Experience in Dhaka, Bangladesh by Abrar
What is it like to live in Dhaka? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?
To live in dhaka is good.the best part is that it has great lifestyle. I am saying that because it has lot of entertainment places like pubs,amusement parks,resorts and many more.in dhaka only one problem transportation system. Like too much trffic jaam and also the drivers of bus and other vehicles are not professional. So accident occous in daily basis. But i would recommend to visit dhaka fro one time.The traffic in the city could almost be considered the world's worst traffic. Traffic can stand still for more than 7 hours a day, according to a 2011 government report. With a population of over 15 million, Dhaka is the largest city in Bangladesh and one of the biggest cities in the world.The Dhaka Metropolitan Police, established in 1976, started with 6,000 personnel. It now has 26,661 personnel and 49 established police stations.Dhaka is home to the Jamuna Future Park, a shopping mall, and is the 12th largest shopping mall in the world with a total area of 5.45 million sq ft.
The other two types of taxis are yellow and black or blue. The yellow are required to have air conditioning, while the blue or black ones are cheaper but have no air conditioners.The predominant religion in Bangladesh is Islam, with 88.3% of the population adhering to that faith. Among Bangladeshi Muslims, 96% are Sunni, over 3% are Shi'a, and a fraction of 1% are Ahmadiyyas. Hindus are the largest minority religion in Bangladesh, at 10.5% of the population. There are also tiny minorities (less than 1%) of Christians, Buddhists and animists.
The alluvial soil deposited by these rivers each year means Bangladesh has some of the most fertile delta lands in the world, farming is very important because of this.Renowned British journalist Tasmin Lucia Khan is of Bengali descent. She used to be a presenter for BBC news and is now part of the ITV breakfast show, Daybreak.Dhaka is an extremely cheap place but, the city primarily operates on cash.The city of Dhaka is the primary seat of the Bangladeshi government.There are numerous institutions of learning within the city of Dhaka. The most remarkable is the Dhaka University which was originally founded in 1921.Most of the people in Dhaka are Muslim, so alcohol is limited. However, they can enjoy great evenings and delicious ice cream in Movenpick parlour.This River is a major feature in the city of Dhaka. Whether it is day and night, there are people around it, including porters and boatmen. Often, it is used as a channel for transportation by locals coming into the city.
I recommonded everybody to visit dhaka.
The city is full of happiness.
What is the student lifestyle like in Dhaka?
Since I have always lived in Dhaka (the longest I lived in another city is just a little more than a month) it’s hard to compare what it would have been like had I lived somewhere else. But in itself I find living in Dhaka is…a conundrum.
On the bright side, everything is close at hand. You can find almost anything you need within at most fifteen minutes walking distance (from pain medication to clothes shop to supermarkets where they sell Bodyshop lip balms). We have Hatirjheel just beside where I live for evening strolls, and the internet speed is good enough. Career prospects are probably the nicest of the country, and the University of Dhaka has taught me more than the syllabus provided.
Also the alleyways of different parts of Dhaka can provide you with new perspectives and charming surprises. You can find the world’s best “daaler bora” in a small shack in Maniknagar, a sudden artist’s displaying his drawing in a dingy room in Dakkhin Badda, or a delightfully weird shaped tree near Bakshibazaar. Actually walking around in Dhaka makes me feel like-
“Still round the corner there may wait
A new road or a secret gate,
And though I oft have passed them by,
A day will come at last when I
Shall take the hidden paths that run
West of the Moon, East of the Sun.”
You can guess that my favorite pastime is walking around Dhaka. And that I love it here in Dhaka. Then what are the problems?
Well, first off, you can’t walk everywhere, you won’t have the time. And transport in this city is absolutely hellish. CNG Autorickshaws are too costly, rickshaws are cheaper but still takes a lot out of your pocket, and public buses are a gropefest hell waiting, if you can fight your way in.
And even walking isn’t safe. From filthy eyes to the actual threat of kidnapping hangs over a young woman’s head, and after dark…it’s a nightmare.
And another thing to disappoint about Dhaka is its lack of cultural activity. very few libraries(the kind where you could read books for a minimal fees) are really, really rare. The public library and Bishwa Sahittya Kendra far away at Shahbag. I’ve never seen a play because they’re all after dark. And if you want to know about the city after dark…see the para above.
But still, this is the city I love, the city of my first everything. The city that I always want to return to. Dhaka is home. And maybe, in the years coming, she’ll be a little better, a little more beautiful, and I wish to take part in this adventure.
How much does it cost to live in Dhaka?
Dhaka, the capital city of Bangladesh can be quite expensive than your expectation if you’re coming from an western country. There is a very high Inflation rate, so articles like this becomes invalid within a year or 2. Still, I’ll try to give you some ideas I found back in July 2016 but please don’t take it for granted.
Accommodation - If you Plan to live in long term in Dhaka city, depending on your location, for a 1300sqf - 1500sqf 3 Bedroom unfurnished flat; you’ll be looking at 18k to 30k BDT a month. Places like Banani, Baridhara can cost even more.
For short term, you can check airbnb. The prices renge from 15$ -40$ per night. There are good quality hotels in Gulshan-Banani area who has airport pick up service and can cost over 40$-70$ per night. Avoid cheaper hotels for safety and below standard service.
Transportation - Public transportation is not popular among foreigners in Dhaka city. It’s only meant for people who can’t afford private transport. You can call a Yellow taxi and they will charge you 500–700 BDT for a 10 km ride from Mirpur to Dhanmondi. Try out Rickshaw rides for small distances. They charges 50 to 100 BDT for a 30 mins riding. Green Auto Rickshaw termed as CNG can be found on the street and they can be as much as 40% cheaper than Yellow taxi.
Short/Long term “rent-a-car” service is on the rise with a Driver driving for you and they can cost you 6k BDT per day to a 80k Per month depending on the car size and condition. This includes driver’s wage, fuel etc. Hiring a car for self driving is not available yet.
Grocery Shopping - Luckily, Superstores are on the rise and if you google you should find one within 2–3 km from your location. Bangladeshi grocery markets are very much dependent on seasonal fruits and vegetables. If you’re there in winter, you’ll get to try lots of vegetables for cheap. Meat prices are reasonable too. Try local products as much as possible as imported foods like tetra-pack juice and chocolates tends to get highly priced.
Eat out and Nightlife - Dhaka benefits form a bustling nightlife. You’ll find lots of restaurants open even after midnight. Any international food chain you’ll find in Dhaka will be as much as expensive as US. That’s why local people consider KFC as a nice place and Nandos as a posh place. A typical “Chinese & Thai” Restaurant will cost 1500 BDT on an average 3 course meal for 2. Try Deshi food instead for an authentic taste at a much cheaper price. It’s legal to carry and buy drinks as long as you’re a foreigner in Dhaka. Drinking publicly is not allowed though.
Dhaka is considered more expensive to live and work than nearby capitals like New Delhi and Islamabad and cities like Kolkata.
Is it difficult to find accommodation in Dhaka? Is there any advice you can give?
Accommodation is not a problem. Many hotels, lodges and hostels are available. Where students can easily accommodate.
Housing
Monthly rent for 85 m2 (900 Sqft) furnished accommodation in EXPENSIVE area
Taka 44,522
Monthly rent for 85 m2 (900 Sqft) furnished accommodation in NORMAL area
Taka 31,034
Utilities 1 month (heating, electricity, gas ...) for 2 people in 85m2 flat
Taka 5,401
Monthly rent for a 45 m2 (480 Sqft) furnished studio in EXPENSIVE area
Taka 39,799
Monthly rent for a 45 m2 (480 Sqft) furnished studio in NORMAL area
Taka 23,642
Utilities 1 month (heating, electricity, gas ...) for 1 person in 45 m2 (480 Sqft) studio
Taka 4,136
Taka 2,057
Taka 42,950
Microwave 800/900 Watt (Bosch, Panasonic, LG, Sharp, or equivalent brands)
Taka 18,101
Laundry detergent (3 l. ~ 100 oz.)
Taka 297
Taka 537
What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?
Food is very good. You get all the flab ours of the world.either you like country Food,indian,chinese,turkish,italian and many more. rate of food product:
Food
Basic lunchtime menu (including a drink) in the business district
Taka 334
Combo meal in fast food restaurant (Big Mac Meal or similar)
Taka 406
500 gr (1 lb.) of boneless chicken breast
Taka 157
1 liter (1 qt.) of whole fat milk
Taka 75
Taka 97
Taka 63
500 gr (16 oz.) of local cheese
Taka 356
Taka 146
Taka 23
0.5 l (16 oz) domestic beer in the supermarket
Taka 275
1 bottle of red table wine, good quality
Taka 2,514
Taka 99
Taka 43
My favourite foosd is bhuna kchichuri and kala buna.
What places would you recommend visiting in Dhaka?
Places you must vist in Dhaka.
Natural Places:
Bhawal Natural Park
The reserved forest area is nearly 40 kiolmetres away from Dhaka city, and is located in Gazipur under Dhaka division. Here you would find peacocks, tiger, leopard, black panther, elephant, clouded leopard and sambar deer.
Birishiri:
Birishiri, under Dhaka division, is one of the greatest tourist attraction spots situated 186 KM away from Dhaka city. If you can afford a 3 hour journey from this crowded city, you won't miss the pleasure of experiencing such beauty of the blue China Clay Lake!
Migratory Birds at JU Campus:
In Jahangirnagar University campus lakes during winter, many migratory birds from far west come to enjoy the warmth. They would strat to come this winter as well!
Wild Sugarcane (Kash ful) field at Dia Bari:
At Diabari, in Uttara of Dhaka city, you will find absolutely beautiful Kashful (Saccharum spontaneum) field during the season of autumn, which would blow your mind surely.
Wild Sugarcane (Kash ful) field at Dia Bari:
At Diabari, in Uttara of Dhaka city, you will find absolutely beautiful Kashful (Saccharum spontaneum) field during the season of autumn, which would blow your mind surely.
Human-made Beauties:
Ahsan Manzil
Ahsan Manzil on the bank of river Buriganga is one of the geatest ancient architectural monuments of Bangladesh. It is, like many other monuments in Delhi/ Bombay/ Chennai, a beautiful example of Indo-Saracenic Revival Architecture. The infrastructure, built and used by the then Nawab ancestry during Mughal Empire and divided in two parts, used to have andarmahal, rangmahal, ball-room, coutr-room etc. It is used now as a renowned tourist spot and museum.
Ahsan Manzil on the bank of river Buriganga is one of the geatest ancient architectural monuments of Bangladesh. It is, like many other monuments in Delhi/ Bombay/ Chennai, a beautiful example of Indo-Saracenic Revival Architecture. The infrastructure, built and used by the then Nawab ancestry during Mughal Empire and divided in two parts, used to have andarmahal, rangmahal, ball-room, coutr-room etc. It is used now as a renowned tourist spot and museum.
National Parliament Complex:
The parliament of Bangladesh is named as Jatiyo Sangshad often referred as JS. Jatiyo Sangsad Bhaban or National Parliament House, is the house of the Jatiyo Sangsad, located at Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh. Designed by architect Louis Kahn, the complex, is one of the largest legislative complexes in the world, comprising 200 acres (800,000 m²), and an obvious must-visit site for a tourist.
Nuhash Palli:
I would not recommend places like national zoo and botanical garden much, but I would refer to places like Nuhash Palli. Nuhash Palli is a firm house and a famous shooting spot near Gazipur district at Dhaka division. Here is the grave of famous littérateur Humayun Ahmed, who's been the owner of this place. This resort, however, is not open to all, therefore needs permission and pre-booking for any visit or picnic.
Curzon Hall:
Curzon hall is a part of Dhaka University (DU) campus, and another example of Indo-Saracenic Revival Architecture. It was built more than a hundred years ago intended to be a Town Hall, and now it is the science faculty complex of Dhaka University! Every nook & corner of this fascinating combo of Mughlai-Victorian-styled geometrical gothic structure and the famous pond at its behind and the inlying largest exam hall of the country make it a sure spot of your attraction, even if you don't intend to visit the entire DU campus.
Curzon Hall:
Curzon hall is a part of Dhaka University (DU) campus, and another example of Indo-Saracenic Revival Architecture. It was built more than a hundred years ago intended to be a Town Hall, and now it is the science faculty complex of Dhaka University! Every nook & corner of this fascinating combo of Mughlai-Victorian-styled geometrical gothic structure and the famous pond at its behind and the inlying largest exam hall of the country make it a sure spot of your attraction, even if you don't intend to visit the entire DU campus.
Lalbagh Fort:
Lalbagh Fort is another famous tourist spots of the country. The fort was built under the coordination of Mughal prince Azam Shah, son of Aurangzeb, and later on remained incomplete when the prince was called away to Delhi and Shaista Kha took the charge of Bengal as subahdar. This Mughal infrastructure, divided in three buildings, are used as a tourist destination and a museum.
Dhakeshwari Temple
State owned 1,200 years old Hindu temple build by one Mangat Ray, who was also known as Ballalasena, younger brother of Arakanese king Shri Sudharma, son of famous Arakanese king Raja Malhana alias Husen Shah. This is the center of Hindu religion in Dhaka.
Lalbag Fort
A 17th century incomplete fort. Started by Prince Mohammed Azam and handed to then governor of Dhaka Shaista Khan for completation, who didn’t finish it because of death of her daughter Pari Bibi whose tomb is inside the fort. There is a small museum inside displaying Mughal paintings and calligraphy, along with swords and firearms.
Khan Mohammad Mridha’s Mosque
Erected in 1706, this Mughal structure is stylistically similar to Lalbag Fort, built on a raised platform, up a flight of 25 steps. Three squat domes, with pointed minarets at each corner, dominate the rectangular roof.
Armenian Church
Located at Armanitola, named after the Armenian colony that settled here in the late 17th century. The church is the soul of this now almost extinct community. Dates from 1781, it is an oasis of tranquility in the heart of the crowded city.
Is it good to eat out in Dhaka? Can you tell us your favourite spots?
Visitors to Bangladesh are spoiled for choice when it comes to eating out. Many restaurants offer traditional Bangladeshi fare, typified by the use of fish and lentils, while others offer such diverse international cuisines as Japanese, French and Thai. From high-end restaurants to cozy cafes, arty bistros to quirky eateries, food lovers holidaying in Bangladesh will be delighted by its varied and vibrant restaurant scene.
My favourite sports is cricket,pool,caram,handball etc.
Is the nightlife good in Dhaka? Where is good to go?
The nightlife in Dhaka is not as often as some other popular Asian destinations but it is also not rare. On the other hand, the definition of nightlife depends on what the travellers are looking for. There aren’t many pubs or clubs; instead there are social clubs . For alcohol, some top hotels serving alcohol to foreigners but as it is a Muslim country, it is not recommended to ask the locals about a pub’s location. There are few local places to find a drink. They can be found in most neighborhoods. The social clubs have a party network such as Dutch Club, Canadian Club, Nordic Club, International Club, American Club, Heritage, Privilage and more. They usually need a membership to enter.
Nightlife spots in dhaka city:
Jatra Bangladesh Limited
It is a music and arts lounge which hosts regular live music and spoken word events. The interior has brightly painted walls and soft lights that creates a caravan atmosphere. Thursday nights are folk music nights, Fridays are open-mic and Saturdays are electro-acoustic. There is also a small restaurant planned for the venue. Address: 60 Kemal Ataturk Ave, Banani, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Dhanmondi Lake
They serve tea or coffee in a pleasant spot on a tree-shaded island on Dhanmondi Lake. It is a popular hang-out area for late afternoons and early evenings. Address: Dhanmondi Lake, Off Satmasjid Road, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Jatra Bangladesh Limited
It is a music and arts lounge which hosts regular live music and spoken word events. The interior has brightly painted walls and soft lights that creates a caravan atmosphere. Thursday nights are folk music nights, Fridays are open-mic and Saturdays are electro-acoustic. There is also a small restaurant planned for the venue. Address: 60 Kemal Ataturk Ave, Banani, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Dhanmondi Lake
They serve tea or coffee in a pleasant spot on a tree-shaded island on Dhanmondi Lake. It is a popular hang-out area for late afternoons and early evenings. Address: Dhanmondi Lake, Off Satmasjid Road, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Blue Moon Recreation Club
It is likely to live the sports bar experience. The Blue Moon referts to the surfeit of neon lighting. There is food available and there is sometimes live music on Wednesday and Sunday nights. Address: 3rd Floor, 67/D Road, 11, Banani, Dhaka, Bangladash.
Sakura
It is a dark and women-free venue but still, it’s popular. Local beers from Tk 20 and the prices of imported beers start from Tk 250. It is located on the second floor of a small handicrafts market opposite Ruposhi Bangla Hotel. After some hours, the entrance must be from around the back of the market. Address: Off Kazi Nazrul Islam Ave, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Coffee World
It is a small coffee shop with a bright and comfortable ambience. Coffee starts from Tk 100, it opens earlier than most. It is popular with the business takeaway crowd. Address: House 98, Rd 11, Banani, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Jatra Bangladesh Limited
It is a music and arts lounge which hosts regular live music and spoken word events. The interior has brightly painted walls and soft lights that creates a caravan atmosphere. Thursday nights are folk music nights, Fridays are open-mic and Saturdays are electro-acoustic. There is also a small restaurant planned for the venue. Address: 60 Kemal Ataturk Ave, Banani, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Dhanmondi Lake
They serve tea or coffee in a pleasant spot on a tree-shaded island on Dhanmondi Lake. It is a popular hang-out area for late afternoons and early evenings. Address: Dhanmondi Lake, Off Satmasjid Road, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Blue Moon Recreation Club
It is likely to live the sports bar experience. The Blue Moon referts to the surfeit of neon lighting. There is food available and there is sometimes live music on Wednesday and Sunday nights. Address: 3rd Floor, 67/D Road, 11, Banani, Dhaka, Bangladash.
Sakura
It is a dark and women-free venue but still, it’s popular. Local beers from Tk 20 and the prices of imported beers start from Tk 250. It is located on the second floor of a small handicrafts market opposite Ruposhi Bangla Hotel. After some hours, the entrance must be from around the back of the market. Address: Off Kazi Nazrul Islam Ave, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Coffee World
It is a small coffee shop with a bright and comfortable ambience. Coffee starts from Tk 100, it opens earlier than most. It is popular with the business takeaway crowd. Address: House 98, Rd 11, Banani, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Star Cineplex
It is located on the top floor of the massive shopping centre Bashundhara City. The cinema has English-language options for the lates Hollywood movies, as well as Bollywood movies. The tickets are around Tk 150-250.
Chhayanaut Auditorium
It is one of the best places in Dhaka to see classical Bengali and traditional folk music performances. Address: House 72, Rd 15A, Dhanmondi, Dhaka, Bangladesh
Sher-e-Bangla Stadium
The stadium hosts the Dhaka Dynamites Twenty 20 cricket team and it is a good spot to watch Bangladesh international cricket matches. Address: Mirpur, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Osmani Auditorium
One of the best place to attend cultural events. It is located 1 km southeast of the Supreme Court. Address: Abdul Ghani Rd, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
It is located on the top floor of the massive shopping centre Bashundhara City. The cinema has English-language options for the lates Hollywood movies, as well as Bollywood movies. The tickets are around Tk 150-250.
Chhayanaut Auditorium
It is one of the best places in Dhaka to see classical Bengali and traditional folk music performances. Address: House 72, Rd 15A, Dhanmondi, Dhaka, Bangladesh
Sher-e-Bangla Stadium
The stadium hosts the Dhaka Dynamites Twenty 20 cricket team and it is a good spot to watch Bangladesh international cricket matches. Address: Mirpur, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Osmani Auditorium
One of the best place to attend cultural events. It is located 1 km southeast of the Supreme Court. Address: Abdul Ghani Rd, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
It is likely to live the sports bar experience. The Blue Moon referts to the surfeit of neon lighting. There is food available and there is sometimes live music on Wednesday and Sunday nights. Address: 3rd Floor, 67/D Road, 11, Banani, Dhaka, Bangladash.
Sakura
It is a dark and women-free venue but still, it’s popular. Local beers from Tk 20 and the prices of imported beers start from Tk 250. It is located on the second floor of a small handicrafts market opposite Ruposhi Bangla Hotel. After some hours, the entrance must be from around the back of the market. Address: Off Kazi Nazrul Islam Ave, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Coffee World
It is a small coffee shop with a bright and comfortable ambience. Coffee starts from Tk 100, it opens earlier than most. It is popular with the business takeaway crowd. Address: House 98, Rd 11, Banani, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Star Cineplex
It is located on the top floor of the massive shopping centre Bashundhara City. The cinema has English-language options for the lates Hollywood movies, as well as Bollywood movies. The tickets are around Tk 150-250.
Chhayanaut Auditorium
It is one of the best places in Dhaka to see classical Bengali and traditional folk music performances. Address: House 72, Rd 15A, Dhanmondi, Dhaka, Bangladesh
Sher-e-Bangla Stadium
The stadium hosts the Dhaka Dynamites Twenty 20 cricket team and it is a good spot to watch Bangladesh international cricket matches. Address: Mirpur, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Osmani Auditorium
One of the best place to attend cultural events. It is located 1 km southeast of the Supreme Court. Address: Abdul Ghani Rd, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
What advice would you give future students heading to Dhaka?
IF ANYONE WANTS TO STUDY IN DHAKA YOU ARE WELCOME.YOU GET BEST SERVICE HERE.
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