A Journey from Dhaka to Cox’s Bazar and the Rohingya Refugee Camps

 A Journey from Dhaka to Cox’s Bazar and the Rohingya Refugee Camps

 

 

 

 

If you're planning to visit Cox’s Bazar and explore the Rohingya refugee camps as part of a humanitarian tour or just curious about the region, here’s everything you need to know: from travel options to safety, accommodation, and understanding the delicate situation.

1. How to Get from Dhaka to Cox’s Bazar

Distance:

• The distance from Dhaka to Cox’s Bazar is approximately 390 km by road.
• By air, it's about a 45-minute flight.

Travel Options:

• By Air:
  The quickest and most comfortable way is to fly from Shahjalal International Airport (DAC) in Dhaka to Cox’s Bazar Airport (CXB).

  • Flight Duration: 45 minutes to 1 hour.
  • Airlines: Biman Bangladesh Airlines, NovoAir, and US-Bangla Airlines operate daily flights.
  • Ticket Price: Economy class tickets range from BDT 3,000 to 8,000 depending on the airline and booking time.

• By Bus:
  There are several bus services operating from Dhaka to Cox’s Bazar.

  • Travel Time: Approximately 12-14 hours depending on road conditions.
  • Bus Services: Shyamoli, Green Line, and Saudia are popular providers.
  • Ticket Price: Prices vary from BDT 700 to 2,000 depending on the type of bus (standard to deluxe).

• By Car:
  If you prefer more flexibility, you can rent a car or hire a driver. This option allows for a more personalized experience and potentially more comfort.

  • Cost: Renting a car can cost anywhere from BDT 3,500 to 10,000 for a private car depending on the vehicle type.

2. Visiting the Rohingya Refugee Camps in Cox’s Bazar

Visiting the Rohingya refugee camps is a sensitive subject, and it's essential to approach it with respect and understanding. The camps are home to more than a million refugees who fled Myanmar due to violence. These camps are often viewed as humanitarian spaces rather than tourist destinations.

Key Points to Consider:

• Permission Required: To visit the camps, you will need to arrange a visit with a local guide or a humanitarian organization. You cannot visit the camps independently.
• Safety: The camps are in areas that have experienced tense situations. Be cautious, and always travel with an authorized guide.
• Respect Local Protocol: Photography is not allowed in certain areas, and visitors must adhere to strict guidelines. Always ask permission before taking photos.

How to Visit:

• Tour Operators: Several NGOs and local tour operators offer guided tours to the camps, focusing on educating visitors about the refugee crisis and ongoing humanitarian efforts. These tours are often combined with visits to other sites in Cox’s Bazar.
• Cost: A guided tour typically costs around BDT 1,500 to 3,000 per person, depending on the organization and length of the visit.

3. Safety Tips for Traveling to Cox’s Bazar

• Travel in Groups: If possible, travel with a group or a trusted guide, especially if you plan to visit the refugee camps or explore less-developed areas.
• Local Insights: Listen to your guide and local authorities about areas to avoid, especially in sensitive zones.
• Vaccinations & Health Precautions: Make sure you're up to date with any required vaccinations and take necessary health precautions, especially when visiting crowded or underdeveloped areas.
• Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with the local news and political climate as the situation in and around the refugee camps can change.

4. Best Hotels in Cox’s Bazar

Cox’s Bazar offers a variety of accommodation options, ranging from budget stays to luxurious resorts:

• Luxury Hotels:

  1. The Cox Today: A 5-star beachfront hotel offering comfortable rooms and top-notch amenities.
     • Price: Around BDT 8,000 to 15,000 per night.
  2. Hotel Sea Palace: A popular upscale hotel with ocean views and modern amenities.
     • Price: Around BDT 6,000 to 10,000 per night.

• Mid-Range Hotels:

  1. La-Vela Boutique Hotel: Known for its clean facilities, pool, and good service.
     • Price: Around BDT 3,500 to 6,000 per night.
  2. Sea Pearl Beach Resort & Spa: A well-rated hotel with pools and beachfront access.
     • Price: Around BDT 4,000 to 7,000 per night.

• Budget Hotels:

  1. Hotel Diamond: A budget-friendly option located near the beach.
     • Price: Around BDT 1,500 to 2,500 per night.
  2. Cox’s Bazar Inn: Simple but clean accommodation for travelers on a budget.
     • Price: Around BDT 1,000 to 2,500 per night.

5. Things to Do in Cox’s Bazar

While in Cox’s Bazar, you can also explore many other attractions:

• Cox's Bazar Beach: The longest unbroken sea beach in the world, perfect for beach walks and water sports.
• Inani Beach: Known for its clear water and fewer crowds.
• Himchori Waterfall: A natural waterfall near the beach, ideal for a peaceful retreat.
• Laboni Beach: The main beach area, full of tourists and activities.
• Cox's Bazar Marine Aquarium: A family-friendly destination to learn more about marine life.

 

Traveling to Cox’s Bazar and visiting the Rohingya refugee camps requires careful planning and respect for the humanitarian situation. 

Whether you’re going for a humanitarian mission, as a researcher, or simply out of curiosity, it’s important to stay informed, travel responsibly, and ensure your safety. 

The beaches of Cox’s Bazar, coupled with the region’s growing tourism infrastructure, offer a peaceful contrast to the more somber experiences at the refugee camps.