Safety Guide

Safety Rules & Travel Guidelines

Everything you need to know to travel safely across Chittagong Division — permits, zones, emergency contacts, and important regulations.

Important: Entering restricted zones (Bandarban, Rangamati, Khagrachari Hill Tracts) without a valid permit is illegal under the Chittagong Hill Tracts Regulation and may result in detention and fines.
Zone Classifications

Understanding Travel Zones

Chittagong Division is divided into 3 travel zone categories. Each requires different documentation levels.

ZoneDistrictsPermit RequiredProcessing TimeForeigners
✅ Open ZoneChittagong City, Cox's Bazar (beach)No — Free Entry—Passport only
⚠ Restricted ZoneBandarban, Rangamati, KhagrachariYes — QR Permit Required24–72 hoursHome Ministry Clearance
🔴 Highly RestrictedThanchi, Alikadam, NaikkhongchhariYes — Special Clearance72+ hoursNot permitted
🔵 Protected IslandSaint Martin's IslandYes — Entry Quota (2000/day)48 hoursPassport + Entry Quota

Permit Application Rules

What you need to apply

  • National ID Card (NID) or valid Passport
  • Complete tourist profile on this system
  • Trip plan with exact dates and accommodation
  • Emergency contact information mandatory
  • Apply minimum 72 hours before departure
  • Foreigners: Additional Home Ministry form (Form-18)

On-Trip Regulations

Rules while travelling

  • QR pass must be shown at every checkpoint
  • Do not deviate from registered route
  • Night trekking prohibited without Army escort
  • Drones require separate CAA permit
  • Alcohol prohibited in tribal zones
  • Photography of military installations banned

Medical & Health

Health precautions

  • Carry personal first-aid kit for jungle treks
  • Malaria prophylaxis recommended for CHT
  • Nearest hospital: Bandarban Sadar (0361-XXXX)
  • Carry prescription medicine with documentation
  • Emergency helicopter landing zones at Nilgiri
  • Mobile coverage patchy — download offline maps

Respecting Indigenous Communities

Cultural etiquette

  • Always ask permission before photographing people
  • Remove shoes before entering homes or temples
  • Do not touch or remove sacred objects
  • Dress modestly in tribal villages
  • Support local guides — hire through registered operators
  • Do not buy illegally collected forest products
Emergency Contacts

Who to Call in an Emergency

999National Emergency
01320-000999Tourist Police
01711-XXXXXXArmy Assist CHT
01769-XXXXXXBGB Border Guard