Kuakata: The daughter of the sea beckons

TAM Report ||

Kuakata, affectionately known as the “Daughter of the Sea”, is one of Bangladesh’s most enchanting coastal destinations. Nestled in the southern district of Patuakhali, this serene seaside town is famed for a rare natural wonder: it is one of the very few places in South Asia where both the sunrise and sunset can be seen over the sea from the same beach.

For travelers seeking tranquility away from the chaos of city life, Kuakata offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and local hospitality. Its 18-kilometer-long sandy beach stretches along the Bay of Bengal, flanked by coconut groves, fishing villages, and patches of mangrove forest.

A Rare View of Nature’s Grandeur

Unlike the commercial buzz of Cox’s Bazar, Kuakata’s charm lies in its calmness and unspoiled nature. The early mornings begin with the soft glow of the sun rising from the sea, casting golden hues across the water. As evening descends, the horizon transforms into a canvas of crimson and orange as the sun sets over the western edge of the same beach.

Tourists often gather at dawn and dusk with cameras in hand, but even the most sophisticated lenses struggle to capture the full magic of what the eyes can see.

Cultural Mosaic by the Shore

Kuakata is home to several indigenous and ethnic communities, including the Rakhine people who migrated here from Myanmar centuries ago. Their traditional weaving, lifestyle, and Buddhist temples add cultural depth to the region.

The Misripara Buddhist Temple, just a short distance from the beach, houses one of the largest Buddha statues in South Asia. Nearby, the Rakhine markets offer handwoven textiles, local snacks, and a chance to interact with a people whose presence predates modern national borders.

Fishermen and Floating Boats

A stroll along the beach reveals fishing trawlers returning at dawn with their catch. The life of the local fishing communities is closely tied to the rhythm of the sea. Watching them cast their nets or mend their boats offers a glimpse into a way of life unchanged for generations.

Fresh seafood is a local delight — grilled shrimp, fried pomfret, and spicy crab curry are favorites among visitors. For the more adventurous, early-morning fish auctions are a spectacle of bargaining, shouting, and salted air.

Challenges and Hopes

Despite its beauty, Kuakata faces environmental threats from unchecked tourism, rising sea levels, and plastic pollution. Poor infrastructure, lack of proper waste management, and seasonal tourist overcrowding are pressing issues.

However, initiatives are underway to promote eco-tourism and sustainable development. With proper planning and community involvement, Kuakata has the potential to become a model for responsible coastal tourism in Bangladesh.

A Destination with a Soul

Kuakata is more than just a beach. It is a place where the rhythm of nature meets the heart of a community. It invites not only sightseeing but soul-searching. As more travelers discover this hidden gem, the hope remains that they do so with care, preserving its peace for generations to come.

So, if you are seeking a retreat that offers both sunrise serenity and sunset splendor — Kuakata awaits.