Sitakunda Eco Park | Chittagong

Sitakunda Eco Park is a protected area located in Sitakunda Upazila, Chittagong District, Bangladesh. It functions as a conservation site and recreational area.

Visual Characteristics

The park features dense tropical evergreen forest with a canopy cover exceeding 70%. Dominant tree species include various types of Dipterocarpus, Artocarpus, and Terminalia. The terrain is undulating, with some areas exhibiting steep slopes. Small streams and natural springs are present throughout the park. The undergrowth consists of ferns, bamboo, and various herbaceous plants.

Location & Access Logistics

The park is situated approximately 35 kilometers north of Chittagong city center. Access is via the Dhaka-Chittagong Highway (N1). Turn off at the Sitakunda Bazar intersection and proceed approximately 3 kilometers east on the local road towards the park entrance. Parking is available at the designated visitor lot near the main entrance. Public transport options include local buses traveling between Chittagong and Sitakunda; disembark at Sitakunda Bazar and take a local auto-rickshaw or CNG to the park.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Sitakunda Eco Park was established in 2001 by the Bangladesh Forest Department to conserve the remaining natural forest ecosystem of the Sitakunda hill range. The area is part of the Eastern Himalayan broadleaf forest ecoregion, characterized by high biodiversity and endemism. The hills are geologically composed of Tertiary sedimentary rocks.

Key Highlights & Activities

Hiking is permitted on marked trails, including the main trail leading to the Chandranath Temple viewpoint. Birdwatching is a primary activity due to the diverse avian population. Photography of flora and fauna is encouraged. Visitors can observe various species of monkeys, deer, and numerous bird species. Picnicking is allowed in designated zones.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available near the main entrance and at a mid-point rest stop on the primary trail. Limited shaded areas are provided by natural tree cover. Cell phone signal (2G/3G) is intermittent within the park, with better reception near the entrance. No food vendors are present inside the park; visitors are advised to bring their own provisions.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for visiting is during the dry season, from October to March. Mornings between 6:00 AM and 9:00 AM offer optimal lighting for photography and increased wildlife activity. The monsoon season (June to September) can make trails slippery and increase insect presence.

Facts & Legends

A local legend states that the springs within the park have healing properties. The park is adjacent to the Chandranath Temple, a significant Hindu pilgrimage site, which draws many visitors to the general area.

Nearby Landmarks

• Chandranath Temple (0.8km North)
• Sitakunda Botanical Garden and Eco Park (0.2km West)
• Baro Auliya Mazar Sharif (2.5km South)
• Khadem Nagar National Park (8km Southeast)