Cox’s Bazar – The Longest Beach in the Country

Cox’s Bazar is a coastal city located in the Chittagong Division of Bangladesh. It is known for its expansive and pristine beach that stretches for over 120 km along the Bay of Bengal. This makes it the longest natural beach in the world. The city is also home to some other natural attractions, such as waterfalls, hills, and forests, as well as cultural landmarks and activities.

Cox’s Bazar is a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists, who come to enjoy its natural beauty, relax on the beach, and experience the unique culture of the region. The city is particularly famous for its sandy beach, which is lined with coconut palms and offers breathtaking views of the sea. The beach is clean and well-maintained, making it an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, and other water sports activities.

In addition to the beach, several other attractions in Cox’s Bazar are worth exploring. One such place is the Himchori Waterfall, which is located about 12 km south of the main beach. The waterfall is surrounded by lush green hills and offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Another popular attraction in Cox’s Bazar is the Cox’s Bazar Marine Aquarium, which is home to a variety of marine life found in the Bay of Bengal. 

• History and Significance: Cox’s Bazar is a popular tourist destination located in the Chittagong Division of Bangladesh. It has a rich history dating back to the 7th century when it was a small fishing village. The area was named after Captain Hiram Cox, an officer of the British East India Company who established a market here in the 18th century. Cox’s Bazar is known for its long and beautiful sandy beach which is considered one of the world’s longest natural sea beaches.
• Location and Accessibility: Cox’s Bazar is located on the southeastern coast of Bangladesh, bordering the Bay of Bengal. It is approximately 152 km south of the city of Chittagong, and about 415 km from Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh. Visitors can travel to Cox’s Bazar by air, road, or rail. The nearest airport is Cox’s Bazar Airport, and there are several bus services and private cars available for hire to reach the destination.
• Products and Shops: Cox’s Bazar is known for its unique handicrafts, including handmade mats, baskets, and jewelry made from seashells. There are several shops and markets in the area where visitors can buy these items, as well as other souvenirs and gifts.
• Local Cuisine: Seafood is a specialty of Cox’s Bazar, and many local restaurants offer delicious seafood dishes. Other popular dishes include rice, lentils, and various vegetable curries. Visitors can also enjoy fresh fruit juices, coconut water, and traditional sweets.
• Cultural Customs and Dress Codes: Cox’s Bazar has a predominantly Muslim population, and visitors are expected to dress modestly, especially when visiting mosques or other religious sites. It is also customary to remove shoes before entering someone’s home or a religious building.
• Exhibits: The Cox’s Bazar Museum is a must-visit for history buffs. It has exhibits showcasing the history and culture of the area, including artifacts from the region’s ancient Buddhist and Hindu heritage.
• Guided Tours: There are several guided tours available for visitors to Cox’s Bazar. These tours typically include visits to popular tourist attractions such as the beach, Himchori Hill, and the nearby fishing villages. Some tours also include activities such as boat rides on the Bay of Bengal and trekking to nearby waterfalls.  
• Photography Rules: Visitors are allowed to take photographs and videos of the beach and its surroundings. However, it is advised to be respectful of the local culture and customs while taking pictures. It is also important to avoid taking photos of strangers without their permission.
• Nearby Attractions

There are many nearby attractions to explore in Cox’s Bazar, including:

1. Himchori Waterfall
2. Inani Beach
3. Laboni Beach
4. Cox’s Bazar Buddhist Temple
5. Cox’s Bazar Marine Aquarium

• Recommended Sightseeing Time: To fully experience Cox’s Bazar and its nearby attractions, it is recommended to spend at least 2-3 days in the area.
• How to Get There: The most common way to get to Cox’s Bazar is by road from Chittagong or Dhaka. Buses and private cars are available for hire from several locations in these cities. Alternatively, there are direct flights available from Dhaka to Cox’s Bazar Airport.
• Where to Stay

There are many accommodation options available in Cox’s Bazar, ranging from budget hotels to luxury resorts. Some popular options include:

1. Hotel Seagull
2. Hotel Kollol
3. Long Beach Hotel
4. Hotel The Cox Today
5. Sayeman Beach Resort

• Things to Do

There are many things to do in Cox’s Bazar, including:

1. Relaxing on the beach and enjoying the ocean views
2. Visiting nearby attractions like the Himchori Waterfall and Cox’s Bazar Buddhist Temple
3. Sampling local seafood and other delicacies at the beachfront restaurants
4. Taking a boat ride on the Bay of Bengal
5. Participating in local festivals and events

• Traditional Food Item

One of the traditional food items of Cox’s Bazar is “Shutki Maach” or dried fish. It is a popular local delicacy and can be found in many beachfront restaurants. 

• Travel Tips

1. Be respectful of the local culture and customs.
2. Carry enough cash as there may not be many ATMs in the area.
3. Use sunscreen and stay hydrated while on the beach.
4. Be cautious while swimming in the ocean and always follow the safety guidelines.

Time of visit to Ramna Park