Current time in Dhaka, Bangladesh

Dhaka is the capital city of Bangladesh, situated at coordinates 23.7104° N latitude and 90.40744° E longitude. It is located in the central part of the country, along the banks of the Buriganga River, and serves as a major economic, political, and cultural hub. The city is known for its vibrant textile industry, often referred to as the “City of Mosques” due to its numerous historic mosques.

Dhaka’s bustling markets and rich culinary traditions attract both locals and visitors. The timezone of Dhaka is Asia/Dhaka, which is UTC+6. Dhaka holds regional significance as one of the most densely populated cities in the world, playing a crucial role in the South Asian economy and serving as a center for trade and commerce in the region.

Timezone in Dhaka

Dhaka operates on Bangladesh Standard Time, which has a UTC offset of +6 hours. This means that Dhaka is six hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time. Bangladesh does not observe daylight saving time, maintaining the same standard time throughout the year, which simplifies scheduling for both locals and international contacts.

When considering the time difference between Dhaka and the United States, there can be significant variations depending on the specific U.S. time zone. For example, Dhaka is 11 hours ahead of Pacific Standard Time and 10 hours ahead of Mountain Standard Time, while it is 9 hours ahead of Central Standard Time and 8 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time. This substantial difference means that scheduling calls or meetings requires careful consideration of the time zones involved.

The best time to contact someone in Dhaka is typically between 9 AM and 5 PM local time, which corresponds to 11 PM to 7 AM Eastern Standard Time. Compared to other major cities in the region, such as New Delhi, which is also in the UTC +5:30 zone, Dhaka is slightly ahead, making it an hour and a half ahead of the Indian capital. This can affect business communications and travel planning within South Asia.

Attractions and Activities in Dhaka

Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, is known for its vibrant culture and rich history. The city is home to several significant attractions, including the Lalbagh Fort, a 17th-century Mughal fort complex that showcases beautiful gardens and historical architecture. Another notable site is the Ahsan Manzil, a former palace of the Nawab of Dhaka, which now serves as a museum reflecting the city’s royal past.

Dhaka is also recognized for its bustling markets, such as Sadarghat, where visitors can experience the lively riverfront and see traditional boat activities. The city is a cultural melting pot, with a diverse population that celebrates various festivals, including Pohela Boishakh, the Bengali New Year. The vibrant food scene features local delicacies like biryani and pitha, highlighting the region’s culinary diversity.

As a major economic and political center in South Asia, Dhaka plays a crucial role in the region’s development and modernization efforts.

Practical Information for Visitors

Visiting Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, requires some planning, particularly regarding transport. Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport serves as the main gateway for international travelers. Once in the city, rickshaws, taxis, and ride-sharing apps like Uber are widely available for getting around.

The railway system connects Dhaka with other cities, while long-distance buses operate from several terminals, providing budget-friendly options for travel. Dhaka experiences a tropical monsoon climate, characterized by hot, humid summers and a wet monsoon season. The best time to visit is from November to February when temperatures are cooler and rainfall is minimal.

During this period, the weather is more pleasant for exploring the city. Practical tips for visitors include staying hydrated and wearing light, breathable clothing due to the humidity. Always negotiate taxi fares or ensure the meter is running to avoid overcharging.

Be aware of local customs and dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Lastly, keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas, as pickpocketing can occur.