A Journey through the History: Introduction to Heritage Tourism and Tourist Trails for the Renewal of Old Dhaka

Abstract

Dhaka, the one of the megacities in the world have been facing the pressure of new development and redevelopment due to rapid socio-economic development. Like the other part of the city in old Dhaka, this urban renewal is misunderstood as the process of demolition-reconstruction of old buildings and historical sites. Change in land use pattern, land scarcity, increased land value, lack of mature theoretical guidance and the awareness of preservation the old part of the city is losing its identity. This kind of development not only affecting the city fabric but also destroying the vernacular built environment, cultural values and collective memory of habitants. Introduction of heritage tourism and development of tourist trails in different part of the old city may become an effective and sustainable measure to protect the heritage sites and old fabric of the city. Heritage tourism not only has a positive effect on economic development activities but it also promotes and protects the intangible heritage resources. The study tries to explore some different ways in which tourist trail and heritage tourism can be developed in old Dhaka. Additional emphasis will placed on investigating how tourism can be used to promote awareness among local communities and the importance of assuring a balance between responsible tourism and the preservation and protection required for heritage sites.