Cox's Bazar Travel Guide
Plan your trip to Cox's Bazar with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.
- Introduction to Cox’s Bazar
- List of Places to Visit in Cox’s Bazar
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Cox’s Bazar
- Best Things to Do in Cox’s Bazar: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Cox’s Bazar
- Food and Drink Scene of Cox’s Bazar
- Where to Stay in Cox’s Bazar: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Cox’s Bazar: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Cox’s Bazar
- Best Time to Visit Cox’s Bazar
- Do’s and Don’ts of Cox’s Bazar
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Cox’s Bazar: Transportation Options and Logistics
- Other Transportation Options
- How to Get Around in Cox’s Bazar
- Where to Go Next from Cox’s Bazar: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Cox’s Bazar
Cox’s Bazar is a coastal city located in the Chittagong Division of Bangladesh. It is known for having the world’s longest natural sandy beach and is a popular tourist destination in the country. With a plethora of natural attractions, cultural landmarks, exciting outdoor activities, delicious food, and friendly locals, Cox’s Bazar is a perfect retreat for those looking for a relaxing and adventurous getaway.
List of Places to Visit in Cox’s Bazar
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
Cox’s Bazar Museum
The Cox’s Bazar Museum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. It exhibits the history, culture, and tradition of Cox’s Bazar through photographs, sculptures, and artifacts.
Himchori Waterfall
Himchori Waterfall is located near the Cox’s Bazar Sea Beach and is one of the most scenic places to visit in the area. The waterfall, surrounded by lush green forests, is an ideal place for nature lovers.
Maheshkhali Island
Maheshkhali Island is a sacred place for both Hindus and Buddhists. The island boasts two ancient temples, the Adinath Temple and the Mahishamardini Temple, which attract many pilgrims.
Natural Attractions of Cox’s Bazar: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Inani Beach
Inani Beach is a secluded, serene beach with crystal clear water, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The beach also offers mesmerizing views of the surrounding hills and coral reefs.
Cox’s Bazar Sea Beach
Cox’s Bazar Sea Beach, which stretches for over 120 kilometers, is the main attraction of the city. The beach provides an excellent opportunity for visitors to relax, jog, or cycle along the sand while watching the waves.
St. Martins Island
St. Martins Island is a tropical paradise with white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and colorful marine life. Visitors can indulge in activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, and fishing.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Cox’s Bazar
Cox’s Bazar offers a variety of hiking and biking trails that traverse through the lush green hills and forests. The popular hiking/biking routes include:
- Himchori-Badalghat Trail
- Maheshkhali-Nafakum Trail
- Dulahazara Safari Park Trail
Best Things to Do in Cox’s Bazar: Activities and Tours
Cox’s Bazar is filled with exciting activities and tours. Some of the best things to do in the city include:
- Paragliding
- Water sports (jet skiing, banana boat ride, etc.)
- Beach camping
- Local market tours
- Night fishing tours
Week-Long Itinerary for Cox’s Bazar
Day 1-2: Relax on Cox’s Bazar Sea Beach and explore the nearby cultural landmarks.
Day 3: Visit Inani Beach and enjoy various water sports activities.
Day 4: Take a tour of the surrounding forests and hills.
Day 5: Indulge in outdoor adventures like paragliding or night fishing.
Day 6-7: Visit nearby destinations like St. Martins Island or Maheshkhali Island.
Food and Drink Scene of Cox’s Bazar
Must-Try Dishes
- Khichuri (a spicy vegetable and lentil stew)
- Pitha (a type of rice cake)
- Biryani (a spicy mixed rice dish)
- Seafood (lobster, crab, prawns, etc.)
Local Beverages
- Coconut water
- Sugarcane juice
- Lassi (a yogurt-based drink)
Where to Stay in Cox’s Bazar: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Cox’s Bazar offers a variety of accommodation options for all types of travelers. The city has a plethora of hotels, hostels, and guesthouses ranging from budget to luxury.
Some of the popular hotels in Cox’s Bazar include:
- Royal Tulip Sea Pearl Beach Resort
- Long Beach Hotel
- Hotel Sea Crown
- Hotel Kallol
What to Buy in Cox’s Bazar: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Traditional Bangladeshi clothing (Sarees, Pajamas, etc.)
- Handcrafted items (jewelry, pottery, etc.)
- Seafood and Spices
- Hand-looms and Weaves
Local Culture and Customs of Cox’s Bazar
The local culture of Cox’s Bazar is influenced by both Hindu and Muslim traditions. The city is home to the indigenous communities of Rakhine and Chakma, who have their unique customs and traditions.
Best Time to Visit Cox’s Bazar
The best time to visit Cox’s Bazar is from November to February when the climate is comfortable and pleasant.
Do’s and Don’ts of Cox’s Bazar
Do:
- Respect the local culture and traditions.
- Dress modestly while visiting religious places.
- Try the local cuisine and specialties.
- Bargain while shopping at the local markets.
Don’t:
- Consume alcohol in public places.
- Disrespect local customs and traditions.
- Litter or pollute the environment.
Safety and Health
Safety in Cox’s Bazar
Cox’s Bazar is a relatively safe city. However, visitors are advised to take precautions like not carrying large amounts of cash, avoiding dark and isolated areas at night, and being aware of potential pickpockets and scams.
Health in Cox’s Bazar
Water-borne diseases like cholera and diarrhea are prevalent in Cox’s Bazar due to its proximity to the Bay of Bengal. Visitors are advised to drink only bottled water, avoid tap water and ice, and take necessary vaccinations before arriving in the city.
Getting to Cox’s Bazar: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Cox’s Bazar
Cox’s Bazar has its domestic airport, the Cox’s Bazar Airport, which is well-connected to major cities like Dhaka and Chittagong.
Bus Stations Near Cox’s Bazar
Cox’s Bazar has several bus stations that connect it to major cities like Dhaka, Chittagong, and Sylhet.
Other Transportation Options
Visitors can also take private taxis, shared cars, or motorcycles to reach Cox’s Bazar from nearby cities and towns.
How to Get Around in Cox’s Bazar
Visitors can rent bicycles or motorbikes to explore the city’s beaches, hills, and forests. The city also has numerous auto-rickshaws and taxis to travel within the city.
Where to Go Next from Cox’s Bazar: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Visitors can explore the nearby destinations like Chittagong, Bandarban, or Srimongal after their trip to Cox’s Bazar.
Conclusion
Cox’s Bazar is a hidden gem of Bangladesh that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. With its unspoiled beaches, scenic views, exciting adventures, and delicious food, Cox’s Bazar is a perfect destination for an unforgettable vacation.
