Khagrachari waterfalls making waves

Khagrachari district, known for its scenic hills, rivers, streams and waterfalls surrounded by lush greenery and diverse communities, is emerging as a promising destination for nature-based tourism in Bangladesh.

Tourism stakeholders say the district holds significant potential for developing a sustainable tourism economy centred around its numerous waterfalls and natural landscapes.

Often described by locals as “Heaven on Earth”, the hilly district has increasingly attracted visitors seeking adventure tourism and eco-tourism experiences.

Stakeholders have called for improved infrastructure and road connectivity to unlock the sector’s full potential, saying better communication networks would increase tourist arrivals and create employment opportunities in remote areas.

A view of the scenic Kasing waterfall in Khagrachari. Photo: The Asian Age

Khagrachari is home to around 10 major and minor waterfalls, including Risang, Sijok, Toiduchara, Shilachhari and Tuari Mairang. The waterfalls vary in height, ranging from around 80 to 150 feet.

Local residents said inadequate infrastructure and difficult accessibility have long limited tourist flow to many of the district’s remote attractions.

Among the waterfalls, Risang Waterfall remains the most popular tourist destination in the district.

Every year, particularly during holidays and festivals, large numbers of tourists visit the site to enjoy its natural beauty and bathe in its cool waters.

The Hajachora Waterfall in Khagrachari. Photo: Trip Advisor 

Located around 11 kilometres from Khagrachari district headquarters, Risang lies about one kilometre south of the Khagrachari-Dhaka regional highway.

The waterfall gained popularity among travellers in 2003 and has since become one of the district’s leading tourist attractions.

Following initiatives by the district administration and district council, roads and paved stairs have been constructed to improve access for visitors.

Water cascades from a hill approximately 35 metres high, creating a striking natural landscape that attracts tourists throughout the year.

Sijuk is the name of a couple of waterfalls which are near the Sijuk khal (a canal). This is the first of the two Sijuk waterfalls. Photo: Trip Advisor

Residents also said a new adventure tourism destination has recently emerged with the discovery of Toilafang Waterfall in the remote Katalmoni Para area of Matiranga.

The waterfall, which drops from a height of around 50 feet, is already attracting adventure enthusiasts despite its difficult accessibility.

Reaching Toilafang requires travelling through remote hilly routes and crossing two steep hills, making the journey both challenging and adventurous.

Tourists travelling from Panchhari or Matiranga must use the Panchhari-Toblachhari road before continuing on foot or by motorcycle depending on the season.

Sijuk is the name of a couple of waterfalls which are near the Sijuk khal (a canal). This is the second of the two Sijuk waterfalls. Photo: Trip Advisor 

During the monsoon, visitors often have to walk six to seven kilometres through rough terrain, while in the dry season motorcycles can cover part of the route.

A tourist from Rangamati said improved infrastructure and communication systems could transform Toilafang into a major tourism attraction while boosting the local economy and living standards.

Khagrachari Deputy Commissioner ABM Iftekharul Islam Khandker said the administration plans to take necessary measures to develop Toilafang Waterfall as a tourist destination.

Toilafang Waterfall, located at Matiranga upazila in Khagrachhari, is one of the newly discovered waterfalls in the district. Photo: Adar Bepari

He said major development work has already been carried out at Risang Waterfall and described tourism development as one of the district administration’s priorities.

The deputy commissioner added that authorities would conduct site inspections and feasibility studies before undertaking road development projects, ensuring that the natural environment remains protected.

District Police Superintendent Md Arifin Jewel said security arrangements would also be strengthened as new tourism sites are developed.

Several major tourist attractions in Khagrachari — including Risang Waterfall, Alutila Cave, the Buddhist Temple and the District Council Hanging Bridge — are located within a relatively short distance of one another.

Tourists can hire a Chander Gari for around Tk 2,000 to Tk 3,000 to visit multiple sites within five to six hours.

Road communication between Khagrachari and other parts of the country remains relatively affordable and accessible, making the district an increasingly attractive destination for domestic travellers.

The district also offers a range of accommodation facilities, with hotel room rates ranging from Tk 400 to Tk 3,500 per night depending on location and amenities.