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Dhakeshwari National Temple: A Spiritual Heart of Dhaka

Discover the spiritual heart of Dhaka at the Dhakeshwari National Temple, a symbol of faith, resilience, and cultural heritage for Bangladesh.

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Dhakeshwari National Temple, the 'Goddess of Dhaka,' is Bangladesh's most important Hindu temple, revered as the National Temple. Believed to have been built in the 12th century by King Ballal Sen, it stands as a symbol of resilience, cultural heritage, and religious significance for Hindus in Bangladesh.

A brief summary to Dhakeshwari National Temple

  • Monday 8 am-12:30 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-12:30 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-12:30 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-12:30 pm
  • Friday 8 am-12:30 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-12:30 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-12:30 pm

Local tips

  • Dress respectfully; avoid revealing clothing when visiting the temple.
  • Remove your shoes before entering the main temple complex.
  • Photography is allowed in most areas, but avoid taking pictures during prayer ceremonies.
  • Visit during Durga Puja for a vibrant cultural experience, but expect large crowds.
  • Explore the surrounding Old Dhaka area for a glimpse into the city's rich history and traditional crafts.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Kamalapur Railway Station or Sayedabad Bus Terminal, take a local bus towards Sadarghat. Alight near Dhaka University and walk or take a rickshaw for the remaining distance to Dhakeshwari Temple. Bus fare is approximately 12-20 BDT. Rickshaw fare from Dhaka University is around 30-50 BDT.

  • Walking

    If you are near Dhaka University or Bangla Academy, Dhakeshwari Temple is within walking distance. From Dhaka University, walk south along the main road, then turn left onto Dhakeshwari Road. The temple will be on your right. The walk is approximately 15-20 minutes.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Pathao are readily available throughout Dhaka. A taxi or ride-share from areas like Motijheel or Gulshan to Dhakeshwari Temple will cost approximately 150-300 BDT, depending on traffic conditions. Be sure to negotiate the fare beforehand or use the app's estimated fare.

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Discover more about Dhakeshwari National Temple

The Dhakeshwari National Temple, meaning 'Goddess of Dhaka', holds a special place as the primary Hindu temple in Bangladesh. It is considered the National Temple of Bangladesh. Legend says that the temple was built in the 12th century by King Ballal Sen of the Sena dynasty, who, after dreaming of a buried Durga statue, installed it in a temple. The name Dhaka is believed to have been derived from the deity Dhakeshwari. Over the centuries, the temple has undergone numerous renovations and repairs, resulting in a blend of traditional Hindu architectural styles and local influences. The main temple houses the idol of Goddess Dhakeshwari, an incarnation of Durga, adorned with traditional ornaments. The complex also features smaller temples dedicated to other Hindu deities and Shiva, along with a spacious courtyard used for rituals and gatherings. Despite facing damage during the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971 and subsequent attacks, the Dhakeshwari Temple has been rebuilt and restored, symbolizing resilience and solidarity for the Hindu community. Today, it attracts devotees and tourists alike, offering a serene atmosphere and a glimpse into Bangladesh's rich history and cultural heritage. Visitors should dress modestly and remove their shoes before entering the temple complex. Photography is generally allowed, but it's best to avoid taking pictures during prayer ceremonies.

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