Alutila Cave, also known as Alutila Guha, is located in the Khagrachari district of the Chittagong Hill Tracts. It is a popular natural attraction featuring a dark tunnel about 100 meters long, with a stream running through it. The cave is situated near the Alutila tourist spot, about 7 kilometers from Khagrachari town.
To reach Alutila Cave, you first need to get to Khagrachari town. The most common starting point is Dhaka. From Dhaka, you can take a direct bus to Khagrachari. Several bus companies operate on this route, including Shanti Paribahan and S. Alam. The journey takes about 7 to 8 hours depending on traffic and road conditions. Buses depart from the Gabtoli or Sayedabad bus terminals in Dhaka. Ticket prices range from 500 to 800 BDT for a regular seat. It is advisable to book in advance, especially during holidays.
Alternatively, you can take a train from Dhaka to Chattogram or Comilla, and then continue by bus or CNG to Khagrachari. The train journey to Chattogram takes about 5 to 6 hours, and from there, a bus to Khagrachari takes another 4 to 5 hours. This route may be more scenic but takes longer overall.
Once you arrive in Khagrachari town, you can hire a CNG (auto-rickshaw) or a local jeep to reach Alutila Cave. The distance is about 7 kilometers, and the ride takes around 15 to 20 minutes. The fare for a CNG is approximately 200 to 300 BDT. The road is paved but narrow in parts.
Permits and Entry Rules for Alutila Cave
Since Alutila Cave is located in the Chittagong Hill Tracts, foreign visitors need a permit to enter the region. Bangladeshi citizens do not require a permit. For foreigners, the permit is issued by the Deputy Commissioner’s office in Khagrachari or through a registered tour operator. The permit is free of charge but requires a photocopy of your passport and visa. It is best to arrange it in advance through a local travel agency.
At the cave entrance, there is a small ticket counter. Entry fee for local visitors is 20 BDT, and for foreigners, it is 100 BDT. The cave is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM every day. Inside the cave, there is no lighting, so carry a torch or headlamp. The floor can be slippery, so wear sturdy shoes. The stream inside may be knee-deep in some places during the rainy season.
Best Time to Visit Alutila Cave
The best time to visit Alutila Cave is during the dry season, from November to March. During these months, the weather is pleasant and the water level inside the cave is lower, making it easier to walk through. The monsoon season (June to October) brings heavy rain, and the stream inside the cave can rise significantly, sometimes making entry dangerous. The cave may also be closed during extreme weather. If you visit in winter, bring a light jacket as the cave can be cool and damp.
Weekends and public holidays can be crowded, so consider visiting on a weekday for a quieter experience. The cave is part of a larger tourist complex that includes a picnic spot, a hanging bridge, and a small lake. You can spend a few hours exploring the area.
Accommodation and Food Near Alutila Cave
Most visitors stay in Khagrachari town, which has several budget and mid-range hotels. Popular options include Hotel Green Hill, Hotel Hill View, and Hotel Parjatan. Room rates range from 800 to 2000 BDT per night. There are also a few guesthouses near the cave, but they are basic. It is recommended to book accommodation in advance, especially during peak season.
For food, there are small restaurants near the cave selling snacks and drinks. In Khagrachari town, you will find a variety of local eateries serving Bengali and tribal cuisine. Try traditional dishes like bamboo shoot curry or pitha (rice cakes).
Mobile network coverage is available in Khagrachari town and near the cave, but it may be weak in some remote areas. Internet data works on 3G/4G networks. Carry cash as there are no ATMs near the cave; the nearest ATM is in Khagrachari town.
Return travel from Alutila Cave is straightforward. You can hire a CNG back to Khagrachari town, and then take a bus to Dhaka or other destinations. Bus schedules are available at the local bus stand. Confirm the last departure time to avoid being stranded.
Do I need a permit to visit Alutila Cave as a foreigner?
Yes, foreign visitors need a permit to enter the Chittagong Hill Tracts, including Alutila Cave. The permit is issued by the Deputy Commissioner’s office in Khagrachari or through a registered tour operator. It is free but requires a passport photocopy. Bangladeshi citizens do not need a permit.
What is the best time of year to visit Alutila Cave?
The best time is from November to March, during the dry season. The weather is pleasant and the water level inside the cave is low, making it easier to explore. Avoid the monsoon season (June to October) when heavy rain can cause flooding inside the cave.
How do I get from Khagrachari town to Alutila Cave?
From Khagrachari town, you can hire a CNG (auto-rickshaw) or a local jeep. The distance is about 7 kilometers and takes 15-20 minutes. The fare is approximately 200-300 BDT. The road is paved but narrow in parts.
Is there any accommodation near Alutila Cave?
Most visitors stay in Khagrachari town, which has several hotels and guesthouses. There are a few basic guesthouses near the cave, but they offer limited facilities. It is better to stay in town and take a short trip to the cave.
What should I carry when visiting Alutila Cave?
Carry a torch or headlamp as there is no lighting inside the cave. Wear sturdy, non-slip shoes as the floor can be wet and slippery. Bring a light jacket if visiting in winter. Also carry cash, as there are no ATMs near the cave.
