Background

Hatirjheel Lake: Dhaka's Urban Oasis

Escape the city bustle at Hatirjheel Lake, a recreational haven in Dhaka offering scenic beauty, transportation, and a breath of fresh air.

4.1

Hatirjheel Lake is a scenic lakefront in the heart of Dhaka, Bangladesh, offering a refreshing escape from the city's chaos. Constructed to ease traffic and prevent waterlogging, it has become a popular recreational spot with walkways, bridges, and green spaces.

A brief summary to Hatirjheel Lake

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography and a cooler atmosphere.
  • Consider taking a boat ride on the lake to experience the beauty of Hatirjheel from a unique perspective.
  • Use the circular bus service or water taxi to navigate around Hatirjheel and avoid traffic congestion.
  • Enjoy local street food and snacks from vendors around the lake for an authentic Dhaka culinary experience.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Kamalapur Railway Station, take a local bus towards Gulshan or Badda. Bus fares typically range from BDT 10-30 depending on the distance. Alight at any of the Hatirjheel 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 Hatirjheel for BDT 30 for a full trip.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    From anywhere in Dhaka, a taxi or ride-sharing service (Uber, Pathao) is a convenient option. Simply input 'Hatirjheel Lake' as your destination. Fares vary depending on the distance, but a short trip from Gulshan may cost around BDT 150-300. Be sure to negotiate the price beforehand, especially with CNG auto-rickshaws.

  • Water Taxi

    If you are near one of the designated water taxi terminals (FDC, Police Plaza, Gulshan 1, Rampura), consider using this unique mode of transport. A single ride costs between BDT 20-30, offering a scenic and jam-free journey across the lake.

Unlock the Best of Hatirjheel Lake

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Hatirjheel Lake

Hatirjheel, also known as Hatirjheel-Begunbari, is more than just a lake; it's a testament to urban rejuvenation in Dhaka. The name 'Lake of Elephants' harkens back to a time when elephants from Dhaka's Pilkhana were led to these wetlands for bathing. Before its transformation, the area was a neglected slum and dumping ground. Inaugurated on January 2, 2013, Hatirjheel quickly became a favorite recreational spot for Dhaka residents and tourists. Spanning over 302 acres, the area features a 16-kilometer road encircling a scenic lake, providing ample space for walking, jogging, and cycling. The bridges of Hatirjheel are not merely functional structures; they are architectural marvels that add to the area's aesthetic appeal. These bridges, with their elegant designs and illuminated facades, provide excellent vantage points for capturing stunning photographs of the lake and the surrounding cityscape. Walking or driving across these bridges, especially at night, is an experience in itself. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Hatirjheel 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. The lake also serves as a vital rainwater retention basin, helping to mitigate waterlogging and reduce the risk of flooding during the monsoon season. In the evenings, Hatirjheel transforms into a magical landscape as the area is illuminated with colorful LED lights.

Popular Experiences near Hatirjheel Lake

Popular Hotels near Hatirjheel Lake

Select Currency