Explore accommodations in Bandarban sorted by distance
Ruma Bazar is the remote gateway town to some of Bangladesh's most spectacular mountain adventures.
Located about 75 kilometers from Bandarban town, this small upazila headquarters serves as the essential jumping-off point for treks to Boga Lake, Tajingdong, and Keokradong.
More than just a transit point, Ruma Bazar offers a fascinating glimpse into the traditional Bawm tribal culture and the rugged mountain lifestyle of remote Bandarban.
Every trekker heading to Bangladesh's highest peaks must pass through Ruma Bazar.
This is where the paved road ends and the real adventure begins.
The town sits at the end of the winding mountain road from Bandarban, surrounded by green hills and positioned along the rushing Sangu River.
From here, all journeys continue on foot, by boat, or on extremely rough jeep tracks that test both vehicle and driver.
Ruma Bazar represents the last outpost of conventional civilization before entering the truly remote areas of Bandarban.
The small market town has basic shops selling everything trekkers might have forgotten - flashlights, batteries, rope, dry food, and water bottles.
This is your final chance to stock up on supplies, withdraw cash (there are no ATMs beyond this point), and charge electronic devices before heading into areas with no electricity.
The town is predominantly inhabited by the Bawm tribal community, one of Bangladesh's indigenous hill tribes.
Walking through the market, you'll see tribal women in traditional colorful dress, selling vegetables and handwoven textiles.
The architecture is distinctly different from lowland Bangladesh, with bamboo houses on stilts and corrugated tin roofs.
The local language, Bawm, is commonly heard alongside Bengali and Chittagonian dialects.
All trekkers must stop at Ruma Bazar to collect mandatory permits and register with local authorities.
The Bangladesh Army maintains a checkpost here due to the proximity to the Myanmar border.
You'll need to show your national ID or passport, provide your trekking itinerary, and obtain permission before proceeding further.
This bureaucratic necessity actually adds to the sense of venturing into restricted, special areas.
Ruma Bazar is where you'll meet and hire your local guides and porters.
Experienced guides who know every trail, river crossing, and camping spot in the region wait at the market for trekking groups.
Porters offer to carry heavy camping gear and supplies for reasonable daily rates.
Many guides have been leading treks for decades and can share incredible stories about the mountains and their tribal heritage.
The town sits on the bank of the beautiful Sangu River, one of the major rivers originating from the Arakan Hills.
During the dry season, you can see the rocky riverbed with crystal-clear water flowing over smooth stones.
In monsoon, the same river transforms into a powerful torrent.
Boat rides on the Sangu River are popular, and some trekking routes begin with a scenic boat journey upstream.
Life in Ruma Bazar moves at a different pace than the cities.
Electricity comes from solar panels or small generators, running only a few hours each day.
Mobile network coverage is extremely limited and unreliable.
The few small restaurants serve simple meals of rice, dal, vegetables, and chicken.
Accommodations are basic guesthouses with mattresses on floors and shared bathrooms.
This simplicity is part of the charm and prepares you mentally for the even more primitive conditions ahead on the trek.
No entry fee for Ruma Bazar town itself.
However, you will need to pay for permits to trek beyond Ruma to places like Boga Lake, Tajingdong, or Keokradong.
Permit fees range from 1,500-3,000 BDT per person depending on your destination and nationality.
Ruma Bazar is accessible 24/7, but practical visiting hours are during daylight.
The market operates from early morning (6:00 AM) until evening (6:00 PM).
Government offices for permits operate 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, closed on Fridays and government holidays.
If you're just passing through Ruma Bazar on your way to trekking destinations, allow 4-6 hours.
This gives you time to collect permits, hire guides, buy supplies, have lunch, and explore the market briefly.
For a day trip to experience Ruma Bazar without trekking: Leave Bandarban early morning (6-7 AM), arrive in Ruma around 10 AM, spend 3-4 hours exploring the town and riverfront, have lunch, and return to Bandarban by evening.
Total: 10-12 hours including travel.
Spending one or two nights in Ruma allows you to experience the town at a relaxed pace, interact with locals, explore the Sangu River properly, visit nearby tribal villages, and rest before starting a multi-day trek.
This is recommended if you're doing the Boga Lake trek or heading to Tajingdong.
Most trekkers spend 1 night before their trek and 1 night after returning.
Total time in Ruma depends on your trekking itinerary:
November to March: This is the ideal time to visit Ruma Bazar if you're planning treks to Boga Lake, Tajingdong, or Keokradong.
The weather is dry, roads are in good condition, trails are safer, and visibility is excellent for mountain views.
Temperatures range from 10-25°C, comfortable for walking and camping.
This is peak trekking season, so book guides and accommodations in advance.
October and April: Still good weather but slightly warmer in April (15-30°C) and occasional rain in October as monsoon ends.
These shoulder months have fewer tourists, so you can find better deals on guides and transport.
May to September (Monsoon): The road to Ruma can be challenging with landslides and flooding.
Many trekking routes beyond Ruma become dangerous or impossible.
However, the landscape is lush green, waterfalls are at full flow, and you'll see the region at its most beautiful.
Only experienced trekkers should visit during monsoon, and always check road and trail conditions before traveling.
As a town, Ruma Bazar itself can be visited any time of year.
If you're just interested in experiencing tribal culture, seeing the market, and enjoying the Sangu River without trekking, you can come any season.
Just be prepared for rain and rough roads during monsoon.
Ruma Bazar is located about 75 kilometers southeast of Bandarban town.
The journey takes 3-4 hours through winding mountain roads with stunning views.
Local buses leave Bandarban bus station for Ruma Bazar every morning between 6:00 AM and 9:00 AM.
The fare is 250-350 BDT per person.
Buses are basic, often crowded, and make multiple stops along the way.
The journey can take up to 5 hours depending on road conditions and number of stops.
Buses return from Ruma to Bandarban in the early afternoon, so plan accordingly.
Morning departure times: 6:30 AM, 7:30 AM, 8:30 AM (approximate - check locally)
Reserve a 4-wheel drive jeep (locally called Chander Gari) for more comfort and flexibility.
Cost is 10,000-15,000 BDT for the entire vehicle (fits 10-12 people).
If you can form a group, splitting the cost makes it very reasonable per person.
Jeeps can leave at your preferred time and make photo stops along the scenic route.
The jeep route passes through Thanchi, where you may need to stop at the army checkpost to show permits.
The road is paved for most of the journey but becomes rough in some sections, especially during monsoon.
The drive to Ruma is an adventure itself.
The road winds through tea gardens, bamboo forests, and tribal villages.
You'll cross multiple small bridges over mountain streams.
The views of the Sangu River valley are spectacular.
Keep your camera ready for photo opportunities, especially at the hilltop viewpoints.
The road is generally motorable year-round, but conditions vary by season.
During dry season (November-April), the road is in good condition.
Monsoon season (May-October) can cause landslides and road damage, making the journey slower and occasionally impossible after heavy rain.
Always check current road conditions before traveling.
If coming directly from Chittagong, first reach Bandarban town (3-4 hours by bus or car), then continue to Ruma Bazar.
Total journey time from Chittagong is 7-8 hours.
From Dhaka, take an overnight bus to Bandarban (10-12 hours), then proceed to Ruma Bazar the next morning.
Alternatively, fly to Chittagong and continue by road.
Ruma Bazar has several basic guesthouses and rest houses for travelers.
Don't expect hotel-level comfort these are simple rooms with mattresses on the floor, shared bathrooms, and bucket baths.
No hot water or air conditioning.
Available options:
Small local restaurants serve simple meals.
Menu is limited to rice, dal, vegetables, chicken curry, and eggs.
Some places offer roti and tea.
Food is basic but fresh and filling.
Typical meals available:
The market has small shops selling essential items for trekkers.
Stock up here on anything you need, as there are no shops beyond Ruma on trekking routes.
Available items:
No ATMs or banks in Ruma Bazar.
Bring sufficient cash from Bandarban.
Some shops may accept bKash mobile banking, but don't rely on it.
Carry extra cash for guide fees, porter charges, and emergencies.
Mobile network coverage is very poor and unreliable.
Bandarban Link (Grameen) sometimes works, but don't expect consistent signal.
No internet cafes or WiFi available.
Plan to be offline during your time in Ruma.
A small health center provides basic medical care.
For serious illnesses or injuries, you'll need to return to Bandarban (3-4 hours away).
Carry your own first aid kit and necessary medications.
Electricity is limited to a few hours per day, usually in evening (6-10 PM).
Most power comes from solar panels or small generators.
Charge all devices when power is available.
Bring power banks and extra batteries.
Drinking water comes from tube wells or mountain springs.
Always purify water before drinking.
Toilet facilities are basic pit latrines or shared bathrooms.
Bring your own toilet paper, as it's not always available.
This is where Ruma shines as a facility.
Many experienced local guides are available who know all the trekking routes intimately.
Porters can be hired to carry heavy loads.
Services available:
The primary activity in Ruma Bazar is preparing for mountain treks.
Meet with guides, finalize your route, check equipment, and make last-minute supply purchases.
Experienced guides will brief you on trail conditions, camping spots, and safety considerations for your chosen destination.
Popular trek destinations from Ruma:
The beautiful Sangu River flowing beside Ruma offers several water-based activities.
The river is crystal clear during dry season, revealing smooth rocks and colorful pebbles on the riverbed.
River activities available:
Walk through Ruma Bazar to experience authentic tribal market culture.
The small market comes alive in the mornings when villagers from surrounding areas come to sell vegetables, fruits, handwoven textiles, and local products.
What to see in the market:
Arrange visits to nearby Bawm tribal villages through your guide.
Experience authentic tribal lifestyle, see traditional bamboo houses, observe daily routines, and learn about indigenous culture and customs.
Village activities:
Ruma Bazar and surrounding areas offer incredible photography opportunities.
Capture the rugged mountain lifestyle, tribal culture, and stunning natural scenery.
Photography subjects:
While not exactly an activity, obtaining trekking permits is an interesting bureaucratic experience.
Visit the local administration office, fill out forms, show your ID, explain your trekking plan, and get official stamps.
This process gives you a sense of venturing into restricted areas.
Ruma attracts trekkers from all over Bangladesh and occasional international visitors.
The small guesthouse common areas become meeting points where trekkers share stories, tips, and sometimes team up for treks.
Join the community, exchange information, and make trekking friends.
Simply sitting by the Sangu River and enjoying the peaceful mountain atmosphere is an activity itself.
The sound of flowing water, bird calls, and cool mountain breeze provide perfect relaxation after the long journey from Bandarban.
With minimal light pollution and clear night skies (especially in dry season), Ruma offers excellent stargazing opportunities.
The Milky Way is clearly visible on moonless nights.
Bring a blanket, lie down by the river, and enjoy the celestial show.
Try simple but delicious local meals.
Rice with freshly caught river fish, mountain vegetables, and traditional tribal preparations offer unique flavors you won't find in cities.
Ruma is very close to the Myanmar border, a sensitive area with military presence.
Always carry your national ID or passport.
Be prepared to show permits at Bangladesh Army checkposts.
Never attempt to approach or cross the border.
Taking photos near military installations or border areas may be prohibited - ask permission first.
Keep your permits, ID documents, and important papers in waterproof bags.
Make photocopies and store them separately.
If you lose permits, getting replacements can be extremely difficult and time-consuming.
The small health center has limited capabilities.
For serious medical issues, you'll need to travel back to Bandarban (3-4 hours).
Carry a comprehensive first aid kit with bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, anti-diarrheal medicine, oral rehydration salts, and any personal prescriptions.
Never drink untreated water.
The local water comes from tube wells or mountain sources and may contain bacteria unfamiliar to your system.
Always use purification tablets, filters, or boiled water.
Dehydration and waterborne illnesses are common problems for unprepared travelers.
Stick to freshly cooked hot meals.
Avoid raw vegetables unless you can peel them yourself.
Be cautious with street food.
Wash hands before eating, or use hand sanitizer.
Many visitors experience mild stomach upset during their first days - bring anti-diarrheal medication.
Keep cash and valuables secure.
While Ruma is generally safe, petty theft can occur.
Don't display large amounts of money publicly.
Use money belts or hidden pockets.
Keep emergency cash separate from your daily-use money.
Mountain weather changes rapidly.
Heavy rain can cause flash flooding in rivers and landslides on roads.
If monsoon rain starts while you're in Ruma, your return journey may be delayed.
Always check weather forecasts and road conditions before traveling, especially during rainy season.
Mobile network is unreliable.
Don't depend on phones for emergencies.
Tell someone trustworthy (hotel staff, guide) your plans and expected return time.
If trekking, register properly with authorities so they know if you don't return on schedule.
Ruma has very limited street lighting.
Carry a good flashlight or headlamp if you need to move around after dark.
The town is generally safe, but walking on uneven paths in darkness can lead to falls and injuries.
While in town you're unlikely to encounter dangerous wildlife, but when visiting river areas or forest edges, be alert for snakes, especially during monsoon.
Don't disturb any wildlife you encounter.
Stray dogs are present - avoid approaching them.
Many buildings use gas cylinders and wooden structures.
Candles and oil lamps are common during power outages.
Be extremely careful with flames.
Know the location of exits in your guesthouse.
Keep flammable items away from cooking areas.
The mountain road to/from Bandarban is dangerous, especially during rain or at night.
Always use seatbelts in vehicles.
Choose experienced drivers.
If road conditions look dangerous, wait rather than risk the journey.
Landslides are common during monsoon - never proceed if rocks are falling.
Take permits seriously - violations can result in fines, detention, or deportation for foreigners.
Follow all instructions from authorities.
Don't venture into areas you're not permitted to visit.
If unsure about restrictions, ask your guide or local officials.
Get local emergency numbers from your guesthouse or guide.
Know the location of the health center, police station, and army camp.
Bangladesh emergency number: 999 (but mobile coverage is poor in Ruma).
Solo travelers should be extra careful.
Join up with other trekkers when possible.
Always tell someone your plans.
Consider hiring a guide even for short local trips - they provide security and help communicate with locals.
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**Your Comfortable Gateway to Bandarban Hills:** Meghla Tourism Complex is the most accessible and family-friendly tourism destination in Bandarban. Located just 5 kilometers from Bandarban town center, this government-run complex offers the perfect introduction to the hill district without requiring any trekking, camping, or adventure skills. It is the ideal choice for families with young children, elderly visitors, first-time hill travelers, and anyone who prefers comfortable facilities over wilderness experiences. **What Makes Meghla Special:** Unlike remote destinations such as [Rijuk Waterfall](/tourist-places/rijuk-waterfall) or [Boga Lake](/tourist-places/boga-lake), Meghla brings the beauty of the hills to you with zero physical demands. The complex sits on a hilltop surrounded by natural forest, offering stunning views of the Sangu River valley and surrounding mountains without requiring you to climb anything strenuous. The complex features well-maintained gardens, a beautiful artificial lake with a hanging bridge, children's play areas, walking paths through the forest, multiple viewpoints, and clean, modern facilities. Everything is paved and wheelchair-accessible, making it one of the few truly inclusive tourist destinations in the hill district. **Perfect for Everyone:** Meghla is designed for comfort and relaxation. You can drive directly to the complex, park your car, and enjoy everything without breaking a sweat. The cottages are clean and comfortable with attached bathrooms, hot water, and electricity. The restaurants serve good quality Bangladeshi food in a pleasant setting with views. There are benches and gazebos throughout the complex where you can sit, relax, and enjoy the cool mountain air. **The Experience:** A visit to Meghla typically involves strolling through the gardens, taking photos at the lake and hanging bridge, enjoying the sunset from the viewpoints, having a meal at the hilltop restaurant, and simply relaxing in the peaceful environment. Children love the small park and feeding fish in the lake. Couples enjoy the romantic sunset views and quiet walks. Elderly visitors appreciate the accessibility and comfortable facilities. **Day Trip or Overnight:** You can visit Meghla as a quick half-day trip from Bandarban town (perfect for an afternoon and sunset), or stay overnight in the cottages to enjoy both sunset and sunrise. Many visitors combine Meghla with nearby [Shoilo Propat](/tourist-places/shoilo-propat) (just 2 km away) for a full day of sightseeing without any difficult trekking.
**The Third Highest Peak of Bangladesh:** Chimbuk Hill stands at approximately 2,500 feet above sea level, making it the third highest peak in Bangladesh after Tazing Dong and [Keokradong](/tourist-places/keokradong). What makes Chimbuk truly special is that you can drive all the way to the top on a paved road, making it one of the most accessible mountain viewpoints in the country. **Standing Above the Clouds:** The drive up Chimbuk is an experience in itself. The winding road snakes through 18 hairpin bends, each turn revealing breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys. On clear days, you can see layer upon layer of green hills stretching into the distance. During early morning or after rain, you might find yourself literally above the clouds, watching them flow through the valleys below like a white river. The summit offers a 360-degree panoramic view of the Bandarban hill district. You will see the town of Bandarban in the distance, the winding Sangu River, and endless rows of hills covered in green forests. The sunrise and sunset views from Chimbuk are legendary among photographers and nature lovers. **What Makes Chimbuk Different:** Unlike remote destinations like [Nafakhum Waterfall](/tourist-places/nafakhum-waterfall) or [Boga Lake](/tourist-places/boga-lake) that require days of trekking, Chimbuk is perfect for everyone, including families with young children, elderly visitors, and those who prefer comfort over adventure. You can visit Chimbuk as a day trip from Bandarban town, or stay overnight at the hilltop resort to catch both sunset and sunrise. **The Experience:** At the summit, you will find a small park area, viewpoints, shops selling local handicrafts, and restaurants serving traditional Bangladeshi food and snacks. The cool mountain breeze, the sound of wind through the pine trees, and the stunning views create a peaceful atmosphere that feels worlds away from the heat and noise of the plains. During winter (December to February), morning temperatures can drop to 10 to 15 degrees Celsius, and the hill is often wrapped in thick fog that gradually lifts as the sun rises, creating magical views.
Nilachal is a stunning hilltop destination in Bandarban that combines natural beauty with spiritual significance, offering visitors one of the most accessible yet rewarding mountain experiences in Bangladesh. Perched at approximately 2,000 feet above sea level, Nilachal provides breathtaking panoramic views of Bandarban town, the surrounding valleys, and the majestic hill ranges that define this region. The name "Nilachal" translates to "Blue Hill" in Bengali, a fitting description for this scenic spot where the blue sky seems to meet the earth. What sets Nilachal apart from other hilltop destinations is its proximity to Bandarban town - just 5 kilometers away - making it perfect for visitors who want mountain views without the long journey required for places like [Nilgiri Hills](/tourist-places/nilgiri-hills) or [Chimbuk Hill](/tourist-places/chimbuk-hill). **The Journey and Experience** The drive to Nilachal is an enjoyable 15-20 minute journey from Bandarban town center. The well-maintained road winds gently up the hill, offering increasingly spectacular views as you ascend. Unlike the 47 hairpin bends of Nilgiri, Nilachal's approach is more gradual and comfortable, making it suitable for all types of vehicles and even those prone to motion sickness. As you reach the hilltop, you are greeted by the impressive Golden Temple (Buddha Dhatu Jadi), one of the largest Buddhist temples in Bangladesh. The temple's golden spires gleaming against the blue sky create a stunning visual that has made Nilachal famous among photographers and travelers alike. The temple complex is a masterpiece of traditional Buddhist architecture, reflecting the Theravada Buddhist traditions of the local indigenous communities. **Spectacular Views** The viewing areas at Nilachal offer incredible 360-degree panoramas. To the south, you can see Bandarban town spread out in the valley below, with the Sangu River meandering through the landscape. Looking north and east, layers upon layers of green hills stretch toward the horizon, creating a view that seems to go on forever. On clear days, you can identify distant peaks and valleys, while during monsoon season, clouds drift between the hills, creating an ethereal, dreamlike atmosphere. The sunset views from Nilachal are particularly spectacular. As the sun descends behind the western hills, the entire landscape is bathed in golden light, with the temple's golden domes reflecting the warm colors. Many visitors time their trip specifically to witness this magical moment, and it rarely disappoints. **The Golden Temple** The Buddha Dhatu Jadi (Golden Temple) is not just a backdrop - it is a fully functional Buddhist monastery and an important religious site for the region's Buddhist community, particularly the Marma people. The temple was completed in 2000 and houses the second-largest Buddha statue in Bangladesh. The architecture incorporates elements from Myanmar's Buddhist temples, reflecting the cultural connections of the area. Visitors are welcome to enter the temple complex, but modest dress and respectful behavior are essential. Inside, you will find beautifully decorated prayer halls, ornate Buddha statues, and intricate artwork depicting Buddhist teachings. The peaceful atmosphere inside the temple provides a serene contrast to the excitement of the hilltop views outside. **Accessibility and Facilities** One of Nilachal's greatest advantages is its accessibility. The entire hilltop area is well-developed with paved walkways, viewing platforms, and rest areas. There are clean washroom facilities, a parking area that can accommodate many vehicles, and even a small canteen serving tea, snacks, and light meals. The site is much more visitor-friendly than many other hill destinations in the region. **Cultural Significance** Nilachal offers a unique opportunity to experience the Buddhist culture that is an integral part of Bandarban's identity. The presence of monks, the sound of temple bells and prayers, and the sight of devotees performing rituals add a cultural dimension to your visit. However, it is crucial to remember that this is an active religious site, and visitors should be respectful, quiet, and appropriately dressed when near the temple. **Perfect for All Ages** Unlike more challenging hill destinations, Nilachal is suitable for visitors of all ages and fitness levels. Elderly visitors, families with young children, and those with mobility limitations can all enjoy the views and the temple complex without strenuous hiking. The short distance from Bandarban town also means it is easy to combine a Nilachal visit with other activities in the area. Many travelers use Nilachal as an introduction to Bandarban's hill country before venturing to more remote locations like [Boga Lake](/tourist-places/boga-lake) or [Nafakhum Waterfall](/tourist-places/nafakhum-waterfall). It is also popular as an evening destination - visitors can spend the day exploring other attractions and then head to Nilachal for sunset views before returning to town. Whether you are seeking spiritual peace, photographic opportunities, cultural experiences, or simply want to enjoy beautiful mountain views without extensive travel, Nilachal delivers on all fronts.
Mirinza is a hidden gem in Bandarban's hill tracts, offering visitors an authentic glimpse into traditional Marma tribal life far from the crowds of mainstream tourism. This remote hilltop village sits at an elevation that provides breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountain ranges and valleys. The journey to Mirinza itself is an adventure, winding through lush green hills, terraced farmlands, and dense forests that showcase the pristine beauty of the Chittagong Hill Tracts. What makes Mirinza special is its untouched cultural authenticity. The Marma people here maintain their traditional way of life, living in bamboo houses built on stilts, practicing subsistence farming on hillside terraces, and following age-old customs and Buddhist traditions. The village is home to a beautiful Buddhist monastery (Kyaung) where monks practice their daily rituals, and visitors can witness prayer sessions if they arrive at the right time. The monastery's architecture reflects traditional Marma Buddhist style, with intricate wood carvings and colorful decorations. Life in Mirinza moves at a peaceful pace. You'll see women weaving traditional textiles, farmers tending to their jhum cultivation plots, children playing in the village pathways, and elderly residents sitting outside their homes sharing stories. The warmth and hospitality of the Marma people make visitors feel genuinely welcome, though language barriers may exist as many villagers speak primarily Marma and Chittagonian. The landscape around Mirinza is stunning. Rolling hills covered in jhum fields create a patchwork of greens and browns depending on the season. During monsoon, the hills turn emerald green, while in winter, the golden hues of harvested fields dominate the scenery. Clear streams flow through the valleys, and the air is fresh and cool, especially in the early mornings and evenings. Mirinza is best suited for travelers seeking authentic cultural experiences rather than luxury amenities. The village has minimal modern infrastructure, which is precisely what preserves its charm. Visitors should come with an open mind, respect for local customs, and a genuine interest in learning about tribal culture. Many travelers combine their visit to Mirinza with other attractions like [Nilgiri Hills](/tourist-places/nilgiri-hills), [Nilachal](/tourist-places/nilachal), or [Boga Lake](/tourist-places/boga-lake) to experience the full diversity of Bandarban's natural and cultural heritage. The village offers opportunities for trekking, photography, cultural exchange, and simply disconnecting from the modern world to experience life as it has been lived in these hills for generations.