Cox’s Bazar, is the longest unbroken sandy beach in the world, and the most popular tourist destination in Bangladesh. This 120-kilometer-long unbroken sea beach captivates domestic and foreign tourists with its turbulent waves and mesmerizing sunsets. Millions of tourists visit Cox’s Bazar every year to capture the stunning blend of natural beauty, vibrant local culture, and a tranquil escape. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing beach vacation, an adventure in nature, or a taste of local life, Cox’s Bazar has something for everyone.
Best Time to Visit Cox’s Bazar
Cox’s Bazar is a tourist place where you can visit at any time of the year. The best time to visit Cox’s Bazar is during the winter months (November to February) when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. Avoid the monsoon season (June to September) as heavy rains may disrupt your plans. But, if you want to take a different test you can choose your own time. The form of Cox’s Bazar on a rainy day during the full monsoon, the blue sky of autumn, or a full moon night in Hemanta (Early winter), will fascinate you.
How to Go to Cox’s Bazar
You can go to Cox’s Bazar by bus from every corner of Bangladesh. Meanwhile, Cox’s Bazar can be reached from Dhaka by Train and Air. You can choose whatever best suits for you.
- By Air: The quickest way is to fly from Dhaka to Cox’s Bazar Airport, with flights operated by airlines like Biman Bangladesh, US-Bangla, and NovoAir. Air fares from Dhaka to Cox’s Bazar range from Tk 4,599 to Tk 12,000.
- By Bus: Direct buses (AC and non-AC) from Dhaka and Chittagong take about 10-12 hours. Popular operators are Green Line and Shohagh Paribahan, Saudia, Hanif Enterprise, Shyamoli Paribahan, S. Alam Paribahan, and Modern Line, etc. The fare of these buses, whether AC, non-AC or sleeper, ranges from Tk 1,100 to Tk 2,700.
- By Train: You can go to Cox’s Bazar directly by train from Dhaka through Cox’s Bazar Express or Tourist Express train. Again, you can go to Cox’s Bazar by train to Chittagong and from there by bus. From Dhaka’s Kamalapur or Airport Railway Station, you can take a train to Chittagong, then transfer to a bus or private car for the final 4-hour journey to Cox’s Bazar. You can go to Chittagong by Sonar Bangla, Suborna Express, Turna-Nishitha, Mahanagar Prabhati/Godhuli and Chattala Mail trains. The fare on the train will cost 340 to 1398 taka depending on the class.
Top Attractions: Place to visit in Cox’s Bazar
When you visit Cox’s Bazar, you will not only visit the beach but also visit some other nearby tourist attractions. Here are some popular nearby tourist attractions in Cox’s Bazar:
1. Cox’s Bazar Beach
The main attraction, this beach stretches as far as the eye can see. Enjoy sunset views, beach sports, and local snacks from vendors.
2. Inani Beach
Located about 30 kilometers from Cox’s Bazar town, Inani Beach offers crystal-clear waters and a quieter atmosphere. At low tide, coral rocks like St. Martin’s can be seen on Inani Sea Beach. Usually, the ideal time to visit Inani Beach is in the afternoon. Seeing the beautiful sunset will be quite joyful here. Besides, while going to Inani Beach via the Teknaf-bound Marine Drive Road, seeing
the Himchhari hills, the rows of sampan, coconut, and jhauban trees on the seashore, and the surrounding natural scenery will make your mind cheerful and all the fatigue of your trip will be removed.
3. Himchari National Park
Himchari is a perfect spot for nature lovers. It is located in the lap of the hill, just 12 kilometers away from Cox’s Bazar. This park features a beautiful waterfall, lush greenery, and panoramic views of the Bay of Bengal. You have to come to Himchari to see cold water fountains, Marine Drive Road, and vast beaches. The rainy season is the best time for traveling to Himchari as the fountains are full at that time.
4. Saint Martin’s Island
St. Martin’s Island is a small island of 17 square kilometers, 120 kilometers away from Cox’s Bazar district city. Take a boat trip to this coral island for a day of snorkeling, swimming, and fresh seafood. The natural beauty of this island has made place as one of the most attractive tourist places in Bangladesh.
The horizon of the blue water with the infinite blue sky, rows of coconut trees have made the island unique, which attracts thousands of tourists every day. You can go to Saint Martin by Ship from Teknaf or Inani Ghat.
5. Marine Drive Road
Stretching from Cox’s Bazar to Teknaf, this scenic drive offers breathtaking views of the sea and mountains. It is bout 80 kilometers long, the sea on one side of the road and the mountains on the other. So traveling on this road is very popular for tourists.
Where to Stay at Cox’s Bazar
The current capacity of hotels in Cox’s Bazar is about 150,000 people. So you will not face hassle even if you don’t book your accommodation before making your journey. But it is better to book the hotel in advance in the peak season (from December 15 to January 15).
Here are some booking options available in Cox’s Bazar.
Luxury Options: 5000-40000 Taka
- Hotel Sea Pearl Beach Resort & Spa
Located near Inani Beach, it offers premium rooms and exceptional service. - Ramada, Mermaid Beach Resort, Ocean Paradise are also some good (4-5) star hotels.
Mid-Range Options: 3000-5000 Taka
- Sayeman Beach Resort
A popular beachfront hotel with modern amenities and sea-view rooms. - Hotel Sea Crown, Sea Palace, Sea Gull, Coral Reef, Nitol Resort, Islandia, Hotel Beach Way also offers quality services.
Budget-Friendly Options: 500-2000 Taka
- Hotel Coral Reef
Affordable and conveniently located near the main beach. - Urmi Guest House, Iqra Beach Resort, Avisar, Media Inn, Honeymoon Resort, Neelima Resort, etc also provides budget-friendly services.
Local Food and Cuisine
Don’t miss these local favorites:
- Fresh Seafood: Try lobsters, crabs, and prawns from beachfront stalls.
- Chingri Malai Curry: Prawns cooked in coconut milk.
- Shutki (Dried Fish): A local specialty available in markets and some restaurants.
There are all types and quality restaurants in Cox’s Bazar. Dhansiri, Paushi, Niribili, Rodela, Jhauban etc. are worth mentioning among the mid-range budget restaurants. Normal set menus in these restaurants will cost you between 200-350 taka.
Travel Tips
- Stay Hydrated: The coastal weather can get humid, so drink plenty of water.
- Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly when away from the beach.
- Protect Your Belongings: Keep your valuables safe, especially in crowded areas.
- Travel In the off Season: It will save you money.
- Bargain: Bargain properly while buying anything, eating in restaurants, booking hotels, or paying for transportation.
- Seek for Help: For any problems, please contact the Tourist Police. Hotline +08801320 222222
Sample Itinerary
Here is a sample tour plan for Cox’s Bazar.
Day 1:
- Arrive in Cox’s Bazar and check into your hotel.
- Spend the afternoon at Cox’s Bazar Beach and enjoy the sunset.
Day 2:
- Visit Himchari National Park in the morning.
- Drive to Inani Beach for a relaxing afternoon.
- Evening: Explore the local markets for souvenirs.
Day 3:
- Take a day trip to Saint Martin’s Island.
- Return to Cox’s Bazar and enjoy a seafood dinner.
Final thoughts on Cox’s Bazar Travel Guide
Traveling to Cox’s Bazar will be a great experience and worth remembering if you make it with your loved one at the right time. I have discussed everything you need to know before traveling to Cox’s Bazar. I hope that this Travel Guide will help you to make your journey more safe, and thrilling with proper use of your money and time. If you have any queries, feel free to ask in the comment section below. I will be more than happy to assist you.
