Snakes play a crucial role in our environment and ecosystem. However, when enjoying outdoor activities such as hiking, trekking, camping, and traveling, encounters with snakes can pose significant risks, including dangerous bites. Understanding how to stay safe from snakes during these adventures is essential to prevent incidents and ensure enjoyable experiences. Tips to Stay Safe During Outdoor Adventures Follow Designated Paths Snakes often inhabit areas with dense vegetation and rocky terrain. Sticking to marked trails reduces your chances of encountering them. Trails are usually well-maintained and provide a clear view of the path ahead, allowing you to spot snakes from a distance. Venturing off the beaten path can lead you into a snake’s natural habitat, increasing the likelihood of an unwanted encounter. Wear Protective Attire When hiking or trekking, it's crucial to dress appropriately. Wearing long pants, thick socks, and high boots can help protect your legs and feet from snake bites. Snakes typically strike at lower extremities, so covering these areas can offer significant protection. Choose clothing made from sturdy material to create an effective barrier between your skin and a snake’s fangs. Be Aware of Your Surroundings Constant vigilance is key to avoiding snake encounters. Always watch where you step, especially in areas with tall grass, under rocks, or near logs, where snakes like to hide. Using a walking stick to probe the ground ahead of you can help detect snakes before you get too close. Additionally, be cautious when sitting down or reaching for something on the ground, as snakes can be difficult to spot and may be hidden in the underbrush. Read more: Madhabkunda Waterfall: A Comprehensive Travel Guide Avoid Handling Snakes It is crucial to resist the temptation to touch or handle a snake, even if it seems dead. Some snakes can still bite reflexively after death, posing a significant risk. Snakes play an important role in the ecosystem by controlling rodent populations and maintaining balance. Observing them from a safe distance is the best way to appreciate these fascinating creatures without putting yourself in danger.

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

Embracing the wilderness as well as experiencing the rich flora and fauna are parts of trekking and adventure. Passing the whole impenetrable trail with all the hurdles involves uplifting body and mind, and ultimately the essence of longevity. The mountains, standing on the northeast and southeast region of Bangladesh, appeal to adventurers for trekking. Ham Ham Falls, located deep in the Rajkandi Reserve Forest in Kamalganj Upazila of Moulvibazar district, is a place that offers the thrill and pleasure to see the beauty at a time. This feature will cover the details about trekking to Ham-Ham waterfall. Historical background of Ham Ham waterfall In late 2010, a group of tourists wandering in a remote forest with tour guide Shyamal Devvarma discovered the waterfall. There are different opinions from adventurers about naming the Ham-Ham waterfall. Some people have suggested that the word "hammam" (bathroom) is derived from the word "Ham Ham" in relation to the bath with the fountain. Some people think that in Sylhet dialect, "a-m a-m" means the sharp sound of water, and since the fountain sounds like that, from there it becomes known as "Ham Ham" in the translation of urban tourists. Read Waterfalls in Bangladesh: Everlast Destination for Fountain Lovers To the locals, however, it is known as the "Cheetah Fountain", as the leopard was once seen in the jungle. The natural beauty of Ham Ham waterfall People come from all over Bangladesh to see the wild beauty of this fountain. The waterfall is 147 to 160 feet high (approximately). There is no established or tested opinion about the height of Ham Ham waterfall. The falling water in the spring makes several canals (locally termed ‘Chharas’) by flowing through the forest. Travelers get to cross these small and big canals (Chharas) and cross the impeccable path of the forest to reach the spring. However, Ham-Ham has two steps of falls. Another low waterfall can be seen on the way to Ham Ham in the rainy season. Read Trip to Tanguar Haor, Sunamganj: Majestic aquatic beauty soaking the horizon There are lots of trees - such as Banana, Chikrashi Kadam, Jarul and many more - in the Rajkandi forest adjacent to Ham Ham. Colorful butterflies fly around these trees. On the way to Hum Hum, the trekkers may suddenly catch sight of Hanumans in the branches of the fig tree and/or in the cane garden. There are also different species of bamboo with different names. Best time to visit Ham-Ham waterfall The rainy season is the youth of the spring, as heavy downpours occur at this time. In winter, they turn into a thin stream. So the adventurers go trekking soon after the monsoon. But there are some necessary things to keep in mind during the trip in this season. No official initiative has yet been taken to approach the waterfall. Tourists usually visit the fountain by taking a guide from the locals. Travelers have to reach Ham-Ham falls through the tea garden in Champara of Kurma forest bit. The distance from the Champara tea garden to the fountain is about 7 km. There is a very steep hill, many muddy paths, and canals (Chharas) on the way. Paths to waterfall (Locally termed ‘Jhiripath)’ rarely produce quicksand (Locally termed ‘Chorabali’), but there are no guidelines for tourists in those places. In the deep forest, travelers often have to endure the torture of mosquitoes, monkeys, leeches, and snakes. Read The Most Beautiful Tea Gardens in Bangladesh to visit How to reach Ham-Ham waterfall from Dhaka The most convenient way to get to Ham Ham from Dhaka is to go through Srimangal. Srimangal can be reached first by train from Kamalapur or Airport Railway Station. The rent varies from BDT 180 to 1000 and takes 5 to 5 and a half hours. In the case of bus travel, different types of buses are available from Fakirapul or Saidabad in Dhaka. The fare of AC and non-AC buses is BDT 360 to 900 which takes four to five hours to reach Srimangal. The first destination to reach Hamham from Srimangal is Kolabon Para. Up-down CNG fare from Srimangal to Kolabon Para is around BDT 1000 to 1200. There are also jeeps available for the large group of tourists. From Kolabon Para Travelers can get a guide for BDT 200 to 300.  Read Visit Saint Martin, Coral Island, Bangladesh: Piece of Paradise on Bay of Bengal There are two trails from Kolabon Para to Ham Ham - Jhiri route and Hill route. Though the Jhiri route is a little time-consuming, the beauty of this road is more captivating than the hilly track. It will take 2 to 3 hours to arrive at the destination Ham Ham waterfall from Kolabon Para. However, the duration of trekking depends entirely on the trekker’s habit of walking through hilly roads. Accommodation for overnight stay There is no such thing as being around a Ham-Ham fountain. It is better to leave very early in the morning and come back in a day. However, many travelers talk to the tribals and manage to stay in Toilongbari or Kolabon. The best place to stay in Srimangal is on Bhanugachha Road. The rent of hotels and resorts here ranges from BDT 500 to 5,500 depending on the type. Read Nikli Haor, Mithamoin-Astagram Road Trip: On the Way to Kishoreganj The cost of cheap hotels in Radhanagar ranges from BDT 500 to 800. Arrangement of meals  Trekkers usually have light food in Kolabon Para. Most take dry food with them. Nowadays, at the foot of the Ham-Ham fountain, tea and chickpea are found, which can alleviate temporary hunger. There is a small hotel run by the local people in Kolabon Para. Travelers order here before going to Ham Ham and have meals after getting back. There are also some standard restaurants in the town of Srimangal to have breakfast, lunch or dinner. Read Sylhet Tourist Places – Where to Go and What to Do Precautions in trekking to Ham Ham waterfall Unlike luxury tours, a trekking tour requires the traveler to be strong enough to walk through forests and hilly paths for several hours continuously. During the tour, the weather may be adverse sometimes. There might be scorching heat or heavy rain. So, before planning to go trekking the tourists should consider their health condition and mental strength. Good trekking shoes are a must for trekking in the rainy season. The lighter the backpack, the better. Before starting trekking, it is important to check if there is enough water, saline, insect repellent, and first aid. It would be wise to carry some dry food on the trekking tours. Read Rangamati Tourist Attractions – Where to Go and What to Do There is no substitute for caution when walking up and down hilly paths. Each of the travelers should carry a bamboo stick during trekking. The journey should start in the early morning so that it does not take the evening to get back. All in all, everyone in the group should avoid leaving wastages on fountains and trails. Wrap up Ham-Ham Trekking can be an unforgettable experience for an outdoor enthusiast. There is a deep connection between being close to nature and acquiring mental purity. When discipline and patience are added, the whole experience of trekking becomes a milestone in life. So occasional trekking and adventure are essential for complete wellness both physically and mentally. Read Best Resorts near Dhaka for Day out or Weekend Away