Getting to Dhakeshwari Temple in Bakshi Bazar is easier than most people expect, but it still needs a little planning. The temple sits in the old part of Dhaka, tucked between narrow lanes and busy markets. You won’t find a metro station right at the gate, and the roads around it can be jammed at certain hours. Still, with the right approach, you can reach it without much trouble.
Key Takeaways
- Dhakeshwari Temple is in Bakshi Bazar, central Dhaka, and is accessible by bus, CNG, or rickshaw from most parts of the city.
- The nearest metro station is Bangladesh Secretariat, about 1.5 km away; walking or taking a rickshaw from there is practical.
- Plan your visit between 10 am and 5 pm on weekdays to avoid the heaviest crowds and traffic.
First, you need to know exactly where it is. Dhakeshwari Temple is on Dhakeshwari Road, which branches off from Bakshi Bazar Road in the old quarter of Dhaka. It is one of the oldest temples in the city, and it draws both worshippers and curious visitors. The area is dense, with shops, food stalls, and constant movement.
Getting There by Bus
If you are coming from Gulshan, Banani, or the airport area, the easiest bus route is to take a bus heading toward Motijheel or Shahbagh. Get off at Shahbagh or at the Science Laboratory intersection, then take a rickshaw or CNG to Bakshi Bazar. The ride from Shahbagh to the temple should take around 15 minutes, depending on traffic. From Motijheel, you can also catch a bus that goes through Paltan and then toward Bakshi Bazar, but the route is less direct.
Buses in Dhaka do not have fixed stops, so you need to tell the conductor where you want to get off. Look for buses with signs showing “Motijheel” or “Shahbagh”. The fare from most parts of the city will be between 20 and 50 takas, depending on distance. It is cheap, but the buses are crowded, and the journey can be slow during peak hours.
Using the Metro and Rickshaw
The Dhaka Metro Rail has a station called Bangladesh Secretariat, which is about 1.5 kilometers from the temple. If you are coming from Uttara or Agargaon, this is a good option. From the station, you can walk, but the roads are busy and not very pedestrian-friendly. A rickshaw ride will cost around 30 to 50 takas and take about 10 minutes. The metro runs from around 7 am to 9 pm, with trains every few minutes during peak times. The fare depends on distance, but it is affordable.
If you prefer to take a CNG (green auto-rickshaw) directly from your hotel, that is also possible. From Gulshan, it might take 40 to 60 minutes and cost 300 to 500 takas. From Dhanmondi, it is closer, around 20 to 30 minutes and 150 to 250 takas. Always agree on the fare before you start, as CNG drivers rarely use meters.
Visiting the Temple and What to Expect
The temple is open from sunrise to sunset, but the best time to visit is between 10 am and 5 pm. There is no entry fee, but donations are welcome. You will need to remove your shoes before entering the main shrine area. Dress modestly, covering your shoulders and knees. The temple complex is not large, so you can see everything in about an hour.
Around the temple, you will find small shops selling flowers, sweets, and religious items. There are also a few tea stalls and snack vendors. For a proper meal, you can walk to Bakshi Bazar Road, where there are several restaurants serving Bengali food. Try the kacchi biryani at a place called Sultan’s Dine, but be prepared for a queue.
Mobile network coverage in Bakshi Bazar is generally good, but it can be slow during peak hours. If you need to make a call, it should be fine. The area is safe during the day, but like any crowded place, keep an eye on your belongings. Pickpocketing is rare but not unheard of.
Returning from the temple is just as easy. You can walk back to the main road and hail a rickshaw or CNG. If you are heading to the metro station, a rickshaw will take you to Bangladesh Secretariat in about 10 minutes. Buses back to other parts of the city are available from Bakshi Bazar Road, but they are less frequent in the evening.
Before you go, double-check the temple’s opening hours and any special festival days, as they can affect access. You can call the temple office at +880-2-955-1234 (this is a placeholder; verify the number before relying on it). Also, confirm the current metro schedule and fares with the Dhaka Metro Rail official website or app, as they can change.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a dress code for visiting Dhakeshwari Temple?
Yes, you should dress modestly. Cover your shoulders and knees. Remove your shoes before entering the main shrine. It is also customary to cover your head, but it is not strictly required.
Can I take photos inside the temple?
Photography is generally allowed in the courtyard, but inside the main shrine it may be restricted. Always ask permission from the priests or staff before taking photos of the deities or during rituals.
What is the best time to visit to avoid crowds?
Weekday mornings, around 10 am to noon, are usually quieter. Avoid major Hindu festivals like Durga Puja, when the temple is packed and the surrounding streets are blocked.
Are there any nearby attractions I can combine with this visit?
Yes, you can walk to the Lalbagh Fort, which is about 2 km away. The Ahsan Manzil (Pink Palace) is also close, around 3 km. Both are worth seeing and can be done on the same day.
