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Dhakeshwari National Temple: Dhaka's Spiritual Heart

Explore the spiritual heart of Dhaka at the Dhakeshwari National Temple, a symbol of Hindu heritage and religious harmony in Bangladesh.

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The Dhakeshwari National Temple, meaning 'Goddess of Dhaka,' is Bangladesh's most important Hindu temple, revered as the National Temple. Believed to have been founded in the 12th century by King Ballal Sen, it has been rebuilt and renovated over time, becoming a significant cultural and religious hub in the city.

A brief summary to Dhakeshwari National Temple

Local tips

  • Dress modestly when visiting the temple as a sign of respect; traditional attire is recommended.
  • Remove your shoes before entering the temple premises; a small tip is expected at the shoe storage.
  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and experience a more peaceful atmosphere.
  • Experience the vibrant atmosphere during major Hindu festivals like Durga Puja and Kali Puja, but be prepared for larger crowds.
  • Combine your visit with nearby attractions like Lalbagh Fort and Ahsan Manzil to explore more of Old Dhaka's historical sites.
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Getting There

  • Rickshaw

    From most locations in Old Dhaka, a rickshaw is a convenient and affordable way to reach Dhakeshwari Temple. Expect to pay around 20-50 BDT for a short ride within the area. Negotiate the fare beforehand to avoid any confusion. Landmarks like Lalbagh Fort or Bangla Academy can serve as reference points for your journey.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxi or ride-sharing services like Uber or Pathao are readily available in Dhaka. A short taxi ride from nearby areas like Dhaka University or Sadarghat to Dhakeshwari Temple will likely cost between 100-250 BDT, depending on traffic. Use the app to get an estimate and confirm the fare before you start your trip. Be mindful of traffic congestion.

  • Public Transport

    From Kamalapur Railway Station, the easiest way to reach Dhakeshwari Temple is by local bus. Several bus routes connect the station area to the Bakshi Bazar area near the temple. A bus ride will typically cost around 10-30 BDT. Be aware that buses can be crowded.

  • Walking

    If you are near Dhaka University or Bangla Academy, Dhakeshwari Temple is within walking distance. From Bangla Academy, walk south along পলাশী-আজিমপুর সড়ক (Polashi-Azimpur Road), then turn left onto Dhakeshwari Temple Road. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes. This is a good option if you want to explore the surrounding area and avoid traffic.

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Discover more about Dhakeshwari National Temple

Dhakeshwari National Temple, located in the heart of Dhaka, stands as a beacon of Hindu heritage and a testament to Bangladesh's religious diversity. As the country's National Temple, it holds immense cultural and spiritual significance, drawing devotees and visitors from all walks of life. According to legend, the temple's origins trace back to the 12th century when King Ballal Sen of the Sena dynasty dreamt of a Durga statue buried in the jungle. Upon discovering the statue, he enshrined it in a temple, naming it Dhakeshwari, meaning 'Goddess of Dhaka'. While the current architectural style reflects numerous renovations over the centuries, the temple remains an integral part of Dhaka's cultural identity. The Dhakeshwari Temple complex comprises several structures, including the main temple housing the replica idol of Goddess Dhakeshwari, smaller temples dedicated to other Hindu deities, and a courtyard for rituals and gatherings. The temple is particularly vibrant during festivals like Durga Puja, Kali Puja, and Janmashtami, attracting thousands of worshippers and onlookers. Despite facing challenges throughout history, including damage during the Bangladesh Liberation War and subsequent attacks, the Dhakeshwari Temple has persevered as a symbol of resilience and religious harmony. Today, it not only serves as a place of worship but also as a center for socio-cultural activities, promoting religious tolerance and community engagement.

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