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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
There is no official entry fee to visit the Stair of Heaven or hike the trail.
The iron stairway and surrounding area are open to the public without any ticketing or admission system.
While not mandatory, hiring a guide is HIGHLY recommended:
Small expenses you may encounter:
Even though there is no entry fee:
The attraction itself is free, but budget BDT 400-600 per person for guide fees and small incidental costs.
The biggest expense will be transportation to/from Khagrachari and supplies.
The Stair of Heaven is a natural, undeveloped attraction with no gates, guards, or official operating hours.
Technically, you can visit any time, but practical and safety considerations mean there are strong recommendations for when to go.
Sunrise: ~5:30-6:00 AM (seasonal variation)
Sunset: ~5:30-6:00 PM (seasonal variation)
You MUST begin your descent from the summit by 2:00-3:00 PM at the absolute latest to ensure you reach Khagrachari before dark.
From dawn (~ 6:00 AM) until you must start return journey (~ 3:00 PM maximum)
Some adventurous travelers ask about full moon hikes
While technically "open" 24/7 since there are no gates or restrictions, the only SAFE and PRACTICAL visiting hours are:
Plan accordingly and do not deviate from daylight hours for safety reasons.
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.
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.
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
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).
From Jamtali, you will hike approximately 2 hours through hilly, winding paths.
The trail passes through:
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
Once you reach the base of the iron stairway:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Expect almost no facilities.
Come prepared, respect the environment, and embrace the adventure.
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:
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.
At the summit, you will encounter authentic Tripura ethnic community life:
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.
Following these guidelines will ensure your safety, protect the environment, respect the local community, and enhance your overall experience at this remote attraction.
This attraction is NOT recommended for:
The Stair of Heaven is a spectacular but challenging and remote destination.
Follow these guidelines to ensure a safe, respectful, and memorable adventure.
When in doubt, prioritize safety and cultural sensitivity.
The Stair of Heaven involves a 2-hour jungle hike followed by a steep 300-step climb on a 110-120 degree iron stairway to reach 1,208 feet elevation.
This is NOT a casual tourist attraction—it requires physical fitness, proper preparation, and respect for potential hazards.
1.
Stop moving and stay calm—don panic
2.
Use your whistle (3 short blasts = distress signal)
3.
Stay on the trail—do not wander into dense forest
4.
Try to contact someone if you have phone signal
5.
Follow streams downhill (they lead to villages eventually)
6.
Stay put if it gets dark—wait for rescue at first light
1.
Assess the injury—can the person walk or is evacuation needed?
2.
Provide first aid if trained
3.
Do NOT move someone with suspected spine or neck injury
4.
Send someone to get help from nearest village or back to Jamtali
5.
Keep injured person warm, hydrated, and calm
6.
Be realistic—professional rescue may take many hours
Warning signs: Heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, headache
Warning signs: Confused behavior, hot dry skin, rapid pulse, loss of consciousness
Before you go, save these numbers:
The Stair of Heaven is a spectacular but genuinely challenging and remote destination.
Most accidents happen from:
1.
Rushing or showing off
2.
Ignoring weather conditions
3.
Inadequate physical preparation
4.
Not bringing a guide
5.
Hiking alone
Take this adventure seriously, prepare properly, listen to your body, and respect the mountain.
The views are worth it, but they are not worth risking your life.
Visiting the Stair of Heaven is a full-day commitment.
The remote location and challenging terrain mean you need to allocate an entire day for this adventure.
7:00 AM: Depart Khagrachari hotel
7:30 AM: Arrive Jamtali, buy supplies, meet guide
7:45 AM: Begin forest hike
9:45 AM: Arrive at base of stairway, short rest
10:00 AM: Begin climbing stairs
10:30 AM: Reach summit
10:30 AM - 12:30 PM: Enjoy summit (2 hours)
12:30 PM: Begin descent of stairs
1:00 PM: Start return hike through forest
3:00 PM: Arrive back at Jamtali
3:30 PM: Return to Khagrachari
4:00 PM: Arrive hotel (well before sunset)
Add 1-2 hours to your estimate as safety buffer.
Better to return early than be caught after dark.
Plan for 8-10 hours total.
They will need more breaks and encouragement.
Plan for 9-11 hours total, or consider whether this trip is appropriate.
Plan for 8-9 hours to allow time for proper photo sessions.
Add 1 hour to standard estimates due to trail uncertainty.
Block out a full day (7-8 hours minimum) for this adventure.
Start early (7:00 AM), pace yourself, and ensure you begin your return journey by 2:00-3:00 PM at the latest.
This is not a quick half-day excursion—it is a serious full-day trekking adventure that requires proper time allocation and planning.
The ideal time to visit Stair of Heaven is during the cooler dry season from October through March.
These months offer the most comfortable hiking conditions, clearest views, and safest trails.
This is the best time for photography enthusiasts.
Clear atmospheric conditions provide:
If you must visit during monsoon, the landscape is incredibly lush and green, waterfalls are at their most impressive, and you will have the place to yourself.
But be prepared for challenging, potentially unsafe conditions.
For the absolute best experience—comfortable hiking, spectacular clear views, and safe conditions—visit between November and February.
This timing maximizes your chances of a memorable and rewarding adventure to the Stair of Heaven.
The Stair of Heaven is one of the more affordable major attractions in Khagrachari, especially if you travel in a group.
The main costs are transportation and hiring a guide—there is no entry fee.
Pack your own food from your hotel or buy from cheaper shops in Khagrachari market rather than expensive Jamtali roadside shops.
Despite being the most expensive day trip in Khagrachari, the Stair of Heaven offers:
Recommended Safe Budget: BDT 1,000-1,200 per person
This ensures you have guide, proper food, transport, and buffer for unexpected costs without breaking the bank.
The Stair of Heaven is affordable for most budgets, especially when traveling in a group.
Budget BDT 800-1,200 per person for a safe, comfortable experience.
The adventure, views, and memories you gain are absolutely worth this modest investment.
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Debota Pukur, meaning "God's Pond" in Bengali, is a serene mountain lake nestled in the lush green hills of Khagrachhari district. Located in a remote area of the Chittagong Hill Tracts, this natural lake is one of the hidden gems of the region, offering visitors a peaceful escape into nature. **Natural Beauty and Setting** The lake sits at an elevation that provides stunning panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Crystal-clear water reflects the sky and surrounding vegetation, creating a mirror-like surface that photographers find irresistible. The water remains cool year-round due to natural springs feeding the lake from underground sources. Surrounded by dense forest and bamboo groves, Debota Pukur creates a tranquil atmosphere perfect for relaxation and meditation. The area around the lake is home to various species of birds, butterflies, and small wildlife, making it an excellent spot for nature enthusiasts. The sound of chirping birds and rustling leaves adds to the peaceful ambiance. The lake shares similarities with [Khagrachari Lake](/tourist-places/khagrachari-lake), another beautiful water body in the district. **Cultural and Local Significance** Local indigenous communities, particularly the [Marma people](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marma_people), consider this lake sacred and believe it has spiritual significance. According to local folklore, the lake was created by divine intervention, hence the name "Debota Pukur" or "God's Pond". The local communities have protected this natural wonder for generations, maintaining its pristine condition. During certain times of the year, local people perform traditional rituals and prayers near the lake, adding a cultural dimension to your visit. Visitors are expected to respect these customs and maintain the sanctity of the place. **Visitor Experience** The journey to Debota Pukur itself is an adventure, taking you through winding hill roads with breathtaking views of Khagrachhari's landscape. The lake offers a perfect spot for picnics, photography, and simply unwinding away from city life. Many visitors combine their trip to Debota Pukur with other nearby attractions like [Alutila Cave](/tourist-places/alutila-cave), [Richhang Waterfall](/tourist-places/richhang-waterfall), or the [Hanging Bridge](/tourist-places/hanging-bridge). The best time to experience the lake is early morning when mist often hangs over the water, creating an ethereal atmosphere. The play of light and shadow as the sun rises over the hills is truly magical. The area around the lake has been kept relatively undeveloped, preserving its natural charm while providing basic facilities for visitors.
Maischari Dam, officially known as the Panchhari Rubber Dam, is an engineering marvel and scenic tourist attraction built on the Chengi River in the Shantipur area of Panchhari Upazila, Khagrachhari District. This innovative rubber dam serves a dual purpose - providing crucial irrigation to the region while creating a beautiful water reservoir that has become a popular destination for nature lovers and visitors. **An Engineering Solution for Hill Agriculture:** The Chengi River, often called the "lifeline" of Khagrachhari, flows from Panchhari through Khagrachhari Sadar and Mahalchhari before merging with [Kaptai Lake](/tourist-places/kaptai-lake). However, the river faces a major challenge - it swells during monsoon but dries up from January to March, making irrigation nearly impossible for local farmers. The rubber dam was installed to solve this critical water management problem. The [Chittagong Hill Tracts](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chittagong_Hill_Tracts) region has many such water management challenges. **Transforming Agriculture:** Since the dam's construction, at least 1,500 acres of previously uncultivated land have come under cultivation during the dry season. The dam stores water during the rainy season and releases it gradually, allowing farmers to irrigate their fields year-round. This has significantly improved agricultural productivity in one of Bangladesh's driest regions. **A Scenic Water Body:** Beyond its practical function, the dam creates a beautiful reservoir that attracts tourists. The water body formed by the dam offers peaceful views surrounded by rolling hills, making it a refreshing stop for visitors exploring the Khagrachhari area. The sight of water held back by the rubber dam against the backdrop of green hills creates a picturesque landscape. **What Makes It Special:** Unlike traditional concrete dams, a [rubber dam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rubber_dam) uses an inflatable rubber membrane that can be raised or lowered as needed. When inflated, it holds back water to create the reservoir. When deflated, it allows water to flow freely - a flexible solution perfect for seasonal rivers in hilly terrain. **Part of Panchhari's Attractions:** The dam is located near other notable Panchhari attractions. Many tourists combine visits to the dam with trips to other Khagrachhari attractions like [Alutila Cave](/tourist-places/alutila-cave) and [Richhang Waterfall](/tourist-places/richhang-waterfall). The area around the dam also features forest huts, Buddhist shrines, and rural landscapes that give visitors a glimpse into life in the Chittagong Hill Tracts. **Lifeline of a Dry Region:** Panchhari Upazila is one of the driest areas in Bangladesh, with acute drinking water shortages and a long dry winter lasting from December to April. The Chengi River and this dam play a vital role in sustaining both agriculture and daily life for local communities. Visitors can appreciate not just the beauty but also the critical importance of this infrastructure. **Environmental Awareness:** While the dam serves an important purpose, environmental challenges exist. Silt deposits are steadily filling the river, reducing its depth and water-carrying capacity. Temporary embankments put up for irrigation contribute to this issue. Visitors can observe these real-world water management challenges in action.
Khagrachari Lake is a beautiful artificial lake located within the Hill District Council Horticulture Park (also known as HDCH Park) in the heart of Khagrachari town. This peaceful lake serves as the centerpiece of the 22-acre park, creating a refreshing escape right in the middle of the bustling hill district headquarters. **A Lake Within a Park:** Unlike remote natural lakes, Khagrachari Lake sits within a well-maintained recreational park at Zeromile, making it easily accessible for both locals and tourists. The artificial lake was created as part of the park development to enhance the natural beauty of the hills and provide a relaxing spot for families, couples, and nature lovers. The [Chittagong Hill Tracts](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chittagong_Hill_Tracts) region features many such scenic water bodies. **Scenic Beauty:** The lake is surrounded by rolling hills, lush greenery, and well-manicured gardens. The water reflects the surrounding hills and sky, creating picture-perfect views especially during golden hour. The park's landscaping combines natural hill terrain with modern facilities, making it a unique blend of nature and development. **Part of a Larger Attraction:** Khagrachari Lake is just one highlight within the broader park complex. The park also features the famous [Hanging Bridge](/tourist-places/hanging-bridge), children's play areas, walking trails, picnic spots, and an observation tower. This makes a visit to the lake part of a more comprehensive park experience rather than a standalone attraction. **Urban Oasis:** What makes this lake special is its location right in town - you don't need long travel or difficult treks to enjoy it. It's perfect for evening walks, family outings, romantic strolls, or simply relaxing by the water after exploring other Khagrachari attractions like [Alutila Cave](/tourist-places/alutila-cave) or [Richhang Waterfall](/tourist-places/richhang-waterfall). **Social Hub:** The lake area has become a popular meeting point and photo spot for locals and visitors alike. You'll often see families enjoying picnics on the lakeside, couples walking the pathways, photographers capturing the scenery, and groups of friends chatting on the benches scattered around the water's edge.
Hazachara Waterfall, also known as Hajachora or Shuknachara Falls, is one of the most beautiful and captivating waterfalls in the Khagrachari hill district. This natural wonder showcases the untouched beauty of Bangladesh's hill tracts with crystal-clear water cascading down rocky terrain surrounded by dense tropical forest. **Location and Setting:** Hazachara Waterfall is located in the Baghaighat area of Sajek union under Baghaichori upazila. While technically part of Rangamati district, the waterfall is most easily accessed via Khagrachari, making it a popular destination for tourists exploring the Khagrachari region. The waterfall sits in a remote, pristine natural setting where civilization feels far away. The area is part of the [Chittagong Hill Tracts](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chittagong_Hill_Tracts), known for its stunning natural beauty. **Local Names and Significance:** The locals know this waterfall by multiple names. "Ten Number Waterfall" refers to its location near the Number 10 Police Post. In the indigenous language, it's called "Chit Jurani Thangzhang Jharna" which translates to "Man Shanti Jhorna" (Peaceful Waterfall) - a fitting name given the tranquil atmosphere surrounding it. **The Waterfall Experience:** Hazachara presents a stunning spectacle as water tumbles down from heights, creating a melodious natural symphony. The waterfall flows year-round, though its character changes dramatically with the seasons. During the monsoon months, it transforms into a powerful torrent with abundant water crashing down. In the dry season, the flow becomes gentler, revealing more of the underlying rock formations. It shares similarities with [Richhang Waterfall](/tourist-places/richhang-waterfall), another beautiful cascade in the region. **The Journey:** Reaching Hazachara Waterfall is an adventure in itself. The journey involves traveling through scenic hill roads from Khagrachari to Dighinala. From the main road near the Number 10 Police Post, visitors must trek through wilderness for approximately 10-15 minutes to reach the waterfall. This short jungle hike adds to the sense of discovery and adventure. **Natural Surroundings:** The area around Hazachara is blessed with extraordinary natural beauty. Dense forests envelop the waterfall, creating a cool, shaded environment. The journey from Dighinala to the waterfall treats visitors to breathtaking vistas - verdant hills, winding mountain paths, and glimpses of traditional hill villages. The pristine nature remains largely untouched by commercial development. For similar scenic experiences, visitors often combine this with trips to [Alutila Cave](/tourist-places/alutila-cave) and the [Hanging Bridge](/tourist-places/hanging-bridge). **Important Safety Notice:** It's important to note that authorities have imposed restrictions on visiting Hazachara Waterfall due to safety concerns. The remote location, challenging terrain, and lack of developed infrastructure pose risks. However, adventurous travelers continue to visit, often with local guides who know the safe routes and current conditions.