Chittagong, a city that has developed as Bangladesh’s largest port, holds tremendous potential to evolve into a tourist city in the future. Unlike the flat Dhaka, Chittagong boasts mountains and sea—true raw gems waiting to be discovered as tourist destinations.
In this article, we introduce five attractions in Chittagong that already draw many visitors.
In the downtown area, you’ll see scenes distinctly Bangladeshi, while stepping a little outside reveals the region’s lush natural beauty. Even if you’ve never considered touring Chittagong before, these attractions will surely make you want to visit.
1. Patenga Beach
Located about an hour south of the city center, Patenga Beach is famous for its stunning sunsets. At sunset, both tourists and locals gather here. As Chittagong is a densely populated city, there are times when you might even struggle to find a place to sit—but that’s all part of the Bangladeshi experience. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere!
Patenga Beach is lined with shops selling souvenirs and food. Although some vendors sell alcohol, keep in mind that Bangladesh has a large Muslim population.
Name: Patenga Beach
Address: Patenga Sea Beach Road, Chittagong City
2. Shrine of Bayazid Bostami
Located about 2.5 kilometers north of the city center, the Shrine of Bayazid Bostami is one of the oldest mosques in Bangladesh. Bayazid Bostami was a revered Islamic saint active around the 8th century, and the shrine dedicated to him has become a popular tourist attraction in Chittagong.
Interestingly, the main attraction inside the shrine is the large pond in front of it, where gigantic softshell turtles leisurely swim. According to legend, Bayazid Bostami was transformed into a turtle by evil spirits, and it is believed that gently stroking the turtle’s head brings blessings.
Visitors and pilgrims alike feed the turtles and splash water on them.
Name: Shrine of Bayazid Bostami
Address: Bayazid Bostami Rd, Chittagong City
3. Foy's Lake
Foy’s Lake is an artificial lake located within Chittagong, renowned for its beautiful scenery. When visiting Foy’s Lake, the first thing that comes to mind is Amusement World! The area features various attractions and even hosts concerts. On weekends, many Chittagong residents come here with their families and loved ones for a day of fun.
For tourists, a lake cruise is very popular—once you board the boat and leave the amusement area behind, all you have to enjoy is the serene lake and lush greenery. Alternatively, taking a walk along the lakeside promenade is equally refreshing.
Foy’s Lake also has a hotel, making it a resort destination in Chittagong.
Name: Foy’s Lake
Address: Khulshi, Chittagong City, Bangladesh
4. Cox's Bazar Beach
Cox's Bazar is a small town located about 150 kilometers south of Chittagong. Its beach is famous as the world’s longest beach, reportedly stretching up to 125 kilometers! The beach is also notably wide—at low tide, you’ll be amazed by its breadth. It is arguably the most popular tourist attraction in Bangladesh.
Like Patenga Beach, Cox's Bazar Beach is also renowned for its beautiful sunsets and delicious seafood. When you visit, be sure to sample the local cuisine.
If you’re in Chittagong, extending your trip to include a visit to Cox's Bazar is highly recommended. There are many attractions in Cox's Bazar besides the beach.
Name: Cox's Bazar Beach
Address: Bay of Bengal, Cox's Bazar
5. Ethnic Museum
Situated in an area bustling with government offices such as banks and airline companies, the Ethnic Museum in Chittagong focuses exclusively on the ethnic diversity of Bangladesh.
Unlike the National Museum in Dhaka, this museum specializes in the various ethnic groups of Bangladesh.
Bangladesh is a multi-ethnic nation where many minority groups live alongside Bengalis, particularly in the eastern part of Chittagong near the Myanmar border. The museum displays ethnic costumes, everyday tools, explanatory panels, and dioramas. Note that this museum was opened before Bangladesh gained independence from Pakistan. Over the years, the exhibits have deteriorated somewhat, but this adds to the sense of history that permeates the museum.
Enjoying the museum means appreciating both its current exhibits and its own historical legacy.
Name: Ethnic Museum
Address: Sabdar Ali Road, Agrabad Commercial Area, Chittagong City
◎ Summary
How did you like it? As a port city, Chittagong naturally offers many water-related attractions. In Bangladesh, especially in Chittagong, there is often a strong image of high population density, and the beauty of nature is sometimes overlooked. However, aside from the attractions introduced here, there are many beautiful mountains, lakes, and islands. With further improvements in infrastructure, Chittagong could become a globally renowned tourist destination.
Although Chittagong is still developing as a tourist destination, wouldn’t you like to head out and experience its current charms? This emerging tourist city is one to watch for the future!