Chittagong Hill Tracts | Chittagong

The Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) is a unique and striking region in southeastern Bangladesh, bordering India and Myanmar. It comprises three districts-Bandarban, Rangamati, and Khagrachhari-and is characterized by rolling hills, dense forests, rivers, and waterfalls. Unlike the flat deltaic plains of most of Bangladesh, the Hill Tracts offer a rugged, scenic landscape and a rich tapestry of indigenous cultures, making it a destination for adventure tourism, cultural exploration, and nature appreciation.

Geography and Natural Features

The Hill Tracts are marked by undulating hills, steep valleys, and forested slopes. The region contains Bangladesh’s highest peaks, such as Tahjindong, Mowdok Mual, and Keokradong in Bandarban. Numerous rivers-including the Sangu, Kaptai, and Matamuhuri-meander through valleys, feeding into lakes and waterfalls. Dense forests and bamboo groves host diverse flora and fauna, including elephants, leopards, and a variety of bird species. The landscape changes dramatically with the seasons: lush green during the monsoon, golden-hued in autumn, and mist-covered in winter mornings.

Cultural and Indigenous Communities

The Hill Tracts are home to multiple indigenous groups, including the Chakma, Marma, Tripura, and Mro peoples, each with distinct languages, traditions, and festivals. Traditional bamboo and wooden houses, terraced farming, and local handicrafts are common cultural markers. Visitors can experience:

Traditional crafts: Weaving, bamboo furniture, and wood carving

Festivals: Buddhist and animist celebrations, including the Boishabi (New Year) festival

Local cuisine: Dishes made with freshwater fish, bamboo shoots, and indigenous herbs

Tourist Attractions and Activities

The Hill Tracts offer a wide range of natural and adventure-based activities:

Trekking and Hiking: Trails through hills, forests, and villages, including paths to peaks like Nilgiri and Boga Lake

Lakes and Waterfalls: Kaptai Lake, Shuvolong Waterfall, Amiakhum Waterfall, and Nafakhum Waterfall are major scenic highlights

Wildlife and Nature Tours: Birdwatching and jungle walks reveal the region’s biodiversity

Cultural Tourism: Visits to indigenous villages, local markets, and monasteries provide insight into traditional life

Visitor Experience

Travelers often describe the Chittagong Hill Tracts as a tranquil yet vibrant destination. The air is crisp and refreshing, carrying the scent of forests and streams. The soundscape is a mix of birdsong, river currents, and occasional village activity. Roads can be winding and challenging, but scenic vistas reward travelers at every turn. Accommodation ranges from guesthouses in towns to eco-resorts and homestays in indigenous villages, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural and cultural environment.

Accessibility and Surroundings

While accessible from Chittagong city by road, travel to deeper parts of the Hill Tracts can be challenging due to steep terrain and underdeveloped infrastructure. Bandarban is the southernmost district, known for adventure tourism; Rangamati features Kaptai Lake and cultural experiences; Khagrachhari offers forest trails and tribal villages. The region’s remoteness contributes to its unspoiled landscapes and cultural preservation.

Cultural and Environmental Significance

The Chittagong Hill Tracts are vital to Bangladesh’s ecological diversity and cultural heritage. The area preserves ancient forests, rare species, and indigenous traditions that are not found elsewhere in the country. At the same time, it is a living region where local communities maintain ancestral practices while interacting with modern tourism, agriculture, and conservation efforts. The Hill Tracts represent both the natural and cultural richness of southeastern Bangladesh, making them an essential destination for nature lovers and cultural explorers alike.