Bangladesh is one of the largest deltas in the world. Bangladesh is a low-altitude delta region surrounded by numerous rivers. About 9.14 meters or 30 feet above sea level. Hills exist in Chittagong Hill Tracts of Bangladesh, Chittagong, Cox’s Bazar, Mymensingh, Comilla and Sylhet.
As a child, I read in a book that Keokradong is the highest mountain in Bangladesh. But today, thanks to the many trekkers on the mountain and the invention of modern measuring devices, Keokradong is now the fifth highest peak. Most surveys put its height at 973 meters or 3,196 feet. Although the plaque placed on the top of this mountain by the Bangladesh Army has said that the height of this mountain is 3,172 feet.
Keokradong is the most popular trekking route of Bangladesh located in Ruma Upazila of Bandarban District. The name Keokradong is derived from the indigenous Marmad, meaning the highest rocky mountain.
After hearing the stories of trekking to Keokradong mountain from different people, I also wanted to climb to the top of Keokradong mountain. I chose the end of monsoon for the trip, because not only will I climb the mountains but also see various waterfalls. And if you can stay on the top of the hill on a full moon night then that will be an added bonus.
Mount Keokradong is usually climbed in groups. So I contacted a local tour group. There were 14 people including me in that group. To go to Keokradong first had to go to Bandarban. Finally, on 6 October 2022, our journey started at 11.30 pm from Fakirerpool bus stand in Dhaka.
Journey to Bandarban
Bandarban is a district in Chittagong Division of Bangladesh. Fakirerpool Bus Stand to Bandarban Bus Stand is 327 km. I landed at Bandarban the next day i.e. 7 October 2022 at 8 am. Then had breakfast at a restaurant and our next destination was Baga Lake which is considered as the base camp for climbing Keokradong mountain. From Bandarban to Baga Lake one had to ride a jeep which is locally known as “Chander Gari”. So our guide went looking for the pre-hired jeep…
To be continued…
