Gulshan: The Heartbeat of Dhaka's Urban Sophistication
Discover Gulshan: Dhaka's upscale neighborhood blending modern luxury with traditional charm, ideal for tourists seeking a vibrant and culturally rich experience.
Gulshan is one of the most vibrant and upscale neighborhoods in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Known for its bustling commercial zones and serene residential areas, Gulshan offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition. The streets are lined with high-end boutiques, international restaurants, and luxury hotels, making it a haven for tourists seeking comfort and convenience. A stroll through Gulshan reveals a rich tapestry of cultures and lifestyles. The neighborhood is home to many expatriates and diplomats, adding to its cosmopolitan vibe. Yet, it also retains a touch of local charm with traditional markets and tea stalls where you can experience the warmth and hospitality of the Bangladeshi people. One of the must-visit spots in Gulshan is the Gulshan Lake Park. The tranquil setting provides a perfect escape from the city's hustle and bustle. Whether you're looking for a place to jog, relax, or simply enjoy the view, the park is a delightful retreat. Additionally, the neighborhood is well-connected, making it easy for visitors to explore other parts of Dhaka.
Local tips in Gulshan
- Visit Gulshan Lake Park early in the morning for a peaceful experience and to avoid the crowds.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as the neighborhood is best explored on foot.
- Try local street food but choose stalls with high turnover to ensure freshness.
- Keep an eye out for cultural events and exhibitions at the many art galleries and cultural centers.
- Use ride-sharing apps for convenient and safe transportation within the neighborhood.
Gulshan: The Heartbeat of Dhaka's Urban Sophistication
Gulshan is one of the most vibrant and upscale neighborhoods in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Known for its bustling commercial zones and serene residential areas, Gulshan offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition. The streets are lined with high-end boutiques, international restaurants, and luxury hotels, making it a haven for tourists seeking comfort and convenience. A stroll through Gulshan reveals a rich tapestry of cultures and lifestyles. The neighborhood is home to many expatriates and diplomats, adding to its cosmopolitan vibe. Yet, it also retains a touch of local charm with traditional markets and tea stalls where you can experience the warmth and hospitality of the Bangladeshi people. One of the must-visit spots in Gulshan is the Gulshan Lake Park. The tranquil setting provides a perfect escape from the city's hustle and bustle. Whether you're looking for a place to jog, relax, or simply enjoy the view, the park is a delightful retreat. Additionally, the neighborhood is well-connected, making it easy for visitors to explore other parts of Dhaka.
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Gulshan Central Masjid
Discover the architectural beauty and spiritual serenity of Gulshan Central Masjid, a top religious and cultural destination in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Gulshan Lake Park
Discover the tranquility of Gulshan Lake Park, a picturesque escape in Dhaka, perfect for relaxation and enjoying nature's beauty.
মহাখালী ওয়ারলেস গেইট
Discover the cultural heritage of Dhaka at Mahakalir Orale, a historic landmark that showcases the city's rich history and vibrant local life.
গুলশান ১ চত্বর
Explore the historical landmark in Gulshan, Dhaka, a captivating blend of rich heritage and stunning architecture reflecting Bangladesh's cultural legacy.
Gulshan Square গুলশান স্কয়ার
Experience the tranquility of Gulshan Square, a lush urban park in Dhaka, offering a perfect retreat from the city's hustle and bustle.
গুলশান ২ গোল চত্তর
Explore the historical landmark in Gulshan, Dhaka, where rich heritage meets stunning architecture, revealing the city's vibrant past.
Depressed zone
Discover the historical significance of the Depressed Zone in Dhaka, a serene landmark reflecting the rich past of Bangladesh's capital.
১৩০ হৃষিকেশ দাস রোড, সূত্রাপুর, পুরান ঢাকা
Discover the historical charm of Rhikesh Dash Road in Dhaka, a vibrant landmark where culture and history intertwine.
মহাখালী ভ্যান চত্বর
Explore Mahakal Bari, a historical landmark in Dhaka, where spirituality and cultural heritage converge in a serene setting.
Moshang
Explore the rich heritage of Dhaka at Moshang, a historical landmark where the past comes alive amidst lush greenery.
Unmissable attractions to see
Gulshan Central Masjid
Discover the stunning architecture and serene atmosphere of Gulshan Central Masjid, a premier mosque in Dhaka, blending spiritual significance with cultural beauty.
Gulshan Society Lake Park
Discover the tranquility of nature at Gulshan Society Lake Park, a serene escape in Dhaka with picturesque scenery and vibrant local culture.
Justice Shahabuddin Ahmed Park
Discover the lush oasis of Justice Shahabuddin Ahmed Park in Dhaka, a serene escape for nature lovers and families alike.
Shahid Dr. Fazle Rabbi Park
Discover the serene beauty of Shahid Dr. Fazle Rabbi Park, a lush green space in Dhaka perfect for relaxation and cultural experiences.
Boishakhi Park ~ Banani
Discover the lush beauty of Boishakhi Park in Banani, a tranquil escape in the bustling heart of Dhaka, perfect for relaxation and leisure.
Hatirjheel Lake
Explore the tranquil beauty of Hatirjheel Lake, an urban oasis in Dhaka perfect for relaxation, recreation, and breathtaking views.
Grassy Hill Lakeview Point
Discover the tranquil beauty of Grassy Hill Lakeview Point, a must-visit tourist attraction in Dhaka, offering stunning views and serene surroundings.
Leaders Point, Gulshan
Discover the tranquil beauty of Leaders Point in Gulshan, where the serene waters of Hatirjheel Lake meet the vibrant energy of Dhaka's urban landscape.
Ac Goli
Experience the tranquil beauty of Ac Goli, a serene lake in Gulshan perfect for relaxation and nature lovers visiting Dhaka.
Essential places to dine
Star Kabab & Restaurant
Experience authentic Bangladeshi cuisine at Star Kabab & Restaurant - where flavorful kebabs meet warm hospitality.
138 East
Discover the exquisite flavors and inviting atmosphere at 138 East – Dhaka's go-to gastropub and café for unforgettable dining experiences.
Thai Emerald
Experience authentic Thai flavors in Dhaka at Thai Emerald - where every dish tells a story.
Sajna Restaurant
Discover authentic Indian cuisine at Sajna Restaurant in Gulshan, Dhaka - where tradition meets taste in every dish.
Bistro-E
Discover exquisite dining at Bistro-E in Gulshan, Dhaka - where culinary excellence meets elegant ambiance.
Istanbul Restaurant Dhaka
Discover authentic Turkish cuisine at Istanbul Restaurant Dhaka - a culinary journey filled with rich flavors and warm hospitality.
Spaghetti Jazz, Dhaka
Experience authentic Italian cuisine paired with live jazz music at Dhaka's premier dining destination - Spaghetti Jazz.
Seasonal Tastes
Experience exquisite global cuisine at Seasonal Tastes in The Westin Dhaka - where seasonal ingredients meet culinary artistry.
C House Milano, Bangladesh
Experience authentic Italian flavors at C House Milano in Dhaka - where every meal is a celebration of culinary excellence.
Yumi at Sheraton Dhaka
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine with stunning views at Yumi in Sheraton Dhaka – where luxury meets culinary artistry.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Gulshan Shopping Centre
Experience the vibrant shopping scene at Gulshan Shopping Centre, where fashion, food, and culture converge in the heart of Dhaka.
Artisan | Gulshan-2
Explore the finest selection of export-quality clothing at Artisan in Gulshan-2, a premier shopping destination for fashion lovers in Dhaka.
YELLOW - Gulshan Flagship Store
Discover the essence of Dhaka's fashion scene at the YELLOW - Gulshan Flagship Store, offering a unique blend of contemporary and traditional clothing.
Archies Gallery
Explore Archies Gallery in Dhaka for unique gifts and local artistry, capturing the essence of Bangladesh's vibrant culture.
Dhaka Republic
Explore Dhaka Republic, the ultimate fashion outlet in Gulshan, offering trendy clothing for all ages and styles at unbeatable prices.
Needs Lifestyle
Explore Needs Lifestyle in Dhaka for unique fashion that blends modern trends with traditional Bangladeshi culture.
Amore Gift Shop
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Amore Gift Shop in Dhaka's lively Gulshan district, perfect for souvenirs and special occasions.
Unique Collection
Discover unique gifts and cosmetics at Unique Collection in Dhaka, a must-visit destination for those seeking local craftsmanship and beauty.
Shoukhin Emporium Art Gallery
Explore the Shoukhin Emporium Art Gallery in Dhaka for unique gifts and local art that embody the spirit of Bangladesh.
Unique Traders
Discover Unique Traders in Dhaka - a vibrant shopping mall offering diverse retail, dining, and entertainment experiences in the heart of the city.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
La Diplomat Restaurant & Bar
Experience the vibrant culinary scene of Dhaka at La Diplomat Restaurant & Bar, where delicious food and lively ambiance meet.
Korea Bangladesh Club & Restaurant Ltd.
Discover a culinary fusion of Asian and Continental delights at Korea Bangladesh Club & Restaurant Ltd. in the heart of Dhaka.
Kingfisher Restaurant & Bar
Experience the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere at Kingfisher Restaurant & Bar, a must-visit dining destination in Dhaka.
Lake View Recreation Club, Gulshan-1
Experience the charm of Lake View Recreation Club, a serene bar in Gulshan-1 offering stunning lake views and a delightful menu.
SKYe Lounge Bar
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Dhaka at SKYe Lounge Bar, where chic meets comfort and every drink tells a story.
Loki Restaurant & Bar
Experience the vibrant culinary scene of Dhaka at Loki Restaurant & Bar, where exquisite dining meets a lively bar atmosphere.
Raw Canvas Restaurant & Bar
Discover the perfect blend of culinary excellence and vibrant nightlife at Raw Canvas Restaurant & Bar in Dhaka's bustling Gulshan area.
R Bar
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Dhaka at R Bar, where exquisite cocktails meet sophisticated ambiance within the Renaissance Dhaka Gulshan Hotel.
The Living Room
Discover The Living Room, Dhaka's upscale bar at The Westin, offering exquisite cocktails and a stylish ambiance in the heart of the city.
.unna
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Unna, a chic bar in Dhaka's Gulshan area, offering a refreshing drink menu and lively atmosphere for an unforgettable experience.
Local Phrases
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- Helloহ্যালো
[helo] - Goodbyeবিদায়
[bidae] - Yesহ্যাঁ
[haan] - Noনা
[na] - Please/You're welcomeঅনুগ্রহ করে
[onugroho kore] - Thank youধন্যবাদ
[dhonnobad] - Excuse me/Sorryদুঃখিত
[dukkhito] - How are you?আপনি কেমন আছেন?
[apni kemon achhen?] - Fine. And you?ভালো। আর আপনি?
[bhalo. ar apni?] - Do you speak English?আপনি ইংরেজি কথা বলতে পারেন?
[apni ingreji kotha bolte paren?] - I don't understandআমি বুঝতে পারছি না
[ami bujhte parchhi na]
- Helloহ্যালো
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- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseমেনু দেখতে চাই
[menu dekhte chai] - I don't eat meatআমি মাংস খাই না
[ami mangsho khai na] - Cheers!চিয়ার্স!
[cheers!] - I would like to pay, pleaseদয়া করে পরিশোধ করতে চাই
[doya kore porishodh korte chai]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseমেনু দেখতে চাই
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- Help!সাহায্য!
[sahayyo!] - Go away!চলে যাও!
[chole jao!] - Call the Police!পুলিশ কল করুন!
[police kol korun!] - Call a doctor!ডাক্তার কল করুন!
[daktar kol korun!] - I'm lostআমি হারিয়ে গেছি
[ami hariye geshi!] - I'm illআমি অসুস্থ
[ami osustho]
- Help!সাহায্য!
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- I'd like to buy...আমি ... কিনতে চাই
[ami ... kinte chai] - I'm just lookingআমি শুধুমাত্র দেখছি
[ami shudhumatro dekhchi] - How much is it?এটা কত টাকা?
[eta koto taka?] - That's too expensiveএটা খুব বাজে
[eta khub baje] - Can you lower the price?দাম কমাতে পারবেন?
[dam komate parben?]
- I'd like to buy...আমি ... কিনতে চাই
-
- What time is it?এখন কত বাজে?
[ekhon koto baje?] - It's one o'clockএটা একটা বাজে
[eta ekta baje] - Half past (10)দশের অর্ধেক
[dasher ordhek] - Morningসকাল
[shokal] - Afternoonদুপুর
[dupur] - Eveningসন্ধ্যা
[shondhya] - Yesterdayগতকাল
[gotokal] - Todayআজ
[aj] - Tomorrowআগামীকাল
[agogikol] - 1এক
[ek] - 2দুই
[dui] - 3তিন
[tin] - 4চার
[char] - 5পাঁচ
[pach] - 6ছয়
[chhoy] - 7সাত
[shat] - 8আট
[at] - 9নয়
[noy] - 10দশ
[dosh]
- What time is it?এখন কত বাজে?
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- Where's a/the...?... কোথায়?
[... kothay?] - What's the address?ঠিকানা কি?
[thikana ki?] - Can you show me (on the map)?আমাকে দেখাতে পারবেন?
[amake dekhate parben?] - When's the next (bus)?পরের (বাস) কখন?
[porer (bosh) kohon?] - A ticket (to ....)একটি টিকেট (.... এ)
[ekti ticket (.... e)]
- Where's a/the...?... কোথায়?
History of Gulshan
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Gulshan emerged as a residential area in the 1960s when Dhaka began to expand rapidly. Originally a rural area, it transformed into a suburban neighborhood characterized by wide roads, green spaces, and modern housing. The establishment of Gulshan as a planned residential area was part of a larger effort to accommodate the growing population of Dhaka, which has been a center of trade and culture for centuries.
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Since the 1970s, Gulshan has been home to numerous embassies and diplomatic missions, establishing itself as the diplomatic enclave of Dhaka. This influx of foreign missions has not only influenced the architectural landscape of the neighborhood but has also fostered a cosmopolitan culture, making it a hub for international events and gatherings.
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Gulshan Lake, built in the 1980s, has been a significant feature of the neighborhood, serving as a recreational area for residents and visitors. The lake is surrounded by parks and walking paths, reflecting the planning vision that prioritized greenery and leisure spaces amid urban development. It has become a focal point for community activities and social gatherings.
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In recent decades, Gulshan has evolved into a vibrant commercial hub, featuring a mix of traditional Bangladeshi shops and international brands. The neighborhood hosts numerous restaurants, cafes, and shopping centers that cater to both locals and expatriates. This cultural fusion reflects Dhaka's broader transformation into a global city while retaining its rich heritage.
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As Gulshan continues to grow, it faces challenges typical of urban areas, including traffic congestion, pollution, and the need for sustainable development. Efforts are being made by local authorities and community organizations to address these issues while preserving the neighborhood's unique character and green spaces.
Gulshan Essentials
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Gulshan is easily accessible from various parts of Dhaka. The main international gateway is Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, which is about 7 km from Gulshan. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are popular options for getting to Gulshan from the airport. From central areas like Dhaka University or Shahbagh, you can take a CNG autorickshaw or a taxi. Public buses also connect Gulshan with other neighborhoods, but the traffic can be congested.
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Gulshan is best explored by taxi or ride-sharing services, as the area is spread out. Bicycles are not commonly used due to traffic conditions, but some locals may rent them. There is no metro system in Dhaka, but the city has a growing network of buses and minivans. For short distances, CNG autorickshaws are a convenient option, and walking is feasible in quieter parts of the neighborhood.
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Gulshan is generally considered a safe neighborhood, especially in the upscale areas. However, petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur, particularly in crowded places. Tourists should avoid areas like Gulshan 1 and 2 late at night, as they have reported higher instances of crime targeting visitors. It is advisable to stay vigilant, keep valuables secure, and use reputable transportation.
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In case of emergencies, dial 999 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Familiarize yourself with the locations of nearby hospitals; for serious medical issues, the United Hospital and Apollo Hospitals are well-regarded. Keep a copy of important documents and emergency contacts on hand. Travel insurance that covers medical emergencies is highly recommended.
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Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in public places. Avoid revealing outfits. Religion: Do respect local customs; remove shoes when entering homes or places of worship. Public Transport: Do be courteous; offer your seat to those in need. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet with a friendly handshake. Avoid overly casual greetings. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offers. Don’t refuse food as it may be seen as disrespectful.
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To experience Gulshan like a local, visit the Gulshan Lake Park for a leisurely stroll or picnic. Try to engage locals in conversation; they are usually welcoming and eager to share their culture. Explore the vibrant dining scene, particularly at local restaurants that offer Bangladeshi cuisine. Shopping at Gulshan's various boutiques and local markets can provide unique finds, including handicrafts and clothing.
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While in Gulshan, be mindful of local customs. When visiting homes, it’s polite to bring a small gift, like sweets or fruits. Avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics or religion unless the local initiates it. Respect for elders is significant in Bangladeshi culture; use appropriate titles and show deference. Always use your right hand for giving and receiving items, as the left hand is considered impolite.
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When dining in Gulshan, especially in local homes, it is customary to wash hands before and after the meal. If using utensils, be aware that many locals prefer to eat with their hands. Try to finish all the food on your plate, as leaving food may be taken as a sign of disrespect. It's also polite to compliment the host on the meal served.
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