Bagakain Lake

District:Bandarban•Division:Chittagong

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10/16/2025

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About

Bagakain Lake is one of Bandarban's most beautiful and peaceful natural attractions, offering visitors a perfect escape into pristine wilderness.

Located in Ruma Upazila, about 35 kilometers from Bandarban town, this stunning lake sits at the heart of the Chittagong Hill Tracts, surrounded by lush green hills and dense forests that create a picture-perfect setting.

A Natural Paradise

The lake stretches across a considerable area, with crystal-clear waters that reflect the surrounding hills and sky like a giant mirror.

The water is so clean and pure that you can see the bottom in many places, making it perfect for swimming and bathing.

The depth varies from shallow areas near the shores to deeper sections in the middle, offering different experiences for visitors.

What makes Bagakain Lake truly special is its untouched natural beauty.

Unlike more commercialized tourist spots, this lake remains relatively peaceful and less crowded, giving you the feeling of discovering a hidden gem.

The surrounding forests are home to diverse wildlife, including various bird species, butterflies, and small animals that you might spot during your visit.

The Setting

The lake is embraced by rolling hills covered in dense vegetation, creating a natural amphitheater of greenery.

Bamboo groves and tropical trees line the shores, providing plenty of shaded areas for relaxing and picnicking.

The environment is incredibly tranquil, with only the sounds of birds singing, water gently lapping against the shore, and wind rustling through the trees.

The area around the lake has a distinct ethnic cultural presence, with local indigenous communities living nearby.

Their traditional way of life and harmonious relationship with nature add a unique cultural dimension to your visit.

You might see local people fishing in traditional ways or children playing by the water's edge.

Visitor Experience

Visiting Bagakain Lake feels like stepping into a nature documentary.

The journey to reach the lake itself is an adventure, taking you through winding hill roads with spectacular valley views.

Once you arrive, you can spend hours simply soaking in the peaceful atmosphere, swimming in the cool waters, or exploring the surrounding forests.

The lake is particularly popular among nature lovers, photographers, and those seeking a peaceful retreat from city life.

Many visitors combine their trip to Bagakain Lake with other Bandarban attractions like Nilgiri Hills, Shoilo Propat, or the famous Boga Lake to experience the full beauty of the hill district.

Visitor Information

Entry Fee

Lake Entry

•No official entry fee for the lake itself

•Local community may collect voluntary contribution: 20-50 BDT per person

Parking Fee

•Motorcycle: 20-30 BDT

•Car/Microbus: 50-100 BDT

Guide Services

•Local guide (recommended for first-time visitors): 300-500 BDT for half day

•Guides can help navigate the area and show best spots

Photography

•No additional fee for personal photography

•Professional photography with heavy equipment may require permission

Note: Prices are subject to change and may vary by season.

It's recommended to carry sufficient cash as there are no ATM facilities nearby.

Opening Hours

The lake is accessible daily throughout the year from sunrise to sunset (approximately 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM).

There are no strict opening hours as it's a natural site, but it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety.

Best Times

•Early morning (6:00-8:00 AM): Best for photography and peaceful atmosphere

•Late afternoon (3:00-5:00 PM): Great for swimming and golden hour photos

•Avoid visiting after sunset due to lack of lighting and difficult road conditions

Time Needed

The time you need depends on what activities you want to do and how you like to travel.

Quick Visit (2-3 hours)

•Suitable for those with limited time

•Includes basic lake viewing and photo stops

•Quick swim or dip in the water

•Light snacks by the lakeside

•Not recommended as you'll miss the peaceful atmosphere

Half-Day Trip (4-6 hours)

Most Popular Option

•Comfortable arrival and departure time

•Swimming and water activities (1-2 hours)

•Relaxing by the lakeside with picnic lunch

•Photography session

•Short walk around accessible areas

•Enough time to enjoy without rushing

Full-Day Trip (7-9 hours)

Best for Complete Experience

•Leisurely journey from Bandarban

•Extended swimming and water activities

•Exploring surrounding forest trails

•Multiple photo sessions at different times

•Picnic lunch with plenty of relaxation time

•Interaction with local communities

•Witnessing both morning and afternoon beauty

Overnight Trip (2 days)

For Adventure Enthusiasts

•Stay at nearby guesthouses or camping

•Experience sunrise and sunset over the lake

•Evening bonfire (where permitted)

•More time for hiking and exploration

•Visit nearby attractions like Chimbuk or Nilgiri

•Complete immersion in nature

Important Timing Notes

The journey from Bandarban town takes approximately 1.5-2 hours each way depending on road conditions and vehicle type.

Factor this travel time into your planning.

If combining with other Bandarban attractions, allocate at least 8-10 hours for a day trip.

How to Reach

Reaching Bagakain Lake requires traveling through the scenic hill roads of Bandarban.

The journey itself is an adventure with beautiful mountain views.

Starting Point: Bandarban Town

From Dhaka to Bandarban

•Bus services available from Dhaka (8-10 hours journey)

•Major operators: Shyamoli, Hanif, Unique, Saint Martin

•Cost: 600-1,200 BDT depending on seat type

•Night buses are popular for overnight travel

From Chittagong to Bandarban

•Bus services from Chittagong (2.5-3 hours)

•More frequent services throughout the day

•Cost: 150-300 BDT

•Recommended if you're flying to Bangladesh

From Bandarban Town to Bagakain Lake (35 km)

Option 1: Local Jeep/Chander Gari (Recommended)

The most common and adventurous option for hill travel.

•Shared jeeps depart from Bandarban bus stand

•Destination: Ruma Upazila

•Journey time: 1.5-2 hours

•Cost: 150-200 BDT per person (shared)

•Private jeep rental: 3,000-4,500 BDT (round trip, seats 10-12 people)

•Jeeps run throughout the day but less frequent in afternoon

•Best to start early morning (7-9 AM)

Option 2: Motorcycle/Bike

Popular among adventure seekers and photographers.

•Rent from Bandarban town: 800-1,200 BDT per day

•Requires experience with hill riding

•Journey time: 1-1.5 hours

•Excellent for stopping at viewpoints

•Fuel cost additional: 200-300 BDT

•Not recommended during monsoon due to slippery roads

Option 3: Private Car

Most comfortable but expensive option.

•Rent from Bandarban: 4,000-6,000 BDT per day

•Journey time: 1.5-2 hours

•Best for families with children or elderly

•Can accommodate more luggage

•Air-conditioned comfort

•Driver included in most rentals

Option 4: CNG Auto-rickshaw

•Available for shorter distances or local area

•Not recommended for the full journey due to hilly terrain

•Can be used within Ruma Upazila area

Route Details

From Bandarban, follow the Bandarban-Ruma road (also known as the Thanchi road).

The route passes through beautiful hill scenery, tribal villages, and rubber plantations.

The road is mostly paved but has some rough patches, especially during monsoon.

Several army checkpoints along the way (keep ID ready).

Important Tips

•Start early to avoid afternoon traffic and enjoy cooler weather

•Carry valid photo ID (required at army checkpoints)

•Check road conditions before travel, especially during monsoon

•Fuel stations are limited; fill up in Bandarban town

•Mobile network becomes weak after leaving Bandarban

•Inform someone about your travel plans

•Consider hiring a local guide for first-time visitors

•The final approach to the lake may require a short walk (5-10 minutes)

Facilities

Available Facilities

•Basic parking area for vehicles

•Shaded areas under trees for resting

•Natural swimming areas (no designated swimming zones)

•Local tea stalls nearby (seasonal availability)

•Small shops selling snacks and drinks in nearby villages

•Mobile network coverage (limited, mainly Grameenphone and Robi)

•Local guides available upon request

•Picnic spots along the lakeside

Limited/No Facilities

•No proper toilet facilities at the lake (use facilities in Ruma before coming)

•No changing rooms or shower facilities

•No restaurants or food courts (bring your own food)

•No lifeguards or safety personnel

•No first aid station (carry your own basic medical supplies)

•No accommodation at the lake site

•No ATM nearby (nearest in Bandarban town)

•No drinking water taps (bring bottled water)

•No electricity or charging points

•No waste bins (carry your trash back)

Nearby Amenities (within 10-15 km)

In Ruma Upazila

•Basic restaurants and tea shops

•Small grocery stores

•Basic medical facilities at Ruma Health Complex

•Government guesthouses (booking required)

•Local markets for supplies

In Bandarban Town (35 km)

•Hotels and guesthouses (various budgets)

•Restaurants serving local and Chinese cuisine

•Banks and ATMs

•Hospitals and pharmacies

•Fuel stations

•Shopping facilities

Accommodation Options Near Bagakain Lake

Budget (500-1,500 BDT per night)

•Local guesthouses in Ruma

•Basic rooms with shared facilities

Mid-range (1,500-3,000 BDT per night)

•Better guesthouses with attached bathrooms

•Some cottages with hill views

Comfortable (3,000+ BDT per night)

•Stay in Bandarban town for more options

•Resorts with all modern amenities

Accessibility

•Not wheelchair accessible

•Requires walking on uneven terrain

•Steep paths in some areas

•Not suitable for people with mobility issues

•Swimming areas have no proper access points

•Slippery surfaces during and after rain

•Limited accessibility for elderly visitors

•No designated facilities for differently-abled visitors

Things to Do

Swimming and Water Activities

•Swimming in the crystal-clear lake water (bring your own swimwear)

•Bathing and relaxing in shallow areas

•Floating and enjoying the peaceful water

•Playing water games with family and friends

•Wading along the shoreline

•Cooling off during hot summer days

Nature Activities

•Bird watching - spot various local and migratory birds

•Wildlife observation in surrounding forests

•Butterfly watching in forested areas

•Plant and tree identification

•Nature photography

•Observing fish swimming in clear water

•Listening to natural forest sounds

Photography

•Landscape photography with mountain backdrop

•Reflection photography in still lake water

•Sunrise and sunset shots

•Wildlife and bird photography

•Family and group photos with scenic views

•Underwater photography in shallow clear areas

•Panoramic shots of surrounding hills

Relaxation Activities

•Picnicking by the lakeside with family

•Reading or resting under shaded trees

•Meditation and yoga in peaceful surroundings

•Simply enjoying the tranquil atmosphere

•Cloud watching and stargazing (if staying overnight)

•Hammock hanging between trees

•Sketching or painting the scenery

Adventure Activities

•Trekking around the lake perimeter

•Exploring nearby forest trails

•Hill climbing for panoramic views

•Rock hopping along the shore

•Discovering hidden corners of the lake

•Camping (with proper permission)

•Mountain biking on surrounding trails

Cultural Experiences

•Interacting with local indigenous communities

•Learning about tribal culture and traditions

•Observing traditional fishing methods

•Visiting nearby tribal villages

•Trying local food in surrounding areas

•Understanding the local way of life

Nearby Attractions to Combine

Within 20-30 km

•Boga Lake - famous high-altitude lake

•Keokradong - one of Bangladesh's highest peaks

•Ruma Bazar - local market experience

•Tribal villages and bamboo bridges

Within 50-60 km

•Nilgiri Hills - panoramic hill station

•Chimbuk Hill - third highest peak

•Shoilo Propat - beautiful waterfall

•Meghla Tourist Complex

•Golden Temple (Buddha Dhatu Jadi)

Day Trip Itinerary Suggestion

Morning

•Start from Bandarban early (7 AM)

•Reach Bagakain Lake (9 AM)

•Explore and swim (9 AM - 12 PM)

Afternoon

•Picnic lunch by the lake (12 PM - 1 PM)

•Photography and relaxation (1 PM - 3 PM)

•Visit nearby attractions or tribal villages (3 PM - 4 PM)

Evening

•Return journey to Bandarban (4 PM)

•Reach Bandarban by sunset (6 PM)

Multi-Day Itinerary

Day 1

•Bandarban → Bagakain Lake

•Swimming and exploration

•Overnight camping or stay in Ruma

Day 2

•Morning at the lake

•Trek to Boga Lake or nearby hills

•Evening return to Bandarban

Best Activities by Season

Winter (November-February)

•Swimming (comfortable temperature)

•Trekking and hiking

•Bird watching

•Photography

Summer (March-May)

•Swimming and water activities

•Early morning photography

•Shaded picnicking

Monsoon (June-September)

•Enjoying lush greenery

•Photography of dramatic landscapes

•Limited swimming due to water level

Things to Bring for Activities

•Swimwear and extra clothes

•Towels and waterproof bags

•Camera and fully charged batteries

•Binoculars for bird watching

•Picnic mat or blanket

•Snacks and drinking water

•Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)

•Insect repellent

Do's and Don'ts

DO

✓Bring plenty of drinking water and snacks as no shops are available at the lake

✓Carry valid photo ID for army checkpoints along the route

✓Wear comfortable clothes suitable for swimming and outdoor activities

✓Use biodegradable sunscreen to protect the lake ecosystem

✓Bring a waterproof bag for electronics and valuables

✓Start your journey early morning (before 8 AM) to enjoy the place peacefully

✓Inform family or friends about your travel plans and expected return time

✓Hire a local guide if you're visiting for the first time

✓Carry sufficient cash as there are no ATMs nearby

✓Bring your own food and picnic supplies

✓Check weather forecast before traveling, especially during monsoon

✓Wear appropriate footwear for walking on uneven terrain

✓Respect local tribal communities and their customs

✓Take all your trash back with you when leaving

✓Ask permission before taking photos of local people

✓Keep the lake area clean and peaceful

✓Follow instructions from local guides and community members

✓Bring basic first aid supplies and any necessary medications

✓Wear modest clothing respecting local culture

DON'T

✗Don't litter or throw trash in the lake or surrounding areas

✗Don't use soap or shampoo in the lake water

✗Don't swim if you don't know how - there are no lifeguards

✗Don't swim alone or venture into deep water areas

✗Don't disturb or harm wildlife, birds, or fish in the lake

✗Don't cut or damage trees and plants

✗Don't play loud music that disturbs the peace

✗Don't drink alcohol or use drugs at the site

✗Don't light fires or smoke near the forested areas

✗Don't camp overnight without proper permission

✗Don't enter the water during storms or heavy rain

✗Don't leave children unsupervised near water

✗Don't take rocks, plants, or other natural items as souvenirs

✗Don't drive recklessly on the hilly roads

✗Don't ignore safety warnings from locals

✗Don't visit during late evening or night (no lighting available)

✗Don't forget to check your vehicle before starting the journey

✗Don't venture into restricted or unfamiliar forest areas alone

✗Don't harass or disturb local residents

Safety Tips

Water Safety

•Never swim alone - always have a buddy or group member with you

•Don't swim if you don't know how to swim properly

•Avoid swimming in deep water areas as depths are unpredictable

•Stay close to the shore where you can easily touch the bottom

•Be extra careful during and after rain when water can rise quickly

•Watch out for submerged rocks and branches

•Don't jump or dive into the water - unknown depths

•Keep children under constant supervision near water

•Exit the water immediately if you feel tired or cold

•Avoid swimming during strong winds or storms

Road and Travel Safety

•Drive carefully on hilly roads with many sharp turns

•Reduce speed on blind curves and steep slopes

•Be extra cautious during and after rain - roads can be slippery

•Check your vehicle brakes before starting the journey

•Carry a spare tire and basic tools for emergencies

•Don't drive after sunset - poor lighting and dangerous curves

•Watch for landslides during heavy monsoon rains

•Keep safe distance from edge of mountain roads

•Use horn before sharp turns to alert oncoming traffic

•Follow local driver advice on road conditions

Health Precautions

•Apply insect repellent to prevent mosquito and insect bites

•Use sunscreen even on cloudy days - reflection from water intensifies sun

•Stay hydrated - drink water regularly throughout the day

•Bring oral rehydration salts for heat-related issues

•Carry basic medicines: pain relievers, antihistamines, antiseptic cream

•Avoid drinking water from streams or the lake

•Bring any prescription medications you need

•Watch for symptoms of heat stroke: dizziness, nausea, excessive fatigue

•Be careful of slippery rocks and uneven ground to avoid falls

•Wear proper footwear to prevent cuts and injuries

Wildlife and Nature Safety

•Keep safe distance from any wild animals you encounter

•Don't feed or provoke wildlife

•Be aware of snakes in forested areas, especially during monsoon

•Shake out shoes and clothes before wearing them

•Stay on established paths - don't wander into dense forest

•Be cautious around bees and wasps - don't disturb nests

•Watch for leeches during monsoon season

•Don't touch unknown plants - some may cause skin irritation

•Make noise while walking to alert animals of your presence

Weather Safety

•Always check weather forecast before your trip

•Avoid traveling during heavy rainfall or storm warnings

•Lightning risk is high in open areas during storms - seek shelter immediately

•Monitor weather conditions throughout your visit

•Have a backup plan if weather worsens

•Don't swim during thunderstorms

•Be prepared for sudden weather changes in hill areas

•Strong winds can make lake water rough - avoid swimming

Personal Safety

•Travel in groups rather than alone for better safety

•Keep valuables secure and out of sight

•Be aware of your surroundings at all times

•Inform someone about your location and expected return time

•Keep emergency contact numbers saved and accessible

•Respect local people and customs

•Don't carry large amounts of cash or expensive jewelry

•Stay together as a group - don't wander off alone

•Trust your instincts - if something feels unsafe, leave

Emergency Information

Emergency Numbers

•National Emergency Hotline: 999

•Fire Service: 199

•Police: 100

Nearest Medical Facilities

•Ruma Upazila Health Complex (basic treatment)

•Bandarban Sadar Hospital (35 km away)

•For serious emergencies: Chittagong Medical College Hospital (3 hours)

Important Contacts

•Bandarban Police Station: +880-361-62277

•Ruma Army Camp (for security issues)

•Local guide contact numbers (get from your accommodation)

First Aid Tips

Keep a basic first aid kit with bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, and any personal medications.

In case of emergency, contact local authorities or army personnel who are stationed in the area.

Location

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