For most of us, home is where we find peace and solace. Whenever we need peace of mind, we think about seeking the comforts of our couch or bed. Sometimes a good night of comfy sleep is what we need. Other times we need something that effectively enhances our ability to contemplate and soothe our senses. Your home might not always give you a sense of contentment that you need. On the other hand, a breath of fresh air in the vastness of nature can do wonders for our state of mind as well as our bodies.
Now take a step back and think, when was the last time you stopped to take a deep long breath of fresh air? Life in the metropolis can disturb your peace and can make you feel claustrophobic sometimes. It is very easy to get lost in the hustle and bustle of Dhaka. With a hectic work schedule, blazing horns, and blinding lights; it can be really depleting. So where do you go in this difficult city to sit, think and contemplate?
Ramna Park
Surrounded by Shahbagh, Ramna, Shiddheswari; Ramna Park is located at the epicenter of Dhaka. This park is one of the oldest in the city which covers more than 65 acres. And this vast area is embellished with an umpteen species of flowering trees, shrubs, perennials, and annuals, fruit-bearing plants, species medicinal plants, species of forestry, and other species. Adding to all this, a coiling lake just boasts the harmony of life.
Upon entering the park, the immediate essence of the greenery will start enchanting your mind and all the noise from the busy street will begin to dwindle and you will be welcomed with the melodic chirping of birds and a whiff of the earthy, wet grass. Small gatherings here and there only uplifts the exuberant vibe of the atmosphere. For people who need fresh air, sitting on the concrete benches or under a massive banyan tree offers the perfect ambiance to contemplate.
All in all, Ramna Park is one of the best place to relax in Dhaka and also a perfect place for a quick evening walk or a moment of solitude. To get the most out of the ambiance, visit the park during dawn when the sun is still warm and the air is crisp. However, families prefer the evening when the sun is yawning.
Chandrima Udyan
With a lush green landscape and a beautiful meadow, this geometrical Chandrima Udyan is meticulously designed so that it can offer the best of nature in a controlled environment. This green oasis is located just beside the Jatiyo Sangshad Bhaban and by the shimmering Crescent Lake and can offer the most effective solution to your I-want-to-get-out-of-the-city-but-don’t-have-time problem.
As you enter the park, the sweet fragrance of Krishnachura will soothe your mind during summer. The flamboyant display of orange-red flowers can enchant the most convoluted minds and offers an environment that only conjures inspiration in a thriving beauty.
The park is perfect for a short respite and a great place to relax in Dhaka, where one can sit by the grand Crescent Lake and eat roasted peanuts. During dawn, the place becomes panoramic and you can smell the morning dew, and breathe in the earthy air, or simply listen to your train of thoughts. Taking a stroll amidst the blooming flowers can surely appease your mood.
Gulshan Lake Park
If you live near Gulshan or any part of Dhaka and want to get lost in the verdant landscape of nature, go to Gulshan Lake Park. Nestled inside Gulshan-2, Gulshan Lake Park is adorned with a great space where children can run, and play to their heart’s content. The air is crisp and lighter inside the park with a very comforting temperature.
Coming to this park will make you realize the difference in contrast between the heavy urban air and a fresh suburban allure. Want to take a deep breath and a place to relax in Dhaka amongst the chirping birds? This place is great for that and is also ideal for a sit back.
Make some time from your hectic schedule, put your tech-savvy life aside and take your kids here with a bicycle, football, or remote control car. Teach them how to be kids in the most fun way possible amongst the splendors of nature. Also, there is a designated nursery area with a vast and exotic collection of fruits and flower saplings. Get your hands dirty, involve your kids with planting trees and other muddy activities and feel the stress drain from your body. If you are not a member of the Gulshan-Society, plan your visit between 10:00 am – 4:30 pm, otherwise you can visit any time.
Dhanmondi Lake
Dhanmondi is considered to be the cultural epicenter of Dhaka. If you want to experience a diverse place to relax in Dhaka with an exciting food scene, come to Dhanmondi. You will be amazed by all the things that it can offer. And right in the middle of all this is the Dhanmondi Lake which covers more than 15 percent of the total area.
The long pavements surrounded by greenery intertwined with a 3km twisted lake are very popular among joggers and health enthusiasts. Every day in the morning people become busy with their morning activities. In this magical place, despite being encompassed by the chaotic hustle of the city, anyone can feel at ease sitting by the waterside with your legs hanging out and letting time fly by at its own pace.
Within this vast area is an open-air amphitheater commonly known as ‘‘Rabindra Sarobar’’, filled with aromatic tea stalls and kebab shops. Sipping a cup of tea or taking a stroll by the lakeside can be a great catalyst for lifting your mood. If you are planning to go there, visit the place when the blue sky is at its prime and immerse yourself in sunlight. You would be very lucky if you can catch a full moon when the silver reflection glistens upon the wavy dark water and all you can hear is the humming of the lake and the melody of your own tweets.
Life in the city will always be hectic and it is very easy to get your Qi drained by all this. You can always take some time off of your busy schedule and visit places outside of the city but if you want to a place to relax in Dhaka, think no farther than these.
Let us know, which place do you want to visit first, or if you have, which one of these is your favorite? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.
