Dhaka, the bustling capital of Bangladesh, is a city that thrives on commerce and culture. For expats and digital nomads who have made this vibrant city their temporary home, exploring the local markets can be an exhilarating experience. These markets are not just places to shop; they are the beating heart of Dhaka’s daily life, offering a glimpse into the traditions and tastes of the local populace. From the aroma of exotic spices to the colorful display of textiles, each market has its own unique charm. Here are some of the best markets in Dhaka that offer a diverse range of products, from food to crafts, jewelry, furniture, and clothing.
New Market
Location: Mirpur Road, Dhaka
Type of Market: General Market
Open: Daily, 10 AM – 8 PM (Closed on Tuesdays)
New Market is a historical market that has been serving the people of Dhaka since the 1950s. It’s a sprawling complex with hundreds of shops and stalls selling everything from clothing and accessories to electronics and household items. The market is especially known for its wide variety of fabrics and tailor shops. It’s a great place to get custom-made clothing at reasonable prices.
We Recommend: Visit the tailor shops for custom-made traditional Bangladeshi attire such as the saree for women or the panjabi for men, which are popular items among both locals and expats.
Dhaka College Street Market
Location: Near Dhaka College, New Market area
Type of Market: Book Market
Open: Daily, 10 AM – 7 PM
Adjacent to the New Market, the College Street Market is a haven for book lovers. It’s a place where you can find a wide range of books from academic texts to literature and novels. Many stalls also sell second-hand books at bargain prices, making it a popular spot for students and readers looking to expand their personal libraries.
We Recommend: Look for rare and out-of-print books that often surface here, giving you a chance to discover literary gems at a fraction of the cost.
Karwan Bazar
Location: Kazi Nazrul Islam Avenue, Dhaka
Type of Market: Wholesale Market
Open: Daily, 5 AM – 8 PM
Karwan Bazar is one of the largest wholesale markets in Dhaka, known for its fresh produce and groceries. It’s a bustling hub of activity from the early hours of the morning, with vendors selling fruits, vegetables, fish, meat, and spices. The market is also a great place to experience local street food.
We Recommend: Try the fresh seasonal fruits such as mangoes, lychees, or jackfruit, depending on the time of year you visit.
Gulshan-Banani Street Market
Location: Gulshan and Banani neighborhoods
Type of Market: Upscale Street Market
Open: Daily, 10 AM – 10 PM
The Gulshan-Banani Street Market caters to the more upscale neighborhoods of Dhaka. Here, expats and well-to-do locals shop for high-quality clothing, jewelry, and imported goods. The market also features a range of eateries and cafes, making it a pleasant place to shop and dine.
We Recommend: Explore the boutique shops for unique Bangladeshi handicrafts and textiles that make for perfect souvenirs or gifts.
Dhamrai Bazar
Location: Dhamrai, outskirts of Dhaka
Type of Market: Traditional Rural Market
Open: Daily, 6 AM – 5 PM
Dhamrai Bazar is a bit of a journey from the city center, but it offers an authentic rural market experience. This market is known for its traditional crafts, particularly metalwork and pottery. It’s a great place to observe artisans at work and to purchase unique handmade items.
We Recommend: Don’t miss the opportunity to buy the famous Dhamrai brass products, which are crafted using age-old techniques passed down through generations.
Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Road
Location: Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Road, Dhaka
Type of Market: Hardware and Machinery Market
Open: Daily, 10 AM – 7 PM
This market is a go-to destination for all kinds of hardware, machinery, and industrial supplies. It’s a bustling area where you can find tools, equipment, and materials for any project or repair work. The market is also known for its electrical goods and automotive parts.
We Recommend: If you’re a DIY enthusiast or need specific tools or parts for your work, this is the place to find them at competitive prices.
Aarong
Location: Multiple locations across Dhaka
Type of Market: Artisan Retail Market
Open: Daily, 10 AM – 8 PM
Aarong is one of Bangladesh’s leading lifestyle retail chains, offering a wide range of clothing, home decor, and gift items. It’s a social enterprise that supports local artisans and craftspeople. Shopping at Aarong means you’re not only getting high-quality products but also contributing to the livelihoods of local communities.
We Recommend: Look for the beautifully embroidered nakshi kantha, a traditional Bangladeshi quilt that can serve as a stunning piece of home decor.
