Weekend Special
Known for its beaches, mountains, and islands, Cox’s Bazar also boasts ancient heritage sites that reflect its rich history. Highlighted on the Cox’s Bazar District Administration’s website are eight historic sites worth visiting to experience the region’s cultural depth.
1. Ajgabi Mosque
This mosque, also known as the Chowdhury Para Mosque, dates back to the Shah Shuja era (1600–1700 AD). Located north of the BDR camp in Cox’s Bazar Sadar, it is a remarkable example of ancient Islamic architecture.
2. Pagoda (Jadi)
Constructed by the Rakhine community after the Burmese conquest of Arakan in 1790, these pagodas are significant cultural markers. Pagodas are perched atop scenic hilltops in Cox’s Bazar Sadar, Ramu, and Teknaf.
3. Aggameda Buddhist Monastery
Cox’s Bazar Sadar is home to over seven Buddhist monasteries, with Aggameda and Mahasingdrogyee monasteries being the largest. These monasteries house exquisite Buddhist statues and host essential festivals such as Buddha Purnima, Probarona Purnima, and Bisu.
4. Ramkot Pilgrimage Site
Located atop a hill near Ramkot Forest Monastery, this site is believed to have been visited by Ram and Sita during their exile. Established in 901 Bengali Year, it features a temple and a separate Buddhist shrine with a meditating Buddha statue. It is said to have been installed during Emperor Ashoka’s reign as a symbol of peaceful coexistence between the two religions.
5. Chengkhai Monastery
Situated along the Bakkhali River in Ramu’s Shrikul, this monastery houses over ten brass and white stone statues preserved in intricately decorated glass containers. Ramu is also home to 23 monasteries with numerous priceless Buddha statues.
6. Kana Raja’s Tunnel
A one-eyed Mogh king named Kana Raja reportedly built this massive tunnel near Patuartek Beach in Ukhiya for protection. The tunnel’s entrance is large enough to accommodate a truck, making it an architectural curiosity.
7. Mathin’s Well
Mathin’s Well revolves around a tragic love story from the early 19th century between Mathin, the daughter of a prominent Rakhine zamindar, and a police officer named Dhiraj Bhattacharya. Located in the Teknaf police station premises, the well silently witnesses their unfulfilled love. Since its restoration in 1994, the well has become a popular tourist spot, showcasing a brief history for visitors.
8. Maa Ashtabhuja
Adjacent to the Adinath Shiva Temple in Maheshkhali, the Maa Ashtabhuja idol is a revered site. Accessible by a 45–55-minute boat ride from Cox’s Bazar’s Kasturaghat or a 15–18-minute speedboat journey, visitors can reach the temple by rickshaw from Maheshkhali’s Gorakghata Jetty.
Each heritage site offers a unique glimpse into Cox’s Bazar’s cultural, religious, and architectural history. For those planning a visit, these landmarks are a must to appreciate the region’s heritage truly.
By Abdur Rashid Manik
File Photo
