Dhakeshwari National Temple in Dhaka

Dhakeshwari National Temple

Bangladesh’s national Hindu temple, a busy place of worship near Lalbagh, believed by many to have given Dhaka its name. Allow about 45 minutes.

About Dhakeshwari National Temple

Dhakeshwari National Temple is the most important Hindu temple in Bangladesh and holds the status of national temple. Tradition links its founding to the Sena period many centuries ago, and a popular story says the city of Dhaka takes its name from the goddess Dhakeshwari, the hidden goddess. The buildings you see today are much later and have been rebuilt and extended over time.

The compound includes the main shrine to the goddess, a group of small temples dedicated to Shiva, a pond and courtyards where devotees gather. It is a living temple rather than a monument, so you will see priests performing rituals, families bringing offerings and the sound of bells and chanting.

The temple is the centre of Dhaka’s Durga Puja celebrations each autumn, when the courtyards fill with crowds, music and decorated images of the goddess.

It lies a short rickshaw ride from Lalbagh Fort, and we often combine the two on private Old Dhaka tours, along with the Hindu craft street of Shakhari Bazar.

Things to do

  • Visit the main shrine

    See the shrine of the goddess Dhakeshwari and watch the daily rituals with respect.

  • See the Shiva temples

    Look at the row of small temples dedicated to Shiva inside the compound.

  • Experience Durga Puja

    In autumn, join the crowds for the city’s biggest Hindu festival, with music, lights and elaborate images.

  • Combine with Old Dhaka

    Walk or ride on to Lalbagh Fort and Shakhari Bazar, both close by.

Getting there

From central Dhaka: allow 45 minutes to over an hour by car from Gulshan or Banani. The final stretch through the lanes is easiest by rickshaw.

Where to stay

Most visitors stay in Gulshan, Banani or central Dhaka and see the temple as part of a day in Old Dhaka.

More to see in Dhaka

Tours that visit Dhakeshwari National Temple

Questions

Can non-Hindus visit Dhakeshwari Temple?

Yes, respectful visitors are welcome in the compound. Ask before entering an inner shrine or photographing worshippers.

What should I wear?

Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees. You will need to remove your shoes in the temple areas.

When is the temple busiest?

During Durga Puja in autumn and other Hindu festivals, and in the mornings and evenings when daily worship takes place.

How long should I spend there?

Around 30 to 45 minutes, longer during festivals.

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