Old High Court Building: A Colonial Landmark
Discover Dhaka's colonial past at the Old High Court Building, a stunning example of European Renaissance architecture and historical significance.
The Old High Court Building, situated on High Court Street opposite Curzon Hall, is a captivating landmark in Dhaka. Constructed in the early 20th century, it was originally intended as the residence for the Governor of East Bengal and Assam. However, it was deemed unsuitable and instead served various functions, including housing the Dhaka Intermediate College. The building is a prime example of European Renaissance architecture, distinct from the Mughal influences seen elsewhere in Dhaka. Designed by Chishty Brothers Architects and Engineers, its features include a prominent porch with Corinthian columns, a triangular pediment, and a graceful dome. The interior boasts white marble flooring and a grand staircase. After the partition of India in 1947, it became the High Court of East Pakistan, playing a crucial role in the region's judicial history. In 1967, the High Court moved to a new building nearby, which now houses the Supreme Court of Bangladesh. Today, the Old High Court Building houses government offices and stands as a testament to Dhaka's colonial past and architectural heritage.
Local tips
- Combine your visit with a walk through nearby Ramna Park for a relaxing escape from the city bustle.
- Visit during the day to fully appreciate the architectural details and capture the best photographs.
- Be mindful of traffic when crossing streets around the Old High Court Building.
A brief summary to Old High Court Building
- PCH2+PWG, High Ct St, Dhaka, Ramna, BD
Getting There
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Walking
From Curzon Hall at the University of Dhaka, the Old High Court Building is a short walk away. Head north along Kazi Nazrul Islam Avenue, and you'll see the building's distinctive white facade on your left. The walk takes about 5-10 minutes. Be mindful of traffic when crossing streets.
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Public Transport
Several local buses stop near the High Court āĻŽā§āĻĄāĻŧ (High Court Moor) area. Check local bus routes for options heading towards High Court from major areas like Farmgate, Shahbag, or Motijheel. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the Old High Court Building. Bus fares typically range from 10-20 BDT.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services (Uber, Pathao) are readily available in Dhaka. Simply ask your driver to take you to 'Old High Court Building' or 'High Court, Kazi Nazrul Islam Avenue'. A short ride from areas like Shahbag or Dhaka University should cost approximately 80-150 BDT, depending on traffic.
Attractions Nearby to Old High Court Building
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Doel Chattor
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Kadam Foara
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The Great Musa Khan Mosque
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Ramna Kali Temple
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Sohrawardy Udyan
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Shahidullah Hall Zero Point
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Nimtali Deuri
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Swadhinata Stambha
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Central Shaheed Minar
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Museum of Independence
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Ramna Botmul
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Freedom Wall (āĻ¸ā§āĻŦāĻžāĻ§ā§āĻ¨āĻ¤āĻžāĻ° āĻĻā§ā§āĻžāĻ˛)
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TSC, University of Dhaka
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Hossaini Dalan Jame Masjid
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Ramna Lake
Landmarks nearby to Old High Court Building
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Old High Court Building
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Dhaka Gate
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Shahidullah Hall Pond
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Bijoy Batayan
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Javed Shoroni-āĻāĻžāĻā§āĻĻ āĻ¸ā§āĻŽāĻ°āĻŖā§
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āĻ¸ā§āĻŦāĻžāĻ§ā§āĻ¨āĻ¤āĻžāĻ° āĻĻā§ā§āĻžāĻ˛
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Ramna Park walkway
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Jagannath Hall Killing Field
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āĻ¸āĻžāĻŦā§āĻ āĻĸāĻžāĻāĻž āĻ°ā§āĻ˛āĻā§ā§ āĻ¸ā§āĻā§āĻļāĻ¨āĨ¤ The former Dhaka Railway Station area
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Ramna Park Water Tank
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Shikkatuly Park
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Gulistan Shaheed Matiur Park
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Bacharam Dawre Ancient Building-2
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Mawlana Kabiruddin Residence
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Bangabhaban