PARKS & RECREATION

If you're in Dhaka for Eid and are stuck for places to go, it really shouldn't be because Dhaka can be a beautiful place when it's not filled to the brim.

This city has its own brand of magic -- one that'll never fail to entertain you. From watching angry bus drivers in heated arguments on roadsides, to a stroll down Dhanmondi Lake on a calm afternoon, Dhaka can be amazing. For those that complain that there aren't many things to be done in the city, I ask you to read on because Dhaka, my friend, has parks and recreational activities in abundance.

We begin with Dhanmondi. The Dhanmondi Lake really is something beautiful. With vivid trees shading the pathway on which you walk, to the little red bricked platforms made for resting on the sides, it is also home to some of the friendliest street children. They will come and talk to you; conversations that you never thought you'd be having about life, let alone with an unknown 8 year old.
The Dhanmondi Lake is also famous for Robindro Shorobor, a circular, stage-like platform with steps for you to sit on. You will occasionally stumble onto an ongoing concert of folk songs (free for all) to go perfectly with a cup of cha. Robindro Shorobor also has a whole clan of stray pups that will never fail to cheer you up, even on the worst day, with a little cuddling.
Moving on from Dhanmondi Lake to Ramna Park. Ramna is one of the oldest and most beautiful parks in the capital. Home to some of the most creative minds, and loaded with amateur guitar-wielding youngsters, Ramna never fails to inspire. Ramna is huge and has some of the most unique ferns in stunning shades and colours. Unlike Robindro Shorobor, Ramna has a lot less activity, which creates a rather soothing environment if you visit at the right time. Ramna is filled with some of the best street food that one absolutely must try when visiting. With its spaciousness, Ramna provides one with options to pick a particular location to lounge on. You could go monkeying around with a group of friends, or just spend the afternoon chatting away with a special someone with free acoustic music in the background. Ramna is truly a site to check out.

Just a little further, we have Suhrawardy Udyan, a place with no less greenery, but also sand in plenty. In addition to the beautiful view it also has a field on which local kids often spend their days playing cricket and other sports. Like Ramna, Suhrawardy Udyan is home to plenty of classic street food that accompanies the view ahead. On occasions, Suhrawardy Udyan welcomes street artists, performers and a favourite carnival game -- the one with a board, balloons and a rifle to pop 'em. Suhrawardy Udyan is also a photographer's heaven. Whether you're someone learning the basics with a new point-and-shoot, or an expert armed with a DSLR, Suhrawardy Udyan is filled with scenery and individuals that are bliss to photograph. With the cheap local street food prospects and breathtaking views, Suhrawardy Udyan is undoubtedly a crowd pleaser.

Chhobir Haat near TSC is another absolute favourite among youngsters. The many small tea stalls inside always witness passionate conversations. Adorned with wooden benches under the shade of giant trees (which are equally beautiful), the grounds also make a fitting place to rest on. The loud laughter coming from the group a hand length away, a cup of malai cha and lazy hours spent just musing over life -- Chobir Haat is THE place if you're into art and want to socialise.  

Going to other end of the city, Uttara is one of the most underrated areas. People still often refuse to believe that there are many opportunities for recreation there. Located just around sector 15 is exactly such a place: Extended Uttara. It's somewhat isolated and thus, provides one with sufficient privacy. It's a beautiful place with trees and sand, and a few benches here and there. Mostly filled with youngsters chatting away for hours, and street vendors with delicacies, the location is ideal to spend a quiet evening. Sameera, 17, says that it is also the ultimate selfie spot!

Lastly, there's the small lake and park in Mohakhali DOHS. Granted, it is only for residents and outsiders aren't allowed, but the next time you're visiting a friend there, make sure to have a look. With the lake open for boat rides, the park is usually isolated and makes a perfect place for heart-to-heart. There's also an area with miniature set of slippers and swings. But you know what they say, 'you're never too old for a swing'.

So, this is Dhaka, a city with welcoming trees, shaded pathways and someone playing acoustic guitar at almost every park. You just need to know where to look for the magic that'll work on you.

PHOTOS: DARSHAN CHAKMA & SHEIKH MEHEDI MORSHED