Cox’s Bazar: A Guide to Bangladesh’s Most Popular Tourist Destination

Sumon Ahmed
4 min readFeb 1, 2023

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Introduction

Cox’s Bazar is a city located in southeastern Bangladesh and is considered one of the country’s most popular tourist destinations. With its long sandy beaches, natural beauty, and cultural heritage, Cox’s Bazar has something to offer everyone. From its stunning sunsets to its vibrant local markets, there is no shortage of things to do and see in this seaside city.

Geography and Climate

Cox’s Bazar is located along the Bay of Bengal in southeastern Bangladesh and is surrounded by the Chittagong Hill Tracts to the east and the Naf River to the west. The city has a tropical monsoon climate, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the mid-90s throughout the year. The monsoon season lasts from June to September, and heavy rainfall is common during this time. Despite this, the weather is generally warm and sunny, making it a great place to visit year-round.

Attractions

One of the main draws of Cox’s Bazar is its stunning beaches. With over 120 km of sandy shoreline, there is no shortage of places to soak up the sun and take in the breathtaking scenery. The most popular beach in Cox’s Bazar is Laboni Beach, which is known for its clear waters, soft sand, and tranquil atmosphere. Another popular spot is Inani Beach, which is known for its towering cliffs and stunning views of the surrounding hills.

Another popular attraction in Cox’s Bazar is its local markets. From the colorful stalls of Cox’s Bazar Central Market to the vibrant street vendors of Lalkhan Bazar, there is something for everyone in the city’s bustling bazaars. Visitors can find everything from traditional Bengali handicrafts and textiles to fresh produce and local spices.

Cultural Heritage

Cox’s Bazar has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors can explore this history at several important sites around the city. The Cox’s Bazar Shahi Mosque is a beautiful example of traditional Bengali architecture and is a popular destination for visitors. Another important site is Cox’s Bazar Hindu Temple, which is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Kali and is an important place of worship for the local Hindu community. Visitors can also learn about the city’s heritage at the Cox’s Bazar Museum, which showcases the local history and culture of the region.

Nature and Wildlife

In addition to its stunning beaches and rich cultural heritage, Cox’s Bazar is also home to a diverse array of wildlife. The Chittagong Hill Tracts, which surround the city, is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, tigers, leopards, and many species of birds. Visitors can take guided tours through the hills to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Additionally, Cox’s Bazar is home to several nature reserves, including the Himchari National Park, which is a great place to see local flora and fauna.

Food and Drink

The cuisine in Cox’s Bazar is diverse and flavorful, with a focus on fresh seafood, spicy curries, and sweet desserts. Visitors can sample traditional Bengali dishes like fish curry, dal, and biryani at local restaurants, or try street food like pitha (sweet rice cakes) and pitha roti (fried flatbread). The city is also home to several cafes and bars, where visitors can enjoy a drink or a light meal in a relaxed atmosphere.

Accommodation

Cox’s Bazar offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, from budget-friendly guesthouses and hostels to luxury hotels and resorts. Visitors can choose from a variety of properties that offer modern amenities, such as air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, and private bathrooms, as well as traditional features like outdoor patios and lush gardens. For those looking for a more authentic experience, there are also homestays available, where visitors can stay with a local family and experience the local culture and cuisine.

Getting There and Around

Cox’s Bazar is well connected by road, rail, and air, making it easy to reach from major cities in Bangladesh and abroad. The city’s main airport, Cox’s Bazar International Airport, is located just a few kilometers from the city center and offers daily flights to Dhaka and other major cities in Bangladesh. Alternatively, visitors can take a train or bus to Cox’s Bazar, with services available from major cities such as Chittagong and Dhaka. Once in the city, visitors can get around on foot, by bicycle, or by rickshaw, with many local taxis and car rentals also available.

Conclusion

Cox’s Bazar is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Bangladesh. With its stunning beaches, rich cultural heritage, and diverse wildlife, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore the local markets, or immerse yourself in the local culture, Cox’s Bazar has it all. So why not plan your visit today and discover the many wonders of this beautiful city for yourself?

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Sumon Ahmed

I am the founder of Advance IT BD and OBSZONE. Advance IT BD provides Online IT training courses & OBSZONE offers Free Classified Ad Posting services.