Dhaka a potential tourist destination?
The metropolis boasts a historically significant past, and that past has left several fascinating footprints to explore like temples, churches, and mosques along with the architecture of the Mughal and Colonial periods. This is all well known.
However, modern Dhaka can be an equally exciting tour.
"Dhaka is a vibrant and interesting tourist destination," says Rahnuma Salam Khan, deputy director, Bangladesh Tourism Board, with conviction.
There are two distinct sides to the city; one making of the modern contemporary metropolis and the other is the crowded but lively Old Dhaka.
Interested in the Mughal or Colonial periods, tourists can visit Ahsan Manzil, Curzon Hall, or Lalbagh Fort.
The Dhakeshwari National Temple is a beautiful structure that is a must-see during "arti" or offerings at dusks when the beats of the drums and the tinkling bell by the "purohit" or priest make a fascinating picture.
The Armenian Church is another wonderful testimony to the existence of a significant Armenian community in this region in the 17th and 18th centuries. Antiquated and revered, the church makes for an interesting visit for its old gravestones, simple garden, and spiral staircase.
"People who are interested in the history of Bangladesh's independence only have to visit the Liberation War Museum at Agargaon to know in detail how we gained our liberation. The Central Shaheed Minar tells the strong story of how we fought for our mother language. The Swadhinata Stambha, the monuments around the Dhaka University area, and also our grand Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban pulls touristy crowds. The Bangabandhu Museum and Martyred Intellectuals Memorial is a must-visit to delve deep into our culture.
"We also have an interesting cultural life with plays, theatres, and concerts taking place regularly during weekends. Our shopping arcades are full of ethnic wear, and specialised stores that carry our heritage weaves in local slow fashion options," says Rahnuma.
Culinary tourism in Dhaka is also an exciting possibility. There are numerous places to eat in Dhaka and each one surpasses the other in specialities. The options are aplenty -- dishes like kebabs and biriyanis; chaaps, soups, momos in Mohammadpur street side shops; a typical Bengali dish with fish curry, vegetables, and dal; the list can go on.
For any tourist trying our regional specials, Mejban beef of Chattogram or beef with chui jhal of Khulna is also a must if they can brave the hot spices.
"I must insist to taste local sweets like rosogolla and misti doi. Our roadside milk tea is a delight in Dhaka city. The street foods are delicious too; a crispy phuchka with a touch of tamarind sauce or a plate of chotpoti or chickpea stew are all must-dos in Dhaka," she explains.
Dhaka has the potential to become an attractive tourist destination. Despite having all the necessary things that are needed to attract travellers, the city has failed to appeal to an international audience. The reason for this is perhaps that the presentation of these resources in an attractive manner remains a challenge.
In recent times Dhaka has seen a surge of foreign visitors who come here for various reasons. The number will only increase in the near future. We need to take wholehearted attempts to present ourselves in the most tourist-friendly manner and that will possibly create enough interest in the city as a travel destination.
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