Stair Of Heaven (Mayung Kopal / Hatimatha)

A Breathtaking Stairway to Panoramic Hill Country Views

Imagine climbing 300 iron steps at a dramatic 110-120 degree angle, ascending through misty mountain air to reach a summit 1,208 feet above sea level.

This is the Stair of Heaven (স্বর্গের সিঁড়ি), one of Khagrachari most stunning and challenging attractions that rewards adventurous visitors with breathtaking panoramic views of the entire hill district.

What Makes It Special

The attraction sits atop Mayung Kopal Hill (also known as Hatimatha or "Elephant Head Mountain"), a name derived from the hill distinctive shape that resembles an elephant head.

In the local Tripura language, it is called "Maiyong Kopa," while Chakma speakers know it as "Edo Shire Mon"—both translating to "elephant head mountain."

The 308-foot-long iron stairway was constructed in 2015 by the Chittagong Hill Tracts Development Board, originally built to help residents of the hilltop Tripura villages commute more easily.

However, its dramatic design and stunning location quickly made it a magnet for tourists seeking adventure and spectacular views.

The Climbing Experience

This is not your typical tourist stairway.

The steep angle (110-120 degrees) means you are essentially climbing almost straight up the mountainside.

Each of the 300 steps tests your endurance, but the cool mountain breeze, singing birds, and increasingly spectacular views provide motivation to keep going.

As you ascend, the landscape opens up dramatically.

The dense forest gives way to panoramic vistas of Khagrachari rolling hills, winding rivers, and patchwork valleys.

From the summit, you can see almost the entire Khagrachari town spread below like a miniature model, creating a bird-eye view that rivals the mountain scenery of Nepal or Bhutan.

Hilltop Village Life

At the top, you will find yourself in a remote Tripura ethnic community village.

The villagers are friendly and welcoming to respectful visitors.

This is a rare opportunity to experience authentic hill tribe culture, see traditional bamboo houses, and understand how indigenous communities live in harmony with the challenging mountainous terrain.

The summit itself offers 360-degree views of the surrounding Chittagong Hill Tracts.

On clear days, you can see layer upon layer of blue-green mountains stretching to the horizon, with wisps of cloud drifting through the valleys below.

A Hidden Gem

Despite its spectacular nature, Stair of Heaven remains relatively undeveloped for tourism, which is part of its charm.

There are no crowds, no commercialization, and no ticket booths—just you, nature, and an authentic hill country experience.

However, this also means you need to come prepared with supplies, proper footwear, and a sense of adventure.

Best For

This attraction is ideal for physically fit travelers who enjoy hiking, photography enthusiasts seeking dramatic landscapes, and anyone wanting to experience authentic hill tribe culture away from tourist crowds.

The challenging climb makes it unsuitable for young children, elderly visitors, or anyone with mobility issues.

Visitors often combine this with trips to Alutila Cave and the Hanging Bridge for a complete Khagrachhari experience.

The name "Stair of Heaven" is well earned.

Standing at the summit, with the entire Khagrachari district spread below and endless mountains stretching to every horizon, you truly feel like you have climbed to touch the sky.

From Khagrachari Town: 3 km + 2-Hour Hike

Reaching the Stair of Heaven requires a combination of local transport and a challenging but rewarding hike through beautiful hill country.

The journey itself is part of the adventure.

Step 1: Getting to Jamtali/Jamtoli

Starting Point

Begin at Chengi Square (চেংগী চত্বর) in central Khagrachari town.

This is the main commercial area and easy to reach from any accommodation in town.

Transportation Options

Route

Take the Panchhari-Khagrachari road heading toward Panchhari.

After about 3 kilometers, get off at Jamtali (also spelled Jamtoli) passenger shelter.

Look for Paltan Joy Government Primary School—this is a key landmark.

Journey time: 10-15 minutes from Chengi Square

Step 2: Buying Supplies

Before Starting the Hike

Stop at the small shops near Paltan Joy Government Primary School.

This is your last chance to buy:

You can also arrange a local guide here if needed (highly recommended for first-time visitors).

Step 3: The Hike to Stair of Heaven

Trail Overview

From Jamtali, you will hike approximately 2 hours through hilly, winding paths.

The trail passes through:

Trail Difficulty

Navigation

The trail is not well-signposted.

Options:

1.

Hire a local guide from Jamtali area (BDT 300-500) - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

2.

Follow local villagers if they are heading that direction

3.

Use offline GPS with pre-downloaded coordinates (23.0895, 91.9598)

4.

Ask directions along the way—locals are friendly and helpful

What to Expect

Step 4: Climbing the Stairway

Once you reach the base of the iron stairway:

Return Journey

Same route in reverse.

The hike down is faster (1.5-2 hours) but requires care on steep sections.

Try to start your return by 3:00 PM to avoid hiking in darkness.

Important Logistics

Best Departure Time from Khagrachari

Total Journey Time

Special Considerations

Minimal Facilities – Come Fully Prepared

The Stair of Heaven is a remote, undeveloped natural attraction with virtually no modern tourist facilities.

This is part of its authentic charm, but it means you must come completely self-sufficient.

What IS Available

At Jamtali Starting Point

On the Trail

At the Summit

What is NOT Available (Critical)

No Toilets or Washrooms

No Food or Drink Services

No Accommodation

No Medical Facilities

No Communication Infrastructure

No Safety Infrastructure

No Commercial Amenities

What You MUST Bring

Essential Supplies

Safety Equipment

Comfort Items

Practical Advice

Use Facilities Before You Go

Use toilets, buy supplies, and have a meal in Khagrachari before departing.

The Jamtali area has very limited options, and beyond that, there is nothing.

Waste Management

There are no trash bins on the trail or summit.

You must carry out ALL your waste.

Bring a plastic bag for your trash and dispose of it properly when you return to Khagrachari.

Emergency Preparedness

Inform your hotel or a local contact of your plans.

Download offline maps.

Bring a basic first aid kit.

Travel in groups rather than solo.

Local Community Respect

While the hilltop Tripura villagers are generally welcoming, remember this is their home, not a tourist resort.

Do not expect services.

If they offer assistance or refreshments, offer to pay respectfully.

The Reality Check

This is NOT a developed tourist destination with visitor centers, guided tours, and amenities.

It is a remote hilltop with a spectacular stairway, surrounded by natural beauty and inhabited by a small indigenous community.

If you need modern comforts, organized facilities, and safety infrastructure, this may not be the right destination for you.

But if you are an adventurous traveler who appreciates raw, authentic experiences and can handle self-sufficient trekking, the Stair of Heaven offers an unforgettable journey.

In Summary

Expect almost no facilities.

Come prepared, respect the environment, and embrace the adventure.

Adventure Hiking and Scenic Activities

Visiting the Stair of Heaven is all about the journey and the spectacular views from the top.

Here are the main activities and experiences you can enjoy:

1. Challenging Stairway Climb

The Main Attraction

What Makes It Special

This is not a casual stroll—it is a genuine physical challenge that rewards you with immense satisfaction.

The near-vertical climb gives you a sense of truly conquering the mountain.

Nearby Attractions to Combine

Tips

2. Panoramic Photography

Spectacular Views

Best Shots

Photography Tips

3. Forest Hiking and Nature Walk

The Approach Trail

Nature Observation

4. Cultural Immersion

Tripura Village Experience

At the summit, you will encounter authentic Tripura ethnic community life:

What You Can Experience

Cultural Etiquette

5. Summit Relaxation and Contemplation

At the Top

What to Bring

Summary

The Stair of Heaven offers a raw, authentic adventure experience.

The main activities are hiking, climbing, photography, and cultural immersion—all centered around the spectacular natural beauty and physical challenge of reaching this remote hilltop paradise.