Ahsan Manzil

Ahsan Manzil is one of the most iconic historical landmarks in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Situated on the banks of the Buriganga River in the old part of the city, it is also known as the “Pink Palace” because of its distinct pink façade. The palace once served as the official residential palace and seat of the Nawab of Dhaka. Today, Ahsan Manzil stands as a symbol of rich architectural heritage and is a major tourist attraction, offering insights into the colonial and Nawabi eras of Bangladesh.

How to Reach Ahsan Manzil, Dhaka

Ahsan Manzil is located in the Kumartoli area on the banks of the Buriganga River, in the southern part of Dhaka. It is about 2 kilometers from Sadarghat Launch Terminal and easily accessible by road.

By Road: You can take a rickshaw, taxi, or ride-sharing services like Uber or Pathao to reach Ahsan Manzil. From central areas like Motijheel, Gulistan, or Dhanmondi, it usually takes 30 to 60 minutes depending on traffic.

By Public Transport: Local buses and CNG autorickshaws frequently operate on the route towards Sadarghat. From Sadarghat, Ahsan Manzil is a short walk away.

By River: You can also enjoy a boat ride from Sadarghat to view the palace from the Buriganga River, which offers a unique perspective of the palace.

Weather in Dhaka

Dhaka experiences a tropical monsoon climate. Summers (April to June) are hot and humid with temperatures ranging from 30°C to 40°C. The monsoon season (June to September) brings heavy rainfall. Winter (November to February) is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C, making it the best time to visit Ahsan Manzil.

Timing of Ahsan Manzil

Ahsan Manzil is open to visitors on all days except Thursdays and government holidays.

Visiting Hours:
Saturday to Wednesday: 10:30 AM to 5:30 PM
Friday: 3:00 PM to 7:30 PM
Closed on Thursdays

Why is Ahsan Manzil Famous?

Ahsan Manzil is famous for its magnificent Indo-Saracenic architecture, historical significance, and role as the residence of the Nawabs of Dhaka. It was the center of political and social activities during the British colonial era. The palace is now a museum that displays a vast collection of artifacts, photographs, furniture, and items that belonged to the Nawabs, giving visitors a glimpse into 19th-century aristocratic life in Dhaka.

Entry and Visit Details

Entry Fees:
- Bangladeshi Nationals: BDT 20
- Foreign Tourists: BDT 300
- Students (with ID): BDT 5

Visitors are allowed to explore the palace and its gardens. Photography is permitted, but drone usage and video recording may require special permission.

History and Architecture

The construction of Ahsan Manzil began in 1859 and was completed in 1872. It was commissioned by Nawab Abdul Ghani and named after his son, Khwaja Ahsanullah. The palace was originally built on the site of an old French trading house.

Architecturally, Ahsan Manzil is a fine example of Indo-Saracenic Revival architecture, blending Mughal, European, and local styles. The palace consists of two parts – the eastern part (Rangmahal) and the western part (Andarmahal). It features a large dome, high ceilings, wooden staircases, marble floors, and arched windows. The pink color of the building adds to its charm and beauty.

Things to Do at Ahsan Manzil

Visiting Ahsan Manzil offers several interesting experiences:

• Explore the museum and view royal furniture, portraits, and household items of the Nawabs.
• Take a walk in the beautiful gardens surrounding the palace.
• Enjoy the view of the Buriganga River and observe river life in Dhaka.
• Capture photographs of the stunning pink architecture and heritage displays.
• Visit nearby attractions in Old Dhaka like Lalbagh Fort, Star Mosque, and Sadarghat.

Facts About Ahsan Manzil

- Ahsan Manzil was the first building in Dhaka to have electricity and modern plumbing.
- The palace was damaged by a tornado in 1888 but was later restored.
- After the fall of the Nawabs, it was used as a government building and later converted into a museum in 1992.
- The palace has 23 galleries displaying over 4,000 artifacts.
- It was declared a national museum by the Department of Archaeology of Bangladesh.

Tips for Visiting Ahsan Manzil

- Visit during winter (November to February) to enjoy pleasant weather.
- Avoid weekends if you prefer fewer crowds.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the museum has multiple floors and a large garden area.
- Be respectful of the historical site and avoid touching exhibits.
- Carry water and sun protection if visiting during the warmer months.
- Plan your visit early in the day to explore both the museum and surrounding Old Dhaka attractions.