On the shores of the Bay of Bengal, amidst the salty breeze and crashing waves, a unique fruit is winning the hearts—and taste buds—of tourists. Locally known as Anarkoli, this tropical delight is more widely recognized around the world as passion fruit.Though once overlooked, Anarkoli has become a must-try treat for visitors to Cox’s Bazar. Served with a flavorful mix of salt, chili, and sugar, the fruit delivers an irresistible blend of tangy, spicy, and sweet—a true explosion of flavors.Owing to its skyrocketing popularity among tourists, locals have affectionately started calling it the “Tourist Fruit.” Found abundantly in the hill areas of Cox’s Bazar and Bandarban, passion fruit plants now grow in both wild hillsides and home gardens.What was once an underappreciated fruit has now become a booming seasonal trade. Along the beach and Marine Drive, Anarkoli is sold at a premium. Street vendors, who purchase them in bulk, sell each fruit for 40 to 50 taka after preparing it fresh with spices—delighting customers craving a bold, local flavor.In the ever-evolving culinary landscape of Cox’s Bazar, Anarkoli has quietly transformed into a symbol of seasonal indulgence and local culture, making it a must-try item on every traveler’s list.By Mohammad Morshed Photo: Hussain Shetu
