Cox’s Bazar is a city, fishing port, and district headquarters in southeastern Bangladesh. It is known for its long natural sandy beach, which is considered one of the world’s longest and is a major tourist destination in the country. The city is located 150 kilometers south of Chittagong and is a hub of tourism and commerce. Cox’s Bazar is surrounded by hills covered with lush green forests, making it a scenic and peaceful place to visit.
The city offers a range of attractions for tourists, including temples, parks, and museums. The most popular attraction is the Cox’s Bazar Beach, which stretches over 120 kilometers and is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. The beach also offers excellent opportunities for bird watching, as it is home to a variety of migratory birds. Another popular tourist attraction is the Himchari National Park, which is located nearby and is known for its scenic waterfalls and rich wildlife.
In addition to its natural beauty, Cox’s Bazar is also renowned for its historical and cultural heritage. The city is home to several ancient temples, including the Ramu Buddhist Temple and the Cox’s Bazar Hindu Temple, which are both popular tourist destinations. There are also several parks and gardens in the city, including the Cox’s Bazar Park and the Cox’s Bazar Botanical Garden, which offer visitors a chance to relax and enjoy nature.
The city is also a hub of commerce and industry, and is home to a range of shops, restaurants, and hotels. The local market is a great place to find traditional crafts and products, including textiles, pottery, and woodwork. There are also several high-end shopping centers in the city, which offer a range of international and local brands.
Overall, Cox’s Bazar is a city that offers something for everyone. Its beautiful beaches, natural landscapes, and cultural heritage make it a must-visit destination for tourists, while its bustling markets and commerce make it an attractive place to do business. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or simply to enjoy the beauty of nature, Cox’s Bazar has something to offer.
Best time to visit Cox’s Bazar
The best time to visit Cox’s Bazar is from October to March, during the dry season. During this time, the weather is mild and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the surrounding hills and forests. The monsoon season, from June to September, can bring heavy rains and rough seas, making it less suitable for beach activities. However, the lush greenery and waterfalls during the monsoon can also be a unique and scenic experience for some visitors. Overall, the best time to visit Cox’s Bazar depends on personal preferences and the type of activities you plan to do.
How to go to Cox’s Bazar?
For those who are staying in Bangladesh and looking to visit Cox’s Bazar, there are several options for transportation:
- Flight: There are regular flights from Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, to Cox’s Bazar. The flight takes around an hour and is the quickest and most convenient way to reach the city.
- Bus: There are regular bus services from Dhaka to Cox’s Bazar, which take around 10-12 hours. This is a more affordable option but can be a long and tiring journey.
- Train: There are limited train services from Dhaka to Chittagong, from where you can take a bus or hire a taxi to Cox’s Bazar. This option is slower but offers scenic views along the way.
- Private Car: Hiring a private car is a convenient option for those who prefer comfort and privacy. The journey from Dhaka to Cox’s Bazar takes around 6-7 hours.
No matter which option you choose, make sure to plan ahead and book your transportation in advance, especially during peak tourist season.
Those who live outside the country, how can they go?
For those who live outside of Bangladesh and want to visit Cox’s Bazar, the following steps can be followed:
- International Flight: The easiest way to reach Cox’s Bazar from outside Bangladesh is by taking a direct international flight to Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh. From there, you can take a connecting flight to Cox’s Bazar.
- Overland: Another option is to enter Bangladesh via land from a neighboring country, such as India or Myanmar, and then travel by bus, train, or private car to Cox’s Bazar.
- Visa: Visitors from most countries will need to obtain a visa before entering Bangladesh. You can apply for a visa online or at a Bangladesh embassy in your home country.
Once you have arrived in Cox’s Bazar, you can use local transportation options, such as taxis or rickshaws, to get around the city. It is also a good idea to book a hotel or resort in advance to ensure that you have a comfortable place to stay during your visit.
How much will it cost to go from Dhaka to Cox’s Bazar?
The cost of travel from Dhaka to Cox’s Bazar will depend on various factors such as the mode of transportation, time of year, and type of accommodation. Here are some rough estimates:
- Flight: A one-way ticket from Dhaka to Cox’s Bazar can cost around BDT 5,000-7,000 ($60-$80) per person, depending on the airline and time of year.
- Bus: A one-way ticket by AC bus can cost around BDT 800-1,200 ($10-$15) per person.
- Train: A one-way train ticket from Dhaka to Chittagong can cost around BDT 500-700 ($6-$8) per person. From Chittagong to Cox’s Bazar, you can take a bus or hire a taxi for around BDT 2,000-3,000 ($24-$36).
- Private Car: Hiring a private car from Dhaka to Cox’s Bazar can cost around BDT 12,000-15,000 ($144-$180), depending on the type of car and duration of the journey.
These are rough estimates, and prices may vary depending on the time of year, availability, and other factors. It is recommended to compare prices and book in advance to get the best deals. Additionally, the cost of food, drinks, and other expenses during your stay in Cox’s Bazar will also add to the overall cost of the trip.
Where to stay and how much will it cost?
Cox’s Bazar offers a wide range of accommodation options for visitors, ranging from budget guesthouses to luxury resorts. The cost of stay will depend on the type of accommodation, location, and time of year. Here are some rough estimates:
- Budget Accommodation: Budget guesthouses and hostels in Cox’s Bazar can cost around BDT 800-1,500 ($10-$18) per night for a basic room with shared bathroom facilities.
- Mid-range Accommodation: Mid-range hotels and resorts in Cox’s Bazar can cost around BDT 3,000-5,000 ($36-$60) per night for a double room with private bathroom facilities.
- Luxury Accommodation: Luxury resorts and hotels in Cox’s Bazar can cost around BDT 8,000-20,000 ($96-$240) per night for a double room with private bathroom facilities and additional amenities such as a swimming pool and spa.
These are rough estimates and prices may vary depending on the time of year, availability, and other factors. It is recommended to compare prices and book in advance to get the best deals.
Additionally, there are also several beachside tents and camping options available for those who prefer a more unique and budget-friendly experience. These can cost around BDT 500-1,000 ($6-$12) per night.
Sightseeing places in Cox’s Bazar
Cox’s Bazar is a popular tourist destination known for its natural beauty, including miles of pristine beaches, lush forests, and rolling hills. Here are some of the must-see sightseeing places in Cox’s Bazar:
- Cox’s Bazar Beach: This is the main attraction in Cox’s Bazar and the longest beach in the world. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and relaxing on the sandy shores.
- Himchari Waterfall: This scenic waterfall is located about 10 km from Cox’s Bazar and offers a peaceful escape from the busy city. You can take a refreshing dip in the waterfall pools or enjoy a picnic surrounded by the lush forest.
- Laboni Beach: This is a popular beach in Cox’s Bazar, known for its stunning sunsets and stunning views of the Bay of Bengal.
- Inani Beach: This is a secluded and unspoiled beach located about 32 km from Cox’s Bazar. It’s a great place for those who want to escape the crowds and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
- Maheskhali Island: This small island located in the Bay of Bengal is famous for its Hindu temples, including the shrine of the Hindu god Shiva. Visitors can also enjoy the scenic beaches and mangrove forests on the island.
- Ramu Village: This small town located about 14 km from Cox’s Bazar is known for its traditional Buddhist temples and monasteries, including the famous Ramu Niiche Temple.
- Chittagong Hill Tracts: This scenic region located about 120 km from Cox’s Bazar offers stunning views of the hills and forests and is a popular destination for trekking and hiking.
These are just a few of the many attractions that Cox’s Bazar has to offer. There’s something for everyone, from peaceful beaches and scenic forests to historic temples and cultural attractions.
Popular foods in Cox’s Bazar
Cox’s Bazar is known for its delicious and diverse cuisine, reflecting the influences of its local culture, as well as its history as a port city. Here are some of the most popular foods in Cox’s Bazar:
- Rice and Curry: Rice is a staple food in Bangladesh, and in Cox’s Bazar, it is often served with a variety of curries made with vegetables, fish, or meat.
- Fried Rice: Fried rice is a popular dish in Cox’s Bazar, typically made with rice, vegetables, and eggs and flavored with soy sauce, chili sauce, and other spices.
- Seafood: Cox’s Bazar is a coastal city, so it’s no surprise that seafood is a staple food. Visitors can try dishes like hilsa fish, prawns, crab, and squid, which are often served grilled or fried.
- Biriyani: Biriyani is a spicy rice dish that is popular in Cox’s Bazar, made with fragrant basmati rice, spices, and either chicken, beef, or fish.
- Chotpoti: Chotpoti is a popular street food in Cox’s Bazar, made from boiled chickpeas, potatoes, and spices, and served with tamarind sauce.
- Fuchka: Fuchka is another popular street food in Cox’s Bazar, made from a type of fried dough filled with spicy chickpeas, potatoes, and spices.
- Pitha: Pitha is a type of traditional cake made from rice flour, and is often served as a snack or dessert in Cox’s Bazar.
These are just a few of the many delicious foods that Cox’s Bazar has to offer. Visitors will find a range of options to suit all tastes, from street food stalls to fine dining restaurants.
Warnings and travel tips
Cox’s Bazar is a popular tourist destination, but it’s important to be aware of potential dangers and to take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Here are some warnings and travel tips for visitors to Cox’s Bazar:
- Safety: Cox’s Bazar is generally considered a safe place to visit, but visitors should take precautions to protect themselves from crime, such as theft and pickpocketing. It’s also important to be cautious when swimming in the sea, as there can be strong currents and unpredictable waves.
- Health: Visitors should take precautions to avoid getting sick, such as drinking only bottled water, eating only freshly cooked food, and avoiding raw or undercooked seafood.
- Transportation: Visitors should be cautious when using taxis or other forms of transportation, as there have been reports of scams and overcharging. It’s best to negotiate a fare in advance, and to use only reputable and licensed taxi companies.
- Respect local culture: Cox’s Bazar is a predominantly Muslim city, and visitors should respect local customs and traditions, such as dressing modestly and avoiding public displays of affection.
- Be prepared for weather: Cox’s Bazar can be hot and humid, especially during the summer months, so visitors should bring plenty of sunscreen and light, breathable clothing.
- Plan ahead: Visitors should plan their trip in advance, including making reservations for accommodations and transportation, to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.
- Get travel insurance: Visitors should consider getting travel insurance to protect themselves in case of illness, injury, or other unexpected events.
By following these warnings and travel tips, visitors can ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Cox’s Bazar and make the most of this stunning coastal city.
Conclusion
Cox’s Bazar is a popular tourist destination in Bangladesh, known for its stunning beaches, lush tropical forests, and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, from exploring local markets and temples, to swimming and sunbathing on the beach. To get the most out of their trip, visitors should be aware of potential dangers and take precautions to ensure their safety, such as avoiding street crime, eating only fresh food, and using reputable taxis. They should also plan ahead and respect local customs and traditions. With a little preparation and caution, visitors can have an unforgettable trip to Cox’s Bazar and experience the beauty of this coastal paradise.