Cumilla Travel Guide

Discover the cultural and natural attractions of Cumilla, try the delicious local food, learn about the local culture and customs, and plan your trip with our detailed itinerary and transportation guide.


A Comprehensive Travel Guide for Cumilla, Bangladesh

Located in Chittagong Division, in Bangladesh, Cumilla is a city that offers a rich cultural and natural experience for tourists. In this travel guide, we will provide you with detailed information about the must-see attractions, the best things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and local customs and traditions.

Introduction to Cumilla

Cumilla is a historical city that dates back to the 7th century. It was known as Comilla during the British rule and has since been one of the cultural hubs of Bangladesh. The city is famous for its lush green hills, serene lakes, rich history, and vibrant culture.

List of Places to Visit in Cumilla

When visiting Cumilla, be sure to include these must-visit destinations in your itinerary.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Mainamati: Located about 8 km from the city center, Mainamati is an archeological site that was once the residence of Buddhist monks. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers a glimpse into the ancient history of the region.

  2. Shah Suja Mosque: Built-in the mid-17th century, Shah Suja Mosque is known for its unique style of architecture and intricate designs.

  3. Lalmai Pahar: A natural attraction as well as a historical site, Lalmai Pahar is a range of hills that are believed to be 6-7 million years old. The hills offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Natural Attractions of Cumilla: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Madhabpur Lake: A tranquil and serene lake surrounded by hills and tea gardens, Madhabpur Lake is perfect for camping, fishing, and boating.

  2. Bir Shrestha Captain Mohiuddin Jahangir Park: A beautiful park located in the heart of the city, Bir Shrestha Captain Mohiuddin Jahangir Park is a great place for a stroll or a picnic with friends and family.

  3. Chittagong Hill Tracts: A group of hill ranges that offer a scenic view of the surrounding landscape. The Chittagong Hill Tracts are perfect for hiking, trekking, and camping.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Cumilla

Cumilla is known for its beautiful hiking and biking tracks. Some popular trails include:

  1. Mainamati-Bardikali Trail: A moderate to difficult trail that takes about 4-5 hours to complete. The trail starts from Mainamati and leads to the picturesque village of Bardikali.

  2. Chandina-Bangra Trail: A relatively easy trail that takes about 2-3 hours to complete. The trail starts from Chandina and ends at the scenic Bangra Lake.

  3. Lalmai-Madhabpur Trail: A challenging trail that takes about 7-9 hours to complete. The trail leads from Lalmai to Madhabpur Lake, passing through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the region.

Best Things to Do in Cumilla: Activities and Tours

There are many activities and tours that are worth experiencing in Cumilla, including:

  1. Tea Garden Tour: Cumilla is known for its lush green tea gardens, and a tour of the tea estates is a great way to learn about the tea-making process and taste some of the finest tea in the country.

  2. Boat Ride at Madhabpur Lake: A boat ride in the serene waters of Madhabpur Lake is a must-do activity in Cumilla. The lake is surrounded by hills and tea gardens, offering a breathtaking view of the surroundings.

  3. Mainamati Archeological Tour: Take a tour of Mainamati and explore the ancient ruins of Buddhist monasteries, temples, and stupas.

Week-Long Itinerary for Cumilla

Day 1: Arrival and check-in at a hotel. Day 2: Mainamati Archeological Tour Day 3: Visiting Lalmai Pahar and Chittagong Hill Tracts Day 4: Tea Garden Tour and boat ride at Madhabpur Lake Day 5: Hiking/Biking Trail Day 6: Visiting Shah Suja Mosque and Bir Shrestha Captain Mohiuddin Jahangir Park Day 7: Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Cumilla

Cumilla offers a rich variety of local dishes and beverages that are worth trying.

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Chittagong Shahi Haleem: A slow-cooked meat stew made with lentils, wheat, and spices.

  2. Pitha: A traditional sweet made with rice flour, coconut, and jaggery.

  3. Tiler Khaja: A crispy snack made with sesame seeds, flour, and ghee.

Local Beverages

  1. Cha: A sweet and milky tea that is a staple beverage in Bangladesh.

  2. Lassi: A yogurt-based drink that is perfect for hot summer days.

  3. Borhani: A spiced yogurt drink that is served as a refreshing accompaniment to spicy dishes.

Where to Stay in Cumilla: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Cumilla offers a range of accommodation options to suit different tastes and budgets. Some popular options include:

  1. Comilla Club: A heritage property that offers comfortable accommodation and modern amenities.

  2. Hotel Durbar View: A budget-friendly hotel that offers clean and comfortable rooms.

  3. Comfort Inn Guest House: A guest house that offers basic amenities and a homely environment.

What to Buy in Cumilla: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Cumilla Cotton: Known for its soft texture and durability, Cumilla cotton is a popular product that is sold in the local markets.

  2. Handicrafts: Cumilla is known for its traditional handicrafts, including pottery, woodwork, and embroidery.

  3. Tea: Assam and Darjeeling tea are sold at the local markets and are a great souvenir to bring home.

Local Culture and Customs of Cumilla

Like many other regions in Bangladesh, Cumilla has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its customs and traditions. The people of Cumilla are friendly and hospitable and welcome tourists with open arms.

Best Time to Visit Cumilla

The best time to visit Cumilla is between October and March when the weather is cool and pleasant.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cumilla

Do:

  • Dress modestly to respect the local culture.
  • Remove your shoes before entering religious places.
  • Try the local food and drink.

Don’t:

  • Take photographs without permission.
  • Disrespect local customs and traditions.
  • Smoke in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Cumilla

Cumilla is a safe city for tourists, but it’s always best to exercise caution when traveling. Avoid going out alone at night and keep your valuables safe.

Health in Cumilla

The local water may not be safe for drinking, so it’s best to stick to bottled water.

Getting to Cumilla: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Cumilla

The nearest airport to Cumilla is Osmani International Airport, located about 50 km away.

Bus Stations Near Cumilla

Cumilla Bus Stand is the main bus station in the city, and buses ply from different parts of the country.

Other Options

Train services are also available from different parts of the country.

How to Get Around in Cumilla

The best way to get around Cumilla is by taxi or rickshaw. They are readily available and affordable.

Where to Go Next from Cumilla: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Srimangal: Known as the tea capital of Bangladesh, Srimangal is located about 100 km from Cumilla and is famous for its lush green tea gardens and forests.

  2. Cox’s Bazar: The longest beach in the world, Cox’s Bazar is located about 260 km from Cumilla and is a popular tourist destination.

Conclusion

Cumilla is a city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From visiting ancient ruins to hiking in the hills and tasting the local cuisine, there’s something for everyone in Cumilla. Plan your trip well and make the most of your time in this beautiful part of Bangladesh.

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