Lagoon-Edge Trails | Kili Island

Sitakunda Eco Park is a protected area located in Sitakunda Upazila, Chittagong District, Bangladesh. It is managed by the Bangladesh Forest Department.

Visual Characteristics

The park features dense tropical evergreen and semi-evergreen forests. Dominant tree species include Garjan, Chapalish, and Teak. The terrain is undulating, with hills and valleys. Several small streams and natural springs are present within the park boundaries. The undergrowth consists of various shrubs and herbaceous plants.

Location & Access Logistics

Sitakunda Eco Park is situated approximately 35 kilometers north of Chittagong city center. Access is via the Dhaka-Chittagong Highway (N1). Turn off at the Sitakunda town intersection and follow local signage for the park entrance, which is about 3 kilometers from the highway. Ample parking is available at the main entrance. Local buses and auto-rickshaws operate frequently between Chittagong and Sitakunda town.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The area was designated as an Eco Park in 2001 to conserve its rich biodiversity and natural beauty. Ecologically, it represents a significant tract of tropical moist deciduous forest, supporting a variety of flora and fauna characteristic of the region.

Key Highlights & Activities

Hiking is permitted on designated trails. Observation of local birdlife is a primary activity. Visitors can explore the natural springs and small waterfalls. Photography of the forest ecosystem is encouraged.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Basic restroom facilities are available near the main entrance. Limited shaded rest areas are provided along the trails. Cell phone signal (2G/3G) is generally available within the park. No food vendors are located inside the park; visitors should bring their own provisions.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for visiting is during the dry season, from October to March. Mornings offer optimal lighting conditions for photography. The monsoon season (June to September) can make trails slippery and may reduce visibility.

Facts & Legends

A notable feature is the presence of the Chandranath Temple, a significant Hindu pilgrimage site, located on a hilltop within the broader Sitakunda area, though not strictly within the Eco Park's core management zone. Local folklore associates the springs with divine intervention.

Nearby Landmarks

• Chandranath Temple (0.8km North-West)
• Sitakunda Botanical Garden and Eco Park (0.2km South)
• Baro Auliya Mazar Sharif (2.5km South-West)
• Kusumati Temple (1.2km North)