Central Travel Guide

Explore the cultural and natural attractions of Central, Dhaka, Bangladesh, and learn about the local culture, customs, food, and safety tips while visiting the region.


Introduction to Central

Central is a district situated in Dhaka, the capital city of Bangladesh. It is known for its bustling markets, cultural landmarks, natural beauty, and rich history. With something for everyone, Central is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Bangladesh.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we will explore the top places to visit, the best things to do, the local culture and customs, safety and health tips, transportation options, and nearby excursions from Central.

List of Places to Visit in Central

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Central is home to some of the most important historical and cultural landmarks in Bangladesh. Here are the top cultural attractions to visit:

  • Lalbagh Fort: A stunning 17th-century Mughal fort built by Prince Muhammad Azam, son of Emperor Aurangzeb.
  • Ahsan Manzil: The former residence of the Nawabs of Dhaka, now converted to a museum showcasing the rich cultural history of Bangladesh.
  • Bangladesh National Museum: The largest museum in Bangladesh, with over 86,000 artifacts from ancient and modern times.
  • Dhaka University: The oldest and largest university in Bangladesh, with a stunning campus featuring architectural landmarks, gardens, and lakes.

Natural Attractions of Central: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Central also has some of the most beautiful natural attractions in Bangladesh, including:

  • Suhrawardy Udyan: A beautiful park in the heart of the city, featuring lakes, gardens, and monuments.
  • Ramna Park: A popular park known for its beautiful views, scenic beauty, and a wide range of outdoor activities.
  • Dhaka Zoo: One of the largest zoos in South Asia, home to a wide range of animals, including tigers, lions, elephants, and crocodiles.
  • Hajarikhil Wildlife Sanctuary: A beautiful wildlife sanctuary near Dhaka, home to a wide range of rare and endangered species.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Central

Central has several hiking and biking routes that will take you through the beautiful natural surroundings. Some of the popular routes include:

Best Things to Do in Central: Activities and Tours

Central has a wide range of activities and tours that you can enjoy during your stay, including:

  • Bengali Cooking Class: A fun and interactive cooking class that will teach you how to cook delicious Bengali cuisine.
  • Old Dhaka Tour: A fascinating tour that will take you through the streets of Old Dhaka, showcasing the city’s rich history and culture.
  • Nightlife Tour: A fun-filled tour that will take you through the city’s vibrant nightlife scene, including live music, dance, and food.

Week-Long Itinerary for Central

To help you make the most of your stay in Central, we have created a week-long itinerary that covers all the top attractions and activities.

Day Itinerary
1 Arrive and check-in.
2 Visit Lalbagh Fort, Ahsan Manzil, and Dhaka University.
3 Take the Old Dhaka Tour and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
4 Visit Ramna Park and the Bangladesh National Museum.
5 Hike the Baldha Garden to Ramna Park Trail and enjoy a picnic lunch.
6 Take the Nightlife Tour and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
7 Visit Dhaka Zoo and the Hajarikhil Wildlife Sanctuary.

Food and Drink Scene of Central

Must-Try Dishes

Bangladesh is known for its delicious cuisine, and Central has some of the best restaurants and eateries in the country. Here are some must-try dishes:

  • Biryani: A traditional rice dish with layers of rice, meat, and spices.
  • Rashogolla: A sweet and soft dessert made from chhena (cheese) and dipped in a sweet syrup.
  • Kacchi Biryani: A unique variation of biryani, where the meat is cooked with the raw rice to create a delicious and flavorful dish.
  • Shorshe Ilish: A traditional Bengali dish made with Hilsa fish and mustard sauce.

Local Beverages

In addition to delicious food, Bangladesh is also known for its refreshing local beverages, including:

  • Mishti Doi: A sweetened yogurt that is a popular dessert in Bangladesh.
  • Cha (Tea): Tea is a popular beverage in Bangladesh, and you can find it in every corner of the city.
  • Lassi: A refreshing drink made from yogurt, water, and sugar, often served with a variety of flavors, including mango and strawberry.

Where to Stay in Central: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Central offers several accommodation options for travelers, ranging from high-end hotels to affordable hostels and guesthouses. Here are some recommended options:

  • The Westin Dhaka: A luxurious hotel with top-notch amenities, including a spa, pool, and fitness center.
  • Hotel 71: A comfortable and modern hotel located in the heart of the city, with exceptional service and facilities.
  • Civic Inn: A budget-friendly hostel located in a quiet neighborhood, featuring comfortable rooms and shared facilities.

What to Buy in Central: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

No trip to Central is complete without buying some local souvenirs and products to bring back home. Here are some popular items to consider:

  • Jamdani Sarees: A traditional handwoven saree made using special techniques that create intricate designs and patterns.
  • Nakshi Kantha: A type of embroidered quilt made using old sarees and dhotis, often considered a valuable family heirloom.
  • Tangail Sarees: A type of handwoven saree made using high quality cotton or silk, known for its unique designs and vibrant colors.

Local Culture and Customs of Central

Bangladesh has a distinctive and vibrant culture, and it’s important to be aware of the local customs and etiquette while visiting. Here are some tips:

  • Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious and cultural landmarks.
  • Always remove your shoes before entering a mosque, temple, or someone’s home.
  • Use your right hand to eat and shake hands, as the left hand is considered unclean.
  • Respect the local customs and traditions, including gender roles and social hierarchy.

Best Time to Visit Central

The best time to visit Central is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant and comfortable. The monsoon season is between June and September, and it can be challenging to explore the outdoors during this time due to heavy rainfall.

Do’s and Don’ts of Central

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.
  • Be respectful to the local culture, customs, and traditions.
  • Visit the historical and cultural landmarks.
  • Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

Don’t:

  • Take pictures of people without their permission.
  • Eat food from street vendors without checking the quality and hygiene.
  • Wear revealing clothing, especially when visiting religious sites.
  • Disrespect the local culture and customs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Central

Central is a relatively safe destination, but it’s important to take precautions to avoid any potential mishaps. Here are some safety tips:

  • Be cautious when carrying valuables, including cash, jewelry, and electronics.
  • Always keep an eye on your belongings, especially when in crowded markets and public transportation.
  • Avoid walking alone at night, especially in isolated areas.

Health in Central

It’s also essential to take care of your health while in Central. Here are some health tips:

  • Drink only bottled water and avoid tap water and ice cubes.
  • Use sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats to protect yourself from sunburn and heatstroke.
  • Carry insect repellent to avoid mosquito-borne diseases, such as dengue and malaria.

Getting to Central: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Central

The closest airport to Central is the Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (DAC), located approximately 15 kilometers away from the city center. From the airport, you can take a taxi or public transportation to reach Central.

Bus Stations Near Central

The Gabtoli Bus Terminal is the main bus station serving Central, with connections to several destinations across Bangladesh.

Other Options

You can also reach Central by train or private car, with several companies offering hire cars and drivers.

How to Get Around in Central

Central is a relatively small district, and you can explore most of the attractions on foot or by bicycle. You can also take a taxi, rickshaw, or public transportation to travel around the city.

Where to Go Next from Central: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Central is a great base to explore other nearby destinations and excursions in Bangladesh. Here are some recommended options:

  • Srimangal: A picturesque town known for its tea gardens, wildlife sanctuary, and scenic views.
  • Cox’s Bazar: A popular seaside resort town located on the Bay of Bengal, known for its beautiful beaches and seafood.
  • Sundarbans: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world’s largest mangrove forest, home to rare and endangered species, including the Bengal tiger.

Conclusion

Central is a fascinating destination that offers a unique blend of historical and cultural landmarks, beautiful natural attractions, and delicious food and drinks. Whether you’re a culture enthusiast, a nature lover, or a foodie, you’ll find plenty to explore and enjoy in Central. By following the tips and advice outlined in this guide, you’ll have a safe and memorable experience during your visit to this remarkable district of Dhaka, Bangladesh.

Baitul Mukarram Mosque Baitul Mukarram Mosque Greek Memorial, TSC Complex, Dhaka University Greek Memorial, TSC Complex, Dhaka University Curzon Hall, Dhaka University campus Curzon Hall, Dhaka University campus Aparajeyo Bangla Statue Aparajeyo Bangla Statue The Shaheed Minar Monument The Shaheed Minar Monument Grave of Kazi Nazrul Islam Grave of Kazi Nazrul Islam Ramna Park and Lake Ramna Park and Lake Fountain inside the Museum of Independence Fountain inside the Museum of Independence Ramna Kali Mandir Ramna Kali Mandir Eternal Flame, Suhrawardi Uddyan, Dhaka Eternal Flame, Suhrawardi Uddyan, Dhaka Mausoleum of Three Leaders Mausoleum of Three Leaders Dargah of Shahbaz Khan Dargah of Shahbaz Khan Mughal Eidgah, Dhanmondi Mughal Eidgah, Dhanmondi National Assembly of Bangladesh National Assembly of Bangladesh