Debotakhum which is the paradise of Bangladesh

For those who enjoy adventure and travel, Bandarban is the best place to go in Bangladesh. Trekkers can hike a variety of trails through tropical jungles and valleys in this district, which boasts a comparatively pristine mountainous landscape. Deep within the mountains, the district is also home to a number of khums, which are the local Marma word for natural water reservoirs. For the local population, these khums provide a much-needed source of water. These khums' natural beauty also draws tourists who are up for the challenge of trekking. This narrative recounts my trip to Debotakhum, one of Bandarban's most exquisite khums. "Sonakhum" and "Thongchikhum" are other names for it among the locals. The khum, which is in Rowangchori Upazilla, is roughly 600 feet long and, according to locals, between 50 and 70 feet deep.

The locals have a number of fascinating myths regarding Debotakhum. One legend states that an elderly Marma man once spotted a huge turtle in this reservoir. Because of its unusual size, he thought the turtle must have been a debota, a Bengali word for god, who was hiding in the khum. Somewhere in Debotakhum, the locals still think their god is.

In contrast to well-known tourist destinations, Debotakhum remains largely unexplored and unaffected by commercialization. Travelers are required to bring their own food and water because there are no hotels or restaurants in the area. If guests want to spend the night, there are some simple lodging options in the neighboring tribal villages. This supports the indigenous communities in the area and encourages ecotourism.

The dry season, which runs from November to March, is the ideal time of year to visit Debotakhum because the water level is safe for rafting and the paths are less slick. Because of the danger of landslides and powerful currents, the monsoon season is not advised. To sum up, Debotakhum is a hidden gem in Bangladesh that provides a singular experience of adventure and natural beauty. It is a journey that brings you closer to nature, peace, and the basic way of life of tribal communities rather than just a destination. Debotakhum is a remarkable location just waiting to be explored for individuals who love to travel to new places and take in peaceful moments in the outdoors.

How to go:

Step 1: Dhaka to Bandarban: Take a bus to Bandarban from Dhaka. Buses such as Shyamoli, Hanif, Ena and others operate overnight and take roughly eight to ten hours.

Step 2: Bandarban to Rowangchhari: Travel to Rowangchhari Bazar in a local car (Chander Gari) from Bandarban town. About 1.5 to 2 hours are needed for this ride.

Step 3: Rowangchhari to Shilbandha Village: You must hike to Shilbandha, a tiny tribal village, from Rowangchhari. Depending on your pace, the hike takes about two hours.

Light equipment and hiking shoes are advised due to the trail's hilly terrain, small streams, and jungle paths.

Step 4: Shilbandha to Debotakhum: Bamboo rafts are used at the water point, which is a short walk from Shilbandha. Depending on the water level and flow, rafting through Debotakhum takes approximately thirty to forty-five minutes.

Important Tips:

Local Guide Needed: A local guide is required. They are familiar with the area and can assist with permissions and navigation.

Permission: The local Army/Police outpost at Rowangchhari may require visitors to register or obtain permission in certain situations.

Ideal time to visit: November through March is the ideal time to visit. Steer clear of the monsoon because of safety concerns.

No Facilities or Network: Bring first aid, food, and water. There is no mobile signal nearby.