Trekking has always fascinated me — the promise of the unknown, the thrill of climbing heights, and the quiet reward of a stunning view. But as someone who had never set foot on a hill trail before, I was both excited and nervous. That’s when Chandranath Hill in Sitakunda popped into my mind — a destination perfect for first-time trekkers with a bonus: nearby spots like waterfalls and beaches all accessible in a single day. So, I gathered a few friends, packed my essentials, and off we went on what turned out to be a rollercoaster of nature, emotion, and exploration.
Getting to Sitakunda: Pick Your Route
From Dhaka, there are several ways to reach Sitakunda:
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Route 1: Take a direct non-AC bus (Shyamoli or Hanif) from Kolabagan, Sayedabad, or Chittagong Road. It costs around Tk 650. Inform the conductor to drop you at the Chandranath Hill auto stand. From there, grab an auto/CNG to the trekking point (Tk 20).
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Route 2: Go to Feni first (via Ena, Star Line, Soudia — Tk 350), then take a local bus to Sitakunda Bazar (Tk 60–70).
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Route 3: Hop on a train from Dhaka (Mahanagar, Turna, Sonar Bangla) to Chittagong, then take a bus to Sitakunda. Train fare ranges from Tk 345–1180.
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Route 4: Budget travelers can take a direct mail train to Sitakunda (Tk 110). It’s slow (7–8 hours) but direct.
The Adventure Begins: Rain, Roads, and a Night to Remember
We chose Route 2. Our Star Line bus left Dhaka at 9:30 PM. By 2 AM, we were dropped off at Mohipal Highway in Feni. September rain was relentless, and we huddled under a tent beside a shop. With shops closed and no transport available, we were stranded. A kind stranger suggested finding a hotel — but sky-high prices from opportunistic owners forced us to pass.
And so, we camped out on the roadside, laughing, chatting, and making memories under the dripping sky. It wasn’t comfortable, but it was unforgettable. That spontaneous, rainy night is now a golden page in our travel diary.
Trekking Chandranath: Sweat, Strength & Serene Views
At 4 AM, we finally caught a bus to Sitakunda and reached Chandranath Hill by early morning. After a quick breakfast near the highway, we took an auto to the trekking point. Armed with bamboo sticks (Tk 20 each), we began the ascent.
There are two paths: a clay trail and stairs. We chose the clay path uphill. As we climbed, the view slowly opened up — greenery wrapped around us, the air cooler, the tension lighter. Small tea stalls dotted the trail, selling drinks, fruits, and juices. Lemon juice was our instant energy booster.
Halfway up, we encountered a quaint temple. One side showed the distant blue of the sea; the other side was a panorama of rolling green hills. It was mesmerizing. By 9 AM, we reached the summit — home to the Chandranath Temple. The calm wind, the blend of sea and hills, the clear sky — everything made the climb worthwhile.
The descent was via steep stairs, and honestly, going down was harder. Legs shaking, balance uncertain, we treaded cautiously. A small stream awaited us at the base — perfect to wash off our fatigue.
Refueling & the Road to Guliakhali
After collecting our bags, we headed to Sitakunda Bazar via Laguna. We dived into a delicious lunch of rice, Loitta fish, chicken, and mashed potatoes. That Loitta fish deserves its own paragraph — spicy, crispy, and absolutely mouthwatering.
Refreshed and full, we hired autos to Guliakhali Sea Beach (Tk 30–40/person). Unlike typical beaches, Guliakhali is a hybrid of marshland and sea. Green grass blankets the beach, with pools of seawater glimmering between. While winter offers the iconic green view, our monsoon visit meant more water — so we hired a trawler (Tk 50/person).
The boat ride was magical. Floating across grasslands, with the sea breeze on our faces and no concrete in sight, we watched the sun melt into the horizon. Hues of pink, orange, and purple painted the sky. It was peace in motion.
Though we didn’t want to leave, we returned to Sitakunda by evening, grabbed dinner, booked bus tickets, and set off for Dhaka with our hearts full and minds refreshed.
Important Tips for Future Travelers
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Mail Train Travelers: Be at Kamalapur by 9 PM. It’s cheap (Tk 110), but not ideal for comfort-seekers.
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Advance Booking: For intercity trains to Chittagong, book online at least 5 days ahead.
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Trekking Essentials: Carry enough water, dates, energy snacks, and a bamboo stick. Avoid overpacking.
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Best Time: Winter is ideal — both for trekking and the beach.
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Health Warning: Avoid trekking if you have breathing or heart problems.
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Beach Caution: Don’t swim without a life jacket. Guliakhali may look calm but can be risky.
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Descent Alert: Take it slow on your way down Chandranath. The stairs are tricky and steep.
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Plan Ahead: Guliakhali trawlers don’t run late into the night. Get the boatman’s number if needed.
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Night Drop-Off at Feni: Be mentally prepared. It’s part of the adventure!
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Local Food: Try Loitta fish at Sitakunda Bazar. You’ll thank me later.
A trip to Chandranath Hill and Guliakhali Sea Beach is not just a journey; it’s a mix of nature, endurance, fun, and unexpected surprises. For new trekkers and nature lovers alike, this one-day adventure packs more than you’d expect. Whether it’s the climb, the view, the roadside bonding, or the pastel-colored sunset, this trip stays with you long after your feet touch flat land again.
Pack light, carry your courage, and create your own story.
