Close your eyes and picture Chattogram. What do you see? Probably the endless waves of Cox’s Bazar or the busy port lights of the city. But what if I told you the real magic of this region isn’t just on the main roads?

Welcome to the Chattogram Division you haven’t fully met yet—a land where clouds touch the hilltops of “Mini Bandarban” and ancient caves hide just minutes away from the world’s longest beach. Whether you are a first-time visitor looking for the classics or a seasoned traveler hunting for the unknown, this guide is your roadmap to the best of 2025.

1. The Classics Reimagined: Cox’s Bazar & St. Martin’s Island

Let’s start with the legends. You can’t visit Chattogram without paying homage to the sea. But in 2025, it’s about how you visit.

Cox’s Bazar: More Than Just Laboni Point

While Laboni and Sugandha beaches are the heartbeat of the town, the real tranquility lies further south.

  • Pro Tip: Take a Tomtom (battery-run auto) to Inani Beach or the coral-stone-filled Pathorkoli in the early morning. The sunrise reflected on the stones is ethereal.

  • Don’t Miss: The Marine Drive Road. Renting a car or CNG to drive this 80km stretch between the hills and the ocean is arguably the best road trip experience in Bangladesh.

St. Martin’s Island: The Coral Paradise

If you have 2 days to spare, the ship ride to St. Martin’s is non-negotiable.

  • 2025 Update: Ship tickets have seen a slight price adjustment. Booking in advance is now essential as tourism caps are strictly enforced to protect the coral reefs.

Transport Costs at a Glance (2025 Estimates)

  • Dhaka to Cox’s Bazar (AC Bus): ৳1,800 – ৳2,700 (Green Line, Shohagh, etc.)

  • Dhaka to Cox’s Bazar (Train): ৳556 (Shovon) – ৳1,977 (AC Berth) via Cox’s Bazar Express.

  • Teknaf/Cox’s to St. Martin’s (Ship): ৳2,100 – ৳5,500 (Round Trip) via Karnafuly or Baro Awlia.

2. The Hidden Gems: Where Adventure Meets Silence

Tired of the crowds? These spots are trending for all the right reasons.

Mini Bandarban: The Hilltop Surprise

Located just behind the Himchari National Park, this spot offers the rugged, hilly vibes of Bandarban without the long travel time.

  • The Vibe: Rolling green hills with a panoramic view of the Bay of Bengal. It is quiet, windy, and perfect for sunset.

  • How to get there: From Kolatoli Bus Stand, hire a CNG or Auto-rickshaw towards Himchari. Ask for the “Mini Bandarban” trail entrance near the park.

  • Entry: Free (though local guides may ask for a small tip).

Darianagar Cave (Kana Raja’s Cave)

A thrill for history buffs and adventure seekers. This natural cave system near the Darianagar Centre is steeped in local folklore.

  • The Hook: It’s a labyrinthine passage that feels like stepping into an Indiana Jones movie.

  • Cost: Nominal entry fee (approx. ৳50 – ৳100).

3. The Green Escape: Sitakunda Eco Park & Trails

If you love trekking, Sitakunda is your playground. It is the perfect blend of spiritual serenity and raw nature.

  • Chandranath Hill: The climb to the top of this ancient temple is challenging but spiritually rewarding. The view from 1,000 feet up, looking down at the sea, is unmatched.

  • Khoiyachora Waterfall: Often called the “Queen of Waterfalls” in Bangladesh. The trail is muddy and adventurous—perfect for the monsoon season or cooler winter months.

  • Guliakhali Sea Beach: Known as the “Muradpur Beach,” this isn’t your typical sandy shore. It’s a green carpet of grass meeting the ocean, crisscrossed by small mangrove canals.

Estimated Costs for Sitakunda Day Trip:

  • Bus from Chattogram City: ৳100 – ৳150

  • CNG to Eco Park/Trail heads: ৳150 – ৳300

  • Park Entry: Approx. ৳50 – ৳100

4. City Charm: Foy’s Lake & Patenga

Back in the main city, the vibe shifts to leisurely fun.

  • Foy’s Lake Concord: In 2025, Foy’s Lake remains a top family spot. The boat rides at dusk are romantic and peaceful.

    • Entry: Basic entry starts around ৳300, with package deals for rides and Sea World ranging from ৳1,200 to ৳2,900.

  • Patenga Sea Beach: The renovated walkway makes it a fantastic evening hangout. Try the spicy crab fry (kankra fry) from the street vendors—it’s a local rite of passage!

5. Practical Travel Tips for 2025

  1. Best Time to Visit: * November to February: Best for beach activities, hiking, and camping. The weather is cool and dry.

    • June to August: Best for seeing the waterfalls in Sitakunda in their full glory (but be careful of slippery trails!).

  2. Booking: For St. Martin’s ships and Cox’s Bazar trains, book at least 7-10 days in advance.

  3. Stay Connected: Network coverage is good in most places, but carries a power bank for those long treks in Sitakunda.

Final Thoughts

Chattogram is not just a destination; it’s an emotion. It’s the salt in your hair at Inani, the burn in your legs up Chandranath Hill, and the peace of a sunset at Mini Bandarban.

Ready to pack your bags? Explore our “Hotels” section to find the best stays for your budget, and don’t forget to tag us in your travel stories with #TravelChattogram!