Bandarban’s lush greenery offers an ideal escape from the monotony of urban life, making it a great place for hiking.
Here are some places in Bandarban that should be on every hiker’s bucket list.
Nilgiri
This area of Bandarban is home to popular tourist spots and is ideal for hiking. Hikers will trail through thick forests, hilly fruit orchards, and glittering creeks.
Keokradong
There are many routes to Keokradong, one of the highest peaks in Bangladesh. Depending on your previous experience and the difficulty level you are looking for, there are many options. For beginners, we suggest hiking around Boga Lake, a trip that takes approximately four hours. The mountain summit may seem challenging at first, with its narrow roads. However, the scenic beauty and the locals make the journey memorable.
Tazindong
To visit and hike in Tazindong, hikers must go to Ruma, which is about 50 kilometers away from Bandarban. Please note that hikers are not allowed to leave Ruma after 4 p.m. to visit Boga Lake, Keokradong, or Tazindong since the roads can be tricky to navigate after dark.
Throughout the journey, hikers can experience various local communities and interact with the surrounding mountains, dense forests, birds, and animals.
Nafakhum and Amiakhum
These two waterfalls offer a magnificent view. To reach them, one must trek upstream through the water, sometimes walking or even swimming for short periods, and then hike some more.
Nafakhum is located on the Remakri River, which is a tributary of the Sangu River. During the monsoon season, the sight of the water gushing out from the waterfall is mesmerizing.
Amiakhum is a few hours away from Nafakhum on foot. It is located in a remote area called Tindu in Thanchi Upazila, near the Bangladesh-Myanmar border. Located deep within the hills, the journey is filled with scenic beauty and natural abundance.
Debota Pahar
During your travels, you can plan to hike through Debota Pahar. However, this is a riskier journey due to the steep paths. Hikes to the Damtua waterfall, Palong Khali, and Debotakhum might be easier for beginners.
Hiking during the monsoon season is a thrilling experience, but is only recommended for experienced hikers. Even then, it is better to avoid June and July, as it may be too risky. Instead, opt for September or October, which are towards the end of the monsoon season.
Caution:
Before you embark on your hiking journey, experienced trekkers suggest you remember the following:
Be sure to get permission. Some of these regions are not always open to tourists and hikers without the proper documentation and permission from officials.
Always have a guide. Whether you’re hiking alone or with friends, it’s always safer to have a guide to help you navigate unfamiliar areas.
Respect the locals. Although the locals in these regions are accustomed to hosting hikers and travelers, it is important to respect their traditions, culture, and way of life.
A hiking pole is crucial. It helps you maintain your balance and provides support while walking. It also helps you identify loose rocks, making the entire hike easier.
Pack the essentials. This includes a sturdy hiking pole, necessary medicine, a first-aid kit, flashlights, hats, sunglasses, and chocolate bars for quick energy. Carrying water bottles on both sides of a backpack can also help with balance. Additionally, water mixed with glucose is even better.
Hiking and trekking require more mental strength than physical strength. The first few hours are always the hardest, so it’s important to push through. As long as you don’t have any physical injuries, it’s all about mental strength to keep going and reach your destination.
Before attempting any challenging terrain in the Bandarban region, it is essential to first develop your hiking and trekking skills on easier routes. Additionally, it is crucial to always be accompanied by experienced individuals.