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Hatirjheel: Dhaka's Urban Oasis

Escape the city bustle at Dhaka's Hatirjheel: a scenic lakefront offering recreation, relaxation, and relief from traffic.

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Hatirjheel is a scenic lakefront area in Dhaka, Bangladesh, known for its modern infrastructure, including bridges and roads designed to ease traffic congestion. More than just a transportation solution, it's a popular recreational spot offering fresh air and a peaceful escape from the bustling city. The area is beautifully illuminated at night, making it a favorite destination for locals and tourists alike.

A brief summary to Hatirjheel Park

  • Hatir Jheel Link Rd, Dhaka, Badda, 1212, BD
  • Monday 7 am-11 pm
  • Tuesday 7 am-11 pm
  • Wednesday 7 am-11 pm
  • Thursday 7 am-11 pm
  • Friday 7 am-11 pm
  • Saturday 7 am-11 pm
  • Sunday 7 am-11 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and the best lighting for photography.
  • Try local snacks from the vendors along the walkway for an authentic taste of Bangladeshi cuisine.
  • Take a boat ride on the lake to experience Hatirjheel's beauty from a unique perspective.
  • Use the circular bus service or water taxi to navigate around Hatirjheel and avoid traffic congestion.
  • Check for local cultural events or performances that may be taking place at the Hatirjheel Amphitheatre.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From central Dhaka (e.g., Farmgate, Shahbag), take a local bus towards Badda, Rampura, or Gulshan. Look for buses with signage indicating they pass through Hatirjheel. Bus fares typically range from BDT 10-30 depending on the distance. Alight at any of the bus stops along the Hatirjheel circular road (e.g., Rampura Bridge, Police Plaza, Madhubagh) to access different sections of the lakefront. The circular bus around Hatirjheel charges 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. The cost for a ride can range from BDT 300 to 600 depending on the distance and traffic. CNG rides start at 100 BDT, and the price can go up to 500-800 BDT depending on the destination.

  • 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 25-30, offering a scenic and jam-free journey across the lake.

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Discover more about Hatirjheel Park

Hatirjheel, also known as Hatirjheel-Begunbari, is a transformative project in the heart of Dhaka that has revitalized a once-neglected area into a vibrant urban oasis. Inaugurated in 2013, this lakefront development serves as both a recreational space and a crucial transportation artery, easing traffic congestion in the surrounding areas of Tejgaon, Gulshan, Badda, and Rampura. The name Hatirjheel, meaning 'Lake of Elephants,' has historical roots, with legends suggesting that elephants from Dhaka's Pilkhana used to bathe in these wetlands. The area was once characterized by slums and waterlogging issues, but the Hatirjheel project has transformed it into a scenic landscape with well-maintained walkways, bridges, and lush greenery. Today, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities at Hatirjheel, including boat rides, walking along the lakeside paths, and relaxing in the various parks and viewing decks. The area is particularly enchanting at night when the bridges and surrounding areas are illuminated with colorful lights, creating a magical atmosphere. The 120-meter-long musical fountain is also a major attraction, offering a tri-dimensional water dance performance synchronized with music and lights. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Hatirjheel plays a vital role in Dhaka's urban ecosystem, serving as a rainwater retention basin to mitigate waterlogging and reduce the risk of flooding during the monsoon season. It has also contributed to improving air quality and providing a habitat for various species of plants and animals.

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