"Dhakeshwari Temple is one of the most important Hindu temples in Bangladesh and is known as the National Temple of the country. It is located on Dhakeshwari Road in Old Dhaka and is dedicated to Goddess Dhakeshwari, an incarnation of Durga. The temple is free to visit, and spending about an hour allows you to explore it comfortably.

The temple’s history goes back many centuries. It is believed to have been built in the 12th century by King Ballal Sen of the Sena dynasty. According to legend, he found an idol of the goddess in a forest and built the temple to honor her. Some say the city of Dhaka was named after the goddess herself. Over time, the temple has been rebuilt and renovated many times, which is why it shows a mix of architectural styles. Inside the complex, there are four smaller Shiva temples that date back to the 16th century.

The temple is especially lively during major Hindu festivals like Durga Puja and Janmashtami, when it becomes the center of celebration in Dhaka. Visitors should dress modestly and remove their shoes before entering. The temple is open daily, usually in the morning and evening, with a short afternoon break.

Even a short visit gives you a glimpse of its rich history and deep spiritual meaning, but staying for about an hour will let you take in its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful surroundings."

Weaning Ping

"Dhakeshwari Temple, perched in the heart of Old Dhaka (Puran Dhaka), feels like a serene oasis amid the chaotic cityscape. A mere five-minute stroll from Lalbagh Fort, it greets visitors with a dramatic gateway—often referred to as the “Nahabatkhana”—leading into a sanctuary steeped in legend and architectural grace .

The temple’s setting is as picturesque as it is historic. Framed by centuries-old banyan trees and a tranquil tank, the compound exudes peace. Walking paths around the water, shaded by foliage, provide a quiet refuge from the heaving streets of Old Dhaka .

Architecturally, Dhakeshwari stands as a testament to layered history. Its design weaves Hindu, Mughal, and Bengali influences—featuring a wooden‑door veranda adorned with floral and sculptural motifs, multi‑cusped arches, and a domed central chamber flanked by two flat-roofed side rooms . The northeastern corner of the pond hosts four identical Shiva temples—elegantly aligned—creating a visual rhythm beloved by photographers . The main temple, crowned with a spire, houses the idol of Goddess Dhakeshwari, a revered form of Durga, though today’s statue is a replica of the original .

Beyond its visual allure, Dhakeshwari’s cultural and emotional resonance is tremendous. As Bangladesh’s “National Temple,” it remains the most significant Hindu worship site in the country . Each autumn, the temple bursts into life during Durga Puja—with fervent crowds, devotional chants, and vibrant processions transforming the sacred space into a living tapestry of faith and tradition .

Today, despite the scars of history—damage sustained during the liberation war and changes in its layout—the temple stands resilient. It is both peaceful refuge and powerful emblem of heritage, inviting visitors to witness its timeless beauty and spiritual heart."

Sujan Neel

"It was a good special place and the persons who are very spiritual and phone to their religion especially Hindu religion can go to this place and they can enjoy the spirituality of this place and when I go to the place I have also enjoyed the the view and also the the sounding and iron Man that gives the spirituality it was really nice and very efficient for me and also the architecture of the taxi temple was a really appreciating and also fabulous and I would suggest everyone to especially who belongs to the Hindu region and a people who also not belong to the Hindu religion can also go and enjoy the view"

Nirjon Singha