A 'budget-friendly' day trip to Bandarban

What if Bandarban, the hill city of Bangladesh, typically requiring multiple days to explore, could be experienced in less than 24 hours? It might sound impossible, but that's precisely what is happening today.

In recent years, several social media groups have begun organising a day trip to Bandarban, offering travellers the chance to see multiple attractions without spending days away from home. The question arises: Is it truly possible to make Bandarban a day trip, covering as much as possible while keeping costs 'low'? What are the challenges? And how should one take preparations, keeping winter in mind?

Arranging a day trip

These social media tour groups usually plan trips with a specific number of participants, often around 40 travellers per bus, guided by experienced tour guides. For such one-day trips, the charge typically ranges from 1,500 to 2,000 taka per person, which covers almost everything a traveller needs: transportation, meals, rides in local vehicles called Chander Gari, entry fees to major tourist spots, and safety and security.

How is it possible? One of the main reasons such trips are likely to be 'low-cost' is economies of scale. When more people travel together, the per-person cost decreases significantly.

For instance, a local jeep known as a Chander Gari generally charges 5,000 to 6,000 taka for a full day. Winter is the prime season. So, prices might rise. If only two or three people hire it, each person would pay 2,500 to 3,000 taka. However, within a group, each Chander Gari can accommodate up to 12 passengers, reducing the cost per person. Similarly, meal expenses drop as large groups share the price, and the tour organisers often handle entry fees for multiple sites.

Pros and Cons of the trip

Travelling in a group reduces costs and also allows you to explore multiple locations efficiently and safely, especially in areas where navigating on your own can be challenging. However, group members also find it difficult and tiresome due to delays that may occur; for example, coordinating transportation for a large number of travellers can be time-consuming.

Mr Ali Ahmed, one of the members, said, "I have busy weeks, cannot make time for long trips, so a day trip is useful to me." Another member, on the contratry found the trip hectic, said, "Yes, I got to see so many spots in a day, but it was not properly organised. However, I enjoyed covering many spots in a day, safely and securely, which I don't have to worry about."

Sometimes you might not like your group members, as they are mostly strangers. Despite these challenges, group tours can provide 'budget-friendly', easy access to Bandarban's natural beauty.

Preparation for winter

Bandarban is cold mainly at night and early in the morning. One must take warm clothes that cover the ears and keep the hands warm. The more time you spend, the more you see clouds and sun rays. It is hot at noon; the sun's rays fall directly on the head, which can give one a headache. One must carry water to keep hydrated. The roads in the mountains are bumpy and unpredictable, so one should be aware of this before committing to a day trip; it will be hectic.

Beginning of the journey

The trip began with an overnight bus ride from Dhaka's Sayedabad Bus Terminal, a long journey through winding roads and small towns.

The group arrived in Bandarban town at 5:30 AM, when the city was not wake; only a few vehicles were there to welcome.

Street vendors were setting up their stalls, early risers were preparing for the day, and the crisp morning air carried a hint of mist from the surrounding hills.

After a quick breakfast at a local restaurant and some time to freshen up, the trip members waited hours for Chander Gari. The final destination was Nilgiri, while stopping at other tourist attractions along the way.

Exploring Bandarban in a day

The first stop was Shailapropat Waterfall, one of Bandarban's iconic waterfalls. Though winter had reduced the water flow, the waterfall's beauty was undiminished.

Travellers descended to the base, clicking photos and loving the tranquil atmosphere. The layered rocks wrapped in water, and the big trees behind, give a view that anyone would love to witness.

Chimbuk Hill is the next destination, famously known for its breathtaking views. The area features swings, sculptures, and creative structures that harmonise perfectly with nature.

The climb from the base to the peak was moderately challenging, especially for older travellers, but reaching the top rewarded people with unparalleled views of the rolling hills and dense forests.

The Titanic viewpoint is another 'must-visit' landscape for the day trip.

A triangular platform offering stunning views of clouds feels like hugging the hills. This was followed by Double View Point, one of the tour's most photogenic stops. Here, the sky felt so close that it seemed you could almost touching them, while the surrounding mountains provided an awe-inspiring backdrop for photography and reflection.

Indigenous people display their products, offering fresh fruits such as locally produced bananas, papayas, and pineapples. Hill bananas can be a delightful experience, as they are fresh, sweet, and surprisingly affordable.

Nilgiri and scenic view

After exploring the viewpoints, the group drove further to Nilgiri, a well-maintained area dotted with the shades of many resorts.

Nilgiri offer walking paths, resting spots, scenic views, and areas for children to play, making it a versatile destination for travellers of all ages.

Some locations required small entry fees, such as Chimbuk Hill (20 taka) and Nilgiri (100 taka), which tour groups conveniently managed.

The well-kept paths and gardens make it easy to enjoy the panoramic views of Bandarban's lush landscapes and distant hills.

Returning to Bandarban town, having lunch at the same restaurant where the group had breakfast, refuelling for the final leg of the day. In the evening, the group visited Nilachal, arguably the most enchanting spot of the trip.

Buying local products from the Burmese market

If you want to have handwoven fabrics, bamboo utensils, clay pots, traditional jewellery, and handmade bags for your loved ones, this is the place. However, your bargaining skills will determine how much you can save. Usually, they charge a high price for garment products, but one can buy them at almost half price.

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