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Himchari National Park is home to one of Bangladesh’s last remaining populations of critically endangered Asian elephants, with fewer than 300 individuals left in the entire country. This 1,729-hectare protected area, established in 1980, serves as a vital wildlife corridor and watershed that helps regulate water flows to the popular tourist destination of Cox’s Bazar. Beyond its ecological importance, this natural gem offers visitors a perfect escape from the crowded beaches with its lush rainforests, stunning waterfalls, and panoramic views of the Bay of Bengal.
The breathtaking landscape of Himchari National Park with views of the Bay of Bengal
Getting to Himchari National Park, Bangladesh
Located approximately 12km south of Cox’s Bazar town, Himchari National Park is easily accessible by various transportation options. The park’s proximity to Bangladesh’s premier beach destination makes it a popular day trip for tourists visiting the area.
The scenic road leading to Himchari National Park entrance
By Air
The most convenient way to reach Himchari National Park is to first fly to Cox’s Bazar Airport (CXB), which has regular domestic connections from Dhaka and other major cities in Bangladesh. From the airport, the park is approximately a 30-minute drive south along the coastal road.
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By Road
If you’re already in Cox’s Bazar town, you can easily reach Himchari National Park by:
- Local bus services that run along the Cox’s Bazar-Teknaf highway (fare approximately 30-40 BDT)
- Auto-rickshaws or CNG three-wheelers (negotiate the fare before boarding, typically 200-300 BDT one way)
- Taxi or private car hire (around 800-1000 BDT for a round trip with waiting time)
- Motorcycle rental for those comfortable with local road conditions
The journey from Cox’s Bazar town center takes about 20-30 minutes, offering scenic coastal views along the way.
Planning Your Visit to Himchari National Park
Visitors planning their route at the park entrance
Entry Fees and Timings
Himchari National Park is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The entry fees are reasonable and help support conservation efforts:
| Visitor Type | Entry Fee (BDT) | Camera Fee (BDT) |
| Bangladeshi Adults | 20 | No charge |
| Foreign Tourists | 100 | No charge |
| Vehicle Entry (Car/Jeep) | 50 | N/A |
What to Pack
When visiting Himchari National Park, be sure to bring these essentials:
- Comfortable walking shoes with good grip for trails
- Light, breathable clothing (long sleeves recommended for protection)
- Hat and sunglasses for sun protection
- Sunscreen and insect repellent
- Reusable water bottle (stay hydrated!)
- Light snacks or packed lunch
- Camera for capturing the beautiful scenery
- Small backpack for carrying essentials
Best Time to Visit Himchari National Park
The park during the dry season offers ideal visiting conditions
The ideal time to visit Himchari National Park is during the dry season from November to March when the weather is pleasant with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 28°C (59°F to 82°F). This period offers several advantages:
Advantages of Visiting in Dry Season (Nov-Mar)
- Clear skies and excellent visibility for panoramic views
- Comfortable temperatures for hiking and exploration
- Trails are dry and easily accessible
- Higher chances of wildlife sightings
- Less risk of landslides or flash floods
Challenges During Monsoon (Jun-Sep)
- Heavy rainfall can make trails slippery and dangerous
- Reduced visibility due to fog and clouds
- Risk of landslides in some areas
- Some parts of the park may be inaccessible
- Leeches can be abundant in wet conditions
That said, the monsoon season (June to September) has its own unique charm. The Himchari Waterfall is at its most spectacular during this period, and the forest comes alive with vibrant greenery. If you’re specifically interested in photographing the waterfall at its peak flow, a carefully planned monsoon visit might be worth considering.
Getting Around Himchari National Park
Hiking trails offer the best way to explore Himchari’s natural beauty
Exploring Himchari National Park is primarily done on foot via the network of trails that wind through the forest. The park is relatively compact, making it possible to see the main attractions in a half-day visit, though a full day allows for a more relaxed pace.
Walking Trails
Several well-marked trails lead to different attractions within the park:
- Waterfall Trail: A moderate 1.5 km hike leading to the famous Himchari Waterfall
- Viewpoint Trail: A steeper but rewarding climb to panoramic viewpoints overlooking the Bay of Bengal
- Forest Loop: A 3 km circular trail through diverse forest habitats, ideal for birdwatching
Need Transportation in Bangladesh?
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Guided Tours
While it’s possible to explore independently, hiring a local guide enhances the experience significantly. Guides can be arranged at the park entrance for approximately 500-800 BDT for a 2-3 hour tour. They provide valuable insights about the park’s ecology, help spot wildlife, and ensure you don’t miss hidden gems.
Where to Stay Near Himchari National Park
Eco-friendly accommodations near the park offer a peaceful retreat
While there are no accommodations within Himchari National Park itself, numerous options are available in nearby Cox’s Bazar and along the coastal road leading to the park.
Nearby Accommodation Options
Budget Options
Several guesthouses and budget hotels in Cox’s Bazar offer rooms starting from 1,000 BDT per night. These provide basic amenities and are perfect for travelers on a tight budget.
Mid-Range Hotels
Comfortable mid-range hotels with better amenities and sea views are available in the 3,000-6,000 BDT range. Many offer restaurant facilities and tour arrangements.
Eco-Resorts
Several eco-resorts have opened near Himchari and Inani Beach areas, offering a more nature-immersive experience with prices ranging from 4,000-8,000 BDT per night.
Find Your Perfect Stay Near Himchari
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For the best experience, consider staying at one of the newer eco-resorts along the less crowded beaches south of Cox’s Bazar town, closer to Himchari. As one visitor noted, “Beaches of Himchari, Inani beach even pathor ghata areas offer wonderful views with less crowds and many eco-resorts which are budget friendly with great restaurants.”
Top Things to Do in Himchari National Park
The magnificent Himchari Waterfall is the park’s centerpiece attraction
1. Visit Himchari Waterfall
The park’s namesake waterfall is its most famous attraction. This multi-tiered cascade is particularly impressive during and shortly after the monsoon season when water volume is at its peak. A well-maintained trail leads to the waterfall, with several viewing platforms allowing visitors to appreciate it from different angles. The area around the waterfall is perfect for picnics and photography.
2. Enjoy Panoramic Viewpoints
Several elevated viewpoints throughout the park offer breathtaking panoramas of the Bay of Bengal and the surrounding landscape. The main viewpoint near the park entrance provides spectacular sunset views over the world’s longest natural sea beach stretching toward Cox’s Bazar.
Stunning views of the Bay of Bengal from one of the park’s viewpoints
3. Explore Forest Trails
Himchari’s network of trails offers opportunities to experience the park’s diverse ecosystems. The tropical mixed evergreen forest is home to numerous plant species, including the critically endangered Boilam tree (Anisoptera scaphula), considered the tallest growing tree in Bangladesh.
4. Wildlife Watching
While large mammals can be elusive, the park is home to various wildlife species. Patient observers may spot:
- Various monkey species including Rhesus macaques
- Small mammals such as squirrels and civets
- Over 127 bird species (bring binoculars!)
- Diverse butterflies and insects
In the deeper forest areas, wild elephants occasionally visit, though encounters are rare and should be approached with caution. As one visitor noted, “This is a perfect place to visit for natural views and in addition to the sea, there are scope of hiking hills, trails inside the forest for adventure.”
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5. Beach Activities
The park borders beautiful beaches that are less crowded than the main Cox’s Bazar beach. Visitors can enjoy:
- Swimming in designated safe areas
- Beach walks and shell collecting
- Watching local fishermen with their traditional boats
- Water sports at nearby Inani Beach
Conservation and Eco-Tourism at Himchari
Asian elephants occasionally visit the park, highlighting its conservation importance
Himchari National Park plays a crucial role in Bangladesh’s conservation efforts. The park protects approximately 550 hectares of relatively undisturbed tropical mixed evergreen forest and serves as an important wildlife corridor, particularly for the endangered Asian elephant population.
The Himchari Co-Management Committee (CMC) works with local communities to promote sustainable tourism while protecting the park’s biodiversity. Visitors can support these conservation efforts by:
- Staying on designated trails to minimize habitat disturbance
- Not feeding wildlife or leaving food waste
- Taking all trash back with you (pack in, pack out)
- Supporting local eco-friendly businesses
- Considering a donation to conservation efforts
As noted by the Nishorgo Network, “Himchari CMC engages with local communities to conserve Himchari National Park and its threatened species, including Bangladesh’s last elephants, through climate-resilient natural resources management and diversified livelihoods.”
Practical Tips for Visiting Himchari National Park
Designated rest areas provide perfect spots for picnics and breaks
What facilities are available in the park?
Himchari National Park has basic facilities including restrooms near the entrance, several picnic areas, and rest shelters along main trails. There are small shops selling snacks and drinks near the entrance, but options are limited inside the park itself.
Is it safe to visit Himchari National Park?
The park is generally safe for visitors, but standard precautions should be taken. It’s advisable to visit in groups rather than alone, especially when exploring deeper trails. As one visitor mentioned, “Better to walk in a group. Ideally you should have Google Maps for assistance to identify potential trails inside the Himchari range.”
How much time should I allocate for visiting?
A half-day (3-4 hours) is sufficient to see the main attractions including the waterfall and viewpoints. However, a full day allows for a more relaxed pace and time to explore more trails and enjoy picnic spots.
What about mobile connectivity and internet?
Mobile network coverage is generally available throughout the park, though signal strength may vary in some valleys and remote areas. Major Bangladesh operators like Grameenphone, Robi, and Banglalink work well near the entrance and main attractions.
Local Tip
Visit on weekdays if possible to avoid crowds, especially during the peak tourist season from December to February. Early morning visits (8-10 AM) offer the best lighting for photography and increased chances of wildlife sightings.
Experience the Natural Beauty of Himchari National Park
Spectacular sunset views make Himchari a photographer’s paradise
Himchari National Park offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, biodiversity, and accessible adventure that makes it a must-visit destination when in Bangladesh. From the refreshing cascade of its waterfall to the breathtaking coastal views and the chance to experience one of Bangladesh’s last remaining forest ecosystems, Himchari provides a welcome respite from the bustling beaches of Cox’s Bazar.
As one visitor eloquently put it, “Himchari National Park is an absolute gem for nature lovers! The fresh air and natural beauty make it a great escape from the busy beach life.” Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a photography buff, or simply seeking tranquility in nature, this protected area delivers an authentic experience of Bangladesh’s natural heritage.
Ready to explore one of Bangladesh’s most accessible yet unspoiled natural treasures? Plan your visit to Himchari National Park and discover why this coastal forest has captivated travelers and conservationists alike.
Start Planning Your Himchari Adventure
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