and Routes

• Sonargaon Route, Sonargaon
• Savar Highway, Savar
• Hatirjheel Lake Drive, Tejgaon

Regional Attractions Worth Visiting

• Sonargaon Folk Museum, Sonargaon
• National Martyrs’ Memorial, Savar
• Bhawal National Park, Gazipur

Audience-Specific Guides In Dhaka, Bangladesh

Family Travel Tips

Visit Bangladesh National Museum, explore Ramna Park, stay at Radisson Blu, enjoy Pohela Boishakh with cheap travel deals to Dhaka.

Solo Traveler Highlights

Tour Ahsan Manzil, shop at Chawk Bazar, sip coffee at North End, visit Sonargaon with low-cost airline deals to Dhaka.

Romantic Getaways

Dine at Kasturi, stay at Le Méridien, stroll Hatirjheel Lake, explore Panam Nagar with discount round-trip tickets to Dhaka.

Business Travel Essentials

Near DAC, meetings at The Westin, quick bites at Banani stalls, Wi-Fi at InterContinental with affordable plane tickets to Dhaka.

Accessible Travel Resources

ADA-compliant Bangladesh National Museum, ramps at Ahsan Manzil, accessible rickshaws, wheelchair-friendly Gulshan Lake paths.

Natural Resources In Dhaka, Bangladesh

Jute, fish, rice. The Buriganga River shapes Dhaka’s identity, celebrated with boat festivals, drawing visitors with low-budget flights to Dhaka.

Ready to explore Dhaka? Book cheapest flights available to Dhaka, Bangladesh (DAC) airport and save up to $134 with early booking. The nearest airport, Hazrat Shahjalal (DAC), offers best flight deals depending on departure city and season.

Article Published by farelab.com on August 27, 2025, Last Modified on October 13, 2025. Content subject to change.