There are hundreds of local bus routes in Dhaka, covering almost
every part of the city. However, there is no official map or
timetable for the buses, so you will have to rely on
word-of-mouth, online resources, or asking the locals for
information. Scroll down to get a complete list of busses and
their routes. The bus fares vary depending on the distance and the
type of bus, but they are usually between 10 to 40 taka (0.12 to
0.47 USD). You can pay the fare to the conductor, who will come to
your seat after you board the bus. Make sure you have exact
change, as they might not give you back the change.
Local buses in Dhaka are often overcrowded, especially during peak
hours. You might have to stand or squeeze in with other
passengers, and sometimes even hang on the door or the roof of the
bus. The buses also stop frequently to pick up and drop off
passengers, and they might not stop at the designated bus stops.
You will have to be alert and ready to get on or off the bus
quickly, as the driver might not wait for you. You might also have
to deal with pushy or rude passengers, who might try to take your
seat or cut in line. Try to be polite but firm, and avoid any
confrontation or argument.
Local buses in Dhaka are not very safe or comfortable, as they are
often old, poorly maintained, and driven recklessly. There are
frequent accidents and breakdowns, and sometimes the buses catch
fire or explode due to faulty wiring or gas cylinders. You should
also be careful of your belongings, as there might be pickpockets
or thieves on the bus or at the bus stops. Do not carry any
valuable items or documents with you, and keep your bag close to
your body. If you feel unsafe or uncomfortable on the bus, you can
ask the conductor or the driver to stop the bus and get off. You
ask them in Bengali
"bus-ta-thaman. Ami-nambo" meaning "Stop the bus please. I want to get off now."
As a foreigner, you might attract some attention or curiosity from
the locals, especially if you look different or dress differently.
Most of the people are friendly and helpful, but some might stare
at you, ask you personal questions, or try to take pictures with
you. You should be respectful and courteous, and try to blend in
with the local culture and customs. For example, you should dress
modestly and conservatively, avoid any public display of
affection, and follow the gender segregation rules on the bus.
Some buses have separate sections or seats for women, and you
should respect that. You should also learn some basic Bengali
words and phrases, such as hello, thank you, excuse me, and how
much, to communicate with the locals and the bus staff.
