Chittagong, Bangladesh Travel Guide

Discover Chittagong, a vibrant city in Bangladesh where the lush hills meet the sea, offering a perfect mix of beaches, history, and cultural diversity.

Chittagong, Bangladesh's second-largest city, is a mesmerizing blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and bustling urban life. Nestled between the Bay of Bengal and the Chittagong Hill Tracts, this city offers a unique combination of scenic beaches, lush green hills, and vibrant culture. Start your journey with a visit to Patenga Beach, where the waves of the Bay of Bengal gently kiss the shore. It's a perfect spot to relax, watch the sunset, and enjoy some local seafood. For those intrigued by history, the Ethnological Museum provides a fascinating insight into the diverse ethnic groups of Bangladesh. For a touch of adventure, head to the nearby hill tracts. The verdant hills and serene lakes, such as Kaptai Lake, are perfect for trekking, boating, and exploring tribal culture. Don't miss the chance to visit the serene Buddhist temples in the area, such as the Buddha Dhatu Jadi, also known as the Golden Temple. Back in the city, the bustling markets like the Chittagong Fishery Ghat offer a glimpse into the daily lives of locals. Here, you can find fresh seafood, spices, and handmade crafts. The city is also known for its delicious street food, so be sure to try some local delicacies like Panta Ilish and Chingri Malai Curry. Chittagong is not just a city; it's an experience. From its natural beauty to its rich cultural tapestry, there's something for every traveler in this captivating city.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Chittagong.

Visit Patenga Beach early in the morning to avoid the crowds and enjoy a peaceful sunrise.
Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to explore the hill tracts, as the terrain can be challenging.
Try the local street food but ensure it's from a clean and reputable vendor to avoid any stomach issues.
Always ask for permission before taking photos of local people, especially in tribal areas.
Carry some cash, as not all places accept credit cards, especially in more remote areas.

Explore Chittagong: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Chittagong

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Browse the full guide

All Attractions

Patenga Sea Beach

Discover Patenga Sea Beach: Where the Karnaphuli River meets the Bay of Bengal, offering stunning sunsets and vibrant local culture.

4.4

পতেঙ্গা সমুদ্র সৈকত

Experience the beauty of where the Karnaphuli River meets the Bay of Bengal, with stunning sunsets and a lively atmosphere at Patenga Sea Beach.

4.3

Ethnological Museum

Discover Bangladesh's diverse cultural heritage at the Ethnological Museum, showcasing the traditions and lifestyles of numerous ethnic groups.

4.3

Biplob Udyan

Explore Biplob Udyan in Chattogram: A historical park offering a green escape and cultural experiences, commemorating Bangladesh's independence struggle.

4.2

Best landmarks in Chittagong

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

Browse the full guide

All Landmarks

New Market Circle, Chattogram

Experience the vibrant heart of Chattogram at New Market Circle, a historical landmark offering a sensory feast of culture and commerce.

4.1

Patenga Sea Beach, Chittagong

Experience the vibrant Patenga Sea Beach in Chattogram: stunning sunsets, delicious street food, and cultural richness where the river meets the sea.

4.5

Sree Sree Chatteshwari Kali Temple

Discover the spiritual heart of Chattogram at Sree Sree Chatteshwari Kali Temple, a revered Shakti Peetha with rich history and vibrant traditions.

4.4

পতেঙ্গা সমুদ্র সৈকত

Experience the beauty of where the Karnaphuli River meets the Bay of Bengal at this popular beach near Chattogram, Bangladesh.

4.3

Best restaurants in Chittagong

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

Browse the full guide

All Restaurants

Handi Restaurant

Discover authentic Indian flavors at Handi Restaurant in Chattogram—where every dish tells a story.

4.0

Barcode Cafe

Experience the best of Bangladeshi cuisine at Barcode Cafe, where every meal tells a story of flavor and warmth.

4.2

Bir Chattala

Experience authentic Bangladeshi cuisine at Bir Chattala in Chattogram – where tradition meets taste!

4.2

Cafe Milano

Discover Cafe Milano in Chattogram: A charming cafe serving exquisite continental cuisine perfect for families and food enthusiasts.

4.1

Best bars in Chittagong

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

Browse the full guide

All Bars

Wind of Change - Rooftop Restaurant & Lounge

Enjoy exquisite dining and stunning views at Wind of Change Rooftop Restaurant & Lounge in Chattogram, perfect for a unique culinary experience.

3.9

The Hide Out - Lounge & Game Zone

Discover the perfect blend of relaxation and entertainment at The Hide Out - Lounge & Game Zone in Chattogram, where fun meets comfort.

3.8

The Railway Mens Stores Limited Restaurant And Bar

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delicious flavors of The Railway Mens Stores Limited Restaurant And Bar in Chattogram, a must-visit for every traveler.

3.8

Baikal Lounge

Discover the lively ambiance and exquisite cocktails at Baikal Lounge, the ultimate nightlife destination in Chattogram, Bangladesh.

4.2

Best nightclubs in Chittagong

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

Browse the full guide

All Nightclubs

Night Shadow Club (Hotel Tower Inn Bar)

Discover the dynamic nightlife of Chattogram at Night Shadow Club, where cocktails, music, and good vibes create unforgettable memories.

4.0

Shekh Rasel Smirity Songshod

Discover the lively nightlife of Chattogram at Shekh Rasel Smirity Songshod, where music, dance, and great company come together.

3.7

Halishahar Lucky Club

Discover the lively nightlife at Halishahar Lucky Club, a premier youth club in Chattogram, perfect for dancing and socializing.

3.9

Ac Office

Dive into the vibrant nightlife at Ac Office, Chattogram's premier night club offering electrifying music, stylish decor, and unforgettable experiences.

5.0

Best shops in Chittagong

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

Browse the full guide

All Shops

Sanmar Ocean City

Experience the vibrant shopping scene and local culture at Sanmar Ocean City, a premier destination in Chattogram for tourists seeking retail therapy.

4.3

Finlay Square

Explore Finlay Square in Chattogram, a vibrant shopping mall offering diverse stores, dining options, and entertainment for an unforgettable experience.

4.2

Afmi Plaza

Explore Afmi Plaza: the ultimate shopping and dining destination in Chattogram, where local culture meets modern convenience.

4.1

Khulshi Town Center

Discover the vibrant Khulshi Town Center in Chattogram, a shopping haven filled with trendy boutiques, dining options, and family-friendly entertainment.

4.2

Explore Chittagong on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Chittagong, mapped for you.

Chittagong Essentials

Chittagong, known as Chattogram, is accessible through Shah Amanat International Airport (CGP), which has flights from major cities in Bangladesh and some international destinations. From Dhaka, you can also take a train or a long-distance bus, both of which offer scenic views of the countryside. The journey by train can take approximately 7-8 hours, while buses can take around 6-7 hours depending on traffic.
Chittagong has a variety of transportation options. Rickshaws are a common and affordable way to travel short distances. CNG-powered auto-rickshaws are available for longer journeys. Local buses and minibuses offer inexpensive transport but can be crowded. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are also available. For exploring nearby attractions, renting a car with a driver can be convenient.
The official currency in Bangladesh is the Bangladeshi Taka (BDT). Credit and debit cards are accepted in many hotels, restaurants, and larger stores, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are widely available in Chittagong, but inform your bank about your travels to avoid any issues with card transactions.
Chittagong is relatively safe for tourists, but it's important to take standard precautions. Areas like Agrabad and GEC Circle are generally safe, but avoid less crowded areas at night. Be cautious with your belongings in crowded places like markets and public transport. Certain areas, such as the outskirts of the city, may have higher crime rates, so it's best to avoid these unless you are with a trusted local guide.
In case of emergency, you can dial 999 for police, fire, and medical assistance. Major hospitals like Chittagong Medical College Hospital and private facilities like Surgiscope Hospital are available for medical emergencies. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available throughout the city for minor health issues.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Remove your shoes and cover your head when entering mosques. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a simple 'Assalamu Alaikum'. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Chittagong like a local, visit the bustling Chawk Bazar for a taste of local life and cuisine. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and eager to share their culture. Don't miss visiting Patenga Beach for a relaxing evening or the Foy's Lake for a day of adventure. For a unique experience, take a boat ride on the Karnaphuli River and visit the nearby ship-breaking yards, which are a significant part of Chittagong's economy.

When is the best time to visit Chittagong?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Chittagong

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Chittagong. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- Helloহ্যালো
  [hyalo]
- Goodbyeবিদায়
  [bidae]
- Yesহ্যাঁ
  [hya]
- Noনা
  [na]
- Please/You're welcomeদয়া করে
  [doya kore]
- Thank youধন্যবাদ
  [dhonobad]
- Excuse me/Sorryদুঃখিত
  [dukhit]
- How are you?কেমন আছেন?
  [kemon achen?]
- Fine. And you?ভালো। আর তুমি?
  [bhalo. ar tumi?]
- Do you speak English?আপনি ইংরেজি কথা বলতে পারেন?
  [apni English kotha bolte paren?]
- I don't understandআমি বুঝিনা
  [ami bujhina]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseআমি মেনু দেখতে চাই
  [ami menu dekhte chai]
- I don't eat meatআমি মাংস খাই না
  [ami mangsh khai na]
- Cheers!চিয়ার্স!
  [cheers!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseআমি দিতে চাই
  [ami dite chai]
- Help!সাহায্য!
  [sahayyo!]
- Go away!চলে যাও!
  [chole jao!]
- Call the Police!পুলিস কল করুন!
  [police kol korun!]
- Call a doctor!ডাক্তার কল করুন!
  [doctor kol korun!]
- I'm lostআমি হারানো
  [ami harano]
- I'm illআমি অসুস্থ
  [ami osustho]
- I'd like to buy...আমি ... কিনতে চাই
  [ami ... kinte chai]
- I'm just lookingআমি শুধু দেখছি
  [ami shudhu dekhchi]
- How much is it?এটা কত টাকা?
  [eta koto taka?]
- That's too expensiveএটা খুব বাজে
  [eta khub baje]
- Can you lower the price?দাম কমাতে পারবেন?
  [dam kamate parben?]
- What time is it?এখন কতটা?
  [ekhon kotta?]
- It's one o'clockএকটা বাজে
  [ekta baje]
- Half past (10)(10) এর পর্দ্ধে
  [(10) er porthe]
- Morningসকাল
  [shokal]
- Afternoonদুপুর
  [dupur]
- Eveningসন্ধ্যা
  [shondhya]
- Yesterdayগতকাল
  [gotkal]
- Todayআজ
  [aj]
- Tomorrowআগামীকাল
  [agamikal]
- 1এক
  [ek]
- 2দুই
  [dui]
- 3তিন
  [tin]
- 4চার
  [char]
- 5পাঁচ
  [pach]
- 6ছয়
  [shoi]
- 7সাত
  [shat]
- 8আট
  [at]
- 9নয়
  [noy]
- 10দশ
  [dash]
- Where's a/the...?...কোথায়?
  [...kothay?]
- What's the address?ঠিকানা কি?
  [thikana ki?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?আপনি আমাকে (ম্যাপে) দেখাতে পারবেন?
  [apni amake (map-e) dekhate parben?]
- When's the next (bus)?পরের (বাস) কখন?
  [porer (bus) kohon?]
- A ticket (to ....)একটি টিকেট (.... এ)
  [ekti ticket (.... e)]

History of Chittagong

Chittagong, known historically as Chatgaon, has roots that date back to ancient times. It was a major port city and a thriving commercial hub in the ancient Bengal region. Evidence of early settlements and trade routes can be traced back to the 4th century BCE. The city was part of the Mauryan Empire under Emperor Ashoka and later became a significant center for Buddhist learning and culture during the Pala Dynasty.
During the medieval period, Chittagong saw the rise of various dynasties and was often contested by regional powers. The Arakanese Kingdom, with its capital at Mrauk U, controlled the region intermittently between the 9th and 16th centuries. The city was also frequented by Arab traders who brought Islam to the region. This period also witnessed the construction of several mosques and the spread of Islamic culture.
The arrival of the Portuguese in the early 16th century marked a new chapter in Chittagong’s history. The Portuguese established a settlement in the city, known as Porto Grande. They engaged in trade and also acted as mercenaries for local rulers. The Portuguese influence is still evident in some of the colonial architecture and place names in the city.
In the mid-17th century, the Mughal Empire, under the leadership of Subahdar Shaista Khan, conquered Chittagong. The city was renamed Islamabad and integrated into the Mughal administrative framework. Under Mughal rule, Chittagong flourished as a significant port and trading center, with improved infrastructure and urban development.
The British East India Company took control of Chittagong in 1760 following the Battle of Plassey. The city became an important administrative and commercial center under British rule. The introduction of the railway in the late 19th century further enhanced its economic significance. British colonial architecture, such as the Chittagong Court Building, serves as a reminder of this period.
Chittagong played a crucial role in the Indian independence movement. The Chittagong Armoury Raid of 1930, led by revolutionary leader Surya Sen, was a significant event in the struggle against British colonial rule. The raid, although not entirely successful, inspired many and demonstrated the resolve for independence among the people of Bengal.
After the partition of India in 1947, Chittagong became part of East Pakistan. The city was a focal point during the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971. The Declaration of Independence by Major Ziaur Rahman on behalf of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman was broadcast from Kalurghat Radio Station in Chittagong. The city witnessed significant conflict and was ultimately liberated, becoming part of the newly formed nation of Bangladesh.
In contemporary times, Chittagong stands as Bangladesh's second-largest city and its principal seaport. It is a bustling metropolis with a diverse cultural heritage. The city is known for its scenic beauty, including the Patenga Beach and the Foy's Lake. It is also a hub for industries, education, and tourism, reflecting a blend of its rich historical past and modern development.