How to get to Cox's Bazar

Located in the southeast of Bangladesh, the city of Cox's Bazar is renowned for possessing one of the longest continuous sea beaches in the world. Reaching this popular resort is possible via various means: a direct flight, a new railway route, by bus, or by car, making the trip to Cox's Bazar an accessible and exciting part of your journey across the country.

The fastest and most comfortable way to reach the coast is to take a flight to the local Cox's Bazar Airport (CXB). The airport receives regular domestic flights and is located in immediate proximity to the city, allowing you to begin your holiday almost immediately after landing.

Alternatively, you can consider flying to the neighboring major city of Chattogram (CGP), which is located approximately 92 km from the resort. Airports in the cities of Sittwe and Barisal are situated significantly further away and are less convenient for tourist logistics.

Recently, rail travel has become one of the most attractive ways to get to Cox's Bazar thanks to the opening of a new iconic station shaped like a giant oyster. Now, tourists can utilize direct trains (such as the "Cox's Bazar Express") from the capital, bypassing the need for transfers.

Previously, the main railway hub for trips to the resort was the city of Chattogram, located 92 km away. The launch of the direct line has made the journey more comfortable and allows you to enjoy scenic views of the Bangladeshi countryside on the way to the ocean.

Bus services remain a popular option thanks to frequent trips connecting Cox's Bazar with major transport hubs, such as Chattogram. A journey on a comfortable air-conditioned bus takes a reasonable amount of time and often costs less than other modes of transport.

Travel time depends heavily on traffic, but modern operators strive to provide a high level of service, offering luxury class seats for overnight journeys. Bus terminals in the city are usually conveniently located for onward transfer to hotels on the coast.

The most convenient and fastest route by car runs from the city of Chattogram: the distance is about 124 km, and the travel time will take approximately 3.5 hours. This is a picturesque road, allowing you to enjoy local landscapes on the way to the ocean.

A journey from the city of Barisal will require much more time — about 11 hours to cover 364 km due to the nature of the road network and ferry crossings. For trips, tourists often hire a car with a driver, as local traffic can be challenging for self-driving.

When planning a trip to Cox's Bazar, it is useful to know a few local specifics that will make your holiday comfortable and safe.

1. Clothing and Dress Code. Bangladesh is a country with conservative traditions. It is recommended to wear modest clothing made of light natural fabrics (cotton, linen) that covers shoulders and knees, even while walking along the beach.
2. City Transport. The most popular way to get around is via electric three-wheeled bikes, known as "tom-toms", and classic rickshaws. It is better to agree on the price of the trip in advance before boarding.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Bangladeshi Taka. Credit cards are accepted only in major hotels and restaurants, so always carry cash with you, especially small notes for paying for transport and street food.
4. Health and Hygiene. Drink only bottled water and avoid ice in drinks from street vendors. Do not forget to bring sunscreen and insect repellent.
5. Communication. The main language is Bengali. In tourist areas, staff understand basic English, but learning a couple of phrases in the local language ("hello", "thank you") will be a sign of respect.
6. Local Etiquette. It is customary to greet locals with a slight nod or with the right hand (the left is considered "unclean"). Avoid public displays of affection, as this is not customary in the local culture.
7. What to Avoid. Do not photograph locals, especially women and families, without their explicit permission. Also, be careful when swimming: currents in the Bay of Bengal can be strong, so watch out for warning flags.
8. Extra Tip. Be sure to try local seafood delicacies, especially "shutki" (traditional dried fish), at one of the city's fish markets.

Observing these simple rules will help you enjoy the beauty of the world's longest beach and the hospitality of the locals without any unnecessary hassle.