Thailand, famously known as the "Land of Smiles," is a treasure trove of stunning beaches, rich culture, and unforgettable adventures. Among the attractions, Pattaya is a vibrant coastal city that offers the perfect mix of relaxation and excitement. Discover why Pattaya should be at the top of your travel bucket list! Location and Significance of Pattaya Pattaya, located on the eastern Gulf coast of Thailand, is approximately 100km (62 miles) southeast of Bangkok. A part of Chonburi province, Pattaya is a vibrant city renowned for its picturesque beaches and lively attractions.  Historically, its name stems from “Thap Phraya,” meaning “army of the Phraya,” marking the peaceful surrender of a local leader to King Taksin in the 18th century. Over time, it evolved into "Phatthaya," referencing the seasonal southwest-to-northeast winds. Read more: Thai e-Visa for Bangladeshis: Step-by-Step Guide to Apply Online The city also serves as a gateway to Coral Island (Koh Larn), a gem in the Gulf of Thailand. Known for its crystal-clear waters and rich marine life, Coral Island offers a serene escape and exciting activities like snorkeling and diving. Its significance lies in natural beauty and its role as a symbol of Pattaya’s allure, blending tranquility with adventure. 

Moulvibazar is a serene gem in northeastern Bangladesh. It offers sprawling tea gardens, picturesque waterfalls, mesmerising beauty of haors (wetlands), historical sites, swamp areas, etc. Its natural diversity, paired with rich cultural heritage, offers an unforgettable travel experience for adventurers and nature lovers alike. Let’s look at the best travel destinations in Moulvibazar. Location of Moulvibazar Moulvibazar district is nestled within the Sylhet division in Bangladesh. It is about 200 km northeast of Dhaka, the capital city. It shares borders with the Indian states of Tripura to the south and Assam to the east, while being surrounded by the Bangladeshi districts of Habiganj to the west and Sylhet to the north. This district is renowned for its scenic tea gardens, dense forests, and culturally significant landmarks.  How to Visit Moulvibazar from Dhaka By Air  The fastest route is by flight. You can catch a direct flight to Sylhet Osmani International Airport, which is about 60 km from Moulvibazar. Frequent domestic flights are available, with prices ranging from 3,600 BDT to 10,000 BDT, and the journey lasts approximately 45 minutes. From Sylhet, you can hire a car or take a local bus to reach the district centre. Read more: How to Visit Dinajpur's Kantajew Temple By Road  Travelling by bus or car takes about 6 hours. Many AC and non-AC buses depart regularly from Dhaka to Moulvibazar, making road travel a budget-friendly and flexible option. The fares range from 570 BDT to 800 BDT. By Train  The train journey from Dhaka to Sreemangal (a nearby station) takes about 5 hours. Options include the Parabat Express, Upaban Express, and Kalni Express, with prices between 275 and 938 BDT. From Sreemangal, Moulvibazar town is only a short drive away, accessible by car or bus.  What to See in Moulvibazar: Top Tourist Places Hakaluki Haor Hakaluki Haor, one of Bangladesh's largest marsh wetlands, is a must-visit destination in Moulvibazar. Known for its stunning natural beauty and biodiversity, this vast water body is home to 558 species of animals and birds, including several endangered species.  Visitors can explore the haor by boat, enjoying the tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking reflections of the sky on the water's surface. Located within Barlekha Upazila, it is also part of Kulaura and Juri upazilas.  Read more: How to Visit Ramsagar Lake, National Park at Dinajpur To reach Hakaluki Haor from Moulvibazar town, you can take a bus or hire a private car, making it an easy and scenic trip.  Madhabkunda Waterfall Madhabkunda Waterfall, one of Bangladesh's largest waterfalls, stands 162 feet tall. Located in Barlekha Upazila of Moulvibazar District, it is a favourite destination for hikers. It is also a great picnic spot for the tourists. The breathtaking sight of the waterfall, surrounded by lush hills and forests, makes it an ideal place for photography and relaxation.  There are two routes available to visit Madhabkunda Falls. First, you can reserve a CNG or microbus from Moulvibazar. You can also take a bus from Moulvibazar to Baralekha and stop at Kanthaltali Bazaar, just before Baralekha. From there, you can reach Madhabkunda Eco Park by hiring a local or reserved CNG.   Read more: Madhabkunda Waterfall: A Comprehensive Travel Guide

Ramsagar, located in Dinajpur, Bangladesh, is a Spectacular destination known for its large freshwater lake and lush surroundings. A perfect getaway for nature lovers, Ramsagar offers scenic views, historical significance, and peaceful vibes. All these make it a must-visit for both tourists and locals.  Location  Ramsagar is situated in the Dinajpur district of northern Bangladesh. It is located in the village of Tejpur, about 8 kilometres south of Dinajpur town. The name “Ramsagar” refers to King Ram Nath, who commissioned the creation of this vast man-made lake in the mid-1750s. Spanning 1,079 metres in length and 192.6 metres in width, Ramsagar Lake is the largest man-made water body in Bangladesh.  Around 1.5 million labourers participated in digging the lake, with a total cost of 30,000 taka at the time. It was originally built to provide water for the local population and wildlife. The surrounding area now features Ramsagar National Park, making it a popular tourist destination. Read more: Baklai Waterfall in Bandarban: How to Get to One of the Tallest Waterfalls in Bangladesh Ways to Reach Ramsagar from Dhaka From Dhaka to Dinajpur Travelling by Air The fastest way to reach Ramsagar from Dhaka is by flying to Saidpur Airport, which is located around 60 kilometres from Dinajpur. There are regular flights from Dhaka to Saidpur, with an average flight duration of about one hour.  A one-way ticket costs from BDT 4,000 to BDT 5,000, depending on the season and availability. You can hire a private car from Saidpur or take public transport to reach Dinajpur, which usually takes another 1.5 to 2 hours. Travelling by Train Another popular way to reach Dinajpur is by train. Trains from Dhaka to Dinajpur are available daily, and the journey typically takes around 8 to 9 hours, depending on the train service. There are several classes of tickets, ranging from BDT 575 to BDT 1,978, depending on whether you choose a regular seat or an air-conditioned cabin. The train ride is scenic and makes it an enjoyable journey. Read more: Lawachara National Park Travel Guide: Evergreen forest in northeastern Bangladesh Travelling by Bus Travelling by bus is the most budget-friendly option for visiting Ramsagar. Buses depart regularly from Dhaka to Dinajpur, and the journey usually takes around 10 hours, depending on traffic conditions. Ticket prices range between BDT 800 and BDT 1,500 for non-AC and AC buses. While it may be the longest option in terms of travel time, buses offer frequent schedules and are accessible for most travellers. From Dinajpur to Ramsagar To travel from Dinajpur to Ramsagar, you can use local transport options. From Dinajpur town, you can hire a rickshaw van or take a ride on a ‘Nosimon’ (a local motorised vehicle). The ride typically takes around 15 to 20 minutes to reach Ramsagar.  What to See and Do at Ramsagar Exploring the Historic Temples  At the northern end of Ramsagar Lake, you will find two ancient temples, known as Dev Mandir, Baroduari, and Hazarduari. These structures, built during the 17th or 18th century, add a touch of history and spirituality to the area. Their traditional architecture makes them a must-see for history buffs and those interested in cultural heritage. Read more: Tazing Dong Trekking: In-Depth Travel Guide and Cost Details Stroll Through Ramsagar National Park The lush Ramsagar National Park, covering around 60 hectares, is perfect for nature lovers. The forest, planted with a variety of ornamental and fruit trees by the Forest Department, provides a peaceful retreat. The park is home to several animals, including deer, wild boar, sloth bear, hyena, and even blue bulls. Birdwatchers will enjoy spotting species such as white-breasted water hens, jacanas, and purple herons.

The Sundarbans, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a mangrove forest known for its rich biodiversity, unique ecosystem, and serene waterways. Among its many treasures is the Kotka Sea Beach, a tranquil coastal retreat where the forest meets the Bay of Bengal. Visiting this natural haven will let you witness the untouched beauty of the forest and the sea. Location of Kotka Sea Beach Kotka holds a special appeal for tourists among the many captivating spots in the Sundarbans. Located in the southeastern corner of the Sundarbans, Kotka Beach is around 90 km from Mongla Port in Khulna. It serves as the heart of the Sundarbans Eastern Sanctuary.  Renowned for its unspoiled natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and peaceful atmosphere, Kotka offers a pristine beach and lush greenery. This picturesque destination allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the untouched wilderness of the Sundarbans, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. ead more: Lawachara National Park Travel Guide: Evergreen forest in northeastern Bangladesh Ways to Reach Kotka Sea Beach from Dhaka: A Detailed Travel Guide Dhaka to Bagerhat By Air  The fastest route is a flight from Dhaka to Jashore Airport which takes around 45 minutes. Several flights operate daily, with costs ranging from 4000 to 5,250 BDT. It is a 3-4 hour journey from Jessore to Bagerhat by bus or car. By Train  Alternatively, you can take a train from Dhaka’s Kamalapur Station to Khulna. The fares range from 625 to 2,200 BDT. The trip lasts around 8-10 hours, followed by a 1-2 hour journey by bus or car to Bagerhat.  By Bus  Direct buses from Dhaka to Bagerhat are available, costing between 650 and 700 BDT. The bus journey takes about 6-8 hours. There are also buses to Khulna from Gabtoli or Sayedabad with fares 650 to 1,600 BDT and a further 1-2 hour trip to Bagerhat. Read more: Sylhet’s Jaflong Travel Guide: Where Nature’s Beauty Blooms From Bagerhat to Kotka Sea Beach To visit Kotka in the Sundarbans, permission from the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) in Khulna is required. The main transport to Kotka is by water, usually via a launch. You can board a launch from Rupsa in Khulna or Mongla Port in Bagerhat.  Alternatively, boats can be rented from Morelganj or Sharankhola. Private motor launches, speedboats, and vessels are available. It is recommended to book through a local tour operator for guided services and permit arrangements. Cost of Visiting Kotka The daily travel fee for domestic tourists in the Sundarbans Sanctuary is BDT 150, and BDT 30 for students. Foreign tourists pay BDT 1,500. Outside the sanctuary, fees are BDT 70 for locals and BDT 20 for students.  Read more: Tinap Saitar Waterfall Travel Guide: Visit a pristine natural fountain in Bandarban In Karamjal, the fee is BDT 20 for locals and BDT 300 for foreigners. Additional charges include BDT 500 per day for guides, BDT 300 for security, BDT 70 for launch crew, and BDT 200 for telecommunication. Video camera fees are BDT 200 for locals and BDT 300 for foreigners.  What to See and Do in Kotka Sea Beach Wildlife Safari  Kotka is famous for its rich wildlife. You can also spot majestic herds of deer gracefully roaming the area. During the winter season, tiger paw prints become visible. Early morning safaris offer the chance to spot the Royal Bengal Tiger, monkeys, and crocodiles in their natural habitat. Bird Watching  Kotka has over 50 species of birds, including rare and migratory ones. All these together make Kotka a haven for bird lovers and photographers. Read more: Manpura Island Travel Guide: Breathtaking Paradise in Southern Bangladesh Trekking  The grassy meadows between Katka and Kachikhali (Tiger Point) offer scenic trekking routes for adventure seekers. It provides a closer look at the Sundarbans’ unique ecosystem. Watchtower Visit  You can climb the watchtower for breathtaking panoramic views of the Sundarbans mangrove forest, Kotka Sea Beach, and the Bay of Bengal. This is an excellent spot for birdwatching and enjoying the sunset.

Traveling during the rainy season in Bangladesh can be a unique and enriching experience. Bisnakandi, one of the top tourist destinations during the monsoon, is known for its picturesque landscapes, crystal-clear rivers, and cascading waterfalls. This tourism hotspot in Sylhet offers an unforgettable adventure for nature enthusiasts. Let’s take a detailed look at what Bisnakandi has to offer. Location of Bisnakandi Bisnakandi, or Bichnakandi, is a village located in the Rustampur union of Gowainghat upazila in Sylhet district of Bangladesh. The name Bichnakandi is derived from two Bengali words: "Bichhana" (or "Bisna" in Sylheti), meaning bed, and "kandi," meaning dam or cluster. This name reflects the area's distinctive landscape, where an abundance of stones stacked together, resembles a bed. Read more: Madhabkunda Waterfall: A Comprehensive Travel Guide

The monsoon paints Bangladesh in a vibrant green, and waterfalls come alive with cascading energy. Among the many gems to explore, Madhabkunda Waterfall is a spectacular destination. Nestled in the lush greenery of northeastern Bangladesh, this waterfall becomes enchanting during the monsoon, making it an ideal time for an adventurous visit. Location of Madhabkunda Waterfall  Madhabkunda Waterfall is located in Barlekha upazila of Moulvibazar district.  According to a legend, Raja Govardhan of Gour encountered a meditating monk named Madhaveshwar during a hunting expedition in 1335 AD. The monk, wishing to unite with the goddess Ganga, requested to be immersed in the spring. Upon his immersion, a divine voice echoed "Madhav Madhav Madhav" three times, leading to the name Madhabkunda.  Read more: How to Avoid Scams During Travel Bookings Significance of Madhabkunda Waterfall Madhabkunda Waterfall is one of the highest waterfalls in Bangladesh and a prominent tourist spot. The surrounding forest, streams, and ecological park draw numerous visitors for picnics and day trips. The area is also of religious significance to Hindus, featuring a nearby temple where annual rituals and fairs are held. Adjacent to the pool, on the right side, is a cave revered as a pilgrimage site. The waterfall is formed by the Gangamara stream, which cascades 162 feet down from the rocky Patharia Hill and then transitions into the Madhabchhara stream below. The waters of Madhabchhara flow westward, eventually merging into the Hakaluki Haor.  Throughout the year, the mainstream maintains a steady flow; in monsoon, an additional smaller stream forms alongside the main one. As the monsoon progresses, these streams converge, creating a powerful current that cascades down and forms a substantial pool at the base. The depth of this pool increases continuously as the waterfall feeds into it. Read more: Baklai Waterfall in Bandarban: How to Get to One of the Tallest Waterfalls in Bangladesh How to visit Madhabkunda Waterfall from Dhaka Bus  Bus journeys are the most budget-friendly option, costing around BDT 800, although travel time may be longer. For a straightforward route from Dhaka, take a direct bus to Beanibazar, then proceed to Kathaltali Bazar. From Kathaltali Bazar, you can reserve a CNG for BDT 150-160 or take a locally-owned CNG to reach Madhabkunda. Train  Trains offer a comfortable journey. If you travel from Dhaka, several intercity trains head towards Sylhet via Moulvibazar. You can take the Parbat, Upban, or Jayantika Express trains to Kulaura station in Moulvibazar, with fares ranging from BDT 320-731 depending on the class.  The journey takes approximately 5 hours. From Kulaura station, travel to Madhabkunda via Kathaltali Bazar. You can reserve a CNG for around BDT 600 or take a local CNG from Kulaura to Kathaltali market, where you can then reserve a CNG for around BDT 200 or take a local CNG for around BDT 30 per person to reach Madhabkunda. Air  Sylhet Osmani International Airport is the closest airbase (around 80 kilometres from the falls). Expect flight costs to start from BDT 4000. From Sylhet, you can hire a car or take a bus to Moulvibazar. It can take approximately BDT 400. From Moulvibazar you need to take a CNG to Mdhabkunda. Read more: Shopping in Singapore: What to Buy, Where to Buy from What to See in Madhabkunda Waterfall The Majestic Waterfall  The centrepiece, of course, is the cascading waterfall itself. Towering at 182 feet, it is a sight to behold. You will witness the power and beauty of the water plunging into the natural pool below. Natural Pool  Take a refreshing dip in the pool's cool water formed at the base of the falls (during safe water levels). Remember to prioritise safety and follow any posted guidelines. The "Kab" Cave  Tucked away near the waterfall is a small cave known as "Kab." This adds a touch of mystery and intrigue to the scenery. Lush Surroundings  Madhabkunda is nestled amidst verdant hills and lush greenery. Breathe in the fresh air and appreciate the beauty of the surrounding landscape. Madhabkunda Eco Park  Established near the waterfall, this eco-park offers additional sights. You might spot tea gardens, citrus, and betel nut plantations, and even encounter members of the Khasi community. Read more: Shopping in Dubai: What to Buy, Where to Buy from Activities at Madhabkunda Waterfall Trekking Through the Hills You may embark on a challenging trek through the verdant hills surrounding Madhabkunda. With a local guide, you can explore hidden trails, discover cascading streams, and enjoy breathtaking panoramic landscape views. Cave Adventures   If spelunking excites you, the area around Madhabkunda offers several caves waiting to be explored. With the right equipment, an experienced guide, and a sense of adventure, you can delve into these mysterious depths and discover hidden chambers adorned with natural formations.  White-Water Rafting (Seasonal)   During the monsoon season, the rivers around Madhabkunda can transform into exhilarating white-water rapids. To enjoy the thrill you can try a guided white-water rafting expedition. This activity is not for the faint of heart, so ensure you have the necessary skills and physical fitness before attempting it.  Photography You can capture the stunning beauty of Madhabkunda Waterfall and its surroundings. The dynamic water flow, lush greenery, and panoramic views offer perfect subjects for photography enthusiasts. Camping Set up a camp near the waterfall for an unforgettable overnight stay in nature. During outdoor camping, you can enjoy the sounds of the waterfall, and the starry sky in a beautiful setting. Read more: How to Buy Plane, Bus, and Train Tickets Online in Bangladesh

Nestled in the western end of the Lesser Sunda islands in Indonesia, Bali is one of the top tourist destinations in the world. Often referred to as the "Island of the Gods," Bali is renowned for its arts, traditional and modern dance, sculpture, painting, leather, metalworking, and music. With its pristine beaches and diverse marine life, there’s a lot to see and explore in Bali. Here’s a comprehensive guide to get you started on your next dream holiday.  Location of Bali  Bali is an island province of Indonesia located near the equator. The island system is close to Java and Lombok with Java Strait and Lombok Strait separating them. In addition to the main island, there are smaller islands such as Nusa Penida, Nusa Lembongan, and Nusa Ceningan, located southeast of the main island. The island is surrounded by the Indian Ocean on the south. The Bali Sea and part of the Pacific Ocean circumvent the island on the north. Read more: Exploring Ratargul Swamp Forest: A Comprehensive Travel Guide to the “Amazon of Bangladesh” The main point of entry to Bali is the Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS). It is located near the capital city of Denpasar and serves as the main entry point for international and domestic tourists.

Bangladesh, with its vibrant landscapes and lush greenery, especially during the rainy season, beckons nature enthusiasts to explore its natural wonders. One of the crown jewels among these is Ratargul Swamp Forest.  Often heralded as the "Amazon of Bangladesh," this mystical swamp forest located in the Sylhet region offers a surreal adventure, captivating those who seek tranquility and the thrill of nature at its most serene and wild. Location and Conservation Efforts Situated along the Gowain River at Fatehpur union in Gowainghat, Ratargul Swamp Forest lies approximately 26 kilometers from Sylhet. This unique ecosystem thrives within the waters of the river, interconnected with the Chengir Khal channel.  Read more: Shopping in Hong Kong: What to Buy, Where to Buy from Under the stewardship of the Forest Department, Ratargul is preserved as a vital ecological haven, ensuring its flora and fauna continue to flourish.

The hilly trenches of Bandarban offer a heavenly feeling from a surprising height. In Bangladesh, seeing white cotton clouds flowing is nothing new. Chimbuk Hill, known as the “Darjeeling of Bangladesh” for many years, has become a favorite destination for Bangladeshi trekkers. Let's delve into this magical place shrouded in clouds. Location and Significance of Chimbuk Hill This hill is also known as Kala Pahar to many locals in Thanchi of Bandarban, a hilly district in the Chattogram division. The distance from the place to the Bandarban district headquarters is about 26 km. Located approximately 2,500 feet above mean sea level, this natural wonder is the third-largest hill in Bangladesh. Standing at this height, in addition to witnessing the sunrise and sunset, everyone can easily observe the cloud-covered mountains by turning 180 degrees. Read more: Tazing Dong Trekking: In-Depth Travel Guide and Cost Details Origin of the Naming of Chimbuk Among the various ethnic communities living in and around these hilly areas, the Mros constitute the majority. Due to their long-standing settlement in the area, their language is reflected in the names of the hills, the jungles, villages, and Jhum fields. Chimbok Mro was the original inhabitant of this hilly area, and that’s how the hill got its name, Chimbuk, after him. However, among the local Mro, it is still known as 'Yang Bong Hung.' The term 'Hung' is used to signify 'mountain' in the Mro language. Best Time to Visit Chimbuk Hill To enjoy panoramic views of the upazilas of Cox's Bazar and Chattogram from the hill's summit, tourists can visit the place during the summer months. During this period, the absence of fog allows for clear visibility of the scenes below. However, during the hot summer days, tourists can suffer from thirst, heat stroke and other health issues due to extreme summer heat. If the aim is to witness the clouds over the hill, trips can be planned during the autumn and monsoon seasons. The beauty of clouds can be witnessed from September to July. But during the monsoon months the paths can be inaccessible due to heavy rain and landslides.  Read more: Kaptai hanging bridge in Rangamati opens to tourists after over one month During the winter months, trekking Chimbuk hill can be enjoyable due to the availability of cool air.  Regardless of the season, be it hot or cold, the hill canopy on a full moon night maintains its pristine and authentic allure.

Trekking hills and standing on hilltops are the most cherished expeditions for thrill-seeking outdoor enthusiasts. Many trekkers plan their itineraries during the cold, dry months. One of the premier destinations for mountaineers and hill trekkers of the country is reaching the top of Tazing Dong or Bijoy. In this travel guide, we will delve into the details of trekking Bangladesh's highest peak, known for its challenging descents. Before heading towards the hard-to-reach remote peak, let's get an in-depth understanding of what the entire trip will be like. Location and Significance of Tazing Dong Tazing Dong is part of the Saichol Mountain ranges. It is located at Remakri Pangsha union of the Ruma Upazila under the Bandarban District, nestled in the southeastern hilly region of Bangladesh. To reach this destination, one must travel approximately 25 km from the downtown of the upazila. Despite the official height being recorded at 789 metres (2589 feet), Tazing Dong is acknowledged as the highest peak in Bangladesh. This natural wonder has surpassed the previous record-holder, Keokradong, marking a significant change in the hierarchy of the country's top peaks. Read more: Solo Trip: Tips for Travelling Alone for the First Time It's noteworthy to mention that, based on private research, there is an alternative contender for the title of the highest peak in Bangladesh. Saka Haphong Mountain, though yet to receive official recognition, challenges the established order. Origin of the Name Tazing Dong The etymology of the name Tazing Dong traces back to the language of the communities inhabiting the Remakri region adjacent to the mountain. In their linguistic context, the term “Tajing” signifies something of considerable size, while “Dong” translates to hill. Combining these two words, “Tazing Dong” takes on the meaning of a substantial mountain. Additionally, the mountain is officially recognized as “Bijoy”. Read more: 10 Overseas Places Bangladeshis Can Visit Under BDT 10,000 Best Time to Visit Tazing Dong Navigating the terrain of Tazing Dong involves strategic timing to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. During the rainy season, like many other mountain passes, Tazing Dong transforms into a challenging landscape. The accessibility is limited, and the conditions can be perilous. Contrastingly, the optimal time to embark on a journey to Tazing Dong is during the dry seasons when the mountain is reachable by Chander Gari. Attempting to conquer this rugged path during summer is not advisable, given the difficulties and health risks like thirst, sweat, dehydration, heat stroke, etc posed by the scorching heat of the sun. However, it would be wise to avoid the journey during the rainy season, as the route becomes nearly inaccessible.   The ideal time for an expedition to Tazing Dong is at the onset of winter, providing clear trails free from the obscuring blanket of fog. Moreover, the trekking journey becomes even more thrilling, enchanting, and spell-binding during a full moon night. Read more: Motorbike Riding in Winter: How to beat the cold weather? Travelling to Tazing Dong from Dhaka For Dhaka residents, the most convenient way to reach Bandarban, the gateway to Tazing Dong, is by bus. The travellers can opt for the direct bus route that provides seamless access to Bandarban Sadar. Buses heading for Bandarban are available from multiple bus stands such as Gabtali, Kalyanpur, Kalabagan, Mohakhali, Fakirapool, or Jatrabari. Depending on the bus companies and the type of service (AC or non-AC), the fare typically ranges from BDT 850 to BDT 1,800 per person. Those who prefer trains, have to catch a train from Dhaka to Chattogram and then take a local bus to Bandarban. Trains to Chattogram depart from Kamalapur or Biman Bandar Railway Station at various times throughout the day, with fares ranging from BDT 285 to BDT 788 per head depending on the classes. For those seeking a quicker journey, flying would be the best option. Board a flight from Dhaka's Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, landing in Chattogram within an hour. Flight tickets to Chattogram range from BDT 3,500 to BDT 11,175 per person, with potential cost savings if booked at least one month in advance. Read more: Visit Saint Martin, Coral Island, Bangladesh: Piece of Paradise on Bay of Bengal Upon reaching Chattogram, secure a Bandarban bus for BDT 200 to BDT 300 from the BRTC terminal or Dampara bus stand. Thanchi upazila, located approximately 79 km from Bandarban district city, serves as the starting point for the journey to Tazing Dong. The trekkers can reach Thanchi from Bandarban by bus, SUV, or Chander Gari. Local buses departing from Thanchi Bus Stand in Bandarban are available every hour, reaching Thanchi in 4 to 5 hours at a fare of BDT 200 per person. Alternatively, a Chander Gari accommodating 12 to 14 people costs BDT 5,500 to BDT 6,000, providing a more enjoyable journey in just 3 to 3.5 hours. The trek to Tazing Dong commences from Thanchi, and it's essential to note that the only permitted route to reach the peak is now via Sherkarpara through Hedmanpara. Read more: Waterfalls in Bangladesh: Everlast Destination for Fountain Lovers Finally Trekking Tazing Dong The larger groups embarking on the journey to Tazing Dong can consider a pit stop at the Tama-Tungi tourist centre when reserving a Chander Gari on the way to Thanchi. On clear days, this spot offers breathtaking views of several mesmerising tourist spots of Bandarbans, like Keokradong, the Tazing Dong peak, and the tourist-frequented Dim Pahar road. Tama-Tungi is particularly renowned for its picturesque settings, making it a popular choice for photography enthusiasts. Upon reaching Kaitong Para via the Chander Gari, the primary trekking adventure kicks off with the assistance of a guide. Sherkarpara, the next destination, is approximately a 7-hour trek from this point. Initially, brace yourself for the challenging ascent along steep mountain paths, evoking a sense of awe in the surrounding wildlife. After an hour of trekking, you'll arrive at a small plain, with the boarding district visible on one side of the hill. The Mro community, dwelling along the trail path of the hill, adds a cultural dimension to the journey. Read more: The Most Beautiful Tea Gardens in Bangladesh to visit As you traverse the wild road, you may encounter the jhum fields and streams of cold water flowing down from natural springs. Sherkarpara emerges as a welcome respite, signalling the first signs of life after trekking through uninhabited paths. This hilly township is home to the Bam community, and the machang houses here provide ideal accommodation options for those seeking shelter after a long trek. The uphill climb from Sherkar Para to Tazing Dong spans over two hours. After the initial half-hour ascent, you'll encounter a machang house in the middle, with a trail dividing the green hills on both sides. Continuing further uphill, a mesmerising view of cloud-covered mountains unfolds. Another hour into this breathtaking scenery, the Y junction marks a pivotal point where both routes lead to the summit. Continuing ahead, three peaks standing almost in a row become visible from a distance. The north peak, the tallest among them, surpasses the central peak of Tazing Dong. As you draw closer, the cross mark atop its summit becomes evident. Read more: Trip to Tanguar Haor, Sunamganj: Majestic aquatic beauty soaking the horizon Descending straight from this peak lies the village of New Simplumpi. Travellers taking the direct route from Shekarpara to Remakri pass through this charming neighbourhood nestled at the foot of Tazing Dong. Food and Accommodation For an overnight stay during your Tazing Dong expedition, Thanchi huts or BGB (Border Guard Bangladesh) Cottages are the optimal choices. When you're travelling in a small group of two to three persons, there's no need for accommodations before reaching Sherkarpara. Machang or Jhum Ghar arrangements can be made by engaging with residents in the vicinity, and the guide can assist greatly in this endeavour. For those seeking a more adventurous experience, camping is a viable option. Additionally, Bandarban and Thanchi offer a range of accommodations, including hotels, motels, cottages, and delightful resorts for an overnight stay. However, these options come with a price tag ranging from BDT 1,500 to 5,000 per room per day. Cottages with attached food facilities may cost between BDT 2,000 to 3,500 daily, while tourist motels offer overnight stays for BDT 1,500 to 2,500 per room. Read more: Top Historical Places in Dhaka City to Visit on Weekends The mountain hotel in this area provides a memorable culinary experience, featuring freshly caught fish from the Sangu River. Sherkarpara boasts some decent hotels, and if you notify them in advance, they can arrange both accommodation and meals. Throughout the trekking route, it is advisable to rely on dry food and carry an ample supply of water. Besides these trekkers can carry other essential gadgets like first aid boxes, outdoor burners, ready-to-cook instant meals, sleeping bags, etc. Places to Visit Nearby While travelling from Bandarban to Thanchi, you will encounter the cherubic beauty of captivating sites such as Milanchari, Chimbuk, and Nilgiris. An early departure from Sherkar Para allows for a morning visit to Vijay Chura, reaching Thanchi by noon. Read more: Explore Durgapur Netrokona Bangladesh – Piece of Heaven on Earth For those with additional time to spare, an extended exploration can include visits to Amiakhum and Velakhum from Sherkar Para to Thuisa Para. Further extending the journey, key attractions like Nafakhum, Remakri, Bara Pathar, Raja Pathar, and Tindu can be explored on the return trip to Thanchi. Takeaway Reaching Tazong Dong (Bijoy), the highest peak of Bangladesh is certainly a lifelong dream for many trekkers. However, the expedition may not be comfortable for all travellers. Being fit is the precondition for strenuous journeys like the Tazing Dong trekking. Therefore, initiatives like regular walking, doing physical exercises and taking essential climbing training are invaluable to prepare oneself for trekking journeys. Additionally, undertaking preparations including carrying dry food, essential medicines, ample water supply, etc ensures a seamless trip. And, respecting the privacy, customs and lifestyle of local people is the sole responsibility of each trekker during the expedition. Read more: Best Bandarban Resorts to Enjoy Vacation