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Dhaka is one of the busiest and most crowded cities in the world. And with loud traffic and millions of people on the move, getting around can be a little overwhelming, especially for someone new to the city.
Finding cheap and safe transport is very important, and taxis can be a convenient option. However, if you are not careful, you might end up paying much more than you should.
In this guide, we show you simple and smart ways to get cheap taxis in Dhaka. Whether you are taking a traditional yellow taxi, using a ride-sharing app, or hopping on a motorbike taxi, these tips will help you save money and move around the city with ease.
One of the best and safest ways to get cheap taxis in Dhaka is by using ride-hailing apps. Uber is available in the city, and it works the same way it does in other countries. You can see the price before the ride starts, and the driver picks you up at your location. This means there is no need to talk about the price or worry about being overcharged.
Another popular local app is Pathao. You can use this to book cars, motorbike taxis, or even small three-wheelers. The prices are usually lower than regular taxis, especially if you are booking a motorbike.
The great thing about using these apps is that they show you the route, price, and driver information, and you can also pay by cash or card.
CNGs are small, green, three-wheeled vehicles that run on compressed natural gas. They are everywhere in Dhaka and are often cheaper than regular taxis. They are best for short trips or when you want to avoid heavy traffic, since they can squeeze through narrow roads and busy areas more easily.
However, note that many CNG drivers don’t use the meter, and they might try to charge you a high price if you look like a tourist, so always ask and agree on the price before getting in. If you are not sure, you can ask a local person what the normal rate should be for your trip, and then use that as a guide.
If you choose to use a regular taxi or a CNG that doesn’t use an app, make sure to agree on the fare before the trip begins. Many drivers will not turn on the meter, and if you don’t ask for the price first, you may get a surprise when you arrive and the driver asks for more than expected.
Use a map app like Google Maps to check how far the place is. That way, you will have a better idea of what the price should be. If the driver quotes a price that is too high, politely decline and try another taxi. There are always other drivers around.
If you travel during rush hours, which are mostly early morning or late afternoon, you may not only get stuck in traffic for a long time but also pay more. Most ride-hailing apps charge more during busy times, and even regular drivers may ask for a higher fare.
To save money and time, try to plan your trips during quieter parts of the day, such as mid-morning or early afternoon. Also, if you are going somewhere nearby, consider walking or using a motorbike taxi from Pathao. It is way faster and cheaper.
Getting around Dhaka might feel a bit chaotic at first, but with the right tools and tips, it becomes much easier and cheaper. Whether you are heading to a market, a restaurant, or just exploring Dhaka’s streets, there is always a way to get there without spending too much.
One more tip that will save you lots of frustrations: keep small cash for paying your fare. With a little planning and local knowledge, everything becomes more seamless.
We are a family of 4 - mother, father and two children. Our aim is to travel the world and review all travel opportunities to help other families.
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