Chittagong Division Travel Guide
Explore the natural and cultural attractions of Chittagong Division with this comprehensive travel guide.
- Introduction to Chittagong Division
- List of Places to Visit in Chittagong Division
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Chittagong Division
- Best Things to Do in Chittagong Division: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Chittagong Division
- Food and Drink Scene of Chittagong Division
- Where to Stay in Chittagong Division: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Chittagong Division: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Chittagong Division
- Best Time to Visit Chittagong Division
- Do’s and Don’ts of Chittagong Division
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Chittagong Division: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Chittagong Division
- Where to Go Next from Chittagong Division: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Chittagong Division
Chittagong Division is located in the southeastern part of Bangladesh, bordering India and Myanmar. It is the second-largest division in the country and has a rich history and vibrant cultural scene. The region attracts tourists from all over the world with its stunning natural beauty, ancient landmarks, and unique cuisine. In this travel guide, we will take you on a journey through the best of what Chittagong Division has to offer.
List of Places to Visit in Chittagong Division
Chittagong Division is home to a diverse range of attractions, from cultural landmarks to natural wonders. Here are some of the must-visit places in the region.
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- Chittagong War Cemetery: A peaceful resting place for soldiers who died in World War II. The cemetery is beautifully maintained and features over 700 graves.
- Zia Memorial Museum: A museum dedicated to the life and legacy of Ziaur Rahman, the former President of Bangladesh.
- Ethnological Museum: This museum houses an impressive collection of artefacts related to the local culture and history of the Chittagong Hill Tracts.
- Maharaja Palace: A historical palace built during the reign of the Hindu kings of Tripura. It is an excellent example of Mughal-Rajput architecture and is worth a visit.
Natural Attractions of Chittagong Division: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Cox’s Bazar: This 120 km long beach is the longest natural sea beach in the world. The crystal-clear water and the golden sand attracts millions of tourists every year.
- Himchori Waterfall: A picturesque waterfall located just south of Cox’s Bazar. It is a great place for a picnic and to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
- Srimangal Tea Gardens: Srimangal is famous for its tea plantations and is home to some of the best tea in the world. Visitors can take a tour of the plantations and learn about the tea-making process.
- Sundarbans National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest mangrove forest in the world. The park is home to the Bengal tiger and many other endangered species of flora and fauna.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Chittagong Division
Chittagong Division boasts several hiking and biking routes that offer stunning views of the region’s natural beauty. Here are some of the most popular routes:
- Chimbuk Hill Trail: A challenging trek through the hills of Bandarban that culminates in a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape from the top of Chimbuk Hill.
- Satchari National Park Trek: A hike through the Satchari National Park, which is home to various species of plants and animals, including several endangered species.
- Hiking the Keokradong: Keokradong is the highest peak in Bangladesh and is a popular hiking destination for tourists.
Best Things to Do in Chittagong Division: Activities and Tours
When visiting Chittagong Division, there are several activities and tours you should consider, including:
- Boat Tour of the Karnaphuli River: The Karnaphuli River is the largest river in Chittagong Division, and a boat tour is an excellent way to experience the local culture and wildlife.
- Visit the Tea Gardens: Tour the tea gardens of Srimongal to learn about tea production and to sample some local tea.
- Explore the Hill Tracts: The Chittagong Hill Tracts are home to several ethnic groups with unique cultures, and many tours offer a cultural experience in these areas.
Week-Long Itinerary for Chittagong Division
Here is a suggested week-long itinerary for visiting Chittagong Division:
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Arrive in Chittagong and explore the city |
| 2-3 | Visit Cox's Bazar, Himchori Waterfall, and other nearby attractions |
| 4 | Take a boat tour of the Karnaphuli River and explore the city of Chittagong |
| 5-6 | Explore the Chittagong Hill Tracts and go hiking in Bandarban |
| 7 | Visit the Srimangal Tea Gardens and depart for the airport |
Food and Drink Scene of Chittagong Division
Chittagong Division has a unique cuisine that is influenced by the region’s history and diverse ethnic groups. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:
Must-Try Dishes
- Mezbani: A spicy beef curry that is a local favorite.
- Shutki: Dried fish that is used in various dishes and is considered a delicacy.
- Pitha: A type of cake made from rice flour and coconut that is typically served during festivals.
Local Beverages
- Cha: A strong, sweet tea that is a staple of Bengali culture.
- Feni: A potent alcoholic drink made from fermented date palm sap that is popular in the Chittagong region.
Where to Stay in Chittagong Division: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Chittagong Division has a range of accommodation options to suit any budget. Here are some of the best hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in the region:
- The Peninsula Chittagong Hotel: A luxury hotel located in the heart of Chittagong city.
- Hotel Green Hill: A mid-range hotel located in Cox’s Bazar that offers excellent views of the sea.
- Green Hill Guest House: A budget-friendly guesthouse in Bandarban that offers clean rooms and basic amenities.
What to Buy in Chittagong Division: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
If you’re looking for unique souvenirs or local products to take home, here are some items to consider:
- Hand-woven textiles: Chittagong Division is known for hand-woven textiles such as saris and shawls.
- Tea: Srimongal produces some of the best tea in the world, and you can purchase it directly from the tea gardens.
- Handicrafts: The Chittagong Hill Tracts are home to several ethnic groups, each with their own unique handicrafts.
Local Culture and Customs of Chittagong Division
Chittagong Division has a rich culture that is influenced by the region’s history and diverse ethnic groups. Visitors should be aware of the following customs:
- Dress Code: Bangladesh is a predominantly Muslim country, and visitors should dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
- Etiquette: Visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions, such as removing shoes before entering a home.
- Language: The official language of Bangladesh is Bengali, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
Best Time to Visit Chittagong Division
The best time to visit Chittagong Division is during the winter months (November to February) when the weather is mild and dry. However, Chittagong Division can be visited year-round, but visitors should be aware of the monsoon season (June to September), when heavy rains can cause flooding and landslides.
Do’s and Don’ts of Chittagong Division
Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Chittagong Division:
Do:
- Respect local customs: Visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions, such as removing shoes before entering a home.
- Be aware of your surroundings: Visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to avoid theft or petty crime.
- Be prepared for the weather: Chittagong Division can be hot and humid, and visitors should be prepared with appropriate clothing and sunscreen.
Don’t:
- Disrespect religious sites: Visitors should be respectful when visiting religious sites and refrain from inappropriate behavior or dress.
- Take photos without permission: Visitors should ask for permission before taking photos of local people or cultural landmarks.
- Be wasteful: Visitors should be mindful of their waste and dispose of it properly.
Safety and Health
When visiting Chittagong Division, it is crucial to be aware of safety and health concerns.
Safety in Chittagong Division
Chittagong Division is generally a safe place to visit, but visitors should still take precautions. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:
- Be aware of your surroundings: Visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to avoid theft or petty crime.
- Be cautious when using public transportation: Public transportation can be crowded and unsafe, and visitors should be aware of pickpocketing and other crimes.
- Avoid political rallies and demonstrations: Political rallies and demonstrations can occur in Chittagong Division, and visitors should avoid them for safety reasons.
Health in Chittagong Division
Visitors should take precautions to protect their health when visiting Chittagong Division. Here are some tips:
- Drink bottled water: Visitors should drink only bottled water or water that has been boiled or treated with a water purifier.
- Get vaccinated: Visitors should consult with their physician before traveling to Chittagong Division and get vaccinated for diseases such as hepatitis A and B and typhoid fever.
- Protect against mosquitoes: Visitors should take precautions to protect themselves against mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever and malaria.
Getting to Chittagong Division: Transportation Options and Logistics
Chittagong Division is well-connected to other parts of Bangladesh, and visitors can reach the region by air, bus, or train.
Airports Near Chittagong Division
The main airport in Chittagong Division is Shah Amanat International Airport (CGP), which is located in Chittagong city. The airport serves several domestic and international airlines.
Bus Stations Near Chittagong Division
Chittagong Division is well-connected by road, and there are several bus stations in the region. The most popular is the Chittagong Bus Station, which is located in the center of the city.
Other Options
Visitors can also reach Chittagong Division by train, with several daily trains running from Dhaka to Chittagong city.
How to Get Around in Chittagong Division
Chittagong Division has a range of transportation options for tourists, including buses, taxis, and auto-rickshaws. Visitors can also hire a car with a driver or rent a bicycle or motorcycle to explore the region.
Where to Go Next from Chittagong Division: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Chittagong Division is a great starting point for exploring other parts of Bangladesh. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:
- Dhaka: Bangladesh’s capital city is a vibrant metropolis with a rich history and many cultural landmarks.
- Sylhet: Sylhet is known for its tea plantations and the Shrine of Hazrat Shah Jalal, a revered Islamic holy site.
- Kuakata: Kuakata is a seaside town famous for its panoramic sunrises and sunsets.
Conclusion
Chittagong Division is a hidden gem in Bangladesh that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions. From stunning beaches to ancient landmarks, visitors to the region can experience the best of what Bangladesh has to offer. By following this comprehensive guide, you can ensure that your trip to Chittagong Division is an unforgettable one.
