The hustle and bustle of everyday life can become overwhelming, and sometimes, we all need a break to clear our minds. Finding a place with serene natural beauty, far from the distractions of mobile phones, is essential. And if it’s budget-friendly, that’s even better.
So, I decided to seek solace through a travel agency. With the guidance of a friend, I booked a ticket to Devatakhum, a dense forest located in Rawangchari Upazila of Bandarban.
On October 13, we embarked on our journey. We took a bus from Arambagh in Motijheel at 11 pm and arrived in Bandarban at 7 am. To our surprise, there was another vehicle waiting for us. The travel agency had arranged it for the entire day, covering both the journey there and back.
To reach Devatakhum from Bandarban, the first step is to head to Rowangchari police station, where you need to obtain permission from the police. After that, you proceed to Kachhapatali Army Camp, where you need to seek the army’s permission as well. Fortunately, our guide efficiently handled these tasks. The distance from Bandarban city to Rowangchari is about 20 km, and from Rowangchari to Kachchapatli, it’s approximately 5-6 km.
Once we obtained the necessary permissions, our journey to Devatakhum began. The experience was unforgettable, with breathtaking views of mountains, lush forests, and meandering streams etched in my memory.
To reach Devatakhum from Kachchapatli, it takes about an hour and a half. Each raft can accommodate one person, and there’s a larger boat that can hold up to ten people. Life jackets are provided for safety. Devatakhum boasts a depth of 50 feet and stretches 600 feet in length. As you near the end of Devatakhum, the terrain becomes challenging.
You’ll find yourself almost suspended by tree roots on steep, moss-covered rocks. There’s a real risk of drowning in deep waters or sustaining head injuries if you’re not a strong swimmer.
Despite the challenges, I’ve always found mountain trips exhilarating. There’s something about navigating steep terrain, both uphill and downhill, that brings a sense of tranquility. Nature has a way of burying any sorrows that may weigh on your mind.
So, despite the risks and obstacles, a journey through the mountains always promises a thrilling adventure, and the peace and solace found amidst nature are worth every bit of effort.
Author: Feature writer and journalist (Jagonews24)
