Ahsan Manzil Dhaka – Explore the Pink Palace of Old Dhaka

📜 Introduction

Nestled on the banks of the Buriganga River in Old Dhaka, Ahsan Manzil—popularly known as the Pink Palace—is a majestic symbol of Bangladesh’s historical and architectural glory. Once the grand residential palace of the Nawab of Dhaka, this 19th-century gem is now a museum showcasing the opulent lifestyle of Bengal’s aristocracy.

Its iconic pink façade, Mughal-European architecture, and rich history make it one of the most visited landmarks in Dhaka. For tourists, historians, students, and photography lovers, Ahsan Manzil offers a fascinating journey into the past.

🏛️ A Glimpse into the Past

The palace’s construction began in 1859 under the guidance of Nawab Khwaja Abdul Ghani and was completed in 1872. It was later named after his son, Nawab Khwaja Ahsanullah.

During its golden years, Ahsan Manzil became:

The political and social hub of Dhaka
A venue for lavish parties, royal gatherings, and important decisions
A meeting ground for national leaders, colonial officers, and international guests

After the decline of the Nawab family and the political changes following the partition of India, the palace slowly lost its charm and fell into disrepair. In 1992, after decades of neglect, it was fully restored by the Bangladesh National Museum and reopened as a public museum.

Today, it stands not only as an architectural wonder but also as a historical archive of Dhaka’s Nawabi era.

🎨 Architecture and Interior

The most striking feature of Ahsan Manzil is its pink exterior, which has earned it the nickname Pink Palace. The building reflects a unique blend of Mughal and European styles, combining elegance with grandeur.

Structure Layout

The palace is divided into two main sections:

Rang Mahal (Eastern Part): Residential quarters used for daily living.
Andar Mahal (Western Part): Administrative and formal reception areas.

Highlights Inside

Visitors walking through the halls will encounter:

Vintage crystal chandeliers
Ornate antique furniture
Royal portraits of the Nawabs
Displays of Nawabi attire, crockery, and weaponry
Original artifacts, carpets, and decorative items

Each room tells a story of how Bengal’s elite lived, ruled, and celebrated life during the 19th and early 20th centuries.

📸 What to See & Do at Ahsan Manzil

🌉 Grand Staircase Entrance: The magnificent staircase leading up to the palace is a photographer’s favorite.
🖼️ Museum Galleries: Explore exhibitions of Nawabi lifestyle, including furniture, utensils, and official documents.
🧭 Roof Access: Climb to the rooftop for sweeping views of the Buriganga River and the busy Sadarghat area.
📷 Photography Hotspot: The pink walls against blue skies (or golden sunsets) make for iconic Dhaka travel photos.
🚤 Boat Ride on the Buriganga: Extend your visit with a traditional boat ride from Sadarghat—an authentic Old Dhaka experience.

🕒 Visitor Information

Opening Hours:
- Saturday–Wednesday: 10:30 AM – 5:30 PM
- Friday: 3:00 PM – 7:30 PM
- Closed on Thursdays & public holidays
Entry Fees:
- Local visitors: BDT 20
- Foreign visitors: BDT 500
Best Time to Visit:
- November to February (Winter): Pleasant weather, best for exploring Old Dhaka.
- Visit during weekdays or mornings to avoid heavy crowds.

🚗 How to Reach Ahsan Manzil

Located in Kumartoli, Old Dhaka, the palace is easily accessible:

By Rickshaw/Auto-rickshaw: From Gulistan or Sadarghat.
By Car/Taxi: Use Google Maps with the destination “Ahsan Manzil Museum.”
By River: Combine your trip with a short boat ride from Sadarghat Launch Terminal (nearest landmark).

🏨 Where to Stay Nearby

While most tourists prefer staying in central Dhaka, those exploring Old Dhaka can choose nearby hotels:

Hotel 71 (budget-friendly, close to Old Dhaka)
La Vinci Hotel (mid-range, with modern amenities)
Pan Pacific Sonargaon (luxury stay, a short drive away)

🍴 Food & Dining Around Old Dhaka

Old Dhaka is famous for its unique cuisine. After visiting Ahsan Manzil, don’t miss:

Haji Biriyani – Legendary mutton biriyani.
Star Kabab & Restaurant – Kebab platters and Bengali meals.
Shutki maach (dried fish curries) – A specialty of Dhaka kitchens.
Traditional sweets like bakarkhani, chomchom, and roshogolla.

🗺️ Combine with Nearby Attractions

Ahsan Manzil is surrounded by other historic landmarks, making it perfect for a heritage walking tour:

Lalbagh Fort – A 17th-century Mughal fort.
Star Mosque (Tara Masjid) – A uniquely tiled mosque in Old Dhaka.
Armenian Church – A quiet church from the 18th century.
Sadarghat Launch Terminal – Experience Dhaka’s bustling river transport hub.

💡 Travel Tips

Visit early in the day for quieter access.
Wear comfortable shoes—Old Dhaka streets can be narrow and crowded.
Keep some cash, as most local shops don’t accept cards.
Hire a local guide if you want deep historical insights.
Capture the palace during sunset hours for the best lighting.

❤️ Final Thoughts

Ahsan Manzil is more than just a monument—it’s a time capsule of Bengal’s aristocratic past. Its rose-colored walls echo with tales of grandeur, political power, and cultural richness.

For travelers exploring Dhaka, the Pink Palace is an essential stop to understand the city’s heritage, Nawabi history, and architectural brilliance. Whether you’re an art lover, a historian, or simply someone curious about Old Dhaka, Ahsan Manzil promises a memorable journey.