Patenga Beach

Patenga is where the Karnaphuli meets the Bay of Bengal at the southern end of Chittagong, and it functions as the city's beach: a stretch of dark sand and concrete blocks along the shore, with a promenade, food stalls, horse rides and a great many people, particularly at sunset when Chittagong comes out to walk. What makes it different from an ordinary beach is the shipping: this is the approach to Chittagong port, the largest in the country, so container ships, tankers and coasters pass close inshore in a steady stream, which is either the interest or the industrial view depending on the visitor. Swimming is not advisable given the currents and the traffic.

The landscape

• Ships passing close inshore - the approach to the largest port in the country.
• The Karnaphuli river mouth - where the river meets the bay.
• The evening promenade - the city walking at sunset.
• Food stalls along the shore - the standard beach eating.

When to go

November to March. Half a day, timed for late afternoon and sunset, which is when it fills. It is very crowded at weekends and on holidays. Mornings are quiet.

Good to know

The sand is dark, the shore is partly concrete and the water is not clean. Swimming is unsafe because of currents and shipping. It is extremely crowded at peak hours. Litter is a serious problem.

Nearby

Chattogram city is north; Foy's Lake lies inland.