Bandarban: The Land of Hills And Mountains

Bandarban, a beautiful district in the southeastern part of Bangladesh, is known for its majestic mountains, breathtaking landscapes and vibrant tribal culture. It is one of the most scenic and least populated districts of Bangladesh, making it a great place for visitors to get lost in nature. 

This article is a complete guide to everything you need to know about Bandarban areas, mountains, transport, accommodation, food and safety precautions.

Bandarban area

Bandarban covers an area of ​​about 4,479 square kilometers, making it one of the largest districts in Bangladesh. The region is known for its hilly terrain and is part of Chittagong Hill Tracts, a region that also includes Rangamati and Khagrachari districts. Bandarban is home to Bangladesh's highest peaks, dense forests and lush green tea plantations.

Hills and mountains

Bandarban is famous for its numerous hills and mountains, which make it a trekking/marching paradise. The district is part of Chittagong Hill Tracts and has many notable peaks:

Tajingdong (Vijay Pahar): 1,280 meters, it is the highest peak in Bangladesh. It is located near Ruma Upazila of Bandarban.

Keokradong: The second highest peak in Bangladesh, Keokradong stands at 1,230 meters. It is a popular place for trekkers.

Modak Mual: Another major peak at 1,052 meters, Modak Mual is part of the mountain range shared with Myanmar.

Apart from these huge peaks, the region is dotted with small hills and valleys that contribute to its breathtaking natural beauty.

Distance from Dhaka

Bandarban is located about 320 km southeast of Dhaka. It takes about 8-10 hours by road from Dhaka to Bandarban due to the hilly terrain. The trip is long but rewarding as it takes you through beautiful landscapes, forests and rivers.

Communication System

There are different ways to reach Bandarban from Dhaka:

By Bus: The most common way to reach Bandarban is by bus. Several bus services like Shyamoli, Hanif and Green Line offer direct routes from Dhaka to Bandarban. The journey usually takes 8-10 hours and ticket prices range from Rs 600 to Rs 1,200 depending on the bus service.

By air and road: You can also take a flight from Dhaka to Chittagong (Chittagong), which takes about 45 minutes. From Chittagong, you can hire a private car or take a bus to Bandarban. It takes about 4-5 hours to go from Chittagong to Bandarban.

By Train and Road: You can travel from Dhaka to Chittagong by a train, which takes around 6-7 hours. After reaching Chittagong, you can continue your journey to Bandarban by bus or car.

Approximate travel expenses

Bus Fare to Bandarban: Rs 600 – 1,200 (one way)

Flight to Chittagong: 3,500 – 7,000 Tk (one way)

Car Fare from Chittagong to Bandarban: Tk 3,000 – 5,000 (one way)

Train fare to Chittagong: 300 - 1,500 BDT (depending on class)

Interesting places in Bandarban

Bandarban is full of natural and cultural attractions that attract tourists from all over the world. Here are some popular spots to visit:

Nilgiri Hills: Located about 47 km from Bandarban city, the Nilgiris are one of the most beautiful mountain peaks in the region. The view from the top is mesmerizing, often with clouds hovering below the mountain, walking on the clouds is truly thrilling.

Nilachal: Just 5 km from the city, Nilachal offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. It is a great place for photography and enjoying the sunrise or sunset.

Baga Lake: Situated at an altitude of 1,246 feet, Baga Lake is a natural freshwater lake surrounded by mountains. It is a popular place for camping and trekking.

Shoilo Falls: This beautiful falls is located at Milanchari, about 8 km from Bandarban city. The cool, clear water of the waterfall provides a refreshing sensation.

Rijuk Falls: Accessible only by boat, Rijuk Falls is located about 66 kilometers from the city along the Sangu River. The trip to the falls is an adventure in itself.

Golden Temple : It is the largest Theravada Buddhist temple in Bangladesh located near Balaghat. Golden structures and surrounding gardens make it a peaceful place.

Chimbuk Pahar: One of the highest peaks in Bangladesh, Chimbuk Pahar offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and forests. It is about 26 km from the city and is easily accessible by car or bus.

Safe and Reliable Accommodation

Bandarban has a variety of accommodation options that cater to different types of travelers. Here are some safe and reliable places to stay:

Luxury Resorts: For those looking for a comfortable and luxurious stay, Nilgiri Resort, Hillside Resort and Meghla Tourist Complex offer well-appointed rooms with modern amenities. Prices usually range from 5,000 to 10,000 BDT per night.

Mid-Range Hotels: Bandarban city has several mid-range hotels like Hotel Plaza and Hotel River View. These offer decent rooms with basic amenities at prices ranging from 1,500 to 3,500 BDT per night.

Guest Houses: For budget travelers, there are guest houses and eco-lodges that offer simple accommodation at affordable prices. Prices range from Rs 500 to Rs 1,500 per night.

Restaurants and notable Hill Foods

Bandarban is known for its unique hill food, which reflects the traditions of the tribal tribes living in the region. Local restaurants offer a variety of dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.

Bamboo Chicken: A must-try dish in Bandarban, bamboo chicken is made by stuffing marinated chicken inside a bamboo tube and cooking it over a fire. It has a smoky, earthy flavor unlike anything else.

Sticky Rice: Sticky rice is a popular staple in the highlands and is often served with a variety of vegetables, meat or fish.

Hill Fish Curry: Bandarban is known for its river and hill fish, which are cooked in delicious curries with local spices.

Tribal Food: Many restaurants in Bandarban serve traditional tribal dishes, including vegetables, meat and fish, prepared in unique ways.

Local Restaurants: Some of the popular restaurants in Bandarban city include Greenhill Restaurant, Hill View Restaurant and Food Village.

Best time to travel

The cool months from November to March are the best time to visit Bandarban. During this period, the weather is pleasant with low temperatures and low humidity, making it ideal for trekking, exploring the mountains and enjoying outdoor activities. The sky is usually clear, a perfect time to see the stunning views of the mountains and valleys.

Warning for tourists

Although Bandarban is a safe and welcoming destination, there are some precautions that tourists should keep in mind:

Road Safety: The roads in Bandarban are hilly and winding, so it is important to be careful while traveling by car or bus. Try to avoid traveling at night if possible.

Trekking Safety: If you are trekking in the mountains, always hire a local guide who knows the area well. Carry plenty of water, wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather.

Respect local culture: Bandarban is home to several indigenous tribes, each with its own culture and traditions. Be respectful of their customs, dress modestly and ask permission before photographing people.

Health Precautions: Bandarban is a remote area, so it is important to carry necessary medicines with you. Bring insect repellent to protect yourself from mosquitoes, and stick to bottled water to avoid stomach issues.

Care of Environment: Bandarban is known for its pristine natural beauty. Help keep it that way by not littering and being aware of your impact on the environment.

Bandarban is a hidden gem of Bangladesh, offering stunning mountains, waterfalls and unique cultural experiences. Whether you are an adventurer looking for trekking opportunities or a leisure traveler, Bandarban has something for everyone. With a variety of accommodation options, delicious mountain food and proper precautions, a trip to Bandarban will be both safe and memorable.

So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the enchanting hills of Bandarban.