Dhaka: The Bustling Heart of Bangladesh

• Helloহ্যালো
  [helo]
• Goodbyeবিদায়
  [biday]
• Yesহ্যাঁ
  [haan]
• Noনা
  [na]
• Please/You're welcomeদয়া করে
  [doya kore]
• Thank youধন্যবাদ
  [dhonnobad]
• Excuse me/Sorryদুঃখিত
  [dukhit]
• How are you?তুমি কেমন আছো?
  [tumi kemon asho?]
• Fine. And you?ভালো। তুমি কেমন?
  [bhalo. tumi kemon?]
• Do you speak English?তুমি ইংরেজি কথা বলতে পারো?
  [tumi inglizi kotha bolte paro?]
• I don't understandআমি বুঝতে পারি না
  [ami bujhte pari na]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseদয়া করে মেনু দেখান
  [doya kore menu dekhan]
• I don't eat meatআমি মাংস খাই না
  [ami mangsh khai na]
• Cheers!চিয়ারস!
  [cheers!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseদয়া করে আমি দাম দিতে চাই
  [doya kore ami dam dite chai]

• Help!সাহায্য!
  [sahayyo!]
• Go away!চলে যাও!
  [chole jao!]
• Call the Police!পুলিশকে কল করুন!
  [polishke kol korun!]
• Call a doctor!ডাক্তারকে কল করুন!
  [doctorke kol korun!]
• I'm lostআমি হারানো গেছি
  [ami harano geshi]
• I'm illআমি অসুস্থ
  [ami osustho]

• I'd like to buy...আমি ... কিনতে চাই
  [ami ... kinte chai]
• I'm just lookingআমি কেবল দেখছি
  [ami kebol dekhchi]
• How much is it?এটা কত?
  [eta koto?]
• That's too expensiveএটা খুব বেশি দাম
  [eta khub beshi dam]
• Can you lower the price?দাম কমানো যায়?
  [dam kamonu jay?]

• What time is it?এখন কতটা বাজে?
  [ekhon kotta baje?]
• It's one o'clockএকটা বাজে
  [ekta baje]
• Half past (10)10 টা হাফ
  [10 ta haf]
• Morningসকাল
  [shokal]
• Afternoonবিকাল
  [bikal]
• Eveningসন্ধ্যা
  [shondhya]
• Yesterdayগতকাল
  [gatkal]
• Todayআজ
  [aj]
• Tomorrowআগামীকাল
  [agamikal]
• 1এক
  [ek]
• 2দুই
  [dui]
• 3তিন
  [tin]
• 4চার
  [char]
• 5পাঁচ
  [pach]
• 6ছয়
  [chhoy]
• 7সাত
  [shat]
• 8আট
  [at]
• 9নয়
  [noy]
• 10দশ
  [dosh]

• Where's a/the...?...কোথায়?
  [...kothay?]
• What's the address?ঠিকানা কি?
  [thikana ki?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?আপনি আমাকে দেখাতে পারবেন?
  [apni amake dekhate parben?]
• When's the next (bus)?পরের (বাস) কখন?
  [porer (bus) kohon?]
• A ticket (to ....)একটা টিকেট (.... এ)
  [ekta ticket (.... e)]

Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, traces its roots back to the 7th century. It was originally known as a major trading center in the region, becoming a prominent city during the Mughal Empire in the 17th century. The city served as the capital of Bengal and was a significant hub for the production of muslin, a fine cotton fabric.

During the Mughal period, Dhaka witnessed significant development and prosperity. The city was officially established as the capital of Bengal Subah in 1608 under Mughal Emperor Jahangir. This era saw the construction of many splendid structures such as the Lalbagh Fort, Ahsan Manzil, and numerous mosques, which have become iconic landmarks of the city.

In the late 18th century, Dhaka came under British rule following the defeat of the Mughals. The British East India Company established control, and the city became part of the Bengal Presidency. This period saw the introduction of modern infrastructure, including railways and educational institutions, but also led to a decline in Dhaka's traditional industries like muslin production.

Dhaka played a pivotal role in the Bengali Language Movement of the early 1950s, which sought recognition for Bengali as one of the state languages of Pakistan. The movement culminated in a tragic but significant event on February 21, 1952, when several students were killed by police during protests. This day is now commemorated as International Mother Language Day. The city also became a center of political activism leading up to the independence of Bangladesh in 1971.

Since gaining independence in 1971, Dhaka has rapidly transformed into a bustling metropolis. It is the political, economic, and cultural heart of Bangladesh. The city is known for its vibrant arts scene, bustling markets like the Dhaka New Market and Kawran Bazar, and significant historical sites. Despite challenges such as traffic congestion and urban poverty, Dhaka continues to thrive and grow, reflecting the resilience and dynamism of its people.

Dhaka boasts a rich architectural heritage that spans several centuries. From the Mughal-era Lalbagh Fort and the Star Mosque to the British colonial-era Curzon Hall and the contemporary National Parliament House designed by Louis Kahn, the city offers a fascinating blend of historical and modern architectural marvels that tell the story of its diverse past.

Dhaka is renowned for its vibrant cultural festivals. The city comes alive during events such as Pohela Boishakh (Bengali New Year), Durga Puja, and Eid celebrations. These festivals showcase Dhaka's rich cultural tapestry, with colorful parades, traditional music and dance, and an array of local culinary delights.

Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, is well-connected by air, road, and rail. Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (DAC) is the primary international gateway, with flights from major global cities. From the airport, taxis and ride-sharing services are available to reach the city center. Dhaka is also accessible by intercity buses from neighboring countries like India, and by trains from other parts of Bangladesh.

Dhaka's transportation system includes buses, auto-rickshaws, cycle rickshaws, taxis, and ride-sharing services such as Uber and Pathao. Buses are the most affordable but can be crowded and less reliable. Auto-rickshaws and cycle rickshaws are popular for short distances. For a more comfortable and convenient option, use ride-sharing services or book a private car through your hotel.

The local currency is the Bangladeshi Taka (BDT). Credit cards are accepted in major hotels, restaurants, and shopping malls, but smaller businesses and markets often require cash. ATMs are widely available, and currency exchange services can be found at the airport and in the city.

While Dhaka is generally safe for tourists, it's important to stay vigilant. Petty crimes like pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, especially in crowded areas such as markets and public transport hubs. Avoid walking alone at night and be cautious in areas like Old Dhaka and certain parts of Uttara. Always use reputable transportation services and keep your belongings secure.

In case of emergency, dial 999 for police, fire, and medical services. Major hospitals in Dhaka include Apollo Hospital and United Hospital, which offer emergency services. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are widely available throughout the city.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, particularly when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and practices. Remove your shoes when entering mosques and temples. Public Transport: Do be patient and polite. Public transport can be crowded and chaotic. Don't argue with drivers or passengers. Greetings: Do greet people with a 'Salam' or a handshake. Avoid overly familiar physical contact. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don't eat or drink with your left hand, as it is considered unclean.

To experience Dhaka like a local, visit the bustling markets of New Market and Gausia for a shopping spree. Don't miss the street food at places like Chawkbazar and Dhanmondi. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about their city. For a serene escape, visit the Ramna Park or take a boat ride on the Buriganga River.