Chittagong in February

February weather, activities, events & insider tips

February Weather in Chittagong

28°C (83°F) High Temp

17°C (62°F) Low Temp

20 mm (0.8 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is February Right for You?

Advantages

Coolest daytime temperatures of the year at 28°C (83°F), perfect for walking the Old City's narrow lanes and exploring this destination Port without the scorching heat of March-May
Minimal rainfall with only 20mm (0.8 inches) means Bay of Bengal boat trips to nearby islands like Sandwip operate reliably with calm seas
Post-harvest season brings fresh hilsa fish to markets and restaurants, making February peak time for Chittagong's signature dish - ilish bhapa (steamed hilsa)
Clear visibility from Foy's Lake hills and Batali Hill offers impressive panoramic views of the port city and bay, impossible during monsoon months

Considerations

Morning fog from the Bay of Bengal can delay domestic flights from Shah Amanat International Airport by 2-3 hours, especially in early February
Tourist infrastructure remains limited compared to Dhaka or Bangladesh - expect basic English and limited international cuisine options
Accommodation prices increase 40-60% during February as it coincides with the dry tourist season and local wedding season

Best Activities in February

Sadarghat River Port Walking Tours

February's cooler mornings (17°C/62°F) make exploring Bangladesh's busiest river port comfortable before 10am. Watch hundreds of boats unload goods from across the delta while the low humidity keeps walking pleasant. The post-monsoon river levels are perfect for close-up views of traditional wooden boats.

Booking Tip: Join guided walks through local cultural centers or explore independently. Early morning (6-9am) offers the best activity and lighting. No advance booking needed, but bring 200-300 taka for chai and small boat rides.

Foy's Lake Hill Station Day Trips

February's clear skies and 28°C (83°F) temperatures create ideal conditions for the 30-minute trek to panoramic viewpoints 150m (492 ft) above sea level. The artificial lake reflects the surrounding hills perfectly in calm February weather, and paddle boating is comfortable without monsoon winds.

Booking Tip: Combine with nearby Batali Hill for full-day hill station experience. Local transport costs 50-100 taka each way. Pack lunch as hilltop restaurants are basic. Best visited 2-4pm when morning fog clears.

Karnaphuli River Sunset Cruises

February's calm Bay of Bengal conditions make river cruises to the river mouth spectacular. Watch the massive Chittagong Port operations while traditional fishing boats return with daily catches. The 70% humidity feels pleasant on water with evening temperatures dropping to 20°C (68°F).

Booking Tip: Book through waterfront hotels or this destination boat operators. Cruises typically cost 800-1500 taka per person for 2-3 hours. Evening departures (4-7pm) offer best lighting and comfortable temperatures.

Bandarban Hill Tracts Excursions

February marks the end of tribal harvest festivals, with comfortable temperatures for the 2-hour drive into hill country. Daytime highs of 24°C (75°F) at elevation make trekking to tribal villages and Nilgiri hills perfect. Clear weather provides impressive views of Myanmar border hills.

Booking Tip: Requires government permits arranged 3-5 days ahead through registered tour operators. Full-day trips typically cost 3000-5000 taka including transport and permits. Book accommodation in Bangladesh town for multi-day exploration.

Chittagong Hill Tracts Cultural Tours

Post-harvest February brings traditional weaving and handicraft activities to full swing in tribal villages. Comfortable walking weather and clear roads make accessing remote communities possible. Experience authentic Chakma, Marma, and Tripura cultures without monsoon transportation challenges.

Booking Tip: Multi-day tours typically cost 4000-8000 taka per day including meals and basic guesthouses. Requires advance permits and registered guides. Book through Chittagong tourism offices 1-2 weeks ahead for proper documentation.

February Events & Festivals

Mid to Late February

Ekushey Book Fair Chittagong

Chittagong's version of the national book fair features local Bengali literature, cultural performances, and traditional food stalls. A authentic way to experience local intellectual culture away from tourist areas.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight cotton long pants - essential for mosque visits and protection from 70% humidity while staying cool in 28°C (83°F) heat

Light rain jacket or umbrella - brief afternoon showers occur 10 days per month, lasting 15-30 minutes

SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat - UV index reaches 8 with strong Bay of Bengal reflection

Comfortable walking shoes with grip - Old City streets are uneven and can be slippery after brief rains

Modest long-sleeved shirts for women - required for mosque visits and shows cultural respect

Light sweater for early mornings - temperatures drop to 17°C (62°F) before sunrise

Insect repellent with DEET - mosquitoes active during warm evenings around Foy's Lake area

Cash in small denominations - ATMs limited outside city center, most vendors don't accept cards

Portable phone charger - power cuts common, especially during afternoon storms

Basic Bengali phrasebook - English limited outside hotels and tourist areas

Insider Knowledge

Book domestic flights after 11am - morning fog from Bay of Bengal regularly delays early flights at Shah Amanat International Airport throughout February

Hilsa fish season peaks in February - try ilish bhapa (steamed hilsa) at Kolkata area restaurants before prices increase in March when season ends

Avoid Friday afternoons for sightseeing - Jummah prayers create heavy traffic around major mosques from 12-3pm, making navigation difficult

Stock up on bottled water Thursday evenings - many shops close Friday mornings, and February heat increases dehydration risk during walking tours

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating travel time within the city - Chittagong's hills and narrow roads mean even 5 km (3.1 miles) trips can take 45 minutes during peak hours

Not carrying enough cash - most attractions, restaurants, and transport operate cash-only, and ATMs frequently run empty on weekends

Overdressing for the heat - many visitors pack for cool weather not realizing February daytime temperatures reach 28°C (83°F) with high humidity