Ahsan Manzil: A Glimpse into Dhaka’s Rich History

Ahsan Manzil

Ahsan Manzil, standing majestically on the banks of the Buriganga River in Islampur, Old Dhaka, is a significant historical monument. Known for its architectural beauty and historical importance, this palace has witnessed many crucial events in the history of Dhaka and Bengal. Today, it serves as a museum, attracting visitors from all over the world.

ahsan manzil

History of Ahsan Manzil

Ahsan Manzil, a symbol of Bengal’s glorious past and Nawabi heritage, was initially constructed in the mid-18th century by Zamindar Sheikh Enayet Ullah as a pleasure house named Rangmahal. Later, his son Sheikh Motiullah sold it to French merchants. In 1830, Khwaja Alimullah, father of Nawab Abdul Ghani, purchased the property. Nawab Abdul Ghani began constructing the palace in 1859, which took 13 years to complete. He named it Ahsan Manzil in honor of his son, Khwaja Ahsanullah.

Once, the highest dome in Dhaka was part of Ahsan Manzil. The palace, with its two stories, features marble verandas and floors. Inside, there are various rooms such as dining rooms, a library, a music hall, a Durbar Hall, and a billiard room. The second floor houses guest rooms, meeting rooms, a dance hall, and more living quarters. Both the north and south sides of the palace have elevated carriages, and a grand staircase leads from the second-floor veranda to the front garden. The palace is surrounded by a beautiful flower garden and a green lawn.

Ahsan Manzil is considered Dhaka’s first brick-and-mortar structure and was the first building in the city to have electric lights, installed by the Nawabs. Its architectural elegance also attracted Western dignitaries, including Lord Curzon, who stayed here during his visits to Dhaka. For nearly 100 years, from the mid-19th century, Ahsan Manzil was a key political center in Bengal. In 1906, the decision to establish the All India Muslim League was made in this very building.

Ahsan Manzil Museum

After Bangladesh’s independence, the descendants of the Nawab family planned to auction Ahsan Manzil. Recognizing its historical and political significance, Prime Minister Sheikh Mujibur Rahman canceled the auction and ordered the establishment of a museum and tourist center. Following extensive renovations, the Ahsan Manzil Museum was opened to the public in 1992.

The museum’s main attraction is its extensive collection of artifacts. There are 4,077 items displayed in 23 rooms, with nine rooms arranged as they were during the Nawabi era, offering visitors a glimpse into that period. The exhibits include large mirrors, iron safes, wooden cabinets, dining and drawing rooms, glass and porcelain dishes, an elephant skull, shields, and swords. Also on display are ornate silver and crystal chairs and tables, thrones, various oil paintings, vases, the Hindustani Room, royal guest bedrooms, and a dance hall. Portraits of contemporary famous individuals and examples of the Nawabs’ social work are also exhibited.

Ahsan Manzil Ticket Prices

To visit Ahsan Manzil, general visitors need to purchase a ticket for 20 BDT. Children under 12 can enter for 10 BDT. Citizens of SAARC countries are charged 300 BDT, while other foreign visitors need to pay 500 BDT. Disabled visitors can enter for free. Students can also visit for free with prior application.

Ahsan Manzil Visiting Hours

Ahsan Manzil is open from Saturday to Wednesday, from 10:30 AM to 5:30 PM. On Fridays, it is open from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM. The museum is closed on Thursdays and public holidays.

How to Get There

You can reach Ahsan Manzil by taking a bus to Sadarghat and getting off near Victoria Park, close to Jagannath University. From there, it’s a short walk or a 30 BDT rickshaw ride. Alternatively, you can take a rickshaw or CNG from Gulistan to Sadarghat, or follow North South Road from Gulistan, get off before Babubazar Bridge, and take a rickshaw to Ahsan Manzil. You can also take a direct CNG ride from any part of Dhaka.

Nearby Attractions

While visiting Ahsan Manzil, you can also explore other famous sites in Old Dhaka, such as Lalbagh Fort, Tara Mosque, Armenian Church, Hoseni Dalan, Bahadur Shah Park (Victoria Park), and Sadarghat Launch Terminal. Old Dhaka is also known for its famous restaurants, where you can enjoy traditional cuisine.

 Conclusion

Ahsan Manzil is not just a historical site but a treasure trove of Dhaka’s rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or just looking for a beautiful place to visit, Ahsan Manzil offers a fascinating glimpse into the past glory of Bengal. A visit to this magnificent palace will transport you back in time, offering a unique perspective on the history and culture of Dhaka.

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Ahsan Manzil: A Glimpse into Dhaka's Rich History
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Ahsan Manzil: A Glimpse into Dhaka's Rich History
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Ahsan Manzil, standing majestically on the banks of the Buriganga River in Islampur, Old Dhaka, is a significant historical monument. Known for its architectural beauty and historical importance, this palace has witnessed many crucial events in the history of Dhaka and Bengal. Today, it serves as a museum, attracting visitors from all over the world.
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