The Chittagong Hill Tracts include the districts of Rangamati, Bandarbans, Ramghar, Kaptai and Khagrachari. Due to its physical appearance and the presence of indigenous people of different origins, the entire area of the Chittagong Hill Tracts is quite different from the rest of the country. | |
Amidst the lush green hills, partially accessible by mostly unpaved roads, many settlements of different indigenous tribes are situated. Centuries ago these people’s ancestors settled in the teak forests of the Chittagong Hills, mostly coming from the Arakan hills in Myanmar. Predominantly Buddhist, they are Sino-Tibetan in origin and appearance: Short in stature, wheat-colored or brownish complexions, black hair, broad faces, short wide noses high cheek bones and mostly brown eyes. About half of the indigenous population is Chakma, a third Marma or Tipera. Among the ten much smaller groups (Murung, Tengchangya, Khumi, Lushai, Pankhu, Bhom, Mogh, Kuki, and Reang) the Murung stand out as being the most ancient inhabitants of the area. In most other respects, the groups are quite different: Each one has its own distinctive rites, rituals, dialect, cultural pattern and dress. | |
Bandarban, about 80 km from Chittagong, is a quaint district town with an interesting local market at the foothills of the Keokaradong Hills, with the river Sangu gently flowing beside it. | |
Our new Hillside Resort overlooks the river Sangu and offers a spectacular view of the hills. Situated 4 km from Bandarban on the Bandarban-Chimbuk road, the cottages and huts are built in the traditional style of the local people. The ‘Rigree khyang Restaurant’ offers local as well as international menus. The Bandarban Hillside Resort is a great get-away and an ideal starting point for various activities in this area. | |
Rangamati is only 77 km away from Chittagong and is connected by a good road. It stands on the western bank of the Kaptai Lake, which was created in 1963 for the production of electricity. | |
Although the signing of the ‘Chittagong Hill Tract Peace Accord’ between the Government and the indigenous leaders has improved the situation in this area, it is necessary for all foreigners to obtain a formal permission from the Government before traveling to the Chittagong Hill Tract area. | |
All our itineraries are based on Dhaka-to-Dhaka travel they include accommodation, transport. | |
With the following itineraries we have tried to cover most places of interest in the Chittagong Hill Tracts. However, if you have any other specific interests or requirements, which are not covered by our itineraries or if the quoted periods do not match your schedule, please let us know and we shall arrange alternatives for you. | |
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Saturday, November 21, 2009
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