How to get to Dhaka

If you have decided to travel to Dhaka, you are in for an encounter with the colorful and bustling capital of Bangladesh, which serves as the heart of Bengali culture. Figuring out how to get to the city is quite simple: this metropolis acts as a major transport hub, accessible by plane, train, bus, or car.

The primary and most convenient way to reach your destination is by air. Dhaka is served by Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (DAC), which acts as the country's main aerial gateway. It is a modern aviation hub receiving regular flights from all over the world, including direct connections from major hubs in Asia and the Middle East.

The airport is located in the northern part of the capital of Bangladesh, allowing tourists to reach the city center relatively quickly. Travelers have access to a wide selection of airlines, making trip planning flexible and comfortable. Upon arrival, you can use official taxi services or book a transfer to your hotel.

A railway journey is one of the most authentic ways to get to the city of Dhaka. The capital is the main railway hub of Bangladesh, and its central station, Kamalapur, is considered the true architectural gateway to the metropolis. Trains arrive here daily from almost every corner of the country, including popular tourist destinations such as Chittagong and Sylhet.

In addition to domestic routes, there is a convenient international connection with India. The famous Maitree Express ("Friendship Express") runs between Kolkata and Dhaka, providing travelers with the opportunity to cross the border comfortably. A train ride allows you not only to reach your destination but also to enjoy scenic views of the Bengali nature from the carriage window.

Tourists are advised to choose tickets in first-class carriages or AC class (air-conditioned) to ensure maximum comfort. Rail transport in the region is in high demand, so it is worth booking seats well in advance, especially if you plan to travel during public holidays.

Bus services connect the capital with many neighboring regions, offering travelers a budget-friendly and colorful way to move around. A popular international route runs from the Indian city of Agartala: covering a distance of about 150 kilometers usually takes 4–5 hours, including border formalities, and allows for a smooth immersion into the atmosphere of Bengal.

Domestically, convenient services operate from key transport hubs. A trip from the river port of Barisal, covering approximately 180 kilometers, lasts about 5–6 hours, opening up views of the picturesque countryside. The route from the city of Jessore is also in demand: the 200-kilometer journey takes an average of 5 hours, bringing you directly into lively Dhaka.

Traveling by car to this metropolis has its own unique features and requires careful planning. Due to extremely dense and chaotic traffic, where cars share the road with thousands of cycle rickshaws, buses, and auto-rickshaws, tourists are strongly advised not to drive themselves. The wisest and safest choice is to rent a car with an experienced local driver who knows the unwritten rules of the road and how to maneuver through the legendary capital traffic jams.

If you plan to arrive from other regions, it is important to consider the condition of the highways. One of the key arteries is Highway N1, connecting the capital with the port city of Chittagong. This is one of the busiest routes in the country: although the road surface is maintained in relatively good order, the average speed often drops due to the abundance of heavy goods vehicles. Traveling by car ensures the comfort and coolness of air conditioning, but travel time should always be calculated with a generous buffer.

Preparing for a trip to Dhaka requires special attention, as this dynamic metropolis lives by its own unique rules. To ensure your trip to the capital of Bangladesh is comfortable and leaves only pleasant memories, we have compiled a list of useful recommendations.

1. Clothing and Belongings: The climate in the city is hot and humid for most of the year, so prefer loose clothing made from natural fabrics such as cotton or linen. Given the country's conservative traditions, tourists are advised to dress modestly: shoulders and knees should be covered for both women and men.
2. Transport: Traffic in the city is known for its chaos and congestion. For moving short distances, you can use cycle rickshaws—it is cheap and culturally immersive. For longer trips, it is more reliable to order a taxi via popular mobile apps (such as Uber) to avoid bargaining and language barriers.
3. Finances: The national currency is the Taka. Bank cards are accepted mainly in large hotels, supermarkets, and upscale restaurants, but cash reigns supreme elsewhere. Always carry small bills for fares, tips, and purchases at street stalls.
4. Health and Safety: It is strictly advised not to drink tap water; use only bottled water, even for brushing your teeth. It is also worth packing a small first-aid kit with remedies for stomach upsets and high-quality repellents, as mosquitoes can be active at any time of day.
5. Communication: The official language is Bengali. Although staff in business districts and hotels speak English, rickshaw drivers and market vendors may not know it. It is recommended to have your hotel's business card or your destination address written in Bengali to show the driver.
6. Local Etiquette: It is customary to greet locals with the word "Salam". It is important to remember the right-hand rule: eat, pass money, and accept items only with your right hand, as the left is considered "unclean".
7. What to Avoid: Refrain from public displays of affection, as this is not accepted in the local culture. Also, try not to photograph people, especially women, without their explicit permission—many may perceive this negatively.
8. Extra Tip: Due to heavy traffic and construction work, the streets can be dusty. Take a protective face mask or a light scarf with you to cover your respiratory tract during trips on open transport or long walks.

Following these simple rules will help you adapt faster to the rhythm of the city and avoid awkward situations. Be polite and patient, and this vibrant metropolis will open its hospitable heart to you.