Aerial View of Rangamati

Rangamati: Exploring the City of Lakes in Bangladesh

Discover Rangamati, the City of Lakes in Bangladesh. Explore Kaptai Lake, waterfalls, indigenous culture, and top resorts in this ultimate travel guide by PathPlatePillow.

Why Visit Rangamati?

Rangamati, fondly known as the “City of Lakes,” is one of Bangladesh’s most enchanting destinations. Nestled in the Chittagong Hill Tracts, this picturesque town is adorned with lush greenery, sparkling water bodies, and vibrant indigenous culture. Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or simply looking to unwind, Rangamati has something magical to offer.

From the serene Kaptai Lake to the cascading Shuvolong Waterfall, Rangamati is a paradise for travelers. It’s also a cultural hub, home to indigenous communities like the Chakma, Marma, and Tripura, offering a unique glimpse into their traditions and lifestyles.

Village and lake side picture of Rangamati

Best Time to Visit Rangamati

The best time to visit Rangamati is between October and February when the weather is cool and dry, perfect for outdoor activities like boating, hiking, and exploring waterfalls.

If you prefer lush green landscapes, visit during the monsoon season (June to September). However, be cautious of landslides during this period.

How to Reach Rangamati

Rangamati is well-connected to major cities like Dhaka and Chittagong. Here are the best ways to reach Rangamati:

1. Direct Bus from Dhaka

Service: Both AC and non-AC buses are available.
Journey Time: Approximately 6-8 hours.
Pros: Cost-effective and direct.
Cons: Long travel time can be tiring.

2. Train to Chittagong, then Bus to Rangamati

Experience: Combine a train ride to Chittagong with a scenic bus ride to Rangamati.
Pros: Enjoy the beauty of the Chittagong Hill Tracts.
Cons: Time-consuming and requires multiple transfers.

3. Flight to Chittagong, then Car or Microbus to Rangamati

Duration: 50-minute flight from Dhaka to Chittagong, followed by a 2-hour drive.
Pros: Fastest and most comfortable option.
Cons: More expensive than other methods.

Where to Stay in Rangamati (Pillow)

Rangamati offers a range of accommodations to suit every budget and preference. Here are our top picks:

1. Aronnak Holiday Resort

Highlights: Nestled amidst lush hills, this resort offers modern amenities and a serene environment.
Why Stay Here: Perfect for nature lovers and families.

2. Polwel Park & Cottage

Highlights: Located near Kaptai Lake, this luxurious option provides stunning lake views.
Why Stay Here: Ideal for cultural enthusiasts and luxury seekers.

3. Hill Taj Resort

Highlights: Known for its proximity to Kaptai Lake, this resort combines comfort with breathtaking scenery.
Why Stay Here: Great for couples and adventure travelers.

Where to Eat in Rangamati (Plate)

Rangamati’s culinary scene is a blend of traditional and indigenous flavors. Don’t miss these must-try dishes:

1. Bamboo Chicken (Huro Chumo)

A traditional Chakma dish where chicken is cooked inside a bamboo tube over an open flame.

2. Fish Curry

Made with fresh catch from Kaptai Lake, especially Baccha (catfish).

3. Shut Fry (Stir-Fried Mushrooms)

A local delicacy made with wild mushrooms.

4. Traditional Chakma Cuisine

Try dishes like pani pitha (rice cakes) and chakma-style fish fry.

Must-Visit Attractions in Rangamati (Path)

Rangamati is packed with natural and cultural attractions. Here are the top places to visit:

1. Kaptai Lake

The largest artificial lake in Bangladesh, perfect for boating, kayaking, and photography.

2. Shuvolong Waterfall

A stunning waterfall located 25 km from Rangamati, best visited during the monsoon.

3. Rajban Vihar

A peaceful Buddhist monastery surrounded by lush greenery and overlooking Kaptai Lake.

4. Rangamati Hanging Bridge

A 335-foot-long bridge offering panoramic views of Kaptai Lake.

5. Peda Ting Ting Island

A small island in Kaptai Lake, perfect for a relaxing day trip.

Travel Tips for Rangamati

Book Accommodations Early: Resorts fill up quickly during peak seasons.
Respect Local Culture: Engage with indigenous communities respectfully.
Pack Light: Bring comfortable clothing and footwear for outdoor activities.
Stay Hydrated: Carry water bottles, especially during hikes.

Hotel Hill Ambassador

Hotel Hill Ambassador, located in Rangamati, Bangladesh, is a 3-star accommodation offering city-view rooms equipped with air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Guests can enjoy amenities such as a fitness center, on-site restaurant, and free private parking. The hotel is situated approximately 2.9 km from the city center, near the Fishery Ghat area, opposite the fire service office.

For travelers from the US, the Hotel Hill Ambassador is a hospitable and intimate choice. Its ease of access to local points of interest and the range of facilities provided make it an optimal choice for both tourists and business travelers alike.

Key Features:

Location: Situated in the Fishery Ghat area, opposite the fire service office, approximately 2.9 km from Rangamati city center.
Accommodation: Air-conditioned city-view rooms with television set and complimentary internet access.
Amenities: Fitness center, on-site restaurant, free private parking, and 24-hour front desk service.
Accessibility: Approximately 84 km from Shah Amanat International Airport.

Guest Reviews:

Guests have collectively scored the hotel 5.8 points out of 10, noting the following:

Staff: 7.5/10
Facilities: 6.8/10
Cleanliness: 6.1/10
Comfort: 7.3/10
Value for Money: 6.4/10
Location: 7.7/10

These ratings suggest that while the hotel offers a comfortable stay, there is room for improvement in certain areas.

Booking Information:

For reservations and more information, you can visit the hotel’s official page on Booking.com.

Please note that hotel details and guest opinions may be subject to changes. We suggest checking the latest data and reviews before making a reservation.

Discover Rangamati: The City of Lakes