Introduction: Choosing the Right Hotel in Dhaka
Finding the perfect hotels to stay in Dhaka can transform your experience in Bangladesh’s vibrant capital. Whether visiting for business, cultural exploration, or leisure, selecting the right accommodation is crucial for a comfortable and successful trip.
Dhaka, home to over 20 million people, offers diverse accommodation options from ultra-modern luxury hotels to budget-friendly stays. The city’s hotel landscape features international chains and local properties catering to every budget and preference.
Choosing the right hotel in Dhaka requires considering several factors: location is paramount due to traffic congestion, your visit purpose determines needed amenities, and service quality varies significantly across price ranges.
This guide explores the top hotels to stay in Dhaka, featuring five exceptional properties from luxury city hotels to contemporary business accommodations. We’ll also cover the best areas to stay, budget versus luxury comparisons, and practical booking tips to help you find perfect accommodation for your Dhaka visit.
Pan Pacific Sonargaon Dhaka – Luxury City Hotel
Pan Pacific Sonargaon Dhaka stands as one of the most iconic luxury city hotels in Bangladesh. Located in Karwan Bazar, this legendary property has been the preferred choice for international dignitaries and business leaders since opening in 1981.
Why Pan Pacific Sonargaon Dhaka Excels:
- Prime Karwan Bazar location, central to business and diplomatic districts
- 348 elegantly appointed rooms and suites
- Multiple award-winning restaurants
- Extensive conference facilities over 30,000 square feet
- Full-service spa, fitness center, and outdoor pool
- Executive Club floors with exclusive lounge access
- Impeccable service standards
- Rich heritage with modern renovations
Accommodation and Dining:
The hotel offers Superior Rooms, Deluxe Rooms, Executive Club Rooms, and luxurious Suites. All feature high-speed WiFi, smart TVs, premium bedding, and well-appointed bathrooms. Executive Club access includes complimentary breakfast, evening cocktails, and dedicated lounge space.
Dining options include Café Bazar for international buffets, Jharna Grill for fine dining, and Seasonal Tastes for all-day dining. The restaurants serve everything from traditional Bangladeshi dishes to international cuisine.
Business and Wellness:
The Grand Ballroom accommodates up to 1,200 guests, with multiple function rooms and boardrooms equipped with modern technology. The business center provides full secretarial services and private workspaces.
The outdoor swimming pool, surrounded by landscaped gardens, offers an urban oasis. The fitness center operates 24 hours with modern equipment, while the spa provides relaxation treatments.
Why Choose Pan Pacific Sonargaon:
This luxury city hotel suits business travelers needing central location and extensive facilities, diplomatic visitors requiring security and discretion, and anyone seeking proven luxury with comprehensive services. The Karwan Bazar location provides walking distance to government offices and embassies.
InterContinental Dhaka – Heritage Meets Modern Comfort
InterContinental Dhaka combines heritage architecture with contemporary comfort in the upscale Gulshan diplomatic enclave. This distinguished property has served as a landmark for decades, continuously evolving while preserving its distinctive character.
InterContinental Dhaka Highlights:
- Prime Gulshan 2 location in the diplomatic area
- 226 rooms and suites blending classic elegance with modern amenities
- Multiple dining venues offering diverse culinary experiences
- Extensive outdoor swimming pool and landscaped gardens
- Well-equipped fitness center and spa
- Comprehensive business center and meeting rooms
- IHG Rewards Club benefits
Rooms and Amenities:
The 226 accommodations include Superior Rooms, Deluxe Rooms, Club InterContinental Rooms, and Suites. Club rooms provide access to the executive lounge with complimentary breakfast and evening refreshments. All rooms feature high-speed internet, flat-screen TVs, and modern amenities.
Dining options include Elements Restaurant for international buffets, Café Vienna for European-style café experiences, and specialty Asian restaurants. The poolside restaurant offers outdoor dining in a resort-like setting.
The Legendary Pool and Location:
The expansive outdoor swimming pool and surrounding gardens create an urban oasis—a rare asset in dense Dhaka. The Gulshan 2 location provides proximity to embassies, international organizations, upscale dining, and shopping options.
Business Facilities:
Meeting rooms accommodate various event formats, while the Grand Ballroom handles larger conferences and events. The business center provides standard services, and professional event planning staff assist with all details.
Who Should Choose InterContinental:
Perfect for diplomatic visitors, business travelers seeking reliable quality in Gulshan, families appreciating spacious rooms and pool facilities, and regular Dhaka visitors who prefer consistency and familiar environments.
Radisson Blu Dhaka Water Garden – Business & Leisure Stay
Radisson Blu Dhaka Water Garden creates an urban resort atmosphere on Airport Road, successfully serving both business and leisure travelers. The unique water garden concept distinguishes this contemporary property from typical business hotels.
Radisson Blu Features:
- Strategic Airport Road location
- 312 contemporary rooms and suites
- Unique water garden landscape creating resort ambiance
- Multiple dining venues
- Extensive meeting and conference facilities
- Spa, fitness center, and swimming pool
- Excellent value proposition
The Water Garden Concept:
Water features, landscaping, and outdoor spaces throughout the property create a resort atmosphere rare in urban Dhaka. These gardens provide genuine relaxation space where guests can decompress.
Accommodations and Dining:
Superior Rooms, Business Class Rooms, and Suites feature contemporary design with modern amenities. Business Class rooms include lounge access with complimentary breakfast and evening refreshments.
The Water Garden Café serves international buffets, while specialty restaurants focus on specific cuisines. The lobby lounge and bars provide casual spaces for meetings or relaxation.
Business and Wellness:
Comprehensive meeting facilities span thousands of square feet with modern technology. The business center and Business Class Lounge cater to corporate travelers.
The swimming pool, surrounded by water gardens, offers relaxation and exercise. The 24-hour fitness center features quality equipment, while the spa provides extensive treatments.
Location and Value:
The Airport Road location provides convenient airport access and proximity to industrial areas. While accessing central Dhaka requires navigating traffic, the location suits travelers prioritizing airport convenience or working in export processing zones.
Pricing typically offers excellent value—comprehensive facilities and quality service at mid-to-upper range rates.
Who Should Choose Radisson Blu:
Ideal for travelers prioritizing airport access, business travelers seeking balance between professional facilities and resort atmosphere, conference organizers needing comprehensive meeting spaces, and value-conscious travelers wanting international standards at reasonable prices.
The Westin Dhaka – Premium Hotel in Gulshan
The Westin Dhaka brings wellness-focused hospitality to Gulshan, combining contemporary luxury with the brand’s commitment to guest well-being. This modern property prioritizes both comfort and health.
The Westin Dhaka Features:
- Prime Gulshan location
- Contemporary luxury design with wellness philosophy
- Signature Heavenly Beds for exceptional sleep
- WestinWORKOUT fitness center
- Multiple dining venues
- Extensive meeting spaces
- Marriott Bonvoy benefits
Wellness-Centered Approach:
The Westin integrates wellness into every aspect—from Heavenly Beds ensuring quality sleep to WestinWORKOUT fitness programs, healthy dining options, and stress-reducing design elements.
Accommodations:
Guest Rooms feature the legendary Heavenly Bed with custom mattresses and luxurious linens. Executive Club Rooms provide lounge access, while Suites offer separate living areas. All rooms include wellness-oriented design, modern technology, and Heavenly Bath concepts.
Dining and Wellness:
Seasonal Tastes serves international cuisine with SuperFoodsRx menu items designed by nutrition experts. Asian specialty restaurants and The Bar provide additional options, with 24-hour in-room dining available.
WestinWORKOUT includes quality fitness equipment, complimentary workout gear, running routes, and group classes. The swimming pool and spa complete the wellness offerings.
Business Capabilities:
Meeting spaces accommodate various events from boardrooms to the grand ballroom. The business center and concierge services support business travelers comprehensively.
Who Should Choose The Westin:
Perfect for health-conscious travelers, business travelers seeking balance between work and wellness, Marriott Bonvoy members, guests prioritizing sleep quality, and those valuing brand consistency.
Amari Dhaka – Contemporary Business Hotel
Amari Dhaka represents contemporary business hospitality with fresh design and competitive pricing. Part of Thailand-based Onyx Hospitality Group, this property combines Asian hospitality with modern luxury.
Amari Dhaka Features:
- Modern contemporary design
- Well-appointed rooms with current technology
- Multiple dining venues
- Comprehensive meeting facilities
- Modern fitness center and spa
- Competitive pricing with strong value
- Asian hospitality traditions
Contemporary Design and Accommodations:
Superior Rooms, Deluxe Rooms, Executive Rooms, and Suites feature clean contemporary design appealing to modern travelers. Executive rooms include lounge access. All rooms offer fast WiFi, smart TVs, and thoughtful amenities.
Dining and Business:
The all-day dining restaurant serves international buffets, while specialty restaurants focus on Asian cuisines. The lounge and bar provide casual meeting spaces.
Meeting and conference facilities feature modern technology with professional support. The business center and executive lounge serve corporate travelers’ needs.
Wellness and Service:
The fitness center provides modern equipment, while the swimming pool and spa offer recreation and relaxation. Amari emphasizes Asian hospitality traditions—genuine warmth and attention to detail combined with professional service.
Value Proposition:
Amari typically offers competitive pricing below ultra-luxury properties while maintaining international standards. Promotional offers and corporate rates enhance value further.
Who Should Choose Amari:
Ideal for modern business travelers appreciating contemporary design, value-conscious professionals seeking international standards at competitive prices, younger travelers preferring modern aesthetics, and those prioritizing current facilities and technology.
Best Areas to Stay in Dhaka for Travelers
Choosing the right neighborhood significantly impacts your Dhaka experience due to the city’s size and traffic congestion. Here are the key areas to consider when selecting hotels to stay in Dhaka:
Gulshan – The Diplomatic Hub: Advantages: Safest area with enhanced security, upscale amenities, best restaurants and shops, proximity to embassies and international organizations, quality five-star hotels. Disadvantages: Premium pricing, traffic congestion during peak hours. Best for: Diplomatic visitors, international business travelers, those prioritizing safety and upscale environment.
Banani – Business and Entertainment: Advantages: Corporate offices, entertainment venues, hotel variety, active nightlife. Disadvantages: Heavy traffic, higher noise levels. Best for: Business travelers, younger visitors seeking dining and entertainment.
Airport Road – Convenient Access: Advantages: Airport proximity, access to industrial areas, modern hotels, less congested. Disadvantages: Distance from central Dhaka, limited dining options. Best for: Short trips, visitors working in export processing zones.
Dhanmondi – Residential Character: Advantages: Authentic Dhaka experience, cultural sites, affordable pricing, diverse dining. Disadvantages: Fewer international hotels, traffic congestion. Best for: Budget-conscious travelers, those seeking authentic experiences.
Old Dhaka – Historic Heart: Advantages: Cultural richness, authentic food, traditional markets, affordable. Disadvantages: Limited quality hotels, extreme congestion, infrastructure challenges. Best for: Cultural tourists, food enthusiasts, day visitors.
Making the Choice:
For most first-time visitors and business travelers, Gulshan offers the optimal balance of safety, amenities, and access despite premium pricing. Match your hotel choice to your primary destinations, considering that Dhaka’s traffic makes proximity more important than distanc
Budget vs Luxury Hotels in Dhaka
Understanding the differences between budget and luxury hotels in Dhaka helps you find the right balance between cost and quality based on your needs.
Luxury Hotels ($150-300+ per night):
What You Get:
- Prime locations (Gulshan, Banani) with better safety and access
- Spacious, well-maintained rooms with quality construction
- Professional, English-speaking staff with adequate ratios
- Multiple on-site restaurants with diverse, quality dining
- Comprehensive business facilities and meeting spaces
- Reliable WiFi, consistent electricity, dependable air conditioning
- Swimming pools, fitness centers, spas
- International brand consistency and loyalty program benefits
Budget Hotels ($25-80 per night):
What to Expect:
- Less prestigious locations requiring longer commutes
- Smaller rooms with basic facilities
- Limited staff and potential language barriers
- Minimal or no on-site dining
- No business facilities or recreational amenities
- Inconsistent electricity and climate control
- Self-service approach to most needs
Mid-Range Sweet Spot ($80-150 per night):
Offers the best value for many travelers:
- Decent locations (Dhanmondi, some in Gulshan/Banani)
- Clean, comfortable rooms
- Reliable basic amenities (AC, WiFi, hot water)
- Some dining options
- English-speaking staff
- Reasonable safety standards
Making the Decision:
Choose Luxury When:
- Company pays for business travel
- Safety is paramount
- Making very short trips
- Hosting business meetings at hotel
- Quality sleep directly affects performance
- Have specific health or mobility needs
Choose Budget/Mid-Range When:
- Paying personally
- Spending minimal time at hotel
- Traveling long-term
- Prioritizing cultural experience
- Needs are minimal
Value Consideration:
True value isn’t the cheapest price but the optimal balance for YOUR needs. A $250/night luxury hotel saving 2 hours daily commute may deliver better value than an $80/night hotel requiring extensive travel. Calculate full costs including hidden expenses and opportunity costs when deciding.
Tips for Booking Hotels in Dhaka
Successfully booking hotels to stay in Dhaka requires understanding local market dynamics and employing smart strategies.
When to Book:
- Advance booking: 2-4 weeks for luxury hotels, 1-2 weeks for mid-range. Book earlier during peak periods (February-March wedding season, Eid holidays, major conferences).
- Early booking benefits: Better rates (10-30% off), room availability, choice of room types, price protection.
Where to Book:
Hotel Direct Websites: Often offer best rate guarantees, direct communication, easier special requests.
Online Travel Agencies (Booking.com, Agoda, Expedia): Easy price comparison, user reviews, sometimes exclusive deals, no prepayment required.
Strategy: Use OTAs for research and comparison, then check hotel direct website for price matching.
Loyalty Programs: Marriott Bonvoy, IHG Rewards, and Radisson Rewards provide points, upgrades, and member rates.
Getting the Best Price:
- Check OTA prices
- Check hotel direct websites
- Compare loyalty member rates
- Call hotel directly to ask for price matching
- Book wherever offers best combination of price and terms
Rate Types:
- Non-refundable: Lowest prices, cannot cancel
- Flexible: Cost 10-30% more, allows cancellations
- Breakfast included: Calculate value ($15-30 if purchased separately)
Payment and Currency:
- Use credit cards for protection and points
- Prepaid rates usually cheaper, pay-at-hotel offers flexibility
- Check if USD or BDT offers better rate
Reading Reviews:
Look for recent reviews (within 6 months), patterns in feedback, reviews from similar travelers, and how hotels respond to criticism. Check Google Reviews, Booking.com, and TripAdvisor.
Special Requests:
Communicate early: high floor, quiet room, dietary requirements, early check-in/late checkout, airport transfer. Email directly to hotel and follow up with phone call.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Booking wrong dates
- Ignoring location and traffic impact
- Focusing only on price
- Not reading cancellation policies
- Skipping reviews
- Not confirming reservations
- Assuming amenities without verification
Conclusion: Finding the Perfect Stay in Dhaka
Selecting the right hotels to stay in Dhaka significantly impacts your overall experience in Bangladesh’s vibrant, challenging, and fascinating capital. This comprehensive guide has explored Dhaka’s premier hotel options—from the legendary Pan Pacific Sonargaon with its decades of proven excellence to InterContinental Dhaka’s perfect balance of heritage and modern comfort, from Radisson Blu’s innovative water garden concept to The Westin’s wellness-focused luxury, and Amari Dhaka’s contemporary business hotel approach.
Each of these properties brings unique strengths to Dhaka’s hospitality landscape. Pan Pacific Sonargaon Dhaka stands as an institution, offering central location, extensive facilities, and the kind of established reputation that comes only from decades of consistent service. InterContinental Dhaka successfully marries heritage property charm with modern amenities in Gulshan’s prestigious diplomatic enclave. Radisson Blu Dhaka Water Garden creates an urban resort atmosphere while maintaining comprehensive business facilities. The Westin Dhaka brings brand-name wellness focus to premium accommodation. Amari Dhaka represents contemporary business hospitality with strong value proposition.
The right choice among these excellent options—or among the broader range of hotels to stay in Dhaka—depends entirely on your specific circumstances, priorities, and needs. Understanding the factors we’ve discussed throughout this guide helps you make informed decisions rather than defaulting to conventional wisdom or simply booking the cheapest or most expensive option.
Location matters enormously in Dhaka due to the city’s traffic challenges. Choosing accommodation near your primary destinations can save hours daily and reduce the stress of navigating one of the world’s most congested cities. Gulshan offers the most prestigious address with the best infrastructure, safety, and amenities, though at premium prices. Banani provides business access with more entertainment options. Airport Road serves travelers prioritizing airport proximity or working in industrial areas. Dhanmondi offers more affordable rates with authentic neighborhood character.
Purpose of visit should guide your hotel choice. Business travelers often benefit from luxury hotels’ professional services, strategic locations, and comprehensive meeting facilities. Diplomatic visitors find Gulshan’s embassy proximity and enhanced security valuable. Leisure tourists might prioritize different factors—proximity to cultural sites, resort-like amenities for relaxation, or budget-friendly options that preserve resources for experiences and dining.
Budget considerations require balancing cost against value. While luxury hotels in Dhaka charge $150-300+ per night for standard rooms, they provide location advantages, service quality, and amenities that often justify the investment for business travelers or those prioritizing comfort. Mid-range options ($80-150) frequently offer the best value for many travelers—decent locations, reliable basics, and adequate comfort without luxury pricing. Budget hotels ($30-80) work for cost-conscious travelers willing to sacrifice comfort and convenience for savings.
Service expectations vary among travelers, and matching hotel choice to your service needs prevents disappointment. If you value attentive service, anticipatory assistance, and professional support handling your needs, luxury hotels justify their premium. If you’re comfortable with more self-service approaches and basic support, mid-range or budget options suffice.
Amenities and facilities matter differently to different travelers. Business travelers might prioritize meeting rooms, business centers, and executive lounges. Families value pools, larger rooms, and dining variety. Wellness-focused travelers appreciate fitness centers and spas. Solo budget travelers might need only clean beds and hot showers.
The hotels we’ve featured in this guide represent the top tier of accommodation options in Dhaka, but they’re not the only choices. Dhaka’s hotel market continues evolving with new properties opening, established hotels renovating, and the overall hospitality standards gradually improving. Research current options, read recent reviews, and make informed choices based on up-to-date information rather than relying solely on historical reputation.
Practical tips for successful hotel stays in Dhaka:
Book thoughtfully using the strategies discussed—compare prices across platforms, understand cancellation policies, communicate special needs clearly, and confirm reservations before arrival.
Set realistic expectations based on Dhaka’s realities. Even luxury hotels face challenges like occasional power fluctuations (though they have backup systems), traffic affecting service timing, and the limitations of operating in a developing country context.
Communicate clearly with hotel staff about your needs, concerns, and questions. Quality hotels want to help but can’t address issues they don’t know about.
Use the concierge at luxury and mid-range hotels for navigation guidance, restaurant recommendations, transportation arrangements, and local knowledge that enhances your Dhaka experience.
Respect local culture even in international hotels. Dhaka hotels welcome international visitors but appreciate guests who show cultural awareness and respect for Bangladeshi customs.
Provide feedback through reviews, direct communication, or comment cards. Honest, constructive feedback helps hotels improve and assists future travelers making decisions.
Finding the perfect stay in Dhaka isn’t about booking the most expensive or cheapest option, or simply choosing the hotel with the highest review scores. It’s about understanding your specific needs, researching options thoroughly, making informed choices based on relevant factors, and selecting accommodation that optimizes the balance between cost, location, comfort, amenities, and service quality for YOUR particular journey.
Dhaka challenges travelers with its traffic, crowds, noise, and the intensity of life in one of the world’s densest cities. The right hotel becomes more than just accommodation—it’s your sanctuary, your productivity base, your connection point for navigating the city, and the foundation that makes your Dhaka experience successful rather than stressful.
Whether you choose the proven luxury of Pan Pacific Sonargaon, the heritage charm of InterContinental, the resort atmosphere of Radisson Blu Water Garden, the wellness focus of The Westin, the contemporary approach of Amari, or explore the many other hotels to stay in Dhaka, make your choice deliberately and confidently. Research thoroughly, book carefully, communicate clearly, and approach your Dhaka accommodation as the strategic decision it truly is.
Bangladesh’s capital offers remarkable experiences for business travelers, cultural tourists, and adventurous visitors willing to embrace its complexity. The right hotel choice makes those experiences accessible, comfortable, and memorable. Use this guide as your foundation for making informed decisions, but remember that your specific needs and circumstances should ultimately guide your choice.
Welcome to Dhaka, and may your accommodation choice provide the perfect base for discovering everything this fascinating city has to offer!
