Photo: Collected

KHAGRACHARI, Oct 27, 2025 (BSS) – Khagrachari district, a land characterized by a beautiful convergence of hills, rivers, streams, and numerous waterfalls amidst a lush green environment and diverse community, holds immense potential for a flourishing tourism economy centered around its small and large scenic waterfalls.

This vibrant green forest region offers a unique status compared to other areas of the country and is widely considered a region of vast potential.

While the area is highly attractive to visitors, local residents often refer to it as 'Heaven on Earth'.

Tourism stakeholders are urging prompt action to ensure the sustainable development of this sector. Key to unlocking this potential is the creation of adequate infrastructure and road networks to facilitate easy communication, which officials believe will significantly increase tourist footfall. Development in remote tourism areas is also expected to boost local employment.

Khagrachari boasts approximately 10 major and minor waterfalls, including Risang, Sijok, Toiduchara, Shilachhari and Tuari Mairang. These natural cascades vary in height, typically ranging from 80 to 150 feet.

 Talking to BSS, local people noted that a lack of adequate infrastructure has previously resulted in lower tourist traffic to these wild, mountainous spots, often preventing visitors from enjoying their beauty due to difficult accessibility.

They mentioned that the Risang Waterfall stands out as a primary attraction for visitors to Khagrachari.

Every year, a substantial number of tourists visit, especially during festivals, eager to bathe in its cool waters, they added.

Located approximately 11 kilometers from the Khagrachari district headquarters, Risang is situated about one kilometer south of the Khagrachari-Dhaka regional highway.

Risang Waterfall gained prominence among travelers in 2003 and has since cemented its place as a key tourist spot in Khagrachari. Following initiatives by the District Administration and District Council, roads have been constructed, allowing tourists easier access.

Water plunges from a hill approximately 35 meters (or 100 feet) high, creating a spectacular view that visitors can enjoy for hours. For visitor convenience, paved stairs have been built on the small hilly path leading to the waterfall.

 According to residents of the hilly district,  new adventure tourism potential has emerged with the recent discovery of the Toilafang Waterfall, located in the remote Katalmoni Para area of Matiranga.

This cascade, which drops water from approximately 50 feet high, is already attracting local adventure lovers despite its challenging location, they mentioned.

Reaching Toilafang is described as a highly adventurous and perilous journey. It requires navigating remote routes and conquering two difficult hills. Tourists traveling from Panchhari or Matiranga must take the Panchhari-Toblachhari road, disembarking near Katalmoni Para.

The subsequent path is a rough track, covering 6-7 kilometers in the rainy season (requiring walking) or 4-5 kilometers (accessible by motorcycle) in the dry season. The walk from the main paved road to the waterfall can take about two hours.

A visitor from Rangamati noted that while the route is risky, if the government were to develop communication systems and planned infrastructure, Toilafang could significantly boost the area's economic prosperity and improve local standards of living.

Khagrachari Deputy Commissioner A.B.M Iftekharul Islam Khandker confirmed that the administration plans to take all necessary steps to make Toilafang Waterfall attractive to tourists.

He noted that significant development has already been undertaken at Risang Waterfall, and stressed that the local tourism sector is a top priority.

The deputy commissioner announced that a site inspection and feasibility study will be carried out at Toilafang, followed by the initiation of road infrastructure development, ensuring that the natural environment is preserved.

Additionally, District Police Superintendent Md. Arifin Jewel stated that security is a priority in tourism areas and that police protection will be provided as new tourist centers are established.

For tourists planning a visit to Khagrachari, several popular sites—including Risang Waterfall, Alutila Cave, the Buddhist Temple, and the District Council Hanging Bridge—are located close to one another.

A group of 10-12 people can reserve a Chander Gari for approximately Taka 2000 to Taka 3000 to visit all these locations, a trip requiring five to six hours.

Road communications between Khagrachari district and rest of the country are available and affordable.  The hilly district with gifted natural beauty can be the most attractive tourist destination for tourism lovers of the country.        

Khagrachari city offers various residential hotels, with prices for a one-night stay ranging from Taka 400 to Taka 3500.