Curzon Hall sits at the northern edge of Dhaka University’s main campus, inside the Ramna area. It’s a red-brick Mughal revival building from 1904, now home to the university’s Faculty of Sciences. If you’re planning to visit, the first thing to know is how to get there without getting stuck in Dhaka’s traffic.
Key Takeaways
- Curzon Hall is on Dhaka University campus, near Shahbagh, and accessible by rickshaw, CNG, bus, or metro.
- The nearest metro station is Shahbagh, about a 10-minute walk away.
- Expect heavy traffic around Shahbagh, especially during office hours; plan extra time.
Getting to Shahbagh: The Gateway
Shahbagh is the main intersection next to the university. Most visitors arrive here first. From Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, take a pre-paid taxi or ride-sharing service. The journey covers about 12 kilometers and can take 45 minutes to over an hour, depending on traffic. A cheaper option is the airport bus to Motijheel, then a rickshaw to Shahbagh, but that’s slower.
If you’re coming from Kamalapur Railway Station, it’s only about 4 kilometers. A rickshaw or CNG will get you there in 20-30 minutes. From Sadarghat Launch Terminal, cross the Buriganga River by launch or take a CNG directly; the distance is roughly 6 kilometers.
Dhaka’s metro rail now runs through Shahbagh. The MRT Line 6 stops at Shahbagh station, making it the most reliable way to avoid traffic. From the station, walk east along Nilkhet Road for about 10 minutes. You’ll see the university’s main gate on your left.
Inside the Campus: From Shahbagh to Curzon Hall
Once at Shahbagh, you have two practical choices. Take a rickshaw for a short ride (about 2 kilometers) through the campus roads. Or walk. The walk takes 15-20 minutes. Follow the main road past the Teacher-Student Centre (TSC) and the Central Library. Curzon Hall is on your right, behind the large open field.
Rickshaws are allowed inside the campus but might be restricted during exam periods or official events. Always carry a map on your phone; offline maps work well. The campus is large, and it’s easy to wander.
Practical Details for Your Visit
Curzon Hall is an academic building, not a museum. You can walk around the exterior and take photos from the outside. The interior is usually off-limits to visitors, as it houses laboratories and lecture halls. Be respectful of students and staff.
The best time to visit is between November and February, when the weather is dry and cool. Monsoon months (June to September) bring heavy rain and waterlogging around Shahbagh. Carry an umbrella just in case.
There are no entry fees or permits required. The campus is open all day, but avoid weekends if you want to see student activity. The area is safe, but keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded spots.
For food, try the university canteens or the many street vendors near Nilkhet. The nearby TSC has a cafeteria with cheap snacks. Mobile networks work well throughout the campus.
To return, you can walk back to Shahbagh and catch a metro or CNG. If you’re heading to Old Dhaka, take a rickshaw to Sadarghat. Confirm the fare before you start.
Traffic in Dhaka is unpredictable. If you have a flight or train to catch, leave with plenty of buffer time. Check the metro schedule online before you go, as frequencies change.
Comparing Your Transport Options
| Option | Best For | Travel Time from Airport | Cost (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metro Rail | Speed and reliability | 45-60 min (including transfers) | 100-200 BDT |
| Ride-sharing (Uber/Pathao) | Door-to-door comfort | 45-90 min | 400-700 BDT |
| Pre-paid Taxi | Fixed price, no haggling | 45-90 min | 800-1200 BDT |
| Public Bus to Motijheel | Budget travel | 1-2 hours | 50-100 BDT |
Each option has trade-offs. The metro is new and clean, but you’ll still need a rickshaw or walk from Shahbagh. Ride-sharing is convenient but pricey during peak hours. Buses are cheap but crowded and slow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Curzon Hall open to visitors?
Yes, the exterior is open to the public. The interior is restricted because it’s a working academic building. You can walk around and take photos from outside.
What is the best way to reach Curzon Hall from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport?
The metro is the most reliable. Take the MRT Line 6 from the airport station to Shahbagh, then walk or take a rickshaw. It takes about an hour in total. Ride-sharing is faster but depends on traffic.
Are there any entry fees for Curzon Hall?
No, there are no entry fees. It’s a public university building. You can visit any day, but weekdays are more active.
What should I wear when visiting Curzon Hall?
Dress modestly out of respect for the academic environment. Loose, comfortable clothing works well. In summer, wear light fabrics; in winter, bring a jacket.
How long should I spend at Curzon Hall?
Most visitors spend 30-45 minutes exploring the exterior and taking photos. Combine it with a walk around the university campus for a half-day outing.
