Rangamati Kaptai Lake is in Kaptai Upazila of Rangamati district. It is at the base of Chittagong Hill Tracts and has beautiful nature.
The unique mountains, water, and greenery in Kaptai Upazila are mesmerizing. The artificial reservoir is the largest in South Asia, covering 11,000 square kilometers.
More Information About Rangamati Kaptai Lake
In 1956, the government built the Kaptai Dam on the Karnaphuli River. The cause of building the dam is the water power station to generate electricity.
It submerged 54,000 acres of agricultural land to form this beautiful reservoir. This fascinating reservoir is also known as Karnaphuli Lake.
It has springs, roads, forests, and a tribal way of life. The government built it for electricity, but it also helps with fishing and the local economy.
This reservoir is one of the mentionable tourist attractions in Chittagong Hill Tracts. Rangamati Lake has both large and small mountains.
The place has springs, winding roads, lush greenery, forests, and a tribal lifestyle. You can visit Rangamati Lake by houseboat to see the cool water and majestic scenery.
You can enjoy Kaptai’s blue water and green hills. You will also get the opportunity to go kayaking in the houseboats. You can see the attractions around this great reservoir.
Some of them are Shublong Falls, Hanging Bridge, and Poloil Park. You will get a chance to kayak in Kaptai in these houseboats.
During your visit, you can explore Peda Tingting Restaurant and Sangfang Restaurant. You can also explore the houses of Chakma King and Raj Banvihar.
Kaptai is the largest reservoir in Bangladesh. The waters of Rangamati Lake are green. The tourism industry of Rangamati district has mainly developed around the Kaptai reservoir.
Nature has beautified this reservoir in all its forms, yet it is artificial. You can visit Rangamati Lake all year round.
Nature lovers can rent a boat to float in the lake’s waters and observe its diverse forms. You can go to Shublong Jharna by trawler.
Chemicals in fertilizers and pesticides are polluting Kaptai Lake’s water. It is harming aquatic life. In 1966, the share of large fish in the total fish production was 78%.
But in 1993 it fell to only 2%. Every day, people dump more than 5 tonnes of human excreta and other wastes in the reservoir, apart from this.
The water is vital for the people around the reservoir. Eighty-five percent depend on it for drinking, cooking, washing, and bathing. It is a notable threat to public health.
The drinking water in Rangamati city has over ten times the acceptable bacteria level. Closed and slow-moving large reservoirs can increase the risk of malaria.
It is as they create a good breeding ground for mosquitoes and other insects. The reservoir caused some other problems.
Shipping contributes to illegal forest clearing, especially in remote areas near the lake. The destruction will include 127 square km of protected forest and 606 square km of paddy land.
It is an absolute gem nestled in the heart of natural beauty. This vast expanse of water almost resembles a serene river. It graces the landscape alongside a picturesque road.
Driving alongside it is nothing short of rejuvenating. It is thanks to the tranquil atmosphere and the invigorating freshness of the air.
Quaint canteens along the lakeside add to the charm of the place. They offer an opportunity to pause and savor the moment while enjoying a delightful meal or tea.
This local touch of hospitality adds to the overall appeal. On the other side of the road, the scene changes dramatically. A majestic vista of towering mountains greeted the visitors.
The contrast between the tranquil reservoir and the rugged mountains is awe-inspiring. The view is breathtaking and offers a unique blend of natural beauty.
How to reach Rangamati Lake
You can reach Kaptai from Syedabad or Kamalapur in Dhaka by quality buses. It takes about 7 to 8 hours. Besides, you can also go to Kaptai from Chittagong if you want.
Buses leave every 30 minutes from the Baddarhat bus stand for Kaptai, fare 80-120 Tk. It will take about 2 hours.
You can reach Kaptai from the Baddarhat bus terminal by train from Dhaka to Chittagong. To go to Kaptai from Bandarban, take a bus to Rangamati from Rowangchari bus stand.
Get off at Baraichari and then travel to Kaptai by CNG. You can reach Kaptai Bazar from Rangamati by road with a bus or by using a CNG or trawler boat through Rangamati Lake.
Place to Stay
There are many high-minded hotels ranging from simple hotels to stay here. The cost is not too much, without any doubt.
It is totally within reach. There are also good catering facilities. But if you want you can take some dry food for your needs.
Conclusion
There is no doubt that Rangamati Lake is one of the best artificial lakes in this country. The elements of entertainment in this place are fascinating.
Hiring a boat to ride in the reservoir is one of the notable entertainment activities. There are some famous restaurants available in this area to eat.
It is a place of serenity and scenic grandeur. You can drive along its shores. You can breathe in the fresh air and take in the stunning views of the reservoir and the mountains.
It’s a destination that promises tranquility and a connection with nature. Visitors leave feeling refreshed and inspired.