Explore accommodations in Cox's Bazar sorted by distance
Maheshkhali is the only hilly island in Bangladesh.
Located just 12 kilometers west of Cox's Bazar city, this 362 square kilometer island offers a unique mix of hills, mangrove forests, beaches, salt fields, and ancient temples.
Around 400,000 people call this island home.
The island is named after "Mahesh," which is one of the 108 names of Lord Shiva (also called Adinath).
According to historians, the island was formed in 1559 when a powerful cyclone separated it from the mainland.
A Portuguese traveler recorded this event in his journals.
The most famous attraction on the island is the Adinath Temple, sitting on top of Mainak Hill.
This ancient Hindu temple is believed to be over 1,000 years old and is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
According to legend, a Nepalese king built five Shiva temples across the subcontinent after having a divine dream - Adinath Temple is one of them.
Thousands of Hindu pilgrims visit during the Shiva Chaturdashi festival.
From Mainak Hill, you can see the entire island spread below you - the mangrove forests, the sea, and the coastline.
The island is fringed with mangroves that are home to many bird species and wildlife.
The island is known for its betel nut leaves, salt production, and dried fish (called "Shutki").
Walking through local villages gives you a glimpse of traditional island life that has continued for generations.
From Maheshkhali, you can also visit nearby Sonadia Island, a quiet eco-tourism destination known for its pristine beaches and migratory birds.
There is no entry fee to visit Maheshkhali Island itself.
Entry to the temple compound is free.
Donations are welcome but not required.
You will need to pay for the ferry ride to reach the island - see "How to Reach" section for details.
Most attractions on the island do not charge entry fees.
The Golden Temple and other sites are free to visit.
Ferries to Maheshkhali run from early morning to late afternoon.
The island itself is accessible all day.
Plan to return before the last ferry.
Getting stuck on the island overnight without arrangements can be difficult.
Good for seeing the main highlights:
Recommended for a complete experience:
If you want to truly experience island life:
Allow 1-2 hours for the climb up and down.
There are over 200 steps, plus walking paths.
Take your time and enjoy the views.
The best time to visit Maheshkhali.
Weather is cool and dry, perfect for climbing Mainak Hill and exploring the island.
This is peak tourist season in Cox's Bazar, so ferries are frequent.
If you want to experience the island at its most vibrant, visit during this Hindu festival.
Thousands of pilgrims come to Adinath Temple for prayers and celebrations.
Expect crowds but a unique cultural experience.
Not recommended.
The sea can be rough, making ferry travel risky.
Heavy rains make hill climbing slippery and dangerous.
Some services on the island may be limited.
Good time to visit.
The island is green and lush after the rains.
Fewer tourists means a more peaceful experience.
Hot and humid.
If you visit, go early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
Climbing Mainak Hill in hot weather can be exhausting.
First, you need to reach the Kasturi Ghat (also called Maheshkhali Ghat) in Cox's Bazar:
From Kasturi Ghat, ferries run regularly to Maheshkhali:
Once you reach Maheshkhali Ghat:
From the main road, you climb steps to reach Adinath Temple.
The climb takes about 30-45 minutes depending on your pace.
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**A Hidden Eco-Paradise** Sonadia Island is one of Bangladesh's best-kept secrets. Located just 7 kilometers northwest of [Cox's Bazar Beach](/tourist-places/coxs-bazar-beach), this 9-square-kilometer island remains largely untouched by commercial tourism. The island sits at the mouth of the Maheshkhali Channel, where the Bay of Bengal meets the coastal wetlands, creating a unique ecosystem that supports incredible biodiversity. What makes Sonadia special is its raw, unspoiled beauty. Unlike the busy beaches of Cox's Bazar, Sonadia offers empty shorelines, mangrove forests, and a peaceful atmosphere that feels worlds away from civilization. The island has no permanent residents on most parts, making it a true escape into nature. **Mangrove Forests and Wetlands** The eastern side of Sonadia is covered with dense mangrove forests that serve as a natural nursery for fish, crabs, and shrimp. These wetlands are home to mudskippers, fiddler crabs, and various species of shellfish. Walking through the mangroves during low tide reveals a fascinating world of creatures adapting to the changing water levels. The mangroves also act as a natural barrier against cyclones and storm surges, protecting the mainland. This ecosystem is similar to parts of the [Sundarbans](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sundarbans), though smaller in scale. **A Birdwatcher's Paradise** Sonadia Island is internationally recognized as an Important Bird Area (IBA). Every winter, from November to February, thousands of migratory birds arrive here from as far as Siberia and Central Asia. You can spot species like the Spoon-billed Sandpiper (one of the world's rarest shorebirds), the Nordmann's Greenshank, and countless other waders, gulls, and terns. The mudflats that form during low tide become a feeding ground for these birds, creating spectacular scenes as flocks take off and land. Bird enthusiasts from around the world visit Sonadia specifically for this experience. **Beaches and Marine Life** The western coast of Sonadia features long stretches of sandy beach that rival any in Cox's Bazar but without the crowds. The waters here are clearer, and during low tide, you can find starfish, sea urchins, and colorful shells. Dolphins are occasionally spotted in the surrounding waters, especially early in the morning. The island is also known for its sea turtle nesting sites. Olive Ridley turtles come ashore between October and February to lay eggs. Conservation efforts are ongoing to protect these nesting grounds. **Visiting Sonadia** A trip to Sonadia is best done as a day excursion from [Maheshkhali Island](/tourist-places/maheshkhali-island) or Cox's Bazar. Local fishermen provide boat transport, and the journey itself is scenic, passing through channels lined with mangroves. The island has no hotels or restaurants, so visitors must bring their own food and water.
Himchari National Park is one of Bangladesh's most popular protected areas, located just 12 kilometers south of [Cox's Bazar Beach](/tourist-places/coxs-bazar-beach) along the scenic Marine Drive. Declared a National Park on February 15, 1980, this 1,729-hectare (17.29 sq km) reserve combines beautiful hills, tropical evergreen forests, and the famous Himchari Waterfall - making it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Cox's Bazar. **The Famous Waterfall** The star attraction of Himchari is its stunning waterfall, which is often called the only cold-water waterfall in Bangladesh. During the monsoon season (June to September), the waterfall is at its most impressive - a powerful stream of water cascading down the green hillside into a pool below. In the dry season, the flow reduces to a gentle trickle, but it's still beautiful and worth visiting. The waterfall area has steps leading up to different viewpoints where you can get close to the falling water. **Breathtaking Views** One of the best things about Himchari is the panoramic view from the hilltop. Climb the stairs to reach the viewing platform, and you'll be rewarded with an amazing sight - the endless blue Bay of Bengal on one side and lush green hills rolling into the distance on the other. This viewpoint is perfect for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset. **Rich Wildlife & Nature** Despite its small size, Himchari is home to incredible biodiversity. The park protects over 117 species of plants, including rare orchids and the endangered Boilam tree. Wildlife includes 55 species of mammals (including Asian elephants and leopard cats), 286 bird species (like the Oriental Pied Hornbill and Green Imperial Pigeon), 56 reptile species, and 13 amphibian species. Though spotting large animals is rare, birdwatchers will find plenty to see. **Easy Day Trip from Cox's Bazar** What makes Himchari perfect for tourists is its convenient location. You can easily visit as part of a day trip that includes the [Marine Drive](/tourist-places/marine-drive-coxs-bazar) and [Inani Beach](/tourist-places/inani-beach). Most visitors spend 1-2 hours here, enjoying the waterfall, climbing to the viewpoint, and taking in the natural beauty. With over 2 million visitors each year, Himchari is one of the most visited national parks in Bangladesh.
**The Peaceful Escape from the Crowds** Sugandha Beach is where you come when you want the beauty of Cox's Bazar without the noise and crowds. Located south of [Kolatoli Beach](/tourist-places/kolatoli-beach), this quieter stretch of the world's longest beach offers a more relaxed and natural experience. The name "Sugandha" means "fragrance" in Bengali, and many say it comes from the fresh, clean sea air that feels purer here than at the busier northern beaches. **What Makes Sugandha Different** While [Laboni Point](/tourist-places/laboni-point) and [Kolatoli](/tourist-places/kolatoli-beach) attract the largest crowds, Sugandha Beach remains relatively untouched by heavy commercial development. The sand feels cleaner, the waves seem calmer, and you can actually hear the ocean without the background noise of vendors and loud music. This is the Cox's Bazar that existed before mass tourism - simple, natural, and peaceful. **A Beach for Those Who Seek Calm** Sugandha is perfect for visitors who want to escape the hustle. Couples looking for romantic walks, families wanting a safer swimming spot for children, and anyone who prefers nature over nightlife will find Sugandha ideal. The beach here is just as wide and golden as the rest of Cox's Bazar, but you'll have more space to yourself, especially during weekday mornings. **The Natural Beauty Shines Through** Without the distraction of too many shops and restaurants, you can truly appreciate the natural beauty of the Bay of Bengal at Sugandha. The sunrise here is spectacular - watched by far fewer people than at Laboni Point. The water is clear, the sand is soft, and the endless horizon reminds you why Cox's Bazar became famous in the first place. **Connected Yet Secluded** Despite its peaceful atmosphere, Sugandha is still well-connected. A short walk north takes you to the lively [Kolatoli Beach](/tourist-places/kolatoli-beach) area with its restaurants and entertainment. You get the best of both worlds - stay in Sugandha for peace and quiet, but walk to Kolatoli when you want food and fun. This makes Sugandha an excellent choice for accommodation if you value sleep and relaxation. **The Road to More Adventures** Sugandha Beach is also the starting point for journeys further south along the famous Marine Drive road. From here, you can easily access [Inani Beach](/tourist-places/inani-beach), [Himchari National Park](/tourist-places/himchari-national-park), and eventually the southern reaches of the Cox's Bazar coastline. Many visitors use Sugandha as a calm base from which to explore the more adventurous destinations.
**The Island of Lighthouses and Wind** Kutubdia is a small island in the Bay of Bengal, located off the coast of Cox's Bazar. This island has a unique story - it's named after a Sufi saint called Kutub Uddin Aulia who came here centuries ago. Today, the island is famous for two things: its historic lighthouse and Bangladesh's first wind power project. **A Disappearing History** What makes Kutubdia special is also what makes it sad. The island has been slowly swallowed by the sea over the past hundred years. The original Kutubdia Lighthouse, built by the British in 1846, now stands in the middle of the ocean - a haunting reminder of how much land the sea has taken. A new lighthouse was built further inland, but even that one is now threatened by erosion. **Wind Energy Pioneer** Look across the island and you'll see rows of wind turbines spinning in the constant sea breeze. Kutubdia is home to Bangladesh's first wind power plant, set up to capture the strong coastal winds. These white turbines against the blue sky have become a symbol of the island. **Island Life** Unlike the tourist-packed beaches of [Cox's Bazar](/tourist-places/coxs-bazar-beach), Kutubdia offers a glimpse into simple island life. The people here are mostly fishermen and salt farmers. You'll see traditional fishing boats, salt fields that sparkle in the sun, and a community that has learned to live with the ever-changing coastline. **Why Visit** Kutubdia is for travelers who want something different. There are no fancy resorts or crowded beaches here. Instead, you get authentic village life, dramatic coastlines, historic ruins, and the unique experience of standing where land meets a hungry sea. It's a place that reminds you how powerful nature can be.
