From muddy paths to mountain views: The human face of Himchari’s tourism

Just a few months ago, the road to Himchari waterfall was little more than a rough track - muddy and lined with neglected broken stalls. But step into Himchari Bazar today, and you will find clearer all-weather roads, public toilets, information boards, and even plans for shaded seating and breastfeeding corners in this once-forgotten tourist destination.

Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh (ILO News) - This shift didn’t happen overnight. Behind the quiet transformation are the powerful stories of people like Rashid, a local shopkeeper-turned-community leader, and Habib, a souvenir seller teaching his son the value of good service. With training and support from the ILO and its partners, they are not just improving the tourism infrastructure in Cox’s Bazar - they are building hope, ownership and livelihood, one small step at a time.

The Cox's Bazar district in Bangladesh, renowned for its long sea beach, is also home to a multitude of lesser-known attractions that remain largely underdeveloped and undiscovered. As a result, the overall tourist experience remains limited due to inadequate infrastructure and insufficient tourist-oriented services.

Unlocking tourism potential 

In collaboration with the District Commissioner’s Office, local government bodies and private sector actors, the International Labour Organization (ILO)’s Leaving no one behind: Improving skills and economic opportunities for the Women & Youth in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh (ISEC) project is facilitating both systemic and community-level changes. These include the selection of eight priority tourist destinations such as Himchari, and investment in advocacy and governance, multi-stakeholder coordination and training of local service providers to build a more sustainable and visitor-friendly tourism sector in Cox’s Bazar. These initiatives are funded by Global Affairs Canada (GAC).

The project emphasizes inclusive participation of the local community in the tourism sector, particularly a greater role of women, youth and persons with disabilities. It also promotes responsible tourism alongside environmental protection by supporting eco-friendly measures at key tourist destinations, training on road safety and respectful behaviour with tourists, and an awareness campaign in schools.

Welcome infrastructure upgrade

Known for its scenic hills, waterfalls and marketplace, Himchari is one of the most visited destinations close to Cox’s Bazar city centre. The Himchari Bazar is a popular stop for tourists looking to explore natural trails or shop for souvenirs.  However, until recently, the roads were impassable. 

Even six months ago, the roads here were muddy and full of potholes. There were no restrooms and a proper car park. After the Bazar Committee negotiated with local authorities, essential upgrades began. 

Mohammad Habib, owner of a souvenir shop, Hamchari Bazar.

The President of the Himchari Bazar Committee, Mohammad Rashid, had big ambitions but lacked formal training until he met the ILO ISEC project representatives in 2024. “The ILO guided us on how we can present our needs clearly to the authorities, and advocate for the resources we lacked,” Rashid explained. 

Today, Himchari Bazar's makeover is visible. New restrooms, rubbish bins, and better roads and drainage systems; streetlights and security cameras have improved safety, while bilingual information boards provide visitors a clear guidance. 

The stairway leading to the Himchari waterfall has also been renovated, and a designated parking area with a transparent fee management system is now in place. Additionally, dedicated cleaners maintain hygiene in the marketplace. These improvements align with the Himchari masterplan, with further upgrades expected. 

"We plan to set up a breastfeeding corner, changing rooms for swimmers and shaded seating areas for the visitors. 

Mohammad Rashid, President of the Himchari Bazar Committee."

Tourists have also noticed the changes. Md Maruf Ahmed, a member of the armed forces who recently visited Himchari with his family, remarked, “The place looks more organized than before. A shaded rest area in the bazar would make it even better.”

Strengthening governance and stakeholder engagement

Tourism in Bangladesh is growing fast and Cox’s Bazar is at the heart of this change. To make sure these improvements last, the ISEC project is focusing on stronger governance and closer collaboration among everyone involved in the tourism sector.

"Tourism is an emerging economic sector in Bangladesh. The ILO played a key role in activating the District Tourism Development Committee (DTDC) and bringing together all relevant actors under one platform. Together, we have selected eight priority destinations, including Himchari, for targeted interventions to promote sustainable tourism practices."

Abu Morshed Chowdhury, President of the Cox’s Bazar Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CBCCI).

A big part of this effort is helping local service providers strengthen their soft skills. Micro and small entrepreneurs such as tour operators, market stall owners and other tourism workers have been trained in customer service, etiquette, gender equality and business management.

I learned how to calculate profit margins, keep track of expenses, and improve product quality. Earlier, we used to get annoyed if tourists asked for prices but didn’t buy. Now, we treat them politely and focus on respectful communication.

Mohammad Habib, owner of a souvenir shop, Hamchari Bazar.

Promoting safer transportation for tourists

To make Himchari a truly tourist-friendly destination, improving transportation safety is essential, especially since it is only about 4 kilometers from Cox’s Bazar. Battery-powered three-wheelers, known locally as “tomtoms,” are a common way for tourists and locals to reach surrounding destinations like Himchari. The lack of regulation and safety awareness among drivers has often led to complaints of overcharging and reckless driving. 

To address this, the ISEC project partnered with the Cox’s Bazar Traffic Police to train 200 tomtom drivers on traffic rules, safe driving and tourist etiquette. Trained drivers now wear official vests and are registered on a digital platform called CoxCab. Inside each tomtom, a QR code is displayed which tourists can scan to view the driver’s profile and rate their experience. “This system improves transparency and accountability,” said Mohammad Jashim Uddin Chowdhury, Assistant Superintendent of Traffic Police.

I offer a tour package from Cox’s Bazar town to five destinations, including Himchari. I took part in the traffic training, and I’ve learned about using indicator signals, safe parking, and customer communication at the training. I make sure to clarify fares before a ride and never exceed 45 km per hour.

Kamaluddin, a 21-year-old tomtom driver.

Looking ahead, the Himchari community plans to set up regulated beach chairs along the coastline and launch a weekly floating market to sell locally grown organic produce. Himchari is showing what real change looks like when people are given the skills and support to lead. With continued investment and collaboration, this once-overlooked area is becoming a model for other undiscovered and underrated destinations in Cox’s Bazar.