The lush green hills of Patuartek along the Marine Drive in Cox’s Bazar have taken on a new charm during the monsoon, attracting tourists eager to experience the area’s scenic beauty aboard locally known Chander Gari (open-top off-road vehicles).
Continuous rainfall has revitalised the hills, covering them in vibrant greenery. Every day, tourists are travelling through the winding hill roads to enjoy the spectacular combination of mist, clouds and rain-soaked landscapes.
With rough seas and adverse weather limiting opportunities for swimming at Cox’s Bazar beach, many tourists are opting to explore the natural beauty of the Marine Drive instead. The verdant forests, cool breeze and cloud-covered hills have become a major attraction for nature lovers.
Saiful Islam, a tourist from Dhaka, said the beauty of Patuartek during the rainy season was truly remarkable.
‘The hills are covered in lush greenery and surrounded by drifting clouds. Travelling through the hilly roads in a Chander Gari has been a wonderful experience,’ he said.
Mohammad Helal Uddin, a Chander Gari driver, said tourists had been visiting the area regularly since the onset of the monsoon.
‘The number of tourists usually increases in the afternoon. Many families and groups of friends hire Chander Gari vehicles to enjoy the scenic hill landscape,’ he said.
Local business owners said the growing number of tourists had increased the income of roadside shops, food stalls and transport service providers in the area.
For nature enthusiasts, Patuartek along the Marine Drive has emerged as one of Cox’s Bazar’s most attractive monsoon destinations.
Residents, however, urged tourists to exercise caution while travelling through the hilly terrain and to help preserve the area’s natural environment by keeping it clean.
By Mohammad Morshed
Photo: Hussain Shetu
