National Museum of Science & Technology🏛 museum
This museum in Agargaon features interactive science exhibits, a biology gallery, and a planetarium.
🌐 nmst.gov.bd🕒 Fr-We 09:00-18:00
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National Parliament House
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Landmark
The Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban, serving as the National Parliament House of Bangladesh in Dhaka, is widely regarded as one of the most significant architectural masterpieces of the 20th century. Designed by the celebrated American architect Louis Kahn, the complex is a prime example of modernism integrated with a sense of monumental spirituality. Construction commenced in 1961 during the East Pakistan era and was eventually completed in 1982, following delays caused by the Bangladesh Liberation War. The structure is characterized by its massive concrete walls with large geometric openings, circles, triangles, and rectangles, that filter natural light into the interior spaces. Situated amidst an artificial body of water known as the Crescent Lake, the building appears to float, enhancing its majestic and serene presence. As the legislative heart of the nation, it stands as a symbol of democracy and a landmark that continues to attract architectural scholars and tourists from around the world.
- Location: Bangladesh
- Top sights: National Museum of Science & Technology · Tomb of Ziaur Rahman · National Parliament House
- Nearby: Gazipur (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Nov, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 18 | 22 | 27 | 30 | 30 | 29 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 26 | 23 | 19 |
| Rain mm | 10 | 21 | 54 | 176 | 310 | 387 | 404 | 327 | 271 | 176 | 31 | 16 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The National Parliament House in Dhaka is an architectural masterpiece, but the interior is open to the public only during designated times. The exterior and surrounding gardens are freely accessible.
Typical hours
The interior is typically open for guided tours on weekdays, but often not accessible without prior appointment. The exterior can be visited any time.
Photography
Photography of the exterior is allowed anytime and has great architectural shots. Inside, photography is usually permitted during tours, but without flash.
Time needed
Visiting the exterior takes about 30 minutes to an hour. If you join a guided tour of the interior, allow an additional hour.
Combine with
Combine the visit with the nearby Bangladesh National Museum or Ramna Park. Shahbagh Square is also a short walk away.
Getting there
The parliament building is in the Sher-e-Bangla Nagar area of Dhaka, easily reachable by car or taxi. The nearest metro station is Agargaon, about a 15-minute walk away.
Insider tip
Visit the building late afternoon when the light highlights the facade beautifully. For an interior tour, register in advance with the visitor service.
Geography
Facts
- Construction began in 1961 and was completed in 1982 after a long hiatus during the war.
- The architect Louis Kahn died in 1974 without seeing the finished structure.
- The assembly hall features a massive 155-foot high ceiling without any columns.
- It is surrounded by a 200-acre complex including gardens and the Crescent Lake.
- The building uses massive geometric openings to provide natural light and ventilation.
- The entire structure was built using poured concrete accented with white marble strips.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town National Parliament House (15)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Who designed the Parliament House?
The famous American architect Louis Kahn designed this masterpiece.
Can the building be visited?
Interior only with permission, but the outer area is a popular public park.
Is there a lake there?
Yes, the building appears to float on an artificial lake.
When is the best time for photos?
In the evening, when the building is beautifully illuminated.
Does entering the grounds cost money?
Access to the surrounding lawns is free.
National Parliament House: where is it located?
National Parliament House is located in Bangladesh.
National Parliament House: what is there to see?
Highlights include National Museum of Science & Technology, Tomb of Ziaur Rahman, National Parliament House.
National Parliament House: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Nov, Dec.
National Parliament House: why is it worth visiting?
The Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban, serving as the National Parliament House of Bangladesh in Dhaka, is widely regarded as one of the most significant architectural masterpieces of the 20th century.
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History & landmarks
Bangabandhu Memorial Museum
The former residence of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founding father of Bangladesh, now a museum.
Dhakeshwari National Temple
The most important Hindu temple in Bangladesh, which is believed to be the origin of Dhaka's name.
Bangladesh National Museum
The country's principal museum in Dhaka, exhibiting art, history, classical antiquities, and natural history.
Baitul Mukarram National Mosque
The national mosque of Bangladesh in Dhaka, whose architecture resembles the Kaaba in Mecca.
Nature
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Shishu Park
A popular public amusement park in Dhaka, primarily designed for children's entertainment and recreation.
Bhawal National Park
A major protected area north of Dhaka, dominated by Sal tree forests.
National Botanical Garden of Bangladesh
The largest botanical garden in the country in Dhaka, featuring a huge collection of native and exotic plants.
Bangladesh National Zoo
An expansive zoo in Dhaka housing countless native and international animal species, ideal for family outings.
Hatirjheel
A modern lakefront area in Dhaka serving as a popular recreational space and major transportation project.