Ruplal House Dhaka
A fading 19th-century mansion in Old Dhaka, Ruplal House boasts Indo-European architecture and stunning Buriganga River views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Golden hour light enhances architecture.
Ruplal House Dhaka
Best Time
Golden hour light enhances architecture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A fading 19th-century mansion in Old Dhaka, Ruplal House boasts Indo-European architecture and stunning Buriganga River views.
"A true architectural marvel from the 19th century, Ruplal House stands as a testament to Old Dhaka's rich history."
🎯 Be Prepared for Access
Access can be restricted; inquire locally. Some visitors access rooftops .
🏛️ Respect the Heritage
The building is in disrepair; tread carefully and respect its historical significance .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Architectural Grandeur
Farashganj, Old Dhaka
A 19th-century mansion showcasing Indo-European elegance with Greek-inspired columns and Victorian castle motifs.
Buriganga River Views
Rooftop
Stunning panoramic views of the Buriganga River, offering a glimpse into Old Dhaka's riverside life.
Inner Courtyard
Explore the central courtyard, a space that once echoed with grandeur and now whispers tales of the past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing Ruplal House
Preservation Concerns
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Be Prepared for Access
Access can be restricted; inquire locally. Some visitors access rooftops.
🏛️ Respect the Heritage
The building is in disrepair; tread carefully and respect its historical significance.
📸 Capture the Details
Focus on the intricate architectural details and river views.
🚶♂️ Explore Old Dhaka
Combine your visit with other Old Dhaka attractions for a full experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Be Prepared for Access
Access can be restricted; inquire locally. Some visitors access rooftops.
🏛️ Respect the Heritage
The building is in disrepair; tread carefully and respect its historical significance.
📸 Capture the Details
Focus on the intricate architectural details and river views.
🚶♂️ Explore Old Dhaka
Combine your visit with other Old Dhaka attractions for a full experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Ruplal House is a stunning 19th-century architectural marvel in Old Dhaka, praised for its grandeur and riverside views. However, visitors are disheartened by its state of disrepair, with parts used for storage and occupied by squatters, leading to calls for urgent conservation.
"A true architectural marvel from the 19th century, Ruplal House stands as a testament to Old Dhaka's rich history. I particularly enjoyed the inner courtyard and the stunning view of the Buriganga River from the rooftop.
However, it's disheartening to see this historical gem in a state of disrepair, with squatters occupying parts of the structure. I sincerely hope the Archaeological Department of Bangladesh takes action to remove these encroachments and begins the necessary conservation work. Despite its current struggles, this building is a must-see for anyone interested in the heritage of Old Dhaka."
Yead Rahman Nirzhar
"This place is well hidden but contains a very beautiful architecture. Although, lack of care can be seen clearly.
Last I checked, this place was closed and prohibited for public visits.
If you are an architecture enthusiast, you will love it. But keep your expectations down."
Anik Sarkar
"One of the iconic landmarks near river Buriganga - Ruplal house is the long lost reminiscent glory of old Dhaka under British empire.
Ruplal House / Rooplal House is located at Farashganj, just beside the bank of the Buriganga River. It was built by two prominent merchant brothers from 18th century Dhaka - Ruplal and Raghunath Das. According to the locals, this palace may be around 150-200 years old. The building has large cylindrical columns in line with the architectural styles of Ancient Greek buildings. Also top of the building, especially the ledges are also decorated with intricate designs reminiscent of Greek Architure as well as the Victorian Castles of England.
Tragically, this once magnificent building is now using as storage facilities for nearby businesses. Both the archeological department and local people have failed to preserve its magnificent architecture for future generations."
Mirza Syeedul Islam Beg
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ruplal House is located in Farashganj, Old Dhaka, near the Buriganga River.
It's described as 'well hidden', so it's advisable to ask locals for directions once you're in the Farashganj vicinity. Having a local guide can be very helpful.
Rickshaws are a popular and authentic way to explore Old Dhaka's narrow lanes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Information on ticketing is scarce. Some reviews suggest it might be closed to the public or that access is restricted. It's best to check locally upon arrival.
Official opening hours are not readily available, and the building's accessibility varies. Some visitors have reported it being closed.
There is no clear information about an entrance fee. Given its current state and potential access issues, it's unlikely to have a formal ticketing system.
Some visitors have managed to access the rooftop for views.
📸 📸 Photography
The inner courtyard, the grand columns, and the rooftop offering views of the Buriganga River are prime photography locations.
While there are no explicit restrictions mentioned, be mindful of the building's condition and any local occupants. Respectful photography is generally appreciated.
Late afternoons, especially during the golden hour, can provide beautiful lighting to highlight the architectural details and river scenery.
The unique Greek-inspired columns and the intricate decorative ledges are highly photogenic. The contrast between the historic architecture and the bustling river life is also a great subject.
🎫 🏛️ History & Architecture
Built in the 19th century by Armenian merchant Stephen Aratun and later owned by businessman RupLal Das, it's a colonial-era mansion reflecting Indo-European architectural styles.
It features a blend of Indo-European styles, with large cylindrical columns reminiscent of ancient Greek buildings and decorative ledges similar to Victorian castles.
It's a significant heritage site in Old Dhaka, representing the city's rich past and architectural evolution during the colonial era.
Sadly, it's in a state of disrepair, with parts used for storage and occupied by squatters.
Conservation efforts are needed.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider combining this visit with more child-friendly activities in Old Dhaka, such as a rickshaw ride through the bustling streets or a visit to a local park. The historical context can be made engaging by framing it as a 'story of a grand old house' that needs care.
🏛️ Architecture Enthusiasts
Be prepared for a raw, unvarnished experience. The building's current use as storage and the presence of squatters
📸 Photographers
The interplay of light and shadow within the structure, especially in the inner courtyard, can create dramatic shots.The golden hour light in the late afternoon is ideal for capturing the building's textures and the scenic views of the Buriganga River.
Be mindful of the building's condition and any local occupants; respectful photography is key. The contrast between the historic facade and the vibrant life of Old Dhaka offers a unique photographic narrative.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Significance
Despite its current dilapidated state, the architectural integrity of Ruplal House remains evident. The sheer scale and the intricate details speak to the craftsmanship of its era. Visitors often express awe at its grandeur, even in its faded glory.
Many hope for its preservation and restoration. The Archaeological Department of Bangladesh has been urged to take action to conserve this historical gem.
The Riverside Setting and Views
The riverside location was historically significant for trade and transport, and the house was built to capitalize on this prime spot. The proximity to the river provides a unique vantage point to observe the daily life and bustling activity along the waterfront.From the rooftop, visitors can capture stunning panoramic shots of the Buriganga River and the surrounding Old Dhaka landscape.
However, the river's condition and the surrounding environment also reflect the challenges faced by Old Dhaka. While the views are beautiful, they also tell a story of urban development and the need for better environmental management. Nevertheless, the visual appeal of the river from Ruplal House remains a significant draw for photographers and sightseers alike.
Challenges of Preservation
This lack of proper maintenance and conservation raises concerns about the future of this heritage site. The Archaeological Department of Bangladesh has been called upon to intervene and address these issues, including the removal of encroachments.
Despite these challenges, the building's historical and architectural value continues to draw interest. The hope is that increased awareness and advocacy can lead to the necessary conservation efforts, ensuring that Ruplal House can be appreciated by future generations as a testament to Dhaka's rich past.
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