Kaptai Lake

Kaptai Lake is the largest man-made freshwater body constructed in Bangladesh in 1958 by the then Pakistani government. It is the largest artificial lake made in South Asia too. The Lake covers an area of 11,000 square kilometers. Its main purpose was to set up a hydroelectric power plant. It was created by damming the Karnafuli River situated near Kaptai town in the natural and beautiful Chittagong hill tracts in the Kaptai Upazila. Though the lake is confined contained by the hilly district of Rangamati, it furthermore embraces the Upazilas which are Sadar, Kaptai, Nannechar, Langadu, Baghaichhari, Barkal, Juraichhari, and Belaicchari.

Built in the shape of an H shape, the Lake bears two arms joine id by a narrow gulch near Shubalong which is a part of the Karnafuli River. The right arm of the lake, Kasalong, is fed by two watercourses, the Maybi and the Kasalong itself. The left arm, Rangamti-Kaptai is also fed by two streams namely the Chengi and the Rinkhyong. Due to its shape, the shoreline of Kaptai Lake is very irregular.

Apart from generating electricity, the Lake is an important resource and has endless biodiversity in its deep water. Various species of fish live in the water body while the environment around the Lake is filled with flora and fauna with the majestic mountains standing tall around. The small islands on the lake, the variety of birds flying over the lake, and the life of the aquatic animals are just spellbinding. Kaptai Lake can be visited all year round, but in the rainy season, the waterfalls along the lake are in full view.

Kaptai Lake has also created a long waterway where many far places have become accessible within hours by speedboat along the Lake. It has also made it easier to adventure forest resources that were earlier remote. In the interim, the lake continues to serve as a valuable reservoir for hatchery and fish production. Fish produced in the lake meets local demands and is supplied to diverse areas of the country. The annual fish production is around 7000 tons.

To-Dos: The Lake is now a great holiday spot and tourist attraction and an idyllic spot for nature lovers. Waking up surrounded by imposing mountains, foliage, and a massive Lake is indeed a dream come true. There are many interesting activities apart from swimming in the calm water of the Lake. Kayaking, paddleboat, or speed boats are available for rent to observe the beauty around the Lake. Paradise Picnic Spot, located on the hills can be reached by boat where the tremendous dazzling lake can be seen from the top of the hill.

Lodging and cost: There are a number of standard and luxurious hotels around the shore and near the Lake but it is best to contact the authority of Kaptai Governemnt Rest House for better security. Lake view Island is one on the bank of the Lake with small cottages surrounded by raw nature. Others such as Aronnak Holiday Resort, The Grand Hill Taj and Hotel Moti Mahal are renowned places to lodge around under the supervision of the Army forces. The hotels and resorts provide all the facilities including Wifi, pool, and parking. The cost per night varies between BDT 1500 to BDT 4000 depending on the type of accommodation.

Victuals: Various kinds of foodstuffs are available for every kind of visitor. Uniquely set up restaurants are at the service to give the best food experience in the natural spot. There are restaurants on the small floating islands in the lake which are reachable by boat. They serve delicious seafood. Borgaag Restaurant, Chang Pang Restaurant, Berannye Lakeshore Café, Peda Tingting, Swargo Chera are some famous restaurants serving fine meals of diverse cuisines. The setup of each is very distinctive and nature friendly. The rate charged is affordable.

Directions: It takes about 7 to 8 hours to go directly to Kaptai by bus from Dhaka. Travelling by Non-AC coach costs around BDT 500 to 700 and the AC coach fare varies from BDT 1200 to 1500. Travelers can also reach Kaptai via Chittagong from Dhaka. It cost BDT 80 to 120 from Chittagong to Kaptai by usual buses. It will take 2 hours.

While at Kaptai, many interesting spots can be visited. Places in the vicinity of Kaptai lake to visit are the Hanging Bridge-Rangamati, Shuvlong waterfall-Rangamati, Kaptai Dam, Kayaking the Karnafuli River, Navy Academy, Sheikh Russel Ecopark, and cable car.  

While sojourning, it is imperative to take precautions and to wear life jackets in case a person does not know how to swim. It is also strictly prohibited to throw debris around and it is highly encouraged to keep the area clean and pollution-free to promote a healthy environment. The beautiful lake and its surroundings stand on with the top natural landscape. With the many birds flying and chirping, the aqua-centric indigenous community fascinates tourists at every moment. Though the Kaptai Lake is man-made, nature has built the entire form with love which makes Kaptai Lake a unique attractive spot for tourists and locals who love vacationing at Kaptai Lake.