[2025 Dhaka Attraction] Travel Guide for Baitul Mukarram National Mosque (Updated Apr)

In the eastern part of the South Asian subcontinent lies Dhaka, a city brimming with mystery and vitality. Like an uncut gem, it radiates a unique and captivating allure. Driven by a longing for the unknown, I embarked on an immersive journey to this land. Upon arriving in Dhaka, I was immediately engulfed by the lively hustle and bustle of the streets. Colorful rickshaws, like vibrant musical notes, weaved through the traffic, creating a unique and dynamic urban landscape. The sounds of street vendors hawking their wares and car horns blended together, composing a lively symphony of city life. Stepping into the old city felt like entering a time tunnel. Ancient buildings bore the marks of time, their weathered walls whispering tales of past glories. The Baitul Mukarram National Mosque stood majestically, its minarets gleaming in the sunlight, exuding a profound sense of religious devotion. Inside, a tranquil atmosphere instantly calmed my mind. Sunlight streamed through the stained-glass windows, casting dreamlike shadows, creating a scene of sacred beauty. Dhaka's markets are a shopper's paradise. The New Market offered a dazzling array of goods, from exquisite handicrafts to vibrantly colored textiles, each imbued with the wisdom and dedication of local artisans. I strolled through the market, carefully selecting souvenirs, immersing myself in the rich local atmosphere. Beyond the architecture and shopping, Dhaka's cuisine is truly unforgettable. At a street food stall, I savored authentic kebabs. The tender, juicy grilled meat, paired with unique sauces, ignited my taste buds with every bite. Sweet dates and refreshing freshly squeezed juices added another dimension to this culinary adventure. As night fell, Dhaka revealed another enchanting side. Lights twinkled along the riverbank, reflecting on the shimmering water. I sat by the river, enjoying the gentle breeze, gazing at the city lights, my heart filled with affection for this city. Dhaka, a city of contrasts and harmony, where hustle and bustle meet tranquility, and ancient traditions intertwine with modern life. Every corner exudes a unique charm, drawing you in. This immersive journey not only allowed me to appreciate Dhaka's beauty and cuisine but also provided a deeper understanding of the local culture and way of life. As I departed, I felt a pang of reluctance, eagerly anticipating my next encounter with this captivating city.

For work reasons, the company sent me to Bangladesh to help with the project. The plane landed in the capital. Local colleagues warmly received me. After putting down my luggage and settling in, I successfully completed the project with my colleagues. I had three days left. My colleagues took me to visit a lot of places. How many days did it take? Here is my travel guide for Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh. If it is helpful to you, remember to like and collect it! 1. Attractions - Baitur Rauf Jame Masjid: The largest mosque in Bangladesh, completed in 1968, can now accommodate 40,000 people. Free to visit. - Dhaka Museum: Displays artifacts from the Mughal period, tickets cost about 213 yuan (exchange rate fluctuates). - Lalbagh Fort: A three-story ancient fort built in 1678, with a minaret at the south gate, a secret passage and a magnificent mosque inside the fort, which was not fully completed. Ticket price not found. - Bibi Pari's Tomb: The tomb was built in 1684 using a variety of stone materials, modeled after the Taj Mahal in India. Ticket price not found. - Ramakrishna Hindu Temple: Located near the Presidential Palace in Dhaka, founded in 1914, built in 1916, a quiet place of prayer. Free to visit. - Dhakeshwari Temple: Built in 1960, the largest Buddhist temple in Dhaka, with the relics of the Arahant, the center of Buddhist life and culture in Dhaka and Bangladesh. Free to visit. 2. Food and prices - Pilaf: Available on the streets of Dhaka. A serving at an ordinary shop costs about 100-300 taka (about 8-24 yuan), depending on the ingredients. - Spiced Chickpeas: A spicy snack sold daily in Dhaka, costing only 20 rupees (about 1.5 yuan). - Steak: Available at restaurants like Bistro - E, a signature steak can be expensive, possibly 1000-3000 taka (about 80-240 yuan), depending on the restaurant and the quality of the steak. 3. Precautions - Climate: Dhaka is tropical, with high humidity and high temperatures from March to mid-June, with daytime temperatures as high as 38°C; mid-June to October is the summer monsoon season, with high humidity, lower temperatures and cloudy skies; mid-November to February is the cool season, with sunny and dry weather, cooler nights, and temperatures in December-January can drop below 10°C. - Transportation: Dhaka's traffic is relatively chaotic, with many rickshaws. If you take a rickshaw, negotiate the price in advance and pay attention to safety to avoid being ripped off. Trains and buses in the city may not run on time or on schedule, so plan ahead when traveling. - Religious culture: Dhaka is a city dominated by Islam, with various religions coexisting. Respect local religious customs and cultural traditions, such as being quiet and dressed appropriately in religious places such as mosques. - Hygiene: Dhaka has poor overall hygiene, pay attention to food hygiene, avoid drinking raw water and eating unclean food to prevent illness.

🕌 [A Glimpse into the River of History] The red brick walls of Lalbagh Fort glow amber in the setting sun. This unfinished 17th-century Mughal masterpiece tells the story of an empire's rise and fall through its ruins. Stroll through the European-style corridors of Ahsan Manzil, the Pink Palace. Its pink and white facade, set against tropical flowers, creates a whimsical romance, almost as if you can hear the rustle of aristocratic skirts sweeping across Persian carpets. The pure white domes of Baitul Mukarram National Mosque surge like giant waves. The grandeur of 8,000 people praying simultaneously transforms faith into tangible geometric beauty. At the National Martyrs' Memorial, a 45-meter-high granite sword points towards the sky, commemorating the blood and fire of the liberation war. 🛶 [A Poem of Life in the Water Alleys] Take a ferry across the Buriganga River, where the weathered colonial buildings along the banks are reflected in the water. The boatmen's oars and the hustle and bustle of riverside teahouses blend into a symphony of city life. In the old city market, jute artisans weave traditional crafts with nimble fingers. Bundles of natural fibers shimmer amber in the sunlight, forming a flowing tapestry of colors with the turmeric and chili powders of the spice stalls. 🍲 [Gifts from the Ganges on the Tip of Your Tongue] Awaken your taste buds in the morning with luchi dipped in hot and sour soup. At noon, savor the hand-pulled beef curry rice, letting the spices tango on your tongue. In the evening market, at a fuchka stall, bite into the crispy shell and experience the explosion of cool flavors as the mashed potatoes and mint chutney burst in your mouth. Don't forget to try a plate of hilsa fish, the "king of the river." Slow-cooked in coconut milk curry, its sweetness will touch your soul. 💡 [Dhaka Travel Tips] Best season: October to March (dry season). Wear light linen clothing, and bring stomach medicine and sunscreen. Transportation: Auto-rickshaws are the most authentic way to navigate the streets (remember to negotiate the price beforehand). BRT buses can quickly traverse the city's main arteries. Cultural etiquette: Wear long pants or skirts when entering mosques. Start bargaining at one-third of the asking price in markets. Souvenir guide: Jute bags, Nakshi Kantha embroidered saris, and ceramic tea sets can be found in the New Market. 🌉 As dusk paints the Dhaka skyline red, the call to prayer from the mosques mingles with the cries of street vendors. This city, where history is etched in red brick and life is written as poetry, awaits you to unveil its mysteries. Smell the remnants of ancient trade routes in the spice market, touch the pulse of the colonial era in the Pink Palace, and let the evening breeze of the Ganges, laden with the aroma of curry, immerse you in an unfading South Asian dream. 🎒 Pack your bags! The legend of Dhaka, from the flamboyant blossoms of the flame trees by Dhaka University lake, awaits you to write a new chapter.

In the northeastern part of the South Asian subcontinent, there is a vibrant and uniquely charming city—Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh and the heart of the country. Here, you'll find ancient historical sites alongside energetic modern neighborhoods, mouthwatering cuisine, and warm, hospitable people. Follow this guide to embark on an unforgettable journey through Dhaka!🎈 1. Best Time to Travel Dhaka has a subtropical monsoon climate with three distinct seasons: winter (November - February), summer (March - June), and monsoon season (July - October)🌞. The average annual temperature is 26.5°C. Winter is the most pleasant season, with the lowest temperature around 4°C. The weather is clear and dry, perfect for traveling. Summer temperatures can reach up to 45°C with high humidity. During the monsoon season, the average temperature is 30°C with frequent rainfall, so remember to bring an umbrella. If you want to avoid the heat and rain, the best time to travel is from November to February.❄️ 2. Must-See Attractions 1. Ahsan Manzil (Pink Palace): This palace resembles a fairytale castle, romantically painted in pink. It was converted from a warehouse by a wealthy landlord. The interior is exquisitely decorated, blending Islamic and European architectural styles. Taking photos here is a must📸, as you'll feel like you've stepped into a dream world. 2. Baitul Mukarram National Mosque: One of the most famous mosques in Dhaka and the largest in Bangladesh. Its unique architectural style is magnificent and can accommodate tens of thousands of worshippers at the same time. Step inside to experience the solemnity and sacredness of the mosque and immerse yourself in the rich Islamic cultural atmosphere.🕌 3. Dhaka Museum: The museum boasts a rich collection, covering stone tools, red pottery, bronze statues, coins, metalware, crafts, ivory carvings, and historical materials related to the War of Independence. Here, you can delve into the history, culture, and art of Bangladesh, making it an excellent place to explore the local past.🏛️ 4. University of Dhaka: The oldest university in Bangladesh, established in 1921 during British rule. The Curzon Hall on campus, built during the British colonial period, was originally intended as a town hall but later became the base of the Faculty of Science at Dhaka University. Stroll through the campus, soak in the academic atmosphere, and admire the historically significant buildings.🎓 5. Buriganga River: Although the river's hygiene needs improvement, it is the lifeline of Dhaka, witnessing the city's rise and fall. Take a ferry trip on the river, admire the scenery along the banks, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of Dhaka.🚢 3. Local Cuisine 1. Biryani: A beloved local dish, biryani is made with rice, spices, and meat (chicken, mutton, or beef). The aroma is enticing, and the rice is cooked to perfection, absorbing the flavors of the meat and spices. Every bite is incredibly satisfying.🍚 2. Kebabs: A common street food in Dhaka, kebabs are made with tender pieces of meat marinated in unique spices and grilled until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Served with special sauces, the kebabs are bursting with flavor and simply irresistible.🍖 3. Chapati/Paratha: These flatbreads come in various forms, from plain to those filled with vegetables, meat, or cheese. They are often eaten with curry, and dipping the chapati into the rich curry creates a delightful culinary experience. They are one of the local staple foods.🥞 4. Sweets: Dhaka's desserts are known for their sweetness. Gulab Jamun, fried dough balls soaked in sugar syrup, are sweet and soft. Ras malai, a cheese pudding-like dessert, is rich and creamy, sweet but not overpowering. Those with a sweet tooth should not miss these treats.🍮 4. Things to Note 1. Visa and Entry: It's recommended to obtain a tourist visa in advance. For a visa on arrival, you'll need a printed English itinerary, a printed English hotel booking confirmation (matching the flight dates), and a printed certificate of two vaccine doses or a negative nucleic acid test within 72 hours. Upon arrival, collect the arrival card to fill out, then pay the fee (USD 51 or RMB 450, small bills recommended) at the glass counter on the side. After payment, get the stamp at the counter and check the duration of stay. You can exchange currency on the second floor. Exchange points are limited in the city, mostly ATMs.👮‍♀️ 2. Transportation: Dhaka's traffic is quite chaotic, with pedestrians and vehicles sharing the roads. Main transportation options include taxis, auto-rickshaws (locally known as CNGs), and rickshaws. For short distances, CNGs are a good option, costing around 100-200 Taka. For longer distances, using ride-hailing apps like Uber is recommended to avoid communication issues. Allow ample travel time, as a 30-minute journey can take up to 2 hours due to traffic jams.🚗 3. Accommodation: Accommodation in Bangladesh is generally not cheap. Clean and comfortable hotels start from around 300 RMB, while those below 200 RMB may have subpar conditions. Choose rooms away from the street to avoid noise. For safety and comfort, consider staying near the embassy area or Dhaka University.🏨 4. Food and Hygiene: Street food hygiene standards in Dhaka vary, and those with sensitive stomachs may experience discomfort. It's advisable to bring some stomach medicine. Locals eat with their right hand, as using the left hand is considered impolite. Use your right hand for receiving items and shaking hands as well. Bangladesh is a Muslim country, and you'll hear calls to prayer from mosques throughout the day. Respect local religious beliefs.🍽️ 5. Cultural Differences: Bangladeshis are often curious about foreigners, and you may attract attention or even be asked for photos. Don't be alarmed; it's mostly out of friendliness and curiosity. When visiting religious sites like mosques, dress modestly and maintain a respectful silence.🙏 Dhaka, a city full of mystery and charm, awaits your exploration. Pack your bags and embark on a spontaneous adventure, creating your own beautiful memories in Dhaka!💕

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On the vast plains of Bangladesh, Dhaka is like a beating heart, playing a colorful symphony of tradition and modernity with its unique charm. This city is both a witness to history and a place of modern vitality, carrying the soul and dreams of the Bengali people. At dawn, Dhaka slowly awakens from its slumber. The streets are filled with the rich atmosphere of life, with the sound of rickshaw bells and street vendors' cries forming a lively morning tune. Walking into the old town is like stepping into a time tunnel, with ancient buildings coming into view. The Baitul Mukarram Mosque is solemn and majestic, with its white walls shining with a holy light in the morning sun. Its magnificent dome and towering minaret showcase the unique charm of Islamic architecture. Worshippers in traditional attire devoutly enter the mosque to begin their daily religious rituals, with the air filled with tranquility and reverence. Next to the mosque is Dhaka's traditional market, a sea of colors and sounds. The narrow streets are lined with stalls selling a dazzling array of goods. The colorful saris flutter in the wind like a flowing painting, showcasing the exquisite traditional textile craftsmanship of Bangladesh. The spice stalls emit a rich aroma, with the golden turmeric, fiery red chili, and deep clove creating a feast for the senses. The handmade pottery and exquisite wood carvings all demonstrate the wisdom and creativity of local artisans. The market is filled with the sound of bargaining, with people's faces radiating enthusiasm and vitality. Here, the atmosphere of life is strong and real. However, Dhaka is not just immersed in tradition. As the sun rises higher, the modern side of the city gradually emerges. In the new town, skyscrapers rise like bamboo shoots after a spring rain, with modern shopping centers, office buildings, and hotels scattered throughout. Dhaka's business district is bustling, with business people in suits hurrying between office buildings. The shopping centers attract the younger generation with fashionable brand stores, modern cinemas, and food courts. Here, international trends and local culture collide, creating a unique vitality. Dhaka is also a city full of artistic atmosphere. Numerous art schools and cultural institutions have nurtured countless talented artists. The graffiti walls in the streets and alleys are a stage for artists to express themselves, with colorful paintings depicting the stories of the city and the dreams of its people. At night, theaters host wonderful drama and music performances, with traditional Bengali music and dance infecting every audience member with their unique rhythm and melody. Dancers in gorgeous costumes gracefully tell ancient legends and modern emotions through body language. Dhaka's cuisine is unforgettable. From street food stalls to high-end restaurants, you can taste authentic Bengali cuisine. The steaming biryani, with its plump rice grains paired with tender and juicy grilled chicken or lamb, and topped with rich curry, is flavorful and rich. There are also fried samosas with crispy crusts and spicy fillings that leave a lasting impression. In the hot afternoon, a sweet lassi yogurt drink can both cool you down and satisfy your taste buds. Dhaka, the heart of Bangladesh, with its rich history and culture, vibrant modern vitality, unique artistic atmosphere, and tempting cuisine, forms a colorful symphony. It attracts every visitor, allowing people to feel the enthusiasm, resilience, and creativity of the Bengali people in every corner of the city, and to be captivated by its unique charm.

Visited the Baitul Mukarram Mosque during the soft sunset of dusk. It is the national mosque of Bangladesh and also the largest mosque in the country. The mosque is located next to the national stadium and a large bazaar, with the surrounding streets always bustling. The Baitul Mukarram Mosque began construction in 1960 and was officially completed in 1968. It is a modern minimalist style mosque without traditional domes and excessive decorations. The walls are Muslim representative of pure off-white, with a large gate, a minaret, a passageway, and a square main building that draws inspiration from the Kaaba in Mecca. The mosque originally had a garden, but it was demolished during expansion due to impracticality. However, tradition has not been completely abandoned in this mosque, but is integrated into details such as the porch. It is this combination of modern minimalism and traditional details that makes it particularly special. As it was close to prayer time, I had planned to take a few photos of the exterior and leave, but I met a clergy member of the mosque who enthusiastically took me inside for a visit. The small arch outside hides a huge space, and with almost no decoration, it even feels a bit empty. The mosque's management staff took me all the way up to the 7th floor, but in fact, the 1st to 4th floors are all the same, and the 5th to 7th floors only have corridors without a hall. The 7 floors combined can accommodate more than 42,000 people, making it the 20th largest mosque in the world. However, during Ramadan, it is still not big enough, given the sheer size of Dhaka's population. The call to prayer rang out in the sunset, and believers began to pour into the mosque for prayers. The sultry air of South Asia is always bustling, but the golden sunlight on the white walls of the mosque is so dreamily peaceful. As night falls, the sky is filled with colors, a lonely Eastern face, like a background character in a movie.

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