Bangladesh is normally thought of as a pan-flat country with millions of Bengali people, but the rolling hills of the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) defies that expectation. Bangladesh’s ‘mini-Myanmar’ lies in the southeast area of the country, and offers visitors a chance to experience the lives of the ‘Jumma’, whose language, dress and culture resemble Bangladesh’s forlorn neighbour to the east, Myanmar, much more so than the country in which they currently reside. Given the predominantly Bengali nature of the CHT’s three main towns, an adventurous exploration into the hills is the best way to experience this culture up close and in its most natural form.

This is not an easy trip, by most measures. At 860m above sea level, Kewkradang is one of Bangladesh’s highest peaks, and it takes a solid two day trek to reach the peak. Accommodation and facilities along the way are basic. With two of the three nights housed in dorm accommodation, be prepared to rough it without a shower for a couple days.

If you’ve already decided to visit Bangladesh, you are probably already prepared for the lack of facilities available to tourists, and if you’re not comfortable being away from the comforts of even a regular hotel room this trip is not for you. If you do however, want to see the best kept secret in one of the world’s most under-explored countries, and if you enjoy getting places with your own two legs, this tour is about the best thing you can do in the Chittagong Hill Tracts.

Environmentally and economically, Bangladesh Ecotours is the Chittagong Hill Tracts leading adventure tour operator. Because of its close relationships with the CHT people, this tour is possible. Given the fact there is still a fairly tight security policy in the CHT, relying on the experience of the company is highly recommended, especially when trying to navigate the sea of bureaucratic red tape between you and the raw countryside of the hills. But once you’ve finished the tour, you can go home knowing that your tourist money has supported the CHT people in their quest for economic improvement.

Short Program

Day 1: Transfer from Chittagong to Ruma Bazaar (5 hrs with transfer)
Day 2: Trek to Boga Lake
Day 3: Kewkradang Trek and return to Boga Lake
Day 4: Boga Lake to Chittagong or Bandarban, departure