Sadar Ghat & Buriganga River

About Sadar Ghat & Buriganga River

Sadar Ghat (Sadarghat) is the main river port of Dhaka, on the north bank of the Buriganga River in the old city. Large multi-deck launches leave from here for Barishal and other towns in the south, and thousands of passengers pass through every day.

Between the big vessels, small wooden rowing boats ferry people and goods across the river, much as they have for generations. Taking one of these boats is the best way to see the port: from the water you watch launches manoeuvring, porters loading cargo and daily life along both banks.

The Buriganga was the reason Dhaka grew where it did, and many of the old city’s landmarks stand near its banks, including the pink Ahsan Manzil. The river is badly polluted today, so this is about atmosphere rather than scenery, but it remains one of the most memorable experiences in the city.

On private tours we take a short boat ride with a local guide, and you can continue downstream to the Buriganga Ship Yard, where ships are built and repaired by hand.

Getting there

From central Dhaka: about an hour or more by car from Gulshan or Banani, depending on traffic. The streets near the port are very congested, so the last part is often on foot or by rickshaw.

By launch: overnight launches arrive here from Barishal and other southern river towns.

Where to stay

Most travellers stay in Gulshan, Banani or central Dhaka and visit the port on an Old Dhaka day tour.