Bengal Shilpalay
A serene cultural center in Dhanmondi, blending art exhibitions, a tranquil bookstore, and a cozy cafe.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Gallery opens, cafe buzzes
Bengal Shilpalay
Best Time
Gallery opens, cafe buzzes
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene cultural center in Dhanmondi, blending art exhibitions, a tranquil bookstore, and a cozy cafe.
"A quiet, beautiful place for art, books, and coffee – a true cultural gem."
Free Entry!
:ticket: Enjoy art without an entry fee. Check exhibition schedules beforehand.
Study Sanctuary
:books: Ground floor is quiet for study. Bring your own books or browse Bengal Boi.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Art Exhibitions
Gallery Spaces
Discover works by renowned Bangladeshi and international artists. A vibrant display of creativity.
Bengal Boi Bookstore
Ground Floor
A tranquil haven for book lovers, offering a peaceful reading environment and a curated selection.
Cafe & Study Space
Upper Floors
Enjoy coffee and snacks in a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for studying or unwinding.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Art & Calm
Your Cultural Hub
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Entry!
:ticket: Enjoy art without an entry fee. Check exhibition schedules beforehand.
Study Sanctuary
:books: Ground floor is quiet for study. Bring your own books or browse Bengal Boi.
Art & Coffee Combo
:coffee: Grab a coffee on the 1st floor after exploring exhibitions.
Artist Spotlights
:frame_photo: Often features renowned artists like Hamiduzzaman Khan.
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Entry!
:ticket: Enjoy art without an entry fee. Check exhibition schedules beforehand.
Study Sanctuary
:books: Ground floor is quiet for study. Bring your own books or browse Bengal Boi.
Art & Coffee Combo
:coffee: Grab a coffee on the 1st floor after exploring exhibitions.
Artist Spotlights
:frame_photo: Often features renowned artists like Hamiduzzaman Khan.
Photography Exhibitions
:camera: Munem Wasif's 'Kromosho' exhibition was a highlight.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Bengal Shilpalay as a quiet, beautiful cultural hub in Dhanmondi, offering a unique blend of art exhibitions, a well-curated bookstore, and a relaxing cafe. It's a highly recommended spot for art lovers, bookworms, and those seeking a peaceful environment to study or unwind.
"This place is quiet nice. In the ground, there are no fan tho :3, but u can sit there and study or work! In the side there's a bookstore, it's a pretty place. You can read their books and they have a separate place on the top for that!
And in the 2nd floor there is cafe, you can order food there."
Umme Tasfia
"Bengal Shilapalay is a concern of Bengal foundation and a sister concerne of Bengal Boi.
This exhibition gallary often features artworks of renowned artists.
The gallery is open from 3 pm to 8 pm.
There is no entry fee."
Sayed Rafi
"The reading environment will give you comfort to enjoy the moment as you want in your house while reading books. If you want to read in a calm place as well as buy books, then it’s one of the best places you can choose. If you want to drink coffee, then you will find it on their 1st floor. Sometimes you can visit their exhibition hall (it depends on their schedule)."
Nibir Setu
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bengal Shilpalay is located in Dhanmondi, Dhaka. You can reach it by local transport like rickshaws, CNGs, or ride-sharing services. It's a well-known spot, so most drivers will know the way.
Information on dedicated parking is limited, but street parking might be available nearby. Ride-sharing services are a convenient option.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entry fee to visit Bengal Shilpalay, making it a great free cultural destination.
The gallery is typically open from 3 pm to 8 pm, but it's best to check their schedule for specific exhibition timings as they can vary.
Yes, you can visit the bookstore and cafe even when there isn't a special exhibition running. The ground floor also offers a quiet space.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore art exhibitions, browse books at Bengal Boi, enjoy coffee at the cafe, or find a quiet spot to study or work.
Absolutely! The ground floor is noted for its quiet, comfortable environment perfect for studying or working.
While not explicitly a children's attraction, the calm atmosphere and bookstore can be enjoyable for older children interested in art and books.
Bengal Shilpalay frequently features artworks by renowned Bangladeshi and international artists, including photography and sculptures.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe on the first floor where you can order food and drinks.
The cafe offers coffee and other food items. Reviewers mention good food and a pleasant dining experience.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary by exhibition. It's best to check signage or ask staff. Some exhibitions, like Munem Wasif's, have been documented extensively. 
The art installations themselves are often visually striking. The bookstore and cafe also offer aesthetically pleasing backdrops.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📚 Bookworms & Students
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Bengal Foundation Connection
This affiliation means that visitors can expect exhibitions that are not only visually engaging but also culturally significant, often showcasing the work of established and emerging artists who contribute to the rich tapestry of Bangladesh's art scene. The foundation's support also allows for initiatives like conservation studios, as seen with the S M Sultan Conservation Studio.
A Haven for Book Lovers and Students
Reviewers consistently praise the calm and inspiring atmosphere of the bookstore, noting that it encourages reading and relaxation. The availability of coffee and snacks on the upper floors further enhances the experience, making it a perfect place to spend an afternoon immersed in art, literature, and quiet contemplation.
Architectural and Photographic Exhibitions
+1Photographers like Munem Wasif have also found a platform here, with exhibitions such as 'Kromosho' showcasing his long-term engagement with the cultural nuances of Dhaka. These events underscore Bengal Shilpalay's commitment to diverse artistic expressions and its role in documenting and celebrating Bangladeshi culture through various mediums.
+2
Social
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