Chawkbazar Dhaka
Chawkbazar, Old Dhaka's historic heart, is a bustling marketplace famous for its vibrant Ramadan Iftar market and wholesale silver.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience the iconic iftar market
Chawkbazar Dhaka
Best Time
Experience the iconic iftar market
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Chawkbazar, Old Dhaka's historic heart, is a bustling marketplace famous for its vibrant Ramadan Iftar market and wholesale silver.
"Experience the sensory overload of Chawkbazar's legendary Iftar market during Ramadan!"
🎯 Embrace the Ramadan Rush
During Ramadan, Chawkbazar is incredibly crowded. Go with patience and an adventurous spirit!
💰 Wholesale Silver Finds
For wholesale silver ornaments, Chawkbazar is your go-to. Ask locals for the best spots.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Iftar Delicacies
Chawkbazar Iftar Market
Indulge in a dazzling array of traditional iftar dishes, many with Mughal roots. A culinary adventure awaits!
Historic Market Atmosphere
Chawkbazar lanes
Experience the vibrant, centuries-old commercial heart of Old Dhaka. A true sensory immersion.
Silver Ornament Wholesale
Chawkbazar
Discover a treasure trove of fine crafted silver ornaments, often available at wholesale prices.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Ramadan Iftar Market Buzz
Beyond Ramadan: A Historic Hub
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Embrace the Ramadan Rush
During Ramadan, Chawkbazar is incredibly crowded. Go with patience and an adventurous spirit!
💰 Wholesale Silver Finds
For wholesale silver ornaments, Chawkbazar is your go-to. Ask locals for the best spots.
🚶♀️ Navigate the Bustle
Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for narrow, crowded lanes.
📸 Capture the Flavors
Bring your camera to document the incredible food displays and vibrant market scenes.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Embrace the Ramadan Rush
During Ramadan, Chawkbazar is incredibly crowded. Go with patience and an adventurous spirit!
💰 Wholesale Silver Finds
For wholesale silver ornaments, Chawkbazar is your go-to. Ask locals for the best spots.
🚶♀️ Navigate the Bustle
Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for narrow, crowded lanes.
📸 Capture the Flavors
Bring your camera to document the incredible food displays and vibrant market scenes.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Chawkbazar is celebrated for its vibrant Ramadan Iftar market, offering a dazzling array of traditional foods and a lively atmosphere. Visitors also appreciate its historical significance as an ancient commercial hub and a place to find wholesale silver ornaments. However, the extreme crowds during Ramadan and the chaotic nature of the market can be overwhelming for some.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Chawkbazar is located in Old Dhaka. You can reach it by rickshaw, auto-rickshaw, or taxi from most parts of the city. Be prepared for traffic, especially during peak hours and Ramadan. +1
Yes, local buses and auto-rickshaws frequent the Old Dhaka area, making Chawkbazar accessible via public transport. However, navigating the narrow streets might be easier with a rickshaw.
Rickshaws are a quintessential Old Dhaka experience and are excellent for navigating the narrow lanes leading to and around Chawkbazar.
Yes, ride-sharing apps like Uber and Pathao are available in Dhaka and can be a convenient way to get to Chawkbazar, though drop-off points might be affected by crowds.
Travel time can vary significantly due to Dhaka's notorious traffic. It can take anywhere from 45 minutes to over 1.5 hours depending on the time of day.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Chawkbazar itself is a public market and does not have an entry fee. You only pay for the goods you purchase.
Chawkbazar operates as a traditional market throughout the day. However, its famous Iftar market during Ramadan is most active from late afternoon until after sunset.
Absolutely! Ramadan is when Chawkbazar truly comes alive with its spectacular Iftar market, attracting huge crowds. +1
During Ramadan evenings, it gets extremely crowded. If you prefer a less hectic experience, consider visiting during daytime hours on weekdays, outside of Ramadan.
No advance booking is required for general visits. However, if you plan to dine at specific restaurants in the area, it might be wise to check their reservation policies.
🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Goods
Chawkbazar is a historic hub for various goods, including spices, textiles, traditional clothing, and famously, silver ornaments. During Ramadan, it's renowned for its Iftar food items.
Locals suggest Chawkbazar is a prime spot for wholesale silver ornaments. It's best to explore the market and ask vendors for specific locations.
Bargaining is common in traditional markets like Chawkbazar, especially for non-food items. Be polite and ready to negotiate.
You must try the variety of kebabs, traditional sweets, and other unique iftar dishes that have been prepared for generations. +1
Yes, Chawkbazar is historically known for its spice markets. You can find a wide array of fresh and dried spices and herbs.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed, but always be respectful of vendors and shoppers. Ask permission before taking close-up shots of individuals.
The bustling Iftar market during Ramadan offers incredible photo opportunities. The narrow lanes and the vibrant displays of food are very photogenic.
Drone photography is generally not permitted in crowded public spaces in Dhaka without proper authorization. It's best to avoid it.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is useful for capturing both wide market scenes and details. A fast prime lens can be great for low-light conditions during Ramadan evenings.
Focus on the vibrant colors, the interactions between vendors and customers, and the sheer energy of the market. Capture the details of the food and the architecture.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If you do visit during Ramadan, focus on specific food stalls and perhaps a quick purchase of a unique item. Keep a close eye on your belongings and stay together. For a more relaxed family outing, exploring the historical aspects of Old Dhaka outside of peak market times might be more suitable.
💰 Budget Travelers
For shopping, particularly for items like spices or textiles, Chawkbazar is known for its competitive pricing. If you're looking for silver ornaments, the potential for wholesale prices makes it a great spot for value. Remember to practice polite bargaining to get the best deals.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Beyond Ramadan, the historic lanes and the daily hustle of the market present a different, yet equally compelling, photographic narrative. Be prepared for crowded conditions and always be respectful when photographing people. A versatile lens and a good eye for detail will serve you well here.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legendary Chawkbazar Iftar Market
+1Navigating the market during Ramadan requires patience, as it becomes incredibly crowded. Makeshift stalls line the streets, showcasing a dazzling array of food that caters to every palate. Many vendors have been operating here for decades, maintaining the authenticity and quality of their offerings. The experience is not just about the food; it's about immersing yourself in a vibrant cultural tradition that is deeply ingrained in Dhaka's identity.
+1Beyond the Ramadan spectacle, Chawkbazar remains a significant commercial hub throughout the year. It's a place where you can find everything from spices and textiles to traditional crafts. However, the Iftar market is undoubtedly its most famous iteration, offering a unique glimpse into the culinary heritage and community spirit of Old Dhaka.
A Glimpse into Old Dhaka's History
Historically, Chawkbazar was a major trading center, known for its diverse range of goods. This legacy continues today, with various specialized markets within the larger Chawkbazar area. It's a place where you can still find traditional crafts, spices, and textiles, offering a tangible connection to the city's past.
The area's historical importance is palpable, especially during Ramadan when the tradition of the Iftar market adds another layer to its cultural significance. It's a place that embodies the enduring spirit and heritage of Old Dhaka, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in the city's history and culture.
Shopping for Silver Ornaments
When exploring Chawkbazar for silver, it's advisable to wander through the different sections of the market and inquire with various vendors. The Reddit community suggests that asking locals or shopkeepers for directions to the specific areas known for ornaments can be very helpful. Be prepared to negotiate prices, as bargaining is a common practice in such traditional markets.
While the primary draw for many visitors might be the famous Iftar market during Ramadan, the year-round shopping opportunities, particularly for items like silver ornaments, add to Chawkbazar's appeal as a multifaceted commercial and cultural hub in Old Dhaka.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit