Family-Friendly Adventures in Dhaka, Dhaka Division!

National Parliament House (Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban)

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to National Parliament House, Dhaka

Morning Arrival & Entry

Start your day early by arriving at the National Parliament House, commonly known as Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban, located in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar. For convenience, take a taxi or a rickshaw from your accommodation directly to the site. Entry is secured by prior permission, so ensure you’ve contacted the Parliament"s administrative office in advance for a guided tour, which typically starts around 9:00 AM.

Exploring Architectural Marvel

Designed by the famous architect Louis Kahn, the building is a splendid example of modern architecture fused with local cultural influences. The main building, known for its geometric design and extensive use of concrete, stands impressively surrounded by water. The reflection of the building in the surrounding moat is not only a security feature but also adds to the aesthetic beauty, perfect for some family photos!

Visit the Crescent Lake and Lawns

Post the indoor tour, take a walk around the Crescent Lake located on the premises. The open lawns and the serene lake are great spots for children to play and enjoy some downtime. The area around the parliament is rich with diverse flora and fauna, adding a touch of nature’s serenity to the grandeur of political hustle.

Picnic at Chandrima Uddan

Around noon, head to the nearby Chandrima Uddan (Moonlight Garden) for a picnic. This park offers a tranquil environment away from the city’s chaos, where families can relax under the shade of large trees.

Afternoon Wrap-Up

Conclude your visit by 2:00 PM to avoid the midday sun and head back to your lodging for some rest. Alternatively, explore local eateries to taste Bengali cuisine.

Interesting Fact

Did you know? The entire complex of Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban is spread over 200 acres, making it one of the largest legislative complexes in the world.

This educational and fun-filled itinerary ensures a memorable day exploring one of Bangladesh"s most iconic landmarks!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Ahsan Manzil (Pink Palace)

Why Visit?

A Family Day Out at Ahsan Manzil: An Itinerary

Morning: Arrival at Ahsan Manzil

- Starting Point: Begin your day at your Dhaka residence or hotel.

- Getting There: Ahsan Manzil, located in the Islampur area of Old Dhaka, is easily accessible by taxi or rickshaw. Aim to arrive by 10 AM to avoid the crowds.

- Activity: Explore the majestic Ahsan Manzil, also known as the Pink Palace. Built in 1872 by Nawab Abdul Gani, this regal building served as the official residential palace and seat of the Dhaka Nawab Family. The architecture displays a fascinating blend of Indo-Saracenic Revival architecture.

Midday: Lunch

- Location: Head to a local restaurant for a taste of authentic Bengali cuisine. Places like Haji Biryani or Beauty Lacchi are great for families and serve delicious dishes that cater to all palates.

Afternoon: Educational Fun

- Visit the Museum: After lunch, delve deeper into the palace, now turned museum, showcasing rooms furnished in period style, photographs, and paintings that narrate tales of the era gone by.

- Interactive Learning: Engage the kids with stories about the Nawabs of Dhaka and their contributions to the region"s history. Don"t miss the thakurdalan (ceremonial hall) where grand events were once held.

Late Afternoon: Stroll by the Buriganga

- Getting There: Walk to the nearby banks of the River Buriganga, a significant waterway for Dhaka"s trade and economy.

- Activity: Enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the river, offering a scenic view of the bustling city and a refreshing end to the day.

Evening: Return Journey

- Departure: As the sun sets, head back to your accommodation by rickshaw or taxi, reflecting on a day well spent immersed in the rich cultural heritage of Dhaka.

This itinerary ensures that your family not only learns about the grandeur of Ahsan Manzil but also experiences the vibrant life and flavors of Old Dhaka.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Sonargaon

Why Visit?

Sonargaan, the ancient capital of Bengal, promises a captivating day trip for families. Just about 29 kilometers southeast of Dhaka, it’s easily accessible by car or local bus, making it a convenient outing for those based in the capital.

Begin your adventure at the Sonargaon Folk Art and Craft Museum. Open from 10 AM to 5 PM except for a weekly closure on Wednesday, this museum houses a rich collection of folk art and artifacts that paint a picture of the region"s vibrant cultural heritage. Learning about traditional Bengali life through its textiles, fishing equipment, and musical instruments is particularly engaging for children. There’s a small entry fee, and the museum is a great starting point to understand the historical context of Sonargaon.

Next, take a short walk or rickshaw ride to Painam Nagar. Once a bustling community, now a hauntingly beautiful ghost town, its nearly 50 grand houses, built during the colonial period, are slowly being reclaimed by nature. Exploring these structures offers a tangible sense of history and sparks imagination about the lives once lived here.

Afterward, continue to the Goaldi Mosque, a small yet significant architectural gem dating back to 1519. This pre-Mughal structure is one of the few remaining examples of the Sultanate period in Bangladesh. It’s a peaceful place for a family to appreciate ancient architecture and the quietude away from city bustle.

Wrap up your day with a relaxing boat ride on the nearby river if time permits, a perfect way to see the lush countryside and unwind after a day of exploration.

Before heading back to Dhaka, you might want to grab some local snacks or a meal at a nearby restaurant, sampling traditional Bengali cuisine to complete the cultural experience.

This itinerary not only enriches with historical insights but also provides a full day of engagement suitable for all ages, making Sonargaon a must-visit for families exploring Bangladesh.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Lalbagh Fort (Fort Aurangabad)

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to Lalbagh Fort (Fort Aurangabad), Dhaka

Morning Arrival

Kick-off your adventure at Lalbagh Fort, a historical fort located in the heart of Dhaka. Easily accessible by taxi or rickshaw from most parts of the city, aim to arrive by 9 AM to avoid the crowds and the heat. The entrance fee is nominal, and children under 5 enter free.

Explore the Architectural Marvels

Start at the south gate, which also serves as the main entrance. As you step inside, you’ll be greeted by the impressive architecture of this 17th-century Mughal fort. Capture the family’s excitement with a photo against the backdrop of the lush gardens and the imposing red walls.

Visit the Museums

Next, head to the museum housed in the fort. It"s a great spot for kids to learn about the history of the Mughal era through ancient artifacts and exhibits. Don’t miss the Lalbagh Fort Museum, which provides fascinating insights into the life of the Mughals with its collection of paintings, calligraphy, and coins.

Stroll through the Gardens

By mid-morning, wander through the well-manicured gardens within the fort complex. These gardens are perfect for children to play around and explore the outdoors.

Picnic by the Pond

For lunch, settle down near the central pond for a family picnic. The serene surroundings provide a perfect setting to relax and enjoy some homemade snacks.

Afternoon Walk and Departure

After lunch, take a leisurely walk to the tomb of Pari Bibi, a hauntingly beautiful structure known for its folklore. Wrap up your visit by 2 PM to head back to your accommodation or continue exploring more of Dhagka.

Fact for the Day

Did you know that Lalbagh Fort remains incomplete to this day? Construction was halted in 1678 due to the untimely death of Pari Bibi, and superstition regarding further building led to its present state.

This engaging mix of education, leisure, and exploration will ensure that your family’s visit to Lalbagh Fort is memorable and enriching!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Star Mosque (Tara Masjid)

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary to Star Mosque (Tara Masjid) and Surroundings

Morning: Visit Star Mosque (Tara Masjid)

Start your day with a visit to the captivating Star Mosque, a hidden gem located in the older part of Dhaka. Renowned for its intricate mosaic decorations featuring stars, it"s a small yet fascinating place for both adults and children. How to get there: The most convenient way to reach Star Mosque is by rickshaw or taxi from central Dhaha. Aim to arrive early to avoid the crowds and experience the mosque in a more serene setting.

Interesting Fact: The mosque was originally built in the early 18th century by Mirza Ghulam Pir, and later renovated to include the star motifs that give it its name.

Midday: Lunch and Lalbagh Fort

After exploring the mosque, head to Lalbagh Fort, just a 20-minute rickshaw ride away. Enjoy lunch at one of the local restaurants serving authentic Bengali cuisine.

Afternoon: Explore Lalbagh Fort

Spend your afternoon at the historical Lalbagh Fort, an incomplete 17th-century Mughal fort complex that offers a glimpse into the grandeur of old Dhaka. Kids can enjoy the spacious gardens while adults explore the architecture and museums within the fort complex.

Interesting Fact: Legend has it that the construction of Lalbagh Fort was never completed after the untimely death of the builder"s daughter, Pari Bibi, whose tomb can be found on the grounds.

Late Afternoon: Buriganga River Boat Ride

Conclude your day with a soothing boat ride on the Buriganga River. It"s a great way for the family to relax and see Dhaka from a different perspective. Getting there: Walk to the Sadarghat boat terminals, located a short distance from Lalbagah Fort.

Enjoy these diverse experiences that combine culture, history, and leisure, making for an unforgettable family day out in Dhaka!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.