Chittagong

Chittagong, officially known as Chattogram, is the second-largest city in Bangladesh and the nation's primary gateway to the world. Situated on the banks of the Karnaphuli River near the Bay of Bengal, it is unique among Bangladeshi cities for its hilly terrain and coastal beauty. Its history as a major maritime hub dates back over two millennia, with mentions in the works of Ptolemy as one of the finest ports in the East. Over the centuries, it was contested by the Arakanese, Mughals, and Portuguese, the latter of whom called it Porto Grande. During the British Raj, it became a vital link in the railway network of Assam and Bengal. The city played a heroic role in the 1930 Armoury Raid against British rule and was a pivotal site during the 1971 Liberation War. Today, the Port of Chittagong handles over 90% of Bangladesh's international trade, making it the backbone of the national economy. To the north, the beaches of Sitakunda host a massive ship-breaking industry that supplies the country with much of its steel. Chittagong is also the cultural gateway to the Hill Tracts, home to diverse ethnic minorities and unique Buddhist traditions. The city's culinary heritage is headlined by Mezban, a traditional beef feast that draws thousands of participants. Modern landmarks include the MA Aziz Stadium and the newly inaugurated Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Tunnel, South Asia's first underwater road tunnel. With its blend of industrial might, historical depth, and natural splendor ranging from the Foy's Lake to the sandy shores of Patenga, Chittagong remains a dynamic and indispensable metropolis.

Nearby cities

Comilla

A historic city in eastern Bangladesh, famous for its ancient archaeological sites and traditional sweets.

Bandarban

Bandarban in the Chittagong Hill Tracts features the highest peaks of Bangladesh, dense forests, and vibrant indigenous culture.

Brahmanbaria

A major cultural and educational center in eastern Bangladesh, historically known for its literary and musical contributions.

Cox's Bazar

A popular tourist destination known for having the world's longest natural sandy sea beach, stretching over 120 kilometers.

Chandpur

Located at the confluence of the Padma and Meghna rivers, this city is the 'Hilsa Capital' of Bangladesh.

Noakhali

A coastal district in southeastern Bangladesh, known for its unique dialect and its resilience against natural disasters.

Rangamati

Rangamati is a scenic district centered around the vast Kaptai Lake, known for its iconic hanging bridge and indigenous Chakma heritage.

Feni

A strategic city located between Dhaka and Chittagong, serving as a vital link in the country's transport network.

Sunamganj

Sunamganj is a fascinating aquatic wonderland, famous for its expansive seasonal wetlands (haors) and rich folk music heritage.

Moulvibazar

Moulvibazar is the heart of Bangladesh's tea industry, featuring undulating green hills, dense forests, and vibrant indigenous cultures.

Khagrachari

Located in the hilly region of southeastern Bangladesh, Khagrachari is known for the mysterious Alutila Cave and its lush, forested terrain.

Sonadia Island

Sonadia Island is a crescent-shaped island near Cox's Bazar, known for its pristine beaches and as a nesting site for marine turtles.

Sonaichhari

A coastal area in Chattogram known for its blend of industrial development and natural beaches along the Bay of Bengal.

Ratargul Swamp Forest

Ratargul Swamp Forest is the only freshwater swamp forest in Bangladesh.

Maheshkhali

Maheshkhali is Bangladesh's only hilly island, famous for its ancient Adinath Temple, Buddhist pagodas, and lush betel leaf gardens.

Nature

Parki Sandy Beach

A peaceful coastal landscape in Anwara, where the sandy beach merges into a dense fir forest.

Patenga Coast

A coastline lined with massive stone blocks near Chittagong, where the Karnaphuli River flows into the sea.

Cox's Bazar Beach

The longest uninterrupted natural sandy beach in the world, stretching along the Bay of Bengal.

Inani Coral Coast

A special section of beach known for its extensive, round coral rocks and clean water.

St. Martin's Coast

The coastline of the only coral island in Bangladesh, surrounded by crystal clear waters and reefs.

More places

Halda Valley

A fertile valley in the Chittagong region, crossed by the Halda River, famous for its natural carp breeding.

Chandranath Hill

A prominent hill in Sitakunda that serves as both a natural wonder and a major Hindu pilgrimage site.

Chimbuk Hill

The third largest mountain in Bangladesh, often referred to as the 'Darjeeling of Bengal'.

Sajek Valley

The largest administrative area in Bangladesh, a deep valley known for its untouched nature and seas of fog.

Nilgiri Hills

A picturesque mountain area in Bandarban, famous for its floating clouds and cool temperatures.

Sangu Valley

A deep and remote valley in Bandarban, characterized by rugged cliffs and the wild Sangu River.

Dimadong

A hidden mountain in the Ruma region, famous for its steep slopes and untouched flora.

Tazing Dong

A steep mountain in the Bandarban district, known in local languages as the 'Mountain of great elevation'.