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Introduction:

Kaptai Lake is a man-made lake located in the Rangamati district of Bangladesh. It’s one of the largest lakes in South Asia, covering an area of 11000 hectares. With its serene surroundings, breathtaking scenery, and the opportunity to experience local culture, Kaptai-Lake(Rangamati) is a popular destination for tourists. In this complete travel guide about Kaptai(Rangamati) Lake, we’ll share everything you need to know to plan a memorable trip.

How to Get There:

1. By air: The nearest airport to Kaptai is Shah Amanat International Airport in Chittagong city. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Rangamati, which is the nearest town to Kaptai Lake. The airport is well-connected with major cities in Bangladesh and has regular flights to Dhaka, Sylhet, and other major cities.
2. By road: Kaptai is well-connected by road with major cities in Bangladesh. You can take a bus from Dhaka or Chittagong to Rangamati, which is the nearest town to Kaptai Lake. The journey from Dhaka to Rangamati takes around 7-8 hours, and from Chittagong to Rangamati, it takes around 2-3 hours.
3. By water: You can also take a boat ride from Chittagong to Kaptai. It’s a scenic journey that takes around 4-5 hours. However, this option is not available all year round and is dependent on the water level and weather conditions.

Once you reach Rangamati, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to Kaptai Lake. The lake is located about 10 km from Rangamati town, and the journey takes around 30 minutes by road. You can also explore the area by boat, take a walk along the scenic trails, and enjoy the natural beauty of the lake and surrounding hills. There are also several accommodation options available for visitors, ranging from basic guesthouses to luxury resorts.

Best Time to Visit:

The best time to visit Kaptai Lake in Bangladesh is from October to March. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the temperature remains moderate, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The monsoon season in Bangladesh lasts from June to September, and during this time, the lake can experience heavy rainfall and strong winds, making it difficult to enjoy outdoor activities.

If you plan to visit Kaptai Lake during the summer months from April to June, be prepared for hot and humid weather. The temperature can soar up to 35°C or higher, making it uncomfortable for outdoor activities. However, if you are looking for a quiet getaway, this can be a good time to visit as the crowds are much smaller.

Overall, the best time to visit Kaptai is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and comfortable for outdoor activities.

Top Attractions:

1. Shuvolong Waterfall: It is a beautiful waterfall located in the deep forest of the Rangamati hill district. The waterfall is surrounded by lush green trees and provides a serene atmosphere for visitors.
2. Hanging Bridge: The Hanging Bridge is one of the iconic landmarks of Kaptai Lake. It is a suspension bridge that connects the two banks of Kaptai Lake and offers a stunning view of the lake and the surrounding hills.
3. Buddhist Temple: There are several Buddhist temples in the area, including the Rajban Vihara and the Chakma Rajbari Buddhist Temple. These temples are known for their beautiful architecture and offer a peaceful atmosphere for meditation and reflection.
4. Boat Tours: One of the best ways to explore Kaptai Lake is by taking a boat tour. You can rent a boat and enjoy the scenic beauty of the lake, visit nearby islands, and enjoy fishing.
5. Hilltop Viewpoints: Kaptai Lake is surrounded by hills, and there are several viewpoints from where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the lake and the surrounding hills. The Bilaichhari Hilltop is a popular viewpoint that offers a stunning view of Kaptai Lake.

Where to stay at Kaptai Lake:

There are several options for accommodation when you are visiting Kaptai Lake in Bangladesh. Here are some of the popular places to stay:

1. Parjatan Motel Kaptai: This is a government-run hotel located on the banks of Kaptai Lake. It offers clean and comfortable rooms with basic amenities, including air-conditioning and attached bathrooms. The motel also has a restaurant and a conference hall.
2. Green Hill Resort: This is a popular resort located on the top of a hill, offering a stunning view of Kaptai Lake. The resort has a range of rooms and cottages, including deluxe rooms, suites, and cottages with balconies overlooking the lake. The resort also has a swimming pool, a restaurant, and a conference hall.
3. Purbani Hotel & Resort: This is a luxury resort located on the banks of Kaptai Lake. The resort offers a range of rooms and suites, including lake-view rooms with balconies. The resort also has a swimming pool, a spa, a restaurant, and a conference hall.
4. Hilltop Resort: This is a budget-friendly resort located on a hilltop overlooking Kaptai Lake. The resort offers clean and comfortable rooms with basic amenities. The resort also has a restaurant and a terrace overlooking the lake.
5. Rangamati Waterfront Resort: This is a resort located on the banks of Kaptai Lake. The resort offers a range of rooms and suites with basic amenities. The resort also has a restaurant and a terrace overlooking the lake.

Local Cuisine to Indulge in at Kaptai Lake:

1. Bamboo Shoot Curry: Bamboo shoot is a popular ingredient in local cuisine. It is cooked with spices and served with rice.
2. Chakma Style Fish Curry: The Chakma community is known for its fish dishes. The fish is cooked with onion, ginger, garlic, and spices, and served with rice.
3. Pitha: Pitha is a traditional sweet dish made with rice flour and jaggery. It is usually served during festivals and special occasions.
4. Marisa Pitha: This is a type of pitha made with rice flour and stuffed with sweet coconut and sesame filling. It is a popular snack in the area.
5. Bamboo Chicken: Bamboo chicken is a popular dish in the hill tracts region. The chicken is cooked inside a bamboo stick, which gives it a unique flavor.
6. Mamsor Chutney: Mamsor Chutney is a spicy chutney made with fish, onion, chili, and lemon. It is usually served as a side dish with rice.

FAQs:

Q1: Can I swim in Kaptai-Lake?
A1: Swimming in Kaptai-Lake is not recommended due to safety concerns. The lake is quite deep and there are strong currents that can make swimming dangerous.

Q2: What is the distance between Chittagong and Kaptai?
A2: The distance between Chittagong and Kaptai is approximately 64 kilometers.

Q3: What are some of the popular activities to do at Kaptai Lake?
A3: Some of the popular activities to do at Lake include boating, fishing, trekking, and visiting the local tribal villages.

Conclusion:

Kaptai Lake is a beautiful destination in Bangladesh that offers a variety of activities for visitors. From boating and fishing to trekking and exploring the local tribal villages, there is something for everyone at Kaptai-Lake. With the right safety precautions in place, visitors can enjoy a memorable and safe trip to this stunning man-made lake.