Museum culture in Dhaka, Dhaka Division!

National Parliament House (Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban)

Why Visit?

Exploring the Architectural Marvel: National Parliament House (Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban) in Dhaka, Bangladesh

Begin your museum culture tour at one of the 20th century"s most significant architectural wonders, the National Parliament House of Bangladesh, also known as Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban. Designed by the famous American architect Louis Kahn, this monumental building is not just the political hub of Bangladesh but also a masterpiece of modernist architecture.

Getting There

Situated in the heart of Dhaka in the area known as Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, the Parliament House is easily accessible by road. From the center of Dhaka, you can take a rickshaw or a taxi to reach this iconic structure. For those preferring public transport, various buses heading towards Sher-e-Bangla Nagar will drop you within walking distance of the Parliament House.

Tour Highlights

Start your visit at the main gate, where you can marvel at the grandeur of Kahn"s design, which harmoniously blends modernist lines with elements inspired by ancient Bengali architecture. The complex is spread over 200 acres, encompassing artificial lakes, lawns, and residences for civil servants.

Make sure to join a guided tour (which you need to book in advance through the Parliament Secretariat), as it provides an insightful exploration into the less visible details of the building’s interior and its legislative function. You will learn about the geometric precision in the structure"s design and how light and shadow play a vital role in Kahn"s work.

Interesting Facts

- The construction of Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban was completed in 1982, long after Kahn’s death in 1974.

- It is considered one of the largest legislative complexes in the world.

- The building is admired globally for its unique use of concrete and marble.

End your tour with a leisurely walk around the lush gardens and reflective pools that surround this magnificent edifice, perfect for contemplation and admiration of one of the greatest architectural feats.

Museum Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to museum travelers.

Ahsan Manzil (Pink Palace)

Why Visit?

Exploring Ahsan Manzil: A Journey Through Time

Located in the heart of Old Dhaka, Ahsan Manzil, commonly known as the Pink Palace, stands as a regal symbol of Bangladesh"s rich cultural heritage. This majestic building, with its distinctive pink hue and majestic domed architecture, was once the residence of the Nawabs of Dhaka. Today, it serves as a fascinating museum that draws history enthusiasts and travelers alike.

Getting There

To visit Ahsan Manzil, you can easily catch a rickshaw or a taxi from any part of Dhaka city; however, experiencing the bustling local life on a boat ride along the Buriganga River offers a unique approach. Disembark at the Sadarghat terminal and enjoy a short walk to the palace.

Tour Itinerary

Start your tour by marveling at the grandiose façade before stepping inside to discover the museum"s diverse exhibits spread across several rooms. The museum opens at 10:30 AM, so plan to arrive early to beat the crowds and the heat.

1. The Durbar Hall:

Begin in the stunning Durbar Hall, where official ceremonies were held. The room is highlighted by a magnificent crystal chandelier and intricate plaster decorations that exemplify Indo-Saracenic architecture.

2. Photographic Journey:

Explore the galleries adorned with photographs that depict the life of the Nawabs and the transformations of Dhaka during their rule. Each image tells a story of opulence and colonial influence.

3. The Lifestyle Exhibits:

Delve into rooms dedicated to showcasing the lavish lifestyles of the Nawabs—fine dining sets, luxurious furniture, and vintage clothing provide a glimpse into their daily lives.

4. The Restoration Room:

Don’t miss the restoration room which details the extensive efforts taken to preserve the palace post its dilapidation after the 1950s.

Culminate your visit at the riverside garden, where you can reflect on the historical journey you"ve experienced while enjoying a serene view of the river.

Interesting Fact: Ahsan Manzil was the first building in Dhaka to have electricity in 1901.

Whether you"re a history buff or a curious traveler, Ahsan Manzil offers a deep dive into the cultural tapestry of Bangladesh, leaving you enriched and inspired.

Museum Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to museum travelers.

Sonargaon

Why Visit?

Explore the Historic Splendors of Sonargaon: A Day Tour Itinerary

Morning: Departure & Arrival

Start your day early from Dhaka. Catch a bus from Gulistan Bus Station to Sonargaon, which is about 27 kilometers southeast of the capital. The journey takes roughly an hour, depending on traffic. As you travel, enjoy the scenes of rural Bangladesh unfolding through your window.

Mid-Morning: Folk Art and Craft Museum

Your first stop in Sonargaon is the Folk Art and Craft Museum. Established in 1975, this museum is housed in a beautiful architectural ensemble that includes a breathtaking garden. Here, you can delve into Bangladesh"s rich heritage through a diverse collection of folk art and handicrafts, including textiles, metalworks, and wooden artifacts. The museum buildings themselves are replicas of traditional Bengali houses, giving you a taste of local architecture.

Lunch Break: Local Cuisine

For lunch, try some authentic local dishes at a nearby restaurant. Options like "Bhuna Khichuri" (a rice and lentil dish) or "Panta Bhat" (fermented rice) will give you a true taste of Bengali cuisine.

Afternoon: Panam Nagar

A short rickshaw ride from the museum takes you to Panam Nagar, an ancient city and now a hauntingly beautiful ghost town. Once a thriving city during the Sultanate period, Panam Nagar offers a glimpse into the past with its well-preserved merchant houses and moss-covered buildings. It"s a perfect spot for photography and soaking in the historic atmosphere.

Late Afternoon: Goaldi Mosque

Conclude your tour at the Goaldi Mosque, a small but significant structure built in 1519. This pre-Mughal architectural gem is nestled in the village of Goaldi, a few minutes from Panam Nagar. Its intricate terracotta designs make it a notable site for those interested in Islamic architecture.

Return to Dhaka

As evening approaches, head back to the bus stop and catch a ride to Dhaka, filled with memories of a culturally enriching day in Sonargaon.

Museum Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to museum travelers.

Lalbagh Fort (Fort Aurangabad)

Why Visit?

Explore the historical splendor of Dhaka by embarking on a cultural journey to Lalbagh Fort, also known as Fort Aurangabad. Nestled in the heart of the bustling city, this 17th-century Mughal fortress offers a glimpse into Bangladesh"s rich history.

Getting There

Lalbagh Fort is easily accessible by road and is well-connected by various modes of transport. If you"re staying in central Dhaka, the most convenient way to visit is by rickshaw or taxi. Public buses also serve the area, and the closest stops are at Lalbagh Road. For a more scenic route, take a boat ride to Sadarghat and enjoy a short walk or rickshaw ride to the fort.

Tour Itinerary

Begin your tour at the main gate, which impressively showcases Mughal architectural charm. As you enter, you"ll find the ticket office to your right. Be sure to pick up a brochure to enrich your understanding of the site"s layout and history.

Key Attractions

1. Diwan-i-Aam: Start at the Diwan-i-Aam, where the Mughal governors held court. Admire the detailed carvings and the grand architecture that reflects the opulence of the era.

2. Tomb of Bibi Pari: Proceed to the tomb of Bibi Pari, the daughter of Shaista Khan, whose untimely death led to the cessation of the fort"s construction. The tomb is revered for its stunning white marble and the intricate floral designs that adorn its interior.

3. Museum Gallery: Don"t miss the museum housed within the fort complex. It showcases artifacts from Mughal times, including weapons, armor, and calligraphy, providing deeper insight into the life and times of the Mughal elites.

Interesting Fact

Despite its unfinished state, Lalbagh Fort remains one of the most well-preserved testimonies of the Mughal architecture in Bangladesh, partly due to its less tumultuous history compared to other regional forts.

Duration

Allocate at least 2-3 hours to fully appreciate Lalbagh Fort"s historical and architectural grandeur.

End your tour by exploring the lush gardens that surround the fort, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a quiet moment of reflection on the rich history you"ve just encountered.

Museum Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to museum travelers.

Star Mosque (Tara Masjid)

Why Visit?

Exploring the Star Mosque (Tara Masjid): A Cultural Gem in Old Dhaka

Start Your Journey

Begin your exploration of Dhaka’s rich heritage with a visit to the Star Mosque, located in the older part of the city, known for its vibrant streets and historical ambiance. This mosque is not just a place of worship but a canvas displaying exquisite architecture and decorative art.

Getting There

Navigating to Star Mosque can be an adventure in itself. The most convenient way to reach is by rickshaw or CNG (auto-rickshaw) from any central point in Dhaka, such as Gulistan or Motijheel. Inform the driver you wish to visit "Tara Masjid" in Armanitola, and enjoy a scenic ride through bustling markets and local neighborhoods.

Touring Tara Masjid

Built in the first half of the 19th century by Mirza Ghulam Pir, an affluent local businessman, the mosque was originally a modest structure. However, it was later embellished in the early 20th century with its now-famous star motifs, from which it derives its name. The mosque’s design incorporates Mughal architectural influences with modern materials like Japanese and English china tiles, used to stunning effect in its decoration.

Upon arrival, take a moment to admire the exterior, noted for its brilliantly adorned walls featuring motifs of blue stars on a white background. The interior is equally magnificent, with surfaces covered in intricate patterns of tiles, ensuring every inch is a testament to craftsmanship and devotion.

Explore the main prayer hall and the surrounding rooms, each echoing stories of the past and resonating with spiritual serenity. The use of color and light within the mosque creates a mesmerizing effect, especially during the early morning or late afternoon prayers.

Wrap Up Your Visit

After your tour, stroll through the surrounding neighborhood to soak in the local culture and perhaps enjoy some traditional Bengali tea from a nearby stall. Star Mosque offers not just a historical visit but a deeper connection with Dhaka’s spiritual and artistic heritage, making it a must-visit on your cultural tour itinerary.

Museum Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to museum travelers.