Background

Lalbagh Fort: An Unfinished Mughal Masterpiece

Explore the unfinished Mughal masterpiece of Lalbagh Fort in Old Dhaka, a historical landmark with stunning architecture and serene gardens.

4.5

Lalbagh Fort, an incomplete 17th-century Mughal fort in Dhaka, Bangladesh, offers a glimpse into the grandeur of the Mughal era. Construction commenced in 1678 by Prince Muhammad Azam Shah, son of Emperor Aurangzeb, but was abandoned, leaving behind a fascinating blend of completed and unfulfilled architectural designs.

A brief summary to Lalbagh Fort

  • Monday 2 pm-5 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-1 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-1 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-1 pm
  • Friday 10 am-12:30 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-1 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the cooler months (October to March) for a more comfortable experience.
  • Allow at least 1-2 hours to explore the fort complex thoroughly.
  • Dress modestly out of respect for local culture.
  • Bring your own water and snacks as there are no food vendors inside the fort.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From various parts of Dhaka, take a local bus heading towards Lalbagh or Azimpur. Ask the conductor to drop you off near Lalbagh Fort. Bus fares typically range from BDT 10 to BDT 50 depending on the distance and type of bus. From the drop-off point, it's a short walk or rickshaw ride to the fort entrance.

  • Taxi/Ride-Sharing

    Use ride-sharing services like Uber or Pathao to reach Lalbagh Fort directly from anywhere in Dhaka. A taxi ride from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport to Lalbagh Fort typically costs between BDT 600 to BDT 800 and takes approximately 22 minutes. From Kamalapur Railway Station, a taxi ride to the fort will cost around BDT 150-250.

  • Rickshaw

    Cycle rickshaws are a common and eco-friendly way to get around Dhaka. Hire a rickshaw from anywhere within the city and enjoy the local scenes on your way to Lalbagh Fort. A short rickshaw ride costs about BDT 20-30.

Unlock the Best of Lalbagh Fort

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Lalbagh Fort

Lalbagh Fort, also known as Fort Aurangabad, stands on the banks of the Buriganga River in Dhaka, Bangladesh, as a testament to the ambitious vision of the Mughal Empire. Construction began in 1678 by Prince Muhammad Azam Shah, the son of Emperor Aurangzeb, who intended it to be a grand palace and stronghold. However, his departure and later the death of Shaista Khan's daughter, Pari Bibi, led to its abandonment, shrouding the fort in an aura of unfulfilled dreams and mystery. Despite remaining incomplete, Lalbagh Fort showcases impressive Mughal architecture and offers insight into the планировалось structure's intended design. The complex comprises three main structures: the Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience), the Tomb of Pari Bibi, and the Quilla Mosque. A network of tunnels, now sealed, adds to the fort's mystique, with stories of soldiers lost within its depths during the Sepoy Revolution. The Tomb of Pari Bibi, the most significant of the Mughal buildings within the fort, features white marble, intricate carvings, and floral motifs. The three-domed Quilla Mosque displays a blend of Mughal-Bengali architecture, adorned with rectangular panels and multi-cusped arches. The Diwan-i-Aam served as a venue for public gatherings and administrative meetings. Today, Lalbagh Fort is maintained by the Archaeological Department of Bangladesh and attracts millions of visitors annually. Its well-tended gardens provide a respite from the bustling city, while the museum within showcases Mughal-era artifacts. Visiting Lalbagh Fort offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the architectural brilliance and historical significance of the Mughal Empire in Bangladesh.

Popular Experiences near Lalbagh Fort

Popular Hotels near Lalbagh Fort

Select Currency