Dhaka

Dhaka is a vibrant city with a rich history, bustling markets, and delicious food. Plus, there are plenty of ways to explore sustainably. Here’s a fun and eco-friendly 5-day itinerary for you:

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Old Dhaka

Morning:

• Arrive in Dhaka and check into a sustainable hotel, like the Hotel Sarina or The Westin Dhaka, which focus on eco-friendly practices.
• Start your day with a traditional Bangladeshi breakfast at a local café. Try paratha with bhaji (vegetable curry) or chira (flattened rice) with yogurt.

Afternoon:

• Head to Old Dhaka. You can take a rickshaw (a sustainable mode of transport) to explore the narrow streets.
• Visit the Ahsan Manzil, the former home of the Nawab of Dhaka, and learn about its history.

Evening:

• Stroll along the Buriganga River and enjoy the sunset. You can take a boat ride, which is a great way to see the city from a different perspective.
• Dinner at Nirob Hotel for some authentic Biryani.

Day 2: Cultural Immersion

Morning:

• Visit the National Museum of Bangladesh to get a glimpse of the country’s rich heritage.
• Grab a sustainable lunch at Bistro 43, which focuses on local ingredients.

Afternoon:

• Explore Sadarghat, the river port, and watch the bustling life of the city. You can also visit the Star Mosque, a beautiful mosque adorned with star motifs.

Evening:

• Attend a cultural show at the Shilpakala Academy if there’s one scheduled. It’s a great way to experience local music and dance.
• Dinner at Kacchi Bhai, known for its delicious Kacchi Biryani.

Day 3: Nature and Relaxation

Morning:

• Take a trip to Lalbagh Fort, a stunning 17th-century Mughal fort. The gardens are perfect for a leisurely stroll.
• Enjoy a light lunch at a nearby café, like Cafe Mango, which emphasizes local produce.

Afternoon:

• Head to Ramna Park for some greenery in the city. You can rent a bicycle to explore the park sustainably.
• Visit the Bangladesh National Zoo if you’re interested in wildlife. They focus on conservation efforts.

Evening:

• Dinner at Puran Dhaka, where you can try traditional dishes in a cozy setting.

Day 4: Modern Dhaka and Shopping

Morning:

• Visit the Bangladesh Liberation War Museum to understand the country’s history and struggles.
• Have brunch at The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, which offers a variety of sustainable coffee options.

Afternoon:

• Explore the Dhanmondi Lake area. You can walk or cycle around the lake, enjoying the serene environment.
• Check out the local shops and boutiques in the Dhanmondi area for some unique handicrafts and sustainable fashion.

Evening:

• Dinner at The Daily Star, which often features local ingredients and sustainable practices in their menu.

Day 5: Day Trip to Sonargaon

Morning:

• Take a day trip to Sonargaon, the ancient capital of Bengal. It’s about an hour away from Dhaka.
• Visit the Sonargaon Folk Art and Craft Museum to see traditional crafts and art.

Afternoon:

• Enjoy a picnic lunch by the Panam Nagar, a historic neighborhood with beautiful architecture.
• Explore the local villages and interact with artisans, supporting local crafts.

Evening:

• Return to Dhaka and enjoy a farewell dinner at Sushi Tei, which offers a unique twist on local ingredients in a sustainable way.

Tips for Sustainable Travel:

• Use public transport or cycle whenever possible.
• Support local businesses and artisans.
• Choose eco-friendly accommodations and dining options.
• Minimize plastic use by carrying a reusable water bottle and shopping bag.

I hope this itinerary helps you have an amazing time in Dhaka while being kind to the planet! Enjoy your trip! 🌍✈️