If you’ve got a layover in Chittagong, don’t let it go to waste sitting at CGP. The city, in Bangladesh, is within easy reach — roughly 90 minutes by Taxi / CNG Auto-rickshaw. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Before heading into Chittagong, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Bangladesh vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Chittagong is roughly 90 minutes from CGP via Taxi / CNG Auto-rickshaw. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in BDT. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
How to Spend Your Time in Chittagong
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Chittagong, two standouts are:
- Patenga Beach — You don’t need long to appreciate it — even a brief visit is refreshing.
- Shrine of Bayazid Bostami — You don’t need long to appreciate it — even a brief visit is refreshing.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside CGP, you can spend time at CGP Executive Lounge or try Duty-Free Shopping. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Eating Well on a Chittagong Layover
In Chittagong
If you make it into town, Mezban Haile Ayojon is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Ambrosia Restaurant.
Inside CGP
If you’re staying in the terminal, Airport Canteen is your main option. Coffee & Pastry Corner works too if you want something quick.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi / CNG Auto-rickshaw | ~90 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~110 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Taxi / CNG Auto-rickshaw is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
What to Budget for Your Chittagong Side Trip
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Chittagong might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$5 USD
- A meal: ~$4 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$19 USD
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Luggage Storage at CGP
Traveling light makes a layover outing much easier. At CGP, you’ll find bag storage at Official luggage storage facilities are not commonly available at CGP..
Tip: store your bags as soon as you clear arrivals to maximize your free time. If the airport options don’t work for you, check online luggage storage platforms for alternatives near the city center.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at CGP, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Chittagong itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Bangladesh that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Sleep & Lounge Options at CGP
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at CGP, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Chittagong count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave CGP. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.