Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh Travel Guide

Discover Cox's Bazar, where the world's longest sea beach meets rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural beauty in the heart of Bangladesh.

Cox's Bazar, located in the southeastern part of Bangladesh, is renowned for its stunning 120-kilometer-long unbroken sandy beach, which is the longest natural sea beach in the world. This picturesque city, flanked by hills on one side and the Bay of Bengal on the other, offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and vibrant local life. As you stroll along the expansive beach, you'll be greeted by the sight of traditional wooden fishing boats and the rhythmic waves of the Bay of Bengal. The beach is divided into several sections, each with its own charm. Laboni Beach, the most popular part, is ideal for swimming and sunbathing, while Himchari and Inani Beach are perfect for those seeking a more tranquil experience amidst natural beauty. Beyond the beach, Cox's Bazar boasts several attractions. The Himchari National Park, with its lush green hills and a beautiful waterfall, is a must-visit for nature lovers. The Buddhist monastery and temple at Ramu, home to large Buddha statues and ancient relics, offer a glimpse into the region's spiritual heritage. For a taste of local life, visit the bustling fish market or enjoy fresh seafood at a beachside restaurant. Cox's Bazar is not just about the sights; it's also about the experiences. From riding a horse along the shoreline to watching the sunset over the horizon, every moment in this city is filled with wonder. Whether you're an adventure seeker, a nature enthusiast, or someone looking to relax, Cox's Bazar has something for everyone.

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat while exploring the beach.
Wear comfortable footwear as the sandy beach can get quite hot during the day.
Try to catch the sunrise and sunset; the views are spectacular and offer great photo opportunities.
Haggle at the local markets to get the best prices for souvenirs and fresh seafood.
Carry sunscreen and stay hydrated, especially if you plan to spend a lot of time outdoors.
Check the tidal schedule before planning a visit to Inani Beach for the best experience.
Respect local customs and dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites like the Ramu monastery.

Neighbourhoods in Cox's Bazar

Laboni Point

Kolatoli Beach

Inani Beach

Marine Drive

Himchori

Explore All Neighbourhoods in Cox's Bazar

Explore Cox's Bazar: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

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

Best attractions in Cox's Bazar

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Cox's Bazar Sea Beach

Discover the world's longest natural sea beach in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh, offering golden sands and a vibrant cultural experience.

4.7

Cox’s Bazar

Discover the world's longest natural sea beach in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh – a vibrant coastal paradise with stunning sunsets and rich culture.

4.7

Cox’s Bazar sea beach.

Discover the world's longest natural sea beach in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh, offering golden sands, thrilling water sports, and vibrant local culture along the Bay of Bengal.

4.7

Laboni Point Sea Beach

Experience the vibrant heart of Cox's Bazar at Laboni Point, where golden sands meet bustling markets and unforgettable sunsets on the Bay of Bengal.

4.5

Best landmarks in Cox's Bazar

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Sayeman Beach Resort

Experience the ultimate beachfront luxury at Sayeman Beach Resort in Cox's Bazar, where relaxation meets adventure in a stunning natural setting.

4.5

Coxsbazar Chattogram Bangladesh

Experience the world's longest natural sea beach in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh. A captivating blend of relaxation, culture, and scenic beauty.

4.6

Sea Beach

Experience the world's longest unbroken sea beach in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh, offering golden sands, vibrant culture, and breathtaking sunsets.

4.6

Sampan Beach

Discover tranquility and adventure at Sampan Beach, Cox's Bazar's stunning coastal paradise, perfect for relaxation and exploration.

4.4

Best restaurants in Cox's Bazar

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Shalik Restaurant & Biriyani House

Experience authentic Bangladeshi cuisine at Shalik Restaurant & Biriyani House in Cox's Bazar - A must-visit for food lovers!

3.9

Handi (Cox's Bazar Branch)

Discover Handi Restaurant in Cox's Bazar - where authentic Bangladeshi flavors meet stunning beachside views.

3.8

Ruposhi Bangla Restaurant

Experience authentic Bangladeshi cuisine with stunning beach views at Ruposhi Bangla Restaurant in Cox's Bazar.

4.1

Jhawban Restaurant

Experience authentic Bangladeshi cuisine at Jhawban Restaurant in Cox's Bazar - where flavor meets tradition in every dish.

4.0

Best bars in Cox's Bazar

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Mermaid Cafe

Experience the best seafood dining at Mermaid Cafe in Cox's Bazar, where fresh catches meet stunning beach views.

4.2

Sayeman-Sunset Bar Service

Experience breathtaking sunsets and exquisite cocktails at Sayeman Sunset Bar in Cox's Bazar, the ultimate coastal retreat.

4.4

Cox Kutum Bari Bar-Bi-Que & Restaurant

Discover the rich flavors of Cox's Bazar at Cox Kutum Bari Bar-Bi-Que & Restaurant, offering a delightful variety of grilled dishes and local specialties.

3.6

Sandy Beach Restaurant

Experience the best of coastal dining at Sandy Beach Restaurant, where fresh seafood meets breathtaking views in Cox's Bazar.

4.0

Best nightclubs in Cox's Bazar

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Sayeman Beach Resort

Discover the ultimate beachfront retreat at Sayeman Beach Resort in Cox's Bazar, where luxury meets the beauty of nature.

4.5

Ocean Paradise Hotel & Resort

Discover luxury and tranquility at Ocean Paradise Hotel & Resort, the perfect retreat on the beautiful shores of Cox's Bazar.

4.3

Hotel Beach View

Experience the beauty of Cox's Bazar at Hotel Beach View, your ultimate seaside retreat with luxurious comfort and breathtaking ocean views.

3.8

Sayeman-Sunset Bar Service

Experience stunning sunsets and exquisite cocktails at Sayeman Sunset Bar, a beachfront oasis in Cox's Bazar.

4.4

Best shops in Cox's Bazar

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A. Salam Shopping Complex

Experience the heart of Cox's Bazar at A. Salam Shopping Complex - your go-to destination for shopping and local flavors.

3.9

Suman Store

Explore Suman Store in Cox's Bazar for a unique blend of fashion accessories, cosmetics, and toys in a vibrant shopping atmosphere.

4.1

Purity Organic Dry Fish

Explore Purity Organic Dry Fish, your gateway to authentic dried seafood and local culinary treasures in Cox's Bazar.

4.2

TWELVE Clothing

Explore TWELVE Clothing in Cox's Bazar for the latest trends and stylish apparel that captures the essence of contemporary fashion.

4.2

Explore Cox's Bazar on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Cox's Bazar, mapped for you.

Cox's Bazar Essentials

Cox's Bazar is located in southeastern Bangladesh. The nearest international airport is Shah Amanat International Airport in Chittagong, approximately 150 kilometers away. From Chittagong, you can take a bus or a private car to Cox's Bazar. The journey typically takes around 4 to 5 hours by road. Alternatively, domestic flights are available directly to Cox's Bazar Airport from Dhaka, which is a more convenient option for international travelers.
Cox's Bazar is well-connected by local transportation options. Auto-rickshaws (CNGs) are widely available and are a popular means of getting around the town. Buses and minibuses operate within the area and connect to nearby attractions. For longer distances, taxis and rented cars are also available. Renting a bicycle or a motorbike is another option for those looking to explore at their own pace.
The official currency in Bangladesh is the Bangladeshi Taka (BDT). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available in Cox's Bazar, so withdrawing cash is not difficult. However, it is wise to have some cash on hand upon arrival.
Cox's Bazar is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. Some areas, such as the outskirts and less populated beaches, may have higher crime rates targeting tourists, so always stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
In case of an emergency, dial 999 for immediate assistance, which covers police, fire, and medical emergencies. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Cox's Bazar. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always remove your shoes when entering a mosque or someone's home. Public Transport: Do be respectful and patient. Public transport can be crowded. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a slight nod. A handshake is common among men. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t use your left hand for eating or passing food, as it is considered unclean.
To experience Cox's Bazar like a local, visit the local markets such as Burmese Market where you can buy souvenirs and taste local snacks. Engage with locals during your visit to the fishing communities to learn more about their way of life. Don't miss visiting the iconic Himchari National Park for a picturesque view of the waterfall and lush greenery. For a unique experience, take a boat ride to the nearby island of Saint Martin's.

When is the best time to visit Cox's Bazar?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Cox's Bazar

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 Cox's Bazar. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- Helloহ্যালো
  [helo]
- Goodbyeবিদায়
  [biday]
- Yesহ্যাঁ
  [ha]
- Noনা
  [na]
- Please/You're welcomeদয়া করে
  [doya kore]
- Thank youধন্যবাদ
  [dhonnobad]
- Excuse me/Sorryদুঃখিত
  [dukkhit]
- How are you?তুমি কেমন আছো?
  [tumi kemon asho?]
- Fine. And you?ভালো। তুমি?
  [bhalo. tumi?]
- Do you speak English?তুমি ইংরেজি বলতে পারো?
  [tumi ingreji bolte paro?]
- I don't understandআমি বুঝতে পারছি না
  [ami bujhte parchi na]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseমেনু দেখতে চাই
  [menu dekhte chai]
- I don't eat meatআমি মাংস খাই না
  [ami mangsh khai na]
- Cheers!শুভেচ্ছা!
  [shubhechha!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseদয়া করে টাকা দেও
  [doya kore taka deo]
- Help!সাহায্য!
  [sahayyo!]
- Go away!চলে যাও!
  [chole jao!]
- Call the Police!পুলিশকে কল করুন!
  [polishke kol korun!]
- Call a doctor!ডাক্তারকে কল করুন!
  [daktarke kol korun!]
- I'm lostআমি হারানো গেছি
  [ami harano gesi]
- I'm illআমি অসুস্থ
  [ami osustho]
- I'd like to buy...আমি ... ক্রয় করতে চাই
  [ami ... kroy korte 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 বেশি দাম
  [eta khub beshi dam]
- Can you lower the price?দাম কমাতে পারবেন?
  [dam kamate parben?]
- What time is it?এখন কত বাজে?
  [ekhon koto baje?]
- It's one o'clockএকটার ঘণ্টা
  [ektar ghonta]
- Half past (10)দশের পাঁচ
  [dasher pach]
- Morningসকাল
  [shokal]
- Afternoonদুপুর
  [dupur]
- Eveningসন্ধ্যা
  [shondha]
- Yesterdayগতকাল
  [gotokal]
- Todayআজ
  [aj]
- Tomorrowআগামীকাল
  [agamikal]
- 1এক
  [ek]
- 2দুই
  [dui]
- 3তিন
  [tin]
- 4চার
  [char]
- 5পাঁচ
  [pach]
- 6ছয়
  [choy]
- 7সাত
  [shat]
- 8আট
  [at]
- 9নয়
  [noy]
- 10দশ
  [dosh]
- Where's a/the...?...কোথায়?
  [...kothay?]
- What's the address?ঠিকানা কি?
  [thikana ki?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?আপনি আমাকে দেখাতে পারবেন?
  [apni amake dekhate parben?]
- When's the next (bus)?পরের (বাস) কখন?
  [porer (bus) kokhon?]
- A ticket (to ....)একটি টিকিট (... পর্যন্ত)
  [ekti ticket (... porjonto)]

History of Cox's Bazar

The history of Cox's Bazar dates back to the ancient period when it was known as 'Palongkee'. The area was part of the kingdom of Arakan, which had significant interactions with the Indian subcontinent. Archaeological evidence suggests that early settlers were a mix of indigenous tribes and traders from distant lands. The region's natural harbor made it a strategic point for maritime trade routes.
The modern history of Cox's Bazar began during the British colonial period. In 1799, Captain Hiram Cox, an officer of the British East India Company, was appointed as the Superintendent of Palongkee to settle disputes between Arakanese refugees and local Rakhains. Captain Cox's humanitarian efforts led to the establishment of a settlement that was later named Cox's Bazar in his honor. This period also saw the development of infrastructure and the introduction of British administrative systems.
During World War II, Cox's Bazar gained strategic importance due to its coastal location. The British used it as a base for military operations against the Japanese forces advancing through Burma (now Myanmar). Airfields and other military installations were constructed, some remnants of which can still be found today. This period significantly altered the town's landscape and brought in a wave of new settlers.
After Bangladesh gained independence in 1971, Cox's Bazar emerged as a major tourist destination. The government invested heavily in developing infrastructure, including roads, hotels, and other amenities to attract both domestic and international tourists. The town's stunning beaches, particularly the 120 km long unbroken sandy beach, became renowned worldwide, earning it the title of the 'longest natural sea beach in the world'.
Cox's Bazar is not only known for its natural beauty but also for its rich cultural heritage. The town is a melting pot of various ethnic groups, including the Rakhain, Chakma, and Marma communities, each contributing to the region's vibrant culture. Traditional crafts, music, and festivals play a significant role in the local way of life. The annual Rakhain Water Festival and Buddhist Purnima are among the most celebrated events, attracting visitors from across the region.
In recent years, Cox's Bazar has faced challenges such as environmental degradation and the Rohingya refugee crisis. The influx of refugees from Myanmar has put a strain on local resources and infrastructure. However, numerous national and international organizations are working towards sustainable solutions, focusing on conservation efforts and community development. These initiatives aim to preserve the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Cox's Bazar while supporting its growing population.