Welcome to the guide for reaching Chimbuk Hill, one of the highest peaks in Bangladesh located in the Bandarban district. Follow these detailed steps to plan your trip.
First, you need to get to Bandarban town, which is the gateway for all adventures in the area.
From Dhaka: You can opt for a bus from Dhaka to Bandarban. Several bus services operate between the cities. Tickets can be purchased from bus terminals or online. The journey may take approximately 7 to 10 hours.
If you prefer flying, you can take a flight from the Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka to Cox's Bazar. Then, you can take a bus or a private car to Bandarban, which will take another 3 to 4 hours.
Once in Bandarban, you have a couple of options to reach Chimbuk Hill:
Local Transport: Ride local transportation such as 'Chander Gari' (public jeep), which can be found easily in Bandarban town. It’s wise to start early in the morning to avoid the crowds and to have the best experience.
Private Vehicle: Hiring a private vehicle is a more comfortable and flexible option. You can rent jeeps or cars from local rental agencies. This allows you to explore at your own pace and to stop at viewpoints along the way.
Checkpoints: Foreign travelers must acquire a permit for visiting Bandarban. Additionally, there are several army checkpoints on the way to Chimbuk Hill, so keep your identification and permissions handy.
Best Time to Visit: The peak season is from November to March, when the weather is most pleasant.
Accommodations: There are limited accommodations on Chimbuk Hill itself, but Bandarban town offers a range of hotels and guesthouses.
Plan your trip back from the hill before sunset, as it can get quite dark and the fog can reduce visibility significantly.
When visiting Chimbuk Hill, consider exploring nearby attractions such as:
Nilgiri: Another hill station with breathtaking views, about an hour’s drive from Chimbuk.
Boga Lake: A beautiful and serene natural lake, situated at a high altitude, perfect for a day-trip.
Have a safe and memorable journey to Chimbuk Hill!