Lalbagh Fort
Dhaka
Lalbagh Fort, located in the old city of Dhaka, Bangladesh, is a significant Mughal-era fortress named after the surrounding 'Red Garden' area. Construction began in 1678 under Prince Muhammad Azam Shah, son of Emperor Aurangzeb, but remained incomplete after his recall. The fort was further overseen by Shaista Khan, the Mughal governor of Bengal, who halted construction following the death of his daughter, Pari Bibi, whose tomb lies within the complex. The fort complex includes the governor's residence (Diwan-i-Aam), a mosque, and the tomb of Pari Bibi, all connected by water channels and surrounded by lawns and fountains. Architecturally, Lalbagh Fort is a miniature representation of grand Mughal forts like the Red Fort and Fatehpur Sikri, featuring fortified walls with bastions and tunnels. Once beside the Buriganga River, the river has since receded from the fort's vicinity. Today, Lalbagh Fort is one of Dhaka's most visited historical sites and a prominent symbol of Mughal rule in Bengal, with ongoing restoration efforts preserving its legacy.
Plan your trip to Bangladesh with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: Visit Lalbagh Fort during the cooler morning hours to avoid Dhaka's afternoon heat and crowds. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons. Look for guided tours to fully appreciate the fort's historical and architectural significance. Discounted entry may be available for students and seniors. Check opening hours ahead, as they can vary seasonally.
Interesting facts
- •Lalbagh Fort was originally called Fort Aurangabad.
- •The fort was modeled as a miniature version of major Mughal forts like the Red Fort and Fatehpur Sikri.
- •Pari Bibi, daughter of Shaista Khan, is buried within the fort, and her death halted further construction due to superstition.
- •The fort once stood beside the Buriganga River, which has since retreated away from it.
- •European artists depicted Lalbagh Fort in paintings during the 18th and 19th centuries.
History
Construction of Lalbagh Fort began in 1678 under Mughal prince Muhammad Azam Shah during his vice-royalty in Bengal.
After his recall by Emperor Aurangzeb, Shaista Khan took over but left the fort incomplete following the death of his daughter Pari Bibi in 1684, whose tomb was added to the complex.
The fort lost prominence after the Mughal capital moved from Dhaka to Murshidabad and was later abandoned.
The area was renamed Lalbagh in 1844, replacing its original name, Fort Aurangabad.
Place Guide
Diwan-i-AamLate 17th century
The two-story residence of the Mughal governor of Bengal, located on the east side of the fort complex. It includes a single-story hammam with an underground water-heating room and a long partition wall on its western facade. The building measures approximately 32.47 by 8.18 meters and is situated near a water tank.
MosqueLate 17th century
Situated on the west side of the fort complex, the mosque is part of the central trio of buildings along with the Diwan-i-Aam and Pari Bibi's tomb. It features traditional Mughal architectural elements and is connected by water channels with fountains.
Tomb of Pari Bibi1684
The tomb of Shaista Khan's daughter, Pari Bibi, located between the Diwan-i-Aam and the mosque. Her burial site is a key reason why construction of the fort was halted, as her death was considered a bad omen.
