Dhaka became the capital of Bangladesh at Independence in 1971.
It is a fascinating, sometimes maddening city - as the Lonely Planet guide puts it,
"If Dhaka was a man, you might not instantly warm to him, but he would linger in your mind as one of the most dynamic characters you had the good fortune to meet."
After the lengthy drives of the past few days you may be tempted to relax by the pool for the rest day but it is worth venturing out to do some sightseeing if you have the energy. The hotel can organise transport and a guide if you like. Visit the National Museum, the National Assembly building, and wander through the Ahsan Manzil (pink palace). And no trip to Dhaka is complete without a boat trip on the river!
