National Parliament Building
About National Parliament Building
The National Parliament Building, or Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban, was designed by the American architect Louis I. Kahn. Work began in the early 1960s, slowed during the Liberation War of 1971, and the building was completed in 1982. It stands at Sher-e-Bangla Nagar in the north of central Dhaka.
Kahn shaped the assembly as a cluster of massive concrete forms inlaid with bands of white marble, cut through with huge circles, triangles and rectangles that let light deep inside. Around it, an artificial lake reflects the walls, so the building seems to float on water.
For architects it is a pilgrimage, but anyone can enjoy the play of light and geometry, especially in the late afternoon when the concrete turns warm and golden. Across the road lie Crescent Lake and the green spaces of Chandrima Udyan, where locals walk in the evening.
Access to the interior is restricted and normally needs advance permission, so most visitors view it from the surrounding roads and lakeside. We include it on private Dhaka city tours, often with Kawran Bazar or Dhaka University.
Things to do
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Admire Kahn’s architecture
Walk around the outside to see how the geometric openings and marble bands change with the light.
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Photograph the reflections
The surrounding lake gives classic reflection shots, best in the golden light of late afternoon.
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Stroll by Crescent Lake
Join local families on the paths of Crescent Lake and Chandrima Udyan across the road.
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Learn the story
Hear how the building, started before independence, became a symbol of the new nation.
Getting there
From Gulshan or Banani: about 20 to 45 minutes by car, depending on traffic.
By metro: MRT Line 6 has a station at Bijoy Sarani, a short walk or rickshaw ride from the building.
Where to stay
Gulshan, Banani and the Kawran Bazar area are all close and have business hotels and international-standard options.
Tours that visit National Parliament Building
Holiday Tours
Bangladesh Cultural and Heritage Discovery Tour
from $800 per person
Day Tours
Dhaka City Day Tour
from $50 per person
Short Tours
Dhaka, Barisal & Sundarbans Heritage Tour
from $300 per person
Holiday Tours
Explore the Natural Beauty of Bangladesh
Price on request
Day Tours
Half-Day Dhaka City Tour
from $35 per person
Holiday Tours
Ten Days Across Bangladesh
from $800 per person
Short Tours
The Best of Bangladesh: City, Tea & Heritage Tour
from $500 per person
Questions
Can I go inside the Parliament Building?
Interior visits are restricted and normally require advance permission from the parliament secretariat. Most visitors see it from outside, which is still impressive.
Who designed the building?
The American architect Louis I. Kahn. It is widely regarded as his greatest work.
When is the best time to visit?
Late afternoon, when the light warms the concrete and lights up the lake reflections. The dry months from November to April are the most comfortable.
How long should I spend there?
About an hour is enough to walk around the outside and visit Crescent Lake.