Things To Do
in Comilla

Comilla is a historic city in southeastern Bangladesh known for its ancient Buddhist sites and verdant landscapes. It sits near the Lalmai Hills and the Mainamati plateau, offering a backdrop of archaeology, temples, and rural charm. The city is a growing hub with lively markets, tea stalls, and friendly locals who welcome visitors.

With easy access to natural viewpoints and cultural heritage, Comilla makes a compelling base for exploring southern Bangladesh.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the ancient archaeological site of Mainamati, where you can explore the remnants of Buddhist Viharas and stunning terracotta sculptures. As the sun rises, the serene landscape around the ruins provides a perfect backdrop for photography and reflection. Enjoy a traditional Bangladeshi breakfast at a nearby café, where you can savor local favorites like luchi and bhaji.

afternoon
:

After lunch, take a leisurely stroll through the historic town of Comilla, visiting the Comilla Museum to learn about the region's rich heritage and history. The museum is home to numerous artifacts, including pottery and coins from ancient times, which offer a glimpse into the past. Conclude your afternoon with a visit to the beautiful Lalmai Hills, where you can enjoy stunning vistas and the natural beauty of the area.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to the nearby town of Titas for a riverside picnic dinner, indulging in local delicacies and enjoying the serene ambiance. After dinner, take a boat ride on the Titas River, where you can soak in the tranquil surroundings and listen to the gentle sounds of nature. Finish your day by enjoying a cultural performance or local music at a nearby venue, immersing yourself in the vibrant culture of Comilla.

day 2
Nature and Wildlife Exploration
morning
:

Begin your day with a refreshing hike in the lush green surroundings of the Kaptai National Park, where you can witness the diverse flora and fauna of the region. The morning air is crisp and invigorating, making it the perfect time for birdwatching or spotting wildlife. Enjoy a packed breakfast amidst nature, surrounded by the sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves.

afternoon
:

After your hike, visit the nearby Kaptai Lake for some leisure time, where you can rent a canoe or enjoy a boat ride on the tranquil waters. The shimmering lake, framed by rolling hills, offers a picturesque setting for relaxation and reflection. Have lunch at a lakeside restaurant, savoring fresh fish dishes that showcase the local culinary delights.

evening
:

As dusk approaches, take a leisurely walk along the lakeshore, enjoying the stunning sunset views that paint the sky in vibrant hues. You can also engage with locals and learn about their fishing traditions, making for a memorable cultural exchange. Wrap up your day with a traditional dinner at a nearby village, where you can enjoy authentic Bangladeshi cuisine in a warm and welcoming environment.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$4-8
🚆Local transport (short ride)$0.20-0.80
Coffee shop drink$1-2.5
🍚Rice and curry at local eatery$2-4
🏨Budget hotel (1 night)$20-40

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich history and archaeology
  • Friendly local people
  • Low-cost travel experience
  • Good base for Lalmai Hills
  • Limited nightlife and entertainment options
  • Traffic congestion during peak hours
  • Some areas lack English signage
  • Seasonal flooding can affect transport
  • "Assalamu Alaikum" - Hello / Peace be upon you
  • "Doya kore bolen" - Please speak slowly
  • "Dhonnobad" - Thank you
  • "Eta koto dam?" - How much is this?
  • "Apni English bolte paren?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Shauchalay kothay?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Comilla

Visit one of these nice places.

Mainamati Ruins and Shalban Vihar

Ancient Buddhist mounds and a museum complex set in a peaceful landscape; great for history-focused photography.

Lalmai Hills

Ridge lines and scenic vistas offering dramatic sunrise and sunset shots over rolling greenery.

Gumti River Bank

Calm riverfront scenes and local life; ideal for golden hour photography.

Comilla Old Town Streets

Historic lanes, colorful storefronts, and traditional architecture perfect for street photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Comilla

Comilla's cuisine reflects Bengali flavors with a focus on rice, lentils, fish, and richly spiced curries. You can expect hearty, affordable meals at local eateries and bustling street food scenes in the markets.

Comilla Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Rice and Fish Curry

A staple meal featuring steamed rice served with a flavorful fish curry, commonly found at local eateries.

Must-Try!

Dal Bhuna

Spiced lentil curry cooked with aromatics; pairs well with steamed rice and coriander chutney.

Pitha with Chutney

Traditional rice cakes often enjoyed with tangy chutney, popular at markets and during festivals.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Local Market Bazaars

Vibrant markets where you can try fried snacks, samosas, bhaji, and fresh fruit along with everyday groceries.

Climate Guide

Weather

Comilla experiences a tropical monsoon climate with hot, humid summers and a wet season. Winters are mild and pleasant, with high humidity typical year-round. The best time to visit for outdoor activities is winter and the post-monsoon period.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and Respect

Greet with 'Assalamu Alaikum' or 'Namaskar' depending on context; show polite deference, especially with elders.

Dress and Public Behavior

Dress modestly in public spaces and religious sites; remove footwear when entering mosques; avoid loud public displays of affection.

Safety Guide

Safety

Exercise common-sense safety: watch belongings in crowded markets, use licensed transport, and avoid poorly lit areas at night. Road traffic can be busy, and monsoon conditions may affect travel plans. Keep emergency numbers and your accommodations' contact information handy.

Tipping in Comilla

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Small tips (roughly 5-10%) are appreciated in restaurants and for guided services; not obligatory but thoughtful for good service.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and humid with temperatures often reaching the 90s F (30s C). Stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and visit early in the day to avoid peak heat.

Monsoon

June to September brings heavy rains and occasional flooding. Carry a compact rain jacket and waterproof footwear; plan for travel delays.

Winter

November to February offers mild, comfortable weather with cooler evenings. This is a pleasant time for outdoor activities and photography.

Nightlife Guide

Comilla at Night

Nightlife in Comilla is low-key and centered around tea stalls, casual cafes, and street food markets. Cultural events and performances may occur on weekends or at cultural centers, but the scene is generally quieter than in larger cities.

Hiking in Comilla

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Lalmai Hills

A ridge and hill system near Comilla offering scenic viewpoints and varied hiking routes.

Airports

How to reach Comilla by plane.

Shah Amanat International Airport (Chittagong)

Major regional airport serving international and domestic flights; about 80-120 km from Comilla; accessible by road or rail.

Sylhet Osmani International Airport (Sylhet)

Regional airport farther away; mostly domestic flights; not as convenient for quick trips to Comilla.

Getting Around

Walkability

Comilla is moderately walkable in central markets and the old town, with varying sidewalk quality. Traffic can make longer walks slow, so using rickshaws or bicycles for longer trips is common and convenient.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Religious groups

Predominantly Muslim with Hindu and Christian minorities.

Language and ethnicity

Bengali-speaking population with rural and urban communities across age groups.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cricket

The dominant sport with local matches at schools and clubs.

Football

Popular recreational activity with local leagues and community games.

Badminton

Common in homes and clubs; easy to pick up for visitors.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic comprises buses, cycle rickshaws, auto-rickshaws, and cars. Congestion is common during market days and peak hours; trains provide a reliable alternative for longer trips to Dhaka or Chittagong.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Comilla.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Choose dal, vegetables, and rice; request egg-free dishes and avoid fish or meat-heavy gravies. Many places can adapt dishes if you ask in Bangla or with a simple phrase like 'shak-shobji bhorta diye dite parben?'

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Comilla includes public facilities such as Cumilla Medical College Hospital, along with private clinics and pharmacies. For serious conditions, patients may be referred to larger hospitals in Chittagong or Dhaka; carrying a basic first-aid kit is advisable.

Discover Bangladesh

Read more in our Bangladesh 2025 Travel Guide.

Bangladesh Travel Guide