Chattogram is a city where nature and urban life exist side by side. Beyond its busy streets, the region reveals green hills, rushing waterfalls, quiet waters, and scenic roads that can turn an ordinary day into a memorable escape. From the trails of Mirsharai to the calm landscape of Bhatiyari, and the glowing stretch of Marine Drive, Chattogram offers something special at nearly every turn.
A long holiday isn’t always necessary to break free from the routine of Chattogram. Sometimes, all it takes is an early breakfast, a bit of planning, and a willingness to step outside the city. The drive from the lush hills of Mirsharai to the tranquil waters of Bhatiary offers a welcome reprieve before returning under the city lights.
The journey begins around 7:30am at Kutumbari, near WASA, where a hearty breakfast sets the tone for the day ahead. A hot meal and a cup of tea are essential for an easy start before leaving the hustle and bustle behind. As the city buildings gradually recede, the road opens up toward the greener landscapes of Mirsharai.
Travellers can set off for Mirsharai around 8:15am. Those using public transport can take a bus toward Mirsharai before switching to a CNG or local vehicle heading to the Khoiyachora area, while private vehicles offer a more direct and flexible journey.
The first major attraction is the Khoiyachora waterfall, one of the most renowned natural wonders in the Mirsharai hills. However, this is not a waterfall you can simply stroll up to. It requires a hike through lush – and sometimes rugged – trails, making the journey itself an integral part of the adventure.
As the path climbs into the hills, the surroundings grow more rural. The faint hum of passing cars gradually gives way to the sounds of birds, flowing water, and footsteps on the trail. With every turn, the anticipation builds – and when the waterfall finally emerges through the foliage, the effort feels thoroughly rewarded.
The cascade of water over the rocks stands in striking contrast to the dense forest surrounding the rock face. There are plenty of opportunities to take photos, pause for a moment, and soak in the cool mist before beginning the trek back. The waterfall is especially breathtaking during the monsoon season, though the rocks can become slippery – so it’s wise to move with caution.
After a morning of adventure, hunger inevitably sets in. Lunch can be enjoyed near the waterfall at Jhorna Restaurant, located along Jhorna Restaurant Road, close to the falls. The restaurant serves a simple yet satisfying local spread – rice, dal, vegetables, and protein-based dishes.
After hours of walking, a humble local meal feels like a well-earned treat. A respite of rice, fish, and vegetables awaits before the journey continues. This meal is more than just a pit stop; it’s a meaningful interlude for travellers to rest and recharge before pressing on.
The afternoon brings a shift in mood. After lunch, around 2:30pm, the road turns back toward Chattogram, then descends through the hills, past greenery, toward the more tranquil waters of Bhatiary. While Khoiyachora is defined by its raw, rushing energy, Bhatiary offers a gentler kind of beauty – calm, reflective, and serene.
By late afternoon, around 4pm, Bhatiary settles into a state of special calm. The pace of traffic naturally slows as the sun begins to dip. This is not a time for more exploration, but rather a moment to sit back, take in the scenery, and simply be. The hills soften under the afternoon sun, and the water adds a quiet, reflective layer to the landscape.
For groups of friends or family, the evening need not be packed with planned activities. A cup of tea, a few photos, and some leisurely conversation are all that’s required. The afternoon gently eases the exertions of the morning.
But the day doesn’t end at Bhatiary. As the sun sets, the trip heads toward Chattogram’s Marine Drive – and a different mood entirely. The final leg of the journey is a relaxed night drive, less about hiking or scenic strolls and more about enjoying the open road. The landscape here is an invitation to simply savour the drive.
Rather than arriving at a specific destination, Marine Drive is about the journey itself. After a full day of walking, exploring, and sightseeing, it’s a pleasure to sit back and take in the views of the city and the coast as the night settles in.
The drive may be followed by dinner, providing a comfortable and satisfying end to the day.
This is no ordinary trip – not because it leads to a single destination, but because of the distinct character of each phase of the day. From the comfort of a city breakfast to the thrill of a waterfall trek, the slow pace of a countryside lunch, the peaceful hills and lake of Bhatiary, and finally, the night drive along Marine Drive – the landscape is constantly evolving, all within a single day.
Perhaps that’s the true charm of travelling around Chattogram. Stepping away from the ordinary doesn’t require travelling far. Sometimes, it’s as simple as a road stretching beyond the city – transforming a regular day into a small, infinitely memorable journey.
