What is the Capital of Bangladesh? Dhaka
Capital City of Bangladesh: Dhaka
City Overview
Dhaka is the capital and largest city of Bangladesh, located in the central part of the country along the banks of the Buriganga River. It is not only the political and economic heart of Bangladesh but also one of the most densely populated cities in the world. With a population of over 20 million people, Dhaka is an urban megacity that plays a significant role in shaping the country’s culture, economy, and politics. See Areacodesexplorer for other major cities in Bangladesh.
The city’s history dates back to the 7th century, when it was known as “Dhaka” and served as a trading post and center for the region’s silk industry. However, it rose to prominence during the Mughal Empire in the 17th century when it became an important hub for trade and commerce in South Asia. The city continued to develop under British rule and later became the capital of East Pakistan after the partition of India in 1947, and eventually the capital of Bangladesh after the country’s independence in 1971.
Today, Dhaka is a sprawling urban center characterized by a mix of modern high-rise buildings and old colonial structures. It is known for its busy streets, vibrant culture, and as a major center for the textile and garment industry, which is the backbone of Bangladesh’s economy. The city also faces challenges such as traffic congestion, pollution, and poverty, but efforts are being made to improve infrastructure and the quality of life for its residents.
City Facts
- Area: 306 square kilometers
- Population: Approximately 21 million (2023)
- Time Zone: Bangladesh Standard Time (BST), UTC +6
- Highest Mountain: The Mowdok Mual (1,052 meters/3,451 feet), located in the southeastern part of the country, is the highest point in Bangladesh, though not within Dhaka city itself.
- Longest River: The Padma River, a major distributary of the Ganges, flows near Dhaka and plays an essential role in the city’s development and transport network.
Dhaka serves as the country’s cultural and educational hub, with numerous institutions, museums, and universities. Despite its challenges, the city is dynamic, with a rapidly growing population and expanding industries, including textiles, information technology, and telecommunications. Dhaka’s economy is largely driven by the garment industry, which is one of the largest in the world. The city is also known for its historical sites, educational institutions, and cultural landmarks, which reflect Bangladesh’s rich history.
Major Landmarks in Dhaka
- Lalbagh Fort: A 17th-century Mughal fort complex, Lalbagh Fort is one of the most important historical sites in Dhaka. The fort contains a mosque, a tomb, and various historical buildings. It is an iconic example of Mughal architecture and serves as a reminder of the city’s historical significance during the Mughal Empire.
- Ahsan Manzil: Known as the Pink Palace, Ahsan Manzil is an elegant colonial-era mansion that once served as the residence of the Nawab of Dhaka. The building now functions as a museum, showcasing artifacts from the history of Dhaka and the Mughal era.
- National Museum of Bangladesh: The National Museum of Bangladesh, located in the Shahbagh area of Dhaka, houses an extensive collection of archaeological and historical exhibits, including relics from the ancient Buddhist civilizations of the region, as well as artifacts from the Bengal Sultanate and the British colonial period.
- Jatiyo Sangsad Bhaban (National Parliament House): Designed by the renowned architect Louis Kahn, the National Parliament House is one of the largest legislative buildings in the world. It is an architectural masterpiece and a symbol of Bangladesh’s political independence.
- Sadarghat River Port: Located on the banks of the Buriganga River, Sadarghat is one of the busiest river ports in the world. The port is the hub for water transportation in Dhaka, serving millions of passengers who travel by boat to various parts of Bangladesh.
- Ramna Park: A large public park located in the heart of Dhaka, Ramna Park is an oasis of green in the middle of the city. It is a popular spot for recreation and relaxation and is home to the Dhaka Art Center, which hosts cultural events and exhibitions.
- Baitul Mukarram Mosque: The largest mosque in Dhaka, Baitul Mukarram is an iconic structure in the city. Completed in 1968, it is a major religious and architectural landmark, known for its modern design and vast prayer hall that accommodates thousands of worshippers.
- Shahjalal University of Science and Technology (SUST): Located just outside Dhaka, SUST is one of the leading universities in Bangladesh. It is known for its research facilities and contributions to scientific innovation, particularly in the fields of engineering and technology.
- Bangabandhu Memorial Museum: This museum is dedicated to the life and legacy of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founding leader of Bangladesh. The museum is housed in the house where he lived before his assassination in 1975 and is an important historical site for understanding the country’s independence struggle.
Climate Overview
Dhaka experiences a tropical monsoon climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F). The monsoon season, from June to September, brings heavy rainfall and occasional flooding. Winters, from December to February, are relatively cooler and more pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F).
Month | Average Temperature (°C) | Average Precipitation (mm) | Sunny Days |
---|---|---|---|
January | 21°C | 20 mm | 25 days |
February | 23°C | 15 mm | 26 days |
March | 26°C | 30 mm | 27 days |
April | 29°C | 50 mm | 26 days |
May | 31°C | 150 mm | 22 days |
June | 32°C | 280 mm | 18 days |
July | 31°C | 300 mm | 17 days |
August | 30°C | 290 mm | 18 days |
September | 29°C | 220 mm | 19 days |
October | 28°C | 100 mm | 22 days |
November | 25°C | 25 mm | 24 days |
December | 21°C | 10 mm | 25 days |
Other Cities That Have Served as the Capital of Bangladesh
Though Dhaka has been the capital of Bangladesh for much of its modern history, there have been other cities that served as capitals during various periods in the country’s past, particularly under British rule and during the early years of East Pakistan.
1. Murshidabad (Before British Rule, 1704–1765)
Murshidabad was the capital of Bengal during the Mughal Empire. After the British East India Company took control of Bengal, the capital shifted to Calcutta (now Kolkata). However, Murshidabad remained a significant administrative and cultural hub in the region.
- Area: 7.2 square kilometers
- Population: Around 1 million during the Mughal era
- Significance: The capital during the peak of Mughal administration in Bengal.
2. Kolkata (Under British Rule, 1765–1947)
During British colonial rule, Calcutta (now Kolkata) served as the capital of Bengal and later of British India until the capital was moved to New Delhi in 1911. It was a major center of British governance and trade in South Asia.
- Area: 185 square kilometers
- Population: Over 1 million during British colonial rule
- Significance: Kolkata became the center of British colonial administration in India and a major port for trade.
Country Facts: Bangladesh
Bangladesh is a country located in South Asia, bordered by India on the west, north, and east, Myanmar (Burma) on the southeast, and the Bay of Bengal on the south. Despite its small size, Bangladesh is one of the most densely populated countries in the world. The country is known for its rich cultural history, vibrant festivals, and natural beauty, including the Sundarbans mangrove forest, home to the Bengal tiger.
Key Country Facts
- Population: Approximately 173 million (2023)
- Area: 147,570 square kilometers
- Capital: Dhaka
- Currency: Bangladeshi Taka (BDT)
- Official Language: Bengali (Bangla)
- ISO Country Codes: BD (Alpha-2), BGD (Alpha-3)
- Time Zone: Bangladesh Standard Time (BST), UTC +6
- Religion: Predominantly Muslim (approximately 90%), with small Hindu, Christian, and other religious minorities.
Bangladesh gained its independence from Pakistan in 1971 after a brutal war of independence. The country has since made remarkable progress in areas such as education, poverty reduction, and healthcare, although it still faces challenges such as political instability, poverty, and environmental concerns, particularly in relation to flooding and climate change.