Interesting Destinations and Places to See in Dhaka, Bangladesh

Dhaka is the capital of Bangladesh, and considered as one of the major cities on South Asia. It is located on the banks of Buriganga River, and has a vast population of over 12 million. The city is called the "city of mosques". Dhaka is also known as the producer of the finest "muslin" in the world, which is a kind of cotton fabric that is finely woven, used to make dresses, curtains and other clothing materials.

The country started to fully develop in the 19th century during the British rule. Dhaka is now the center of cultural, political and economic life in Bangladesh. Dhaka is also a place with many interesting places to visit. The city is rich with its fine culture and beauty people from all around the world love to see.

Here are some of the interesting places to visit in Dhaka, Bangladesh:

o Lalbagh Fort - a beautiful castle located at the edge of Old Dhaka. The castle was built during the reign of Prince Azam in the year 1676. Prince Azam was the third son of the great Moghul Emperor Aurangazeb. The fort contains long armored walls with octagonal citadel. There is also a mosque built inside the fort, and the Mauseleum of Bibi Pari, and the Audience Hall. Visitors can visit the museum inside the castle, which is officially opened to the public.

o Armenian Church - located in Armanitola, Dhaka. The beautiful church was built by the Armenian colony during the year 1791. The church is an attractive ancient-looking cathedral wherein its design dates back in the 17th century.

o Tara Masjid (Star Mosque) - one of the most unusual mosques in Dhaka, which also called the "city of mosques". The name, "Star" was given to the mosque due to the sparkling mosaic of broken china. The mosque was said to have been built way back in the 17th century by Shaista Khan. Infront of the mosque, is a star shaped figure, which stands for the mosque's name.

o Jatiyo Shongshod - Dhaka's National Parliament building located at Sher-e-Bangla Nagar. Jatiyo Shongshod is built with a vast complex geometrical design. The man behind this uniquely designed structure is American architect Louis Kahn. It is considered today as one of the most distinctively-looking building in Bangladesh.

o Shahid Minar - one of the many mausoleums and monuments in Dhaka. This monument was built to commemorate the people who were killed during the Language Movement demonstrations in 1952, where in dozens of students and activists died. The monument had been a high subject for attraction in Dhaka. Its colorful gardens had attracted many tourists and travelers both local and abroad.

These are just few of the many interesting sites and destinations in Dhaka. There are other several places such as museums, numerous mosques, and monuments which are frequently visited in Dhaka. All are open for the public so visitors are always welcome to come and see the wonders of Dhaka.

Ms. Pinky is a mom of 3 school children. She is a Systems Engineer, a Technology Researcher and an Independent Medical Billing and Coding Consultant. She and her family is well-traveled all over the world!