When it comes to Bangladesh’s longest and most captivating sea beach, the name of Cox’s Bazar instantly comes to mind.
Among the many scenic destinations scattered across this coastal city, Inani stands out as a unique spot where the hills, the sea, and the sky blend together to create a perfect canvas of nature.
The journey along Marine Drive towards Inani offers a spectacular view—lush green hills rise on one side while the vast expanse of the Bay of Bengal stretches endlessly on the other.
The winding road in between feels like a passage deep into nature. And on this serene, rocky beach, a new attraction has now been added: the iconic sampan boats.
Deeply connected to Cox’s Bazar’s history and heritage, fishermen traditionally used the sampan. Its unique design—curved wooden frames and raised ends—sets it apart from any other boat.
Today, however, these boats are not just fishing vessels.
Anchored in rows on the sandy shores of Inani, they have become a sight to behold for tourists.
The shimmering wooden sampans against the backdrop of the blue waves create a mesmerizing scene.
Many tourists were taking photos and videos beside them or simply soaking in the aesthetic beauty.
Tourist Aliul Safi shared his excitement: “You can see the sea in many places, but witnessing rows of sampans lined up like this is unique to Inani.
It gives an entirely different feeling.”
The sampan is not only a symbol of Cox’s Bazar’s heritage but also an essential emblem of the region’s maritime culture.
Many believe preserving and promoting the sampans’ artistic presentation could also introduce this cultural treasure to international tourists.
By Abdu Rashid Manik
Photo: Abdu Rashid Manik
