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Hatir Jheel: Dhaka's Urban Oasis

Discover Dhaka's serene escape at Hatir Jheel: a vibrant lakefront offering scenic beauty, recreation, and respite from the city's hustle, connecting east and west Dhaka.

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Escape the chaotic streets of Dhaka at Hatir Jheel, a stunning lakefront area offering respite and recreation. Once a slum and sewage canal, this transformed space now boasts scenic lakes, modern bridges, and vibrant illumination at night. Enjoy leisurely walks along the promenade, boat rides on the tranquil waters, or simply relax amidst the refreshing atmosphere. Hatir Jheel provides a much-needed escape from the city's hustle and bustle, offering a blend of natural beauty and urban convenience. The area is surrounded by key locations like Tejgaon, Gulshan, and Badda, making it easily accessible for locals and tourists alike. Whether you seek a peaceful retreat or a lively evening out, Hatir Jheel promises a memorable experience in the heart of Dhaka.

A brief summary to Hatir Jheel

  • Dhaka, BD

Local tips

  • Visit in the evening to witness the spectacular display of colorful LED lights illuminating the bridges and lakefront.
  • Take a boat ride on the lake for a tranquil experience and unique perspective of the surrounding landscape.
  • Enjoy local street food and snacks from vendors around the lake for an authentic Dhaka culinary experience.
  • Check for events at the amphitheater, which hosts cultural performances and shows.
  • Use the water taxi service to avoid traffic congestion and enjoy a scenic commute to other parts of the city.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Kamalapur Railway Station, take a local bus towards Gulshan or Badda. Several bus routes pass through the Hatir Jheel area. The fare is approximately 10-30 BDT depending on the distance and bus type. Alight at any of the Hatir Jheel entry points, such as near Madhubagh or Police Plaza. From there, it's a short walk to the main lake area. Alternatively, consider the circular bus service within Hatir Jheel for 15-30 BDT to reach specific points around the lake.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, a taxi or ride-sharing service (Uber, Pathao) is the most convenient option. The ride to Hatir Jheel typically costs between 300-500 BDT depending on traffic and the specific drop-off point. Specify your destination as 'Hatir Jheel' and use landmarks like Police Plaza or Madhubagh to guide the driver. Be mindful of potential traffic delays, especially during peak hours.

  • Walking

    If you are nearby in Gulshan or Badda, walking to Hatir Jheel is a viable option. From Gulshan 1, walk south towards Police Plaza, which marks the northern edge of Hatir Jheel. From Badda, head west towards the Hatirjheel-Badda Link Road. Follow the pedestrian walkways along the lake to reach various attractions within the area. Note that the walk can be long depending on your starting point, so wear comfortable shoes.

  • Water Taxi

    If you are in Karwan Bazar, Gulshan, Badda or Rampura, consider using the Hatirjheel water taxi service. The water taxi has jetties at Gulshan (Gudaraghat), Police Plaza, Badda, Rampura, and Karwan Bazar (BFDC). From Police Plaza to Karwan Bazar/BFDC, the ticket price is 25 BDT, and to Rampura, it is 20 BDT. This offers a swift and scenic way to access Hatir Jheel, avoiding road traffic.

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Discover more about Hatir Jheel

Hatir Jheel, also known as Hatirjheel-Begunbari, is a remarkable lakefront development in Dhaka, Bangladesh, offering a refreshing escape from the city's intense urban environment. The name, meaning 'Lake of Elephants,' harkens back to a time when elephants from Dhaka's Pilkhana were led to these wetlands for bathing, a tradition linked to the Bhawal Raja who kept his elephants nearby. Prior to its transformation, the area was a neglected slum and a dumping ground for household and industrial waste. Recognizing the need for improved infrastructure and recreational space, the Bangladesh Army and the Special Works Organization undertook a massive project to convert the area into a functional and aesthetically pleasing environment. The project aimed to alleviate traffic congestion, prevent waterlogging, improve drainage, and enhance the city's overall beauty. Inaugurated on January 2, 2013, Hatir Jheel quickly became a favorite recreational spot for Dhaka residents and tourists alike. Spanning over 302 acres, the area features a 16-kilometer road encircling a scenic lake, providing ample space for walking, jogging, and cycling. The lake itself holds significant volumes of water, helping to manage rainwater runoff and prevent flooding in the surrounding areas. The architectural design of Hatir Jheel is noteworthy, incorporating four major and four minor bridges (viaducts), several overpasses (flyovers), and footbridges (overbridges) to facilitate smooth traffic flow. These structures are not only functional but also visually appealing, especially at night when they are illuminated with colorful LED lights, creating a magical atmosphere. The area also includes 8.8 kilometers of footpaths, 9.8 kilometers of walkways, a children's park, and thirteen viewing decks, offering diverse opportunities for recreation and relaxation. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Hatir Jheel serves as an important transportation hub, connecting the eastern and western parts of Dhaka. Water taxi services operate on the lake, providing an alternative mode of transport that bypasses the city's notorious traffic congestion. These water taxis have jetties at Gulshan (Gudaraghat), Police Plaza, Badda, Rampura, and Karwan Bazar (BFDC), making it easier for residents of these areas to commute to work or other destinations. Hatir Jheel is surrounded by several key areas of Dhaka, including Tejgaon, Gulshan, Badda, Rampura, Banasree, Niketan, and Maghbazar. This central location makes it easily accessible from various parts of the city, further enhancing its popularity as a recreational and transportation hub. Visitors to Hatir Jheel can enjoy a variety of activities, including leisurely walks along the lakefront promenade, boat rides on the tranquil waters, and picnics with family and friends. The area is also home to an amphitheater with a capacity to accommodate 2,000 visitors, hosting cultural events and performances. A 120-meter-long musical fountain adds to the attraction, featuring time-controlled sound waves and musical tracks that create a tri-dimensional spectacle. In the evenings, Hatir Jheel transforms into a vibrant hub of activity, with food vendors and small-scale family picnics adding to the lively atmosphere. The illuminated bridges and waterfronts create a romantic ambiance, making it a popular spot for couples. The availability of fresh air, a rarity in congested Dhaka, further enhances its appeal. While Hatir Jheel has become a beloved landmark in Dhaka, it has also faced challenges. Maintaining the cleanliness of the lake and preventing pollution are ongoing concerns. Efforts are being made to ensure that the water remains clean and that the surrounding areas are well-maintained. Despite these challenges, Hatir Jheel stands as a testament to the power of urban planning and development. It has transformed a once-neglected area into a vibrant and functional space that benefits both residents and visitors. Its combination of natural beauty, modern infrastructure, and recreational opportunities makes it a unique and valuable asset to the city of Dhaka. Whether you are a local resident seeking a break from the city's chaos or a tourist looking to experience the heart of Dhaka, Hatir Jheel offers a memorable and enriching experience. From its scenic lake and illuminated bridges to its diverse recreational activities and convenient transportation options, Hatir Jheel is a must-visit destination in Dhaka, showcasing the city's potential for sustainable and people-friendly urban development. Hatir Jheel continues to evolve, with ongoing efforts to enhance its facilities and maintain its appeal. As Dhaka grows and changes, Hatir Jheel remains a constant reminder of the importance of preserving green spaces and creating livable environments for its citizens. Its success serves as an inspiration for future urban development projects in Dhaka and beyond, demonstrating the transformative power of thoughtful planning and community engagement.

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