Chittagong diary

Called the ‘sleeping beauty’, here we bring you the best sites, hotels and food in Chittagong. A world of travel news to help you plan your next voyage

Described by a Chinese traveller poet as ‘a sleeping beauty emerging from mists and water’, Chittagong is Bangladesh’s second largest city and the country’s largest port. Its green hills and forests, sandy beaches and its old-style shopping places makes it an interesting place to visit. 

 

The city, which may have become a bit congested with the ever-increasing number of vehicles on the road, is the gateway to one of the most beautiful and fascinating corners of Bangladesh – the Chittagong Hill Tracts. So if you are visiting Chittagong, here’s a rundown of the activities you can indulge in.

Places of interest/checklist

Chittagong Hill Tracts: 

Spread across an area of over 13,000 sq km, it offers a chance to stretch the legs with some of the country’s best hiking on offer.

Foy's Lake: 

Also known as Pahartali Lake, it is set amidst the picturesque surroundings of Pahartali, a town about 8 km from Chittagong. It is an ideal spot of outing and picnic.

Zia Museum: 

The Chittagong Circuit House, built in 1913 atop a hillock, was transformed into Zia Memorial Museum in memory of late President Ziaur Rahman. About 743 exhibits that include 336 souvenirs and 13 documents are laid out across the galleries here.

Where to stay

Orchid Business Hotel: 

Located in Central Agrabad, Chittagong, Orchid Business Hotel is equipped with a swimming pool, fitness centre and modern rooms with free Wi-Fi. It is a 25-minute drive from Shah Aman International Airport Chittagong.

Grand Park Hotel:  

Conveniently located in the heart of Chittagong, the Grand Park Hotel is a boutique hotel, having spacious lobby, luxury rooms, full-fledge business centre, medical service and mini-bar.

Hilltop Inn: 

Situated in an upmarket residential area called Khulshi, this guesthouse has rooms that are bright, clean, spacious and with TV and Wi-Fi.

Where to eat

Tai Wah Restaurant: 

With soups, noodles, rice dishes and dumplings, this is one of the most authentic Chinese in Chittagong.

Bonanza Food Plaza: 

One of the best dining options available in Chittagong, it has an excellent pan-Asian menu, including Chinese, Indian, Thai and Korean.

Hotel Zamen: 

For biryani and curry lovers, Zamen is the best possible place. It also serves authentic Bengali cuisines.