The Sunderbans, the tea gardens of Sylhet, and the beach at Cox’s Bazaar are the main tourist destinations of Bangladesh and have much to offer tourists from abroad. Kuakata beach however, while more difficult to reach, offers the seclusion and privacy that are difficult to find in the world’s most densely populated country.
Eco- tourism in Bangladesh
Kuakata provides a long natural beach fringed with palms and ample space to run along the shore. Situated on the far end the Padma (Ganges) River delta, a walk to the where the river outlets to the sea offers the chance to explore tidal pools. Hundreds of tiny red crabs can be spotted along some sections of the beach as well as a variety of bird life. The tide is occasionally strong, and the water murky, but swimming at night provides a chance to play with the phosphorescence as well.
Kuakata is famous for being a point where one can watch the sunrise and sunset on the same horizon. Many Bangladeshi tourists will come for the day or to witness the sunset before leaving. At dusk people will line along the beach to watch the sun dip into the Bay of Bengal, but a short walk from the central beach area will leave one in relative seclusion.
Cultural Tourism in Bangladesh
Kuakata can offer a lively cultural experience from Hindu pujas to meeting minority groups. The Rakhine people, having emigrated from Burma are a small but visible community who maintain one of the few Buddhist shrines in Bangladesh in addition to offering local handicrafts. The large fishing community can also be explored as their boats rest along the beach during low tide. Some boats can be hired to tour the local islands, and glimpses of the beach comber life can be viewed in the tin houses along the shore.
Kuakata Town
Kuakata is small community that be walked through easily. There are many shops offering baubles and dried fish shops spot the main street. There are serviceable guesthouses with low costs and street food is readily available. A short walk from the town lies a farming community where rice fields and fruit patches can be seen. The town consists of two main roads with the local bus stand at their crossing. Buses leave sporadically throughout the day, mainly when they are filled.
Located about 10 hours southwest from Dhaka, Kuakata is far off the beaten trail. Taking a launch (boat) from Dhaka to either Barisal or Putuakhali and then switching to a bus is a more enjoyable way to make the journey. Going by bus requires stopping at various ferry points along the way, and takes longer during the rainy season. There is no money exchange and its best to carry small bills when eating or shopping.
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