Kaptai Lake
Bangladesh's largest man-made lake, a maze of blue water and green islands best explored by hired boat.
Kaptai Lake was formed in the early 1960s when the Karnaphuli was dammed at Kaptai for hydroelectric power, flooding valleys and the old Chakma capital. Today its branching arms wrap around Rangamati town and stretch deep into the hills, dotted with islands, floating villages and lakeside restaurants.
A hired boat from Reserve Bazar or the Parjatan ghat is the classic way to spend a day, stopping at Rajban Vihara, the Chakma Raja's palace, Shuvolong waterfall and island eateries serving bamboo chicken and lake fish. Sunrise and sunset on the water are especially beautiful, when the hills turn blue and gold.
How to go
Boats can be hired at Reserve Bazar, Tabalchhari or the Parjatan ghat in Rangamati town (full-day engine boat 2,500-4,000 BDT for up to 15-20 people; half day 1,500-2,500 BDT).
Where to stay
The Parjatan Holiday Complex and hotels in Rangamati town (1,500-6,000 BDT), or lakeside resorts and cottages.
