Information
Landmark: Namu Lagoon OverlooksCity: Namu Atoll
Country: Marshall Islands
Continent: Australia
Namu Lagoon Overlooks, Namu Atoll, Marshall Islands, Australia
Ahsan Manzil is a former residential palace of the Nawabs of Dhaka, located on the banks of the Buriganga River in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Visual Characteristics
The structure is a two-story building with a prominent dome. Its exterior walls are painted a light pink. The architecture exhibits a blend of European styles, including Renaissance and Mughal influences, with decorative elements such as arched windows and ornate balconies. The building measures approximately 124 meters (407 feet) in length and 28 meters (92 feet) in width.
Location & Access Logistics
Ahsan Manzil is situated in the Old Dhaka area, approximately 3 kilometers south of the city center. Access is via Sadarghat Road. Public transportation, including auto-rickshaws and local buses, serves the Sadarghat area. Parking is limited and often congested due to the proximity of the Sadarghat River Port.
Historical & Ecological Origin
Construction of Ahsan Manzil began in 1859 and was completed in 1872 by Nawab Abdul Ghani. It was rebuilt and expanded in 1888 by his son, Nawab Khwaja Ahsanullah. The palace served as the principal residence and seat of the Nawab family, functioning as a center of political and cultural life.
Key Highlights & Activities
Visitors can explore the museum housed within the palace, which displays artifacts and exhibits related to the history of the Nawabs and Dhaka. Guided tours are available, detailing the palace's architecture and historical significance. Photography is permitted in designated areas.
Infrastructure & Amenities
Restrooms are available for visitors. Limited shaded areas are present within the museum premises. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available. Food vendors and small eateries are located in the vicinity of Sadarghat River Port.
Best Time to Visit
The best time of day for photography is generally in the late afternoon, when the sunlight provides a softer illumination on the building's facade. The dry season, from October to March, offers the most pleasant weather for visiting Dhaka.
Facts & Legends
A notable historical event associated with Ahsan Manzil is the signing of the Dhaka Pact in 1911, which aimed to resolve communal tensions. The palace's distinctive pink color is said to have been chosen by Nawab Abdul Ghani himself.
Nearby Landmarks
- Sadarghat River Port (0.2km South)
- Star Mosque (1.5km North)
- Lalbagh Fort (2.0km Northwest)
- Dhakeshwari Temple (2.5km Northwest)
- Curzon Hall (3.0km North)