Lalbagh Fort is one of the dazzling structures of the Mughal period located in Bangladesh. Witnessing 400-year history, this fort still stands out in its aesthetics. 

It is located in the Lalbagh town of old Dhaka. That is why it is called ‘Fort of Lalbagh. The fort was designed by Shah Ajam, son of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. He started the construction of the fort in 1600 AD. At that time the fort was named Aurangabad fort. But in the middle of construction, the emperor summoned him to Delhi to suppress the Marathas. As a result, the construction work of the fort remained unfinished.

In 1880, Shayesta Khan was appointed Subedar for the second time in Bengal. And that time Muhammad Azam Shah requested Shaista Khan to complete the unfinished work of the Lalbagh fort. Shaista Khan continued the construction. But, unfortunately, within 4 years he lost his beloved daughter. Shaista Khan, saddened by the death of his daughter, stopped the construction of the fort. Instead, he built an excellent mausoleum in memory of his daughter. And, hence the rest of the fort remained incomplete.

Lalbagh fort is established on 19 acres of land. The fort has three entrances. The fort is divided into many parts like the mosque, Tomb of Pari Bibi, Diwan-i-Am, Roof garden surrounded by reservoir-fountain to the south-west, 5 towers in the south-west corner, etc.

The mosque was built of white stone with three domes, a magnificent example of Mughal architecture. There were 5 towers to the south of the fort wall. Among the towers, there was an underground tunnel. It is said that once someone enters this tunnel he/she never comes back.

Currently, the tunnel is closed by a permanent gate. Paribibi's tomb is one of the most beautiful surviving architectures in the Lalbagh fort. It is located in the middle of the court hall and the fort.

How to go

The ideal route to reach the fort is Azimpur of Dhaka. From the Azimpur bus stand, you can easily reach the fort by taking a rickshaw ride. By this, you can also enjoy multiple glimpses and the soulful vibrant of the old Dhaka.

Where to stay and eat

There are plenty of eateries in old Dhaka. The royal restaurant is one of the best for Mughal-style cuisine. You can stay at hotels situated at the main Dhaka, as the Lalbag will be a day-long tour. There are some modern dining facilities near the fort and you can also try the traditional and famous dishes of Bangladesh in old Dhaka like Haji Biriyani, Bakorkhani, etc.