Dhaka's largest urban lake project has a paved lakeside footpath, bridges and landscaped promenades, and it is the city's most convenient place for a continuous walk away from traffic.
Hatirjheel is an engineered lake and drainage system that opened to the public in 2013, threading between Tejgaon, Gulshan, Badda, Rampura and Moghbazar. A lakeside walkway of roughly 9-10km, part of a wider project that also includes a ring of roads, gives Dhaka one of its few long, traffic-free promenades. Walkers can start at the Tejgaon or Gulshan-side entrances and follow the water past landscaped sections, small piers and the curved bridges that are lit at night. The path is paved and flat, so it suits casual walkers, joggers and families rather than serious hikers. Shade is patchy and the mid-day sun is strong for most of the year, so early morning or late afternoon is best. Food carts and small kiosks operate near the main entrances; public toilets are limited and of variable quality. Evenings and weekends are crowded with families; solo visitors should keep to the busier, lit sections after dark and avoid isolated stretches near construction. Boat rides across the lake are cheap and run from several piers, and fares should be agreed before boarding.
| Distance | About 9-10km of lakeside footpath in total; 3-5km loops are common |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1-3 hours |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Trailhead | Rickshaw, ride-hailing (Uber, Pathao) or bus to Tejgaon, Gulshan-1 or Moghbazar. |
| Best season | November to February |
| Address | Hatirjheel Lake Park, Tejgaon, Dhaka 1208, Bangladesh |
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Hatirjheel, Tejgaon-Gulshan-Rampura, Dhaka
What to bring
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Water bottle
- Sun hat and sunscreen
- Umbrella in the monsoon (June-September)
Location
Hatirjheel Lake Park, Tejgaon, Dhaka 1208, Bangladesh
23.7690, 90.4030 View on map
Highlights
- Long paved lakeside footpath with benches and lighting
- Views of the Gulshan and Tejgaon skyline across the water
- Cheap boat rides across the lake (reported fares about BDT 25 / USD 0.20)
- Evening lights on the bridges
Tips for visiting
- Walk before 8:30 AM or after 4:30 PM to avoid the heat and the strongest sun.
- Carry water; kiosks exist but supplies vary.
- Stay on the busier lit sections after dark and avoid isolated stretches when alone.
- Agree the boat fare before boarding; reported fares are around BDT 25 (about USD 0.20) per ride.
- Friday and holiday evenings are very crowded; weekday mornings are the calmest.
When to visit
Early morning (6:00-8:30 AM) or late afternoon to evening in the cool season.
Accessibility
The main promenades are paved and mostly level, but ramps, curbs and steps at some bridges and entrances vary; wheelchair use is possible on some sections only.
Frequently asked questions
Is Hatirjheel safe to walk?
The main promenades are busy and lit in the evening, and are generally comfortable for walkers. Solo visitors should avoid isolated stretches after dark and keep valuables out of sight.
How long is the walk?
The lakeside footpath totals roughly 9-10km, but most visitors walk a 3-5km section in one to two hours.
Is there an entry fee?
Entry to the walkway is generally free; boat rides are paid separately.