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Dhakeshwari National Temple

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Dhakeshwari National Temple (Bangladesh)

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The Dhakeshwari National Temple is the most prominent Hindu place of worship in Bangladesh and serves as the spiritual hub for the country's Hindu community. Located in the old part of Dhaka, its origins date back to the 12th century, founded by King Ballal Sena of the Sena dynasty. The name 'Dhakeshwari' translates to 'Goddess of Dhaka', and many historians believe that the city itself was named after this ancient shrine. Throughout its long history, the temple has survived numerous invasions and instances of destruction, most notably during the 1971 Liberation War, after which it was meticulously restored. The complex features traditional Bengali temple architecture with multiple shrines dedicated to various deities, including the main sanctum of the Goddess Durga. As the designated National Temple, it hosts the grandest Durga Puja celebrations in the country, symbolizing religious harmony and cultural resilience. It remains a vital landmark representing the historical and social diversity of Bangladesh.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C182227303029282828262319
Rain mm920501492923824373592831853818

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The Dhakeshwari Temple is an active Hindu temple and open to all visitors. The main sanctuary and surrounding shrines can be entered, but respectful behavior is required.
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Typical hours
The temple is typically open from morning until evening, with interruptions for puja ceremonies. The best visiting times are early morning or late afternoon.
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Photography
Photography is allowed in the courtyard, but not in the innermost sanctuary. Avoid using flash to avoid disturbing worshipers.
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Time needed
A visit typically takes 30 minutes to an hour to explore the temple complex. Take time to observe the rituals and architecture.
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Combine with
Combine your visit with other old Dhaka attractions like Ahsan Manji Palace and Lalbagh Fort. The colorful hustle and bustle of the old town is also worth a walk.
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Getting there
The temple is in old Dhaka, in the Lalbagh area. It is best reached by rickshaw or on foot from Shahbag metro station.
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Insider tip
Visit the temple during a Hindu festival like Durga Puja when the atmosphere is especially spirited. Wear light, modest clothing and remove your shoes at the entrance.

Geography

Coordinates
23.72300, 90.39260

Facts

  • The temple was originally built in the 12th century by the Sena dynasty king Ballal Sena.
  • It is widely believed that Dhaka city was named after the Dhakeshwari temple.
  • The temple was officially designated as the National Temple of Bangladesh in 1996.
  • The complex contains four identical small temples dedicated to Lord Shiva.
  • The original ancient statue of the goddess is currently kept in Kumartuli, Kolkata.
  • It serves as the main venue for the annual Durga Puja, attracting thousands of devotees.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Bangladesh National MuseumBangladesh National Museum<1 km · NExplore →
Bangabandhu Memorial MuseumBangabandhu Memorial Museum2 km · SExplore →
Bahadur Shah ParkBahadur Shah Park2 km · NExplore →
Gangkhar PuensumGangkhar Puensum3 km · WExplore →
Rose Garden PalaceRose Garden Palace4 km · NExplore →
National Botanical Garden of BangladeshNational Botanical Garden of Bangladesh5 km · SExplore →
Jigmeling Industrial ParkJigmeling Industrial Park9 km · NExplore →
Payra Sea PortPayra Sea Port10 km · SExplore →

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Sights in the town Dhakeshwari National Temple (8)

Language Martyr Abul Barakat Memory Museum and Library, Museum, Polashi Mor, Zahir Raihan Rd, Dhaka🏛 museum

A museum and library dedicated to the language martyr Abul Barakat and the Bengali Language Movement.

BUET Auditorium🎭 culture

A large auditorium at BUET university used for major academic conferences and cultural celebrations.

Shahid Minar🏺 historical

The central monument in Dhaka commemorating the 1952 Language Movement victims and a symbol of national pride.

Dhakeshwari National Temple⛪ religious

The most significant Hindu temple in Bangladesh, with origins dating back to the 12th century.

Baitul Karim Jame Mosque📍 landmark

A modern Jame mosque in a residential area, notable for its artistically decorated facade.

Azimpur Maternity Jame Masjid, Azimpur Rd, Dhaka📍 landmark

A mosque near the Azimpur maternity clinic, serving as a religious meeting point for the local community.

Dr. M. A. Rashid Hall Masjid, Dr. M.A. Rashid Hall, BUET, Dhaka📍 landmark

The mosque in BUET's Dr. M. A. Rashid Hall, providing a quiet space for students' daily prayers.

Mosque Building⛪ religious

A simple religious building in the university district, used for the daily prayers of local residents.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How old is the temple?
It was originally built in the 12th century but renovated many times.
Why is it important?
It is the state-owned national Hindu temple of Bangladesh.
When is the biggest festival?
Thousands of people gather here during Durga Puja.
Do you have to pay for entry?
No, entry is free for all visitors.
Is the area safe?
Yes, there is permanent security check at the entrance.
Dhakeshwari National Temple: where is it located?
Dhakeshwari National Temple is located in Bangladesh.
Dhakeshwari National Temple: what is there to see?
Highlights include Language Martyr Abul Barakat Memory Museum and Library, Museum, Polashi Mor, Zahir Raihan Rd, Dhaka, BUET Auditorium, Shahid Minar.
Dhakeshwari National Temple: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Dhakeshwari National Temple: why is it worth visiting?
The Dhakeshwari National Temple is the most prominent Hindu place of worship in Bangladesh and serves as the spiritual hub for the country's Hindu community.
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History & landmarks

Bangladesh National Museum — Dhakeshwari National Temple (Bangladesh)
Bangladesh National Museum
The country's principal museum in Dhaka, exhibiting art, history, classical antiquities, and natural history.
Bangabandhu Memorial Museum — Dhakeshwari National Temple (Bangladesh)
Bangabandhu Memorial Museum
The former residence of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founding father of Bangladesh, now a museum.
National Parliament House — Dhakeshwari National Temple (Bangladesh)
National Parliament House
An architectural masterpiece in Dhaka, designed by the renowned architect Louis Kahn.
Baitul Mukarram National Mosque — Dhakeshwari National Temple (Bangladesh)
Baitul Mukarram National Mosque
The national mosque of Bangladesh in Dhaka, whose architecture resembles the Kaaba in Mecca.

Nature

Meghna River — Dhakeshwari National Temple (Bangladesh)
Meghna River
One of the most important rivers in Bangladesh, forming the massive Ganges-Brahmaputra Delta.
Padma River — Dhakeshwari National Temple (Bangladesh)
Padma River
The main distributary of the Ganges in Bangladesh, known for its shifting banks.

More places

Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Safari Park — Dhakeshwari National Temple (Bangladesh)
Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Safari Park
A vast safari park offering visitors a chance to see various wildlife species in a naturalistic habitat.
Shishu Park — Dhakeshwari National Temple (Bangladesh)
Shishu Park
A popular public amusement park in Dhaka, primarily designed for children's entertainment and recreation.
Novo Theatre — Dhakeshwari National Temple (Bangladesh)
Novo Theatre
A state-of-the-art planetarium in Dhaka offering programs on astronomy and science.
Bangabandhu Military Museum — Dhakeshwari National Temple (Bangladesh)
Bangabandhu Military Museum
A large museum in Dhaka showcasing the history and equipment of the Bangladesh Armed Forces.
Bhawal National Park — Dhakeshwari National Temple (Bangladesh)
Bhawal National Park
A major protected area north of Dhaka, dominated by Sal tree forests.
Hatirjheel — Dhakeshwari National Temple (Bangladesh)
Hatirjheel
A modern lakefront area in Dhaka serving as a popular recreational space and major transportation project.
Bahadur Shah Park — Dhakeshwari National Temple (Bangladesh)
Bahadur Shah Park
A historic park in Old Dhaka, today a quiet retreat for walkers and families.
National Botanical Garden of Bangladesh — Dhakeshwari National Temple (Bangladesh)
National Botanical Garden of Bangladesh
The largest botanical garden in the country in Dhaka, featuring a huge collection of native and exotic plants.