BANGLADESH

The Chittagong Hill Tracts is the only major hill region in Bangladesh. Situated in the southeast of the country, this Bangladeshi mountain range covers around 13,184 km squared or one-tenth of Bangladesh's land area. Keokradong is a well known mountain in Bangladesh and was at one stage considered the highest point in the country.
The Chittagong Mountains feature hogback ridges with steep inclines. To the west there are several scarps featuring waterfalls and cliffs. Large rivers such as the Feni, Sangu, Karnafuli and Matamuhuri empty into the Bay of Bengal. The major mountain ranges in Bangladesh's Chittagong Hill Tracts are Barkal, Phoromain, Saichal, Dolajeri, Wayla, Bhuachhari, Muranja, Chimbook, Saichal-Mowdok, Batimain, Politai and others. Anticlines in the hill ranges trap natural gases in the mountains.
Within the hills there are two natural lakes and a man-made lake, Rainkhiangkine Lake, Bagakine Lake and Kaptai Lake respectively. The soils of the region are chiefly brownish loam to shale or sandstone at various depths. The soil is also very acidic. This Bangladeshi mountain range has a tropical monsoon climate. From June to October it is monsoon season and the weather is warm and wet. The hills contain thick natural vegetation and agricultural farming takes place in the valleys. Thick bamboo forests, creeper jungles and large trees stretch across the mountain ranges in Bangladesh. The valleys feature verdant forests. Animal life in the hills includes various snake species (examples: king cobras, rat snakes and reticulated pythons), monkeys, jungle cats, wild boars, fishing cats and foxes. A wide variety of amphibians and other reptiles also reside here. Birdwatchers will be amazed at the abundance of bird life in the Chittagong hills.
Living in the Chittagong Hill Tracts are some 13 tribes that are further divided into almost 100 sects. The majority are Mongolian tribes such as Tipra, Magh, Murong and Chakma. Many of the tribes believe in animism whilst others follow Buddhism, Hinduism and Christianity.
Several tour operators offer treks and cultural visits to the mountains of Bangladesh. This is a great way to experience both the natural beauty of the country and its people.