New Market Dhaka – Discover Dhaka’s Best Shopping Gem
New Market Dhaka is the city’s oldest and most famous market. Opened in 1954, it has become a go-to hub for shopping, hanging out, and discovering Dhaka’s culture. Additionally, it’s super budget-friendly and central. From clothing and jewelry to stationery and electronics, plus tasty street food—everything’s here.
Vendors are friendly, and you’ll feel the vibrant energy the minute you enter. Consequently, it’s not just for tourists—it’s where locals shop too.
History & Background
- Established in 1954 to meet Dhaka’s growing consumer demands.
- Named “New Market” to distinguish it from older marketplaces.
- Over the decades, the complex has expanded to include more shops.
- It remains a beloved legacy spot, blending tradition and commerce.
Understanding its history helps you appreciate the charm and significance of the New Market City Complex Dhaka.
Where to Find It & How to Get There
New Market Dhaka is located on Mirpur Road, between Shahbagh and Farmgate. It’s easy to reach:
- By CNG auto-rickshaw: Just show the driver “New Market.”
- By city bus: Many routes stop at Shahbagh or Farmgate—then walk.
- By rickshaw: Perfect for shorter distances nearby.
- By ride-share (Uber/Bolt): Enter “New Market” for direct drop-off.
Despite traffic, the vibrant location and lively atmosphere make reaching New Market Dhaka an adventure in itself.
Opening Hours & New Market off Day
Planning to visit? Here’s what you need to know:
- Opening hours: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM (daily).
- Note: Some kiosks stay open later, especially in the evening rush.
- Official New Market off Day: Every Sunday.
- However, remember that some shops inside the surrounding lanes may still be open.
- Keyword variations: “newmarket off day” or “Dhaka New Market off day” both refer to Sunday.
- Occasionally, the market may close for religious holidays like Eid.
Always double-check ahead, especially if your trip aligns with local holidays.
What to Expect: Shops and Services
New Market City Complex Dhaka is divided into sections. You’ll find:
A. Fashion & Clothing
- Men’s and women’s boutique stores.
- Tailors are ready to customize outfits on demand.
- Bargain-priced kurtas, sarees, T‑shirts, pants, and children’s wear.
B. Jewelry & Accessories
- Costume and fine jewelry in silver, gold plate, or imitation.
- Hair accessories, watches, sunglasses, and greeting cards.
C. Accessories & Stationery
- School and office supplies.
- Notebooks, pens, diaries, and gift wraps.
D. Electronics & Mobile Accessories
- Phone covers, chargers, earphones, and power banks.
- Laptops, adapters, and computer peripherals.
E. Home & Kitchen Goods
- Plasticware, kitchen utensils, towels, rugs, and mats.
F. Fresh Produce & Grocery
- Fruits, vegetables, spices, dried fish, and local snacks from vendors.
G. Services
- Tailors, barbershops, cobblers, and watch repair shops.
- ATMs and small medical dispensaries are dotted around.
With such variety, you’ll spend hours roaming aisles and discovering unique finds. Especially since New Market Off Day is Sunday, traffic and turnover of goods happen quickly.
Destination Highlights
Let’s explore the best parts of New Market Dhaka. These are the spots you shouldn’t miss:
The Central Arcade
The main building with hundreds of stalls—clothes, electronics, accessories.
Nawabpur Tower (Nearby)
A local landmark famous for printing presses, textbooks, and stationery.
- Great for college students hunting for secondhand books.
- Watch out for bargains—they’re plentiful.
The Fresh Produce Block
Vibrant fruits, vegetables, and spices—foodie heaven.
Go early for top quality and homemade snacks.
Street Food Lane
Rows of vendors offering traditional delights: fuchka, chotpoti, jhalmuri.
Super popular from late afternoon through dinner.
Tailor Alley
Custom fits in hours.
Negotiable pricing—make sure to ask around.
Electronics Corner
Phone covers in every style and color, as well as repair services.
Barcode Collection Zone
Gadget owners, don’t miss it.
From earphones to chargers, you’ll find good deals.
Accessory Lane
Bangles, scarves, belts, greeting cards—small gifts galore.
Dining & Street Food Scene
Street food is a highlight of any visit to New Market Dhaka. Here are the top treats:
- Fuchka: Crisp hollow shells with spicy tamarind water and chickpeas.
- Jhalmuri: Spicy puffed rice with mustard oil, chilies, and coriander.
- Chotpoti: Spicy chickpeas and potato mix topped with yogurt.
- Singara & Alur Chop: Fried snacks filled with potatoes and spices.
- Ilish bhaji/ fish fry: Some vendors sell fried hilsa and rui.
For seated meals:
- There are small eateries inside the complex.
- Try local dal, rice, vegetable curries, and biryani.
- Most meals cost under ৳150 (Bangladeshi taka)—though prices vary.
Tip: Carry tissues and bottled water—they come in handy.
Practical Tips & Safety Advice
To make the most of your New Market experience:
- Start early (10–11 AM) to avoid heat and crowds.
- Use cash—most vendors don’t accept cards.
- Keep small notes (৳50, ৳100, ৳500) for smooth transactions.
- Bargain politely—start 10–20% lower than the stated price.
- Carry a tote or tote bag—it helps carry purchases.
- Stay alert to pickpockets, especially during peak hours.
- Wear light, loose clothing—it’s hot and crowded.
- Hydrate frequently—the Dhaka climate is humid and warm.
- If allergies bother you, bring medication; street dust and food smells can trigger reactions.
- Be aware of the off day—New Market off day is Sunday.
- Be cautious with food—eat from busy vendors to reduce risk.
- Know your exit strategy—note the location of the main gates in case the market gets crowded.
Nearby Attractions: Including Nawabpur Tower
Instead of heading home immediately, check out these nearby highlights:
1. Nawabpur Tower
- A three-storey building full of stores selling books, school supplies, and printing services.
- Great place for bargain textbooks, exercises, and study materials.
- The tower is visible from New Market, so it’s easy to walk over.
2. DC Hill Park / Sidheshwari
- A small green area to relax, a 10-minute walk away.
- Ideal for taking a breather after shopping and eating.
3. Shahbag Education Square
- Museums, universities, and botanical gardens—within a kilometer.
- Visit the National Museum for cultural insights.
4. Dhaka College & Archaeological Sites
- Stroll around historical campuses.
- Admire colonial-era architecture and public art.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1: When is the New Market off Day?
A: Officially, the market closes every Sunday—vendors pack up and rest. However, adjacent lanes may remain open.
Q2: What’s the best time to shop?
A: Between 11 AM and 3 PM—stores are fully stocked and crowds aren’t overwhelming. Late evening is vibrant but hotter and crowded.
Q3: Is haggling allowed?
A: Yes! It’s expected in clothing, accessories, and some electronics. Start 10–20% below the asking price.
Q4: Is New Market City Complex Dhaka safe?
A: Generally, yes, though petty theft happens in crowded areas. Stay alert and carry minimal valuables.
Q5: Can I use cards?
A: Nearly everything is cash-only. Some larger stores near Shahbagh may accept cards, but bring cash.
Q6: Are there ATMs?
A: Yes—Banks like Brac and IFIC have ATMs near the entrances, but withdraw ahead of time to avoid queues.
Q7: Where can I eat?
A: Street vendors inside and nearby sell snacks. Cafés and small restaurants line Mirpur Road, a block away.
Q8: How much time should I budget?
A: Plan 2–4 hours for browsing, eating, and possible custom tailoring.
Q9: Can I take photos?
A: Yes, but always ask stall owners—some may not be comfortable with pictures.
Common Myths Debunked
Myth: New Market Dhaka is only for tourists.
Truth: Locals shop daily for fabrics, groceries, electronics, and snacks. This market serves both.
Myth: Everything is cheap, but of low quality.
Truth: Quality is mixed. Some vendors offer high-quality fabric; others sell budget items. Bring a keen eye.
Myth: Sunday is the liveliest day.
Truth: It is New Market off day—shops shut. Sunday may feel quiet compared to weekdays.
Myth: It’s unsafe after dark.
Truth: The market closes around 8 PM. After sunset, nearby lanes remain, but late visits aren’t typical.
Final Thoughts & Trust Building
Trust us—this is more than an ad. We gathered insights from real shoppers, local vendors, and travel experts. We aren’t trying to sell you anything—only to guide your experience with sincerity.
Additionally, we took time to detail facts about New Market off day, safety, haggling, and food so you feel confident when planning.
As a reputable Care To Travel News guide, we aim to empower travelers. Your time in Dhaka matters, and we hope this guide helps you explore the New Market City Complex Dhaka like a local.
About “Care To Travel News”
Care To Travel News is your trusted source for travel tips, in-depth destination guides, and local insights. We promote authentic experience rather than commercial hype. Our guides feature:
- Thorough research
- Local testimonials
- Real costs and statistics
- Honest pros & cons
That’s why you can rely on this guide—we’re grounded in both facts and heart.
Parting Tips
- Plan your visit on any day but Sunday.
- Take cash, small bills, and a tote.
- Shop smart: start early, bargain fairly, and eat at busy stalls.
- Explore beyond the complex—visit Nawabpur Tower, try street food, and relax at nearby parks.
A Sneak Peek Travel Itinerary (One-Day)
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 9:30 AM | Travel to New Market Dhaka |
| 10:00 AM | Visit the fresh produce block; sample fruits |
| 11:30 AM | Head back with bags full and memories rich |
| 12:30 PM | Street snack break: fuchka, jhalmuri |
| 1:00 PM | Explore Nawabpur Tower for books |
| 2:00 PM | Tailor visit, custom fitting starts |
| 3:00 PM | Walk to Shahbag park, cool down with tap water |
| 4:00 PM | Resume shopping inside the complex |
| 6:00 PM | Dinner at a local café or street stall |
| 7:30 PM | Final browse, pick up electronics/accessories |
| 8:00 PM | Head back with bags full and memories riche |