Ahsan Manzil, also known as the Pink Palace, is a historic palace located in the Kumartoli area beside the Buriganga River in Dhaka, Bangladesh. It was formerly the residence and seat of the Nawab of Dhaka and has been designated an Old Dhaka Heritage Site. Today, it serves as a museum, preserving the rich history and culture of Bangladesh.

History and Construction

The construction of Ahsan Manzil began in 1859 and was completed in 1872. The palace was built on the site of an old French trading house purchased by Khwaja Alimullah, a prominent figure in Dhaka's history. After his death, his son Khwaja Abdul Ghani named the property Ahsan Manzil after his own son, Khwaja Ahsanullah. The palace was constructed by the European construction and engineering firm Martin and Co.

Architectural Style

Ahsan Manzil is an excellent example of Indo-Saracenic Revival architecture, a style that combines elements of Indian, Islamic, and European architectural traditions. The palace is built on a raised platform and features a distinctive pink hue, which gives it the name "Pink Palace." The building is divided into two main sections:

1. Rangmahal (Eastern Wing): This section includes a large drawing room, a card room, a library, a state room, and guest rooms.
2. Andarmahal (Western Wing): This section contains a ballroom, a storeroom, an assembly room, a dining hall, a music room, and several residential rooms.

The palace's most striking feature is its central dome, which rises to a height of 27.13 meters and is designed to resemble a lotus bud. The interior boasts exquisite wooden ceilings, marble-polished corridors, and multicolored glass inner doors, reflecting the opulence of the era.

Historical Significance

Ahsan Manzil played a pivotal role in the political history of the Indian subcontinent. In 1906, a meeting held at the palace led to the formation of the All India Muslim League, a significant event in the history of the Indian independence movement. The palace also served as the residence of the Nawabs of Dhaka and witnessed numerous important events during the colonial period.

Visiting Ahsan Manzil

Location: Ahsan Manzil is located in the Kumartoli area of Old Dhaka, beside the Buriganga River.

Opening Hours: The palace is open to visitors from 10:30 AM to 4:30 PM, except on Thursdays when it remains closed. On Fridays, it opens from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

Ticket Price: The entry fee for local visitors is BDT 40, while for foreign visitors, it is BDT 300. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance. Please note that the online ticketing system may have limitations, and it's advisable to buy tickets in person.

Contact Information: For more details, you can visit the official website: https://www.ahsanmanzilticket.gov.bd

Conclusion

Ahsan Manzil stands as a testament to the grandeur and cultural heritage of Bangladesh. Its rich history, stunning architecture, and historical significance make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the heritage of Dhaka and Bangladesh.