Things to do in Gulshan, Banani & Baridhara
Gulshan, Banani and Baridhara are Dhaka's diplomatic and business district, with green lakes, busy food streets and big shopping centres close together. Here is what to do near your apartment, plus a few classic Dhaka sights further away.
Near your apartment
Banani Road 11
One of Dhaka's best-known food streets, lined with restaurants and cafes serving everything from local Bangladeshi dishes to international cuisine. Many places stay open late. Our Banani homes are a short walk or ride away.
Gulshan Lake and its parks
The lake that runs between Gulshan, Banani and Baridhara is lined with walkways and small parks, including Gulshan Lake Park. They are good for a morning walk or run.
Shopping in Gulshan 1 and Gulshan 2
The two Gulshan circles are packed with shops, supermarkets, banks and malls, from everyday groceries to boutiques and handicrafts. Useful for stocking the kitchen on a longer stay.
Jamuna Future Park
One of the largest shopping malls in South Asia, in Kuril near Baridhara and Bashundhara, with shops, a food court, a cinema and play areas for children.
Worth the trip across the city
National Parliament House
Louis Kahn's Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar is one of the great buildings of modern architecture. The grounds and lakes around it are popular for evening walks.
Hatirjheel
A long lakefront with bridges, walkways and water taxis, especially pretty when lit up in the evening.
Bangladesh National Museum and the Liberation War Museum
The National Museum in Shahbag covers the country's history, art and nature, and the Liberation War Museum in Agargaon tells the story of 1971.
Old Dhaka
Lalbagh Fort, Ahsan Manzil (the Pink Palace) and the river port at Sadarghat show the historic heart of the city. Go early, allow plenty of time for traffic, and consider a local guide.
Practical tips
- Traffic is heaviest on weekday mornings and evenings; plan trips across the city for midday or weekends (Friday and Saturday).
- Uber and Pathao are the easiest way to get around. See our airport guide for arrival tips.
- Many shops close or open late on Friday mornings for Jummah prayers.
Stay nearby
See all our Gulshan, Banani and Baridhara apartments, or our options for monthly stays.
Questions about the area?
Message Chowdhury on WhatsApp. We are happy to share our favourite local spots.
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