Small wooden ferries and hired rowing boats on the Buriganga give a close view of the launches, dockyards and river life at Sadarghat, one of the busiest river ports in South Asia.
Sadarghat is the main river port of Dhaka, and hundreds of small wooden boats ferry people across the Buriganga to Keraniganj. Foreign visitors can hire a boatman for a round trip along the waterfront, typically 30 to 90 minutes, and see the multi-deck passenger launches, cargo barges and dockyards. Prices are negotiated and vary by season and boatman, so fix the fare and duration before stepping in. The Buriganga is heavily polluted, with strong odours and sediment; contact with the water should be avoided. Boats are crowded and rock in the wake of larger vessels. Go in the morning or late afternoon, keep valuables close, and be aware that the ghats are crowded and hectic. It is best to go with a local companion for a first visit.
| Price | Approx BDT 100-300 per person for a short round trip, negotiated (approx USD 0.80-2.40) |
|---|---|
| Duration | 30-90 minutes |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Season | Year-round; best November to February |
| Address | Sadarghat Launch Terminal, Old Dhaka, Dhaka 1100, Bangladesh |
Activity facts
- Where
- Sadarghat, Old Dhaka
Equipment
- Hat
- Hand sanitiser
- Waterproof bag cover
- Small BDT notes
Location
Sadarghat Launch Terminal, Old Dhaka, Dhaka 1100, Bangladesh
23.7043, 90.4076 View on map
Highlights
- Sadarghat river port and the large multi-deck launches
- Boat-building and dockyards along the Buriganga
- Everyday river commuting and cargo boats
- Old Dhaka waterfront from the water
Tips for visiting
- Agree the fare and route before boarding.
- Do not touch the river water; pollution is high.
- Keep phones and bags secured on the boat.
- Go in daylight only; the port is crowded and chaotic.
- Ask for a life jacket where available; they are uncommon.
When to visit
Morning or late afternoon
Accessibility
Not accessible; uneven ghats, wet steps and boarding by climbing into small boats.
Frequently asked questions
How much should a boat ride cost?
A short negotiated round trip commonly costs a few hundred BDT (about USD 1-3); agree the price in advance.
Is it safe for solo travellers?
It is used daily by locals, but the port is crowded and pickpocketing occurs; a local companion helps.