RANGAMATI DISTRICT

 

Rangamati is a hilly district located in the southeastern part of Bangladesh, surrounded by the Chittagong Hill Tracts. The district covers an area of 6,116 square kilometers and is home to a diverse population of ethnic groups, including Chakma, Marma, Tripura, and Tanchangya.

The district is blessed with natural beauty, with the Kaptai Lake being the main attraction. The lake was created by damming the Karnaphuli River, and it stretches over an area of 68,800 acres. Tourists can take a boat ride on the lake and enjoy the stunning scenery of the surrounding hills and forests.

The Karnaphuli River is a river in southeastern Bangladesh and southeastern India. It originates in the Lushai Hills in India and flows through Chittagong Hill Tracts in Bangladesh before emptying into the Bay of Bengal.

Karnaphuli River

The total length of the Karnaphuli River is about 270 km, with approximately 160 km of the river flowing through Bangladesh. The river plays a vital role in the economy of Chittagong, Bangladesh's major port city, as it provides a means of transportation for goods and people.

Kaptai Lake : Kaptai Lake is a man-made reservoir located in the south-eastern part of Bangladesh. The lake was created in the 1960s as part of a hydroelectric project on the Karnaphuli River. The project involved building a dam to generate electricity and create a large freshwater reservoir.

Kaptiai Lake

Kaptai Lake is the largest artificial lake in Bangladesh, covering an area of about 680 square kilometers. The lake is surrounded by hills and forests, making it a popular tourist destination for its natural beauty. The lake is also an important source of fish and other aquatic resources for local communities.

Tourists can enjoy a variety of activities on the lake, such as boating, fishing, and sightseeing. There are several islands on the lake that can be visited by boat, including the picturesque island of Shuvolong. The lake is also home to a number of wildlife species, including birds, monkeys, and deer.

Kaptai Lake is an important source of hydroelectric power for Bangladesh, providing electricity to the national grid. However, the construction of the dam and the creation of the lake displaced thousands of indigenous people from their homes and caused significant environmental damage to the area.

Rangamati is also home to a number of Buddhist temples, including the Rajbana Vihara, located in the heart of the town. This temple is known for its beautiful architecture and serene surroundings. Visitors can also visit the Chakma Rajbari, which was once the residence of the Chakma kings and is now a museum that houses a collection of artifacts from the region's history.

The district is also known for its handicrafts, including weaving, wood carving, and pottery. The indigenous people of Rangamati have a rich cultural heritage, and visitors can learn about their customs and traditions by visiting the local villages.

The Sajek Valley, located on the border with India, is another popular tourist destination in Rangamati. The valley is situated at an altitude of 1,476 meters and is known for its breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys.

Sajek Valley

Despite its natural beauty and cultural richness, Rangamati is one of the least developed districts in Bangladesh, with many of its residents living in poverty. The district has a high rate of unemployment, and many young people are forced to migrate to the cities in search of work.

Efforts are being made to improve the economic situation in Rangamati, including the development of tourism infrastructure and the promotion of local handicrafts. The government has also launched several initiatives to provide training and employment opportunities to the local people.

In conclusion, Rangamati is a district that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and economic challenges. Visitors can enjoy the stunning scenery and learn about the local customs and traditions while also supporting efforts to improve the lives of the district's residents.