Dhaka Traveler Essentials
- Safety rating
- 5.5/10
- Best time to visit
- October to March offers cooler, drier weather, avoiding the intense summer heat and the monsoon rains from June to September.
- Population
- 10.3M
Overview
Dhaka, the teeming capital of Bangladesh, is one of the world's most densely populated cities, pulsing with rickshaws, river traffic, and Mughal-era monuments. Its chaotic energy is balanced by riverside life along the Buriganga and a deep tradition of crafts and cuisine. Old Dhaka's narrow lanes brim with bazaars, mosques, and street food.
Getting around
Cycle rickshaws, green CNG auto-rickshaws, ride-hailing apps like Pathao and Uber, and the new metro line help navigate gridlocked streets.
Local etiquette
Greet with a polite nod or handshake, use your right hand for eating and giving, and dress conservatively, especially at religious sites.
Safety
Petty theft, traffic chaos, and occasional political demonstrations are the main concerns; avoid protests and keep valuables hidden in crowds.