National Museum of Anthropology | Luanda

Information

Landmark: National Museum of Anthropology
City: Luanda
Country: Angola
Continent: Africa

National Museum of Anthropology, Luanda, Angola, Africa

Kaptai Lake is an artificial lake located in the Rangamati District of the Chittagong Division, Bangladesh. It was created by the construction of the Kaptai Dam on the Karnaphuli River.

Visual Characteristics

The lake's surface is characterized by its expansive, calm waters, reflecting the surrounding hills. The water color varies from deep blue to greenish-brown depending on sediment load and depth. The shoreline is irregular, with numerous inlets and peninsulas. The surrounding landscape consists of densely forested hills, with vegetation including tropical trees and bamboo groves.

Location & Access Logistics

Kaptai Lake is situated approximately 50 kilometers northeast of Chittagong city. Access is primarily via the Kaptai Road (R141) from Chittagong. Travel time by road is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Public transport options include buses and microbuses traveling towards Kaptai town. From Kaptai town, local boats and speedboats are available for navigating the lake. Limited parking is available at designated jetties in Kaptai town.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Kaptai Lake was formed in 1962 following the completion of the Kaptai Dam, an earth-filled dam constructed across the Karnaphuli River. The dam's primary purpose was hydroelectric power generation, with a secondary aim of flood control. The inundation created by the dam resulted in the formation of the lake, submerging significant areas of land, including tribal villages and agricultural fields.

Key Highlights & Activities

Boat tours on the lake are a primary activity, offering views of the surrounding hills and islands. Fishing is permitted in designated areas. Hiking trails exist in the forested hills surrounding the lake, though these are often unmaintained. Visits to the Kaptai Dam itself are possible, providing an overview of the hydroelectric project.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Basic amenities are available in Kaptai town, including small restaurants and tea stalls. Restrooms are generally available at the main jetties and tourist facilities. Shade is provided by natural tree cover in many areas and by boat canopies. Cell phone signal (4G) is generally available in Kaptai town and along the main lake routes, but can be intermittent in more remote areas.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for photography is during the early morning or late afternoon when the light is softer and the reflections on the water are more pronounced. The dry season, from November to March, offers the most pleasant weather with lower humidity and minimal rainfall. The monsoon season (June to October) can bring heavy rains, impacting boat travel and visibility.

Facts & Legends

A significant portion of the indigenous Chakma people were displaced during the dam's construction, a historical event that continues to be a point of discussion regarding the project's social impact. Local folklore sometimes speaks of spirits inhabiting the submerged villages, though these are unverified narratives.