Kuakata is a picturesque town in the southernmost tip of Bangladesh, where you can visit breath-taking places like its panoramic sea beach that offers a full view of both sunrise and sunset over the Bay of Bengal. So, if you are looking for a relaxing and refreshing getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life then Kuakata and its surrounding places are the ideal rejuvenating destination for you.

Here are the top 5 places to visit in and around Kuakata.

Kuakata Beach

The crown jewel of Kuakata, a breath-taking sandy beach that spans an impressive 18 kilometres from east to west and measures 3 kilometres across. Here, you can indulge in the splendours of Mother Nature herself by taking a stroll along the shore or swimming in the refreshing waters. For the ultimate beach experience, why not rent a wooden lounge chair and umbrella to bask in the sun's warm embrace? The awe-inspiring sight of both sunrise and sunset from this very spot is a perfect opportunity to capture that captivating Instagram moment.

Photo: K Tanzeel Zaman

Kuakata National Park

If you are a nature lover and an adventure seeker, you should not miss the Kuakata National Park, which is located a few kilometres away from the beach at Kalapara Upazila, under Patuakhali District. The park covers an area of 1613 hectares and is home to various species of plants and animals. You can explore the park by boat or by foot, and enjoy the biodiversity and scenic beauty of this natural reserve.

Kuakata Buddhist Temple

The Kuakata Buddhist Temple in the Kuakata Parjatan area of Rakhain's locality boasts the largest Gautama Buddha statue in South Asia, which is over 200 years old. The temple, which is about a century old, is a popular attraction in Kuakata aside from the sea beach. The statue, made of a mixture of eight minerals, weighs approximately 350 kg.

Rakhine Palli

Rakhain Palli, a few kilometres away from the beach, is a vibrant community in Kuakata. This wonderful place is made up of a cluster of villages like Misripara, Keranipara, and Amkholapara. Exploring Rakhain Palli will allow you to immerse yourself in the unique lifestyle, culture, and traditions of this fascinating community. While you are there, make sure to visit the Buddhist temples and check out the bustling market filled with charming little shops run by Rakhine women, selling handicraft items and clothes among other things.

Alipur Port

If you want to see the fishing activities and trade of Kuakata, you can visit Alipur Port, which is about four kilometres north of Kuakata. Alipur Port is one of the largest fishing centres in the southern region, where you can see hundreds of fishing boats and trawlers anchored on the shore. You can also buy fresh fish and seafood from the local fishermen at reasonable prices.