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Golden Buddha statues inside Buddhist monastery hall
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Day trips · 5 min read

Day trip to Ramu from Cox's Bazar

The Buddhist capital of Bangladesh lies 20 km inland and packs over 20 monasteries into a handful of villages—plan for 4 temples, one market, and the quietest lunch you will have all week.

Temple circuit

Hire a CNG from Kolatoli for the day at $20 or take a local bus from the main stand for 40 taka. The ride is 40 minutes through paddy fields and betel nut plantations. Start at Lamanchor Buddhist Temple just off the Ramu-Teknaf highway. The prayer hall has gilded Buddhas, centuries-old manuscripts, and murals depicting Jataka tales. Monks may offer to show you around if you visit before 11 AM; donations are optional but respectful.

Next is U Ottama Monastery, 3 km further. This is a working monastery where monks study Pali texts—silence is required in the library. The complex has a small museum of religious artifacts, free to enter. Nearby, Boro Bazar Shahi Jame Mosque offers a contrast: Mughal-style domes, carved stonework, and a courtyard full of pigeons. Remove shoes, and women should have a scarf for the head.

Lunch and market

Eat at a stall in Ramu Bazaar: vegetable curry, daal, and rice run 60 taka, served on a banana leaf. The market sells betel leaves, thanaka paste, and bamboo baskets—prices are half what you pay in Cox's Bazar. Buy a woven mat for $3 or dried fish if you can handle the smell in your luggage. Tea stalls around the square serve cha for 10 taka; sit and watch the cycle-rickshaw traffic for 20 minutes.

If time allows, visit Joyngkhor Mohashoi Buddhist Temple on the way back. It is smaller but less touristy, with a giant reclining Buddha and a banyan tree that shades the entire courtyard. Return to Cox's Bazar by 4 PM to avoid the rush-hour CNG scrum at the bus stand.

Practical notes

Dress modestly: long pants or skirts, shoulders covered. Temples allow photography outside but not in prayer halls—always ask. Bring small bills for donations; monks will not have change for a 500-taka note. The monasteries close for midday rest from 12-2 PM, so plan your route accordingly. Ramu has no ATMs; bring enough cash for lunch, donations, and market purchases.

Questions, answered

How many temples can I visit in one day in Ramu?
Four or five comfortably if you start early. Lamanchor, U Ottama, Boro Bazar Mosque, and Joyngkhor cover the major sites. Add smaller monasteries if you have extra time.
Is Ramu safe for solo travelers?
Yes. It is a quiet religious town with low crime. Women may attract curious stares but harassment is rare. Stick to daylight hours and respect temple etiquette.
Can I eat vegetarian in Ramu?
Easily. Most bazaar stalls offer daal, vegetable curries, and rice. Monks sometimes share simple meals with visitors—lentils, greens, and flatbread. Just do not expect much variety.
Do I need a guide for Ramu temples?
No. The main temples are on the highway and easy to find. Monks at each site speak basic English and will answer questions. Save the guide fee.

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