Walking in Dhaka: Old Town Lanes and University
Travel advisory, checked October 2026. The UK Foreign Office advises against all but essential travel to the Chittagong Hill Tracts (Rangamati, Khagrachari, Bandarban), and the United States warns against going there. UK advice states that terrorist attacks are very likely and that hartals and demonstrations can turn violent quickly, so do not walk during them. Street crime has risen since 2024. Please check the UK FCDO page and the US advisory before booking.
Walking conditions
Pavements in Dhaka are uneven, partly blocked by traders and often crowded, and the traffic does not stop. The best approach is to choose a compact district, walk there for a couple of hours and then move on by Metro or ride-hailing. Walk in the morning, carry only what you need, and carry small notes for rickshaws.
Shankhari Bazaar
This is a tight lane of tall brick shops where Hindu craftsmen carve conch shells into bangles with hand saws. Incense, garlands and small shrines fill the street. People often welcome visitors, but always ask before photographing someone working.
Chawkbazar
Chawkbazar is a market of spices, perfume oils called ittar, and brassware. The Chawkbazar Shahi Mosque, from 1676, is nearby. The area is dense and loud, so keep your bag in front.
Armenian Church and Tara Masjid
In Armanitola, the 1781 Armenian Church has a still churchyard with old gravestones. Ring the bell at the gate and the caretaker will open it, and entry costs nothing. A short walk away, Tara Masjid carries blue star patterns made from china pieces. Dress modestly, take off shoes and avoid prayer hours.
Food stop in Nazira Bazaar
Haji Biryani, founded 1939 on Kazi Alauddin Road, serves mutton kacchi biryani. Look out for fake shops copying the name. Nanna Biryani is another well-known option. A plate often costs a few hundred taka. Eat hot dishes, use sealed water and skip raw salads. After the 2024 Bailey Road restaurant fire, which killed 46, pick ground-floor restaurants with clear exits.
University campus route
For a gentler walk, take Metro to Dhaka University station and walk to Curzon Hall, the red-brick 1904 landmark. The campus paths are shaded. The Central Shaheed Minar sits near Dhaka Medical College and honours the language-movement dead of 21 February 1952. Remove your shoes and keep your voice low. It is a place for remembrance.
Hatirjheel
Hatirjheel has a pedestrian promenade and illuminated bridges for a daytime stroll. Water taxis there have run reduced service.
Guided options
A guide can make Old Dhaka easier, particularly with rickshaw prices and lane directions. Small-group options are listed at Viator .
Read more on this site: the sightseeing guide , or group activities if you travel with friends.