How to Travel to Likkhyang Waterfall in Remakri Union

If you’re planning to visit Likkhyang Waterfall, you need to know exactly how to get there. It’s not a simple walk in the park. The waterfall sits in the remote Remakri Union of Thanchi Upazila, deep in Bandarban’s hill tracts. The journey is long, but it’s one of the most rewarding in Bangladesh.

Start in Bandarban town. From Dhaka, you can take a direct bus to Bandarban. The ride takes about 8 to 10 hours, depending on traffic. Several operators run overnight services. Book your ticket a day ahead, especially on weekends. The last stretch from Chittagong to Bandarban is winding, so if you get motion sickness, carry medicine.

Once in Bandarban, head to the Thanchi jeep stand. Shared jeeps leave early in the morning, usually between 6 and 8 AM. The journey to Thanchi takes around 3 to 4 hours. The road is rough, with sharp bends and steep climbs. Hold on tight. You’ll pass through forests and small settlements. The last part of the road, from Thanchi to Remakri, is only open for about 20 kilometers. The rest you’ll cover on foot or by boat.

The Permit and Entry Rules

Remakri Union is in a restricted area. You need a permit from the Deputy Commissioner’s office in Bandarban. Your hotel can arrange it, or you can do it yourself. Bring your passport and two copies of your photo. The permit costs around 500 taka for foreigners and 200 taka for locals. It’s valid for a few days. The office is open Sunday to Thursday, from 9 AM to 5 PM. Don’t skip this step. Without it, you’ll be turned back.

During the monsoon, from June to September, the road to Remakri often becomes impassable. Landslides and floods are common. The waterfall itself is more powerful, but the risk isn’t worth it. Check the weather and road conditions before you go. The dry season, from November to March, is the safest time.

Getting to the Waterfall from Thanchi

From Thanchi, you can take a local boat down the Sangu River to Remakri. Boats leave when they have enough passengers. The ride takes about 2 to 3 hours. It’s a scenic trip, with hills on both sides. If the river is low, you might need to walk part of the way. The boat will drop you at Remakri bazaar. From there, Likkhyang Waterfall is about a 40-minute walk. The trail is uphill and can be slippery. Wear sturdy shoes with good grip.

Alternatively, you can hire a local guide in Thanchi. They know the way and can help with language. The guide fee is reasonable, around 500 to 1000 taka per day. It’s worth it, especially if you’re not used to hiking.

Where to Stay and What to Expect

Remakri has a few basic guesthouses. They’re simple, with thin mattresses and shared bathrooms. Don’t expect luxury. You can also stay in Thanchi and do a day trip, but that means early starts and late returns. The waterfall itself is about 100 feet tall. The water is cold and clear. You can swim in the pool below, but be careful of the rocks.

There’s no mobile network in Remakri. Let someone know your plans before you leave. Carry cash, as there are no ATMs. Food is limited to local eateries serving rice and dal. Bring snacks and water. The locals are friendly, but they speak Marma and Bengali, so a few words of Bengali help.

Returning to Bandarban

To return, you’ll need to catch a boat or walk back to Thanchi. Boats usually leave in the morning. Confirm the schedule the night before. From Thanchi, jeeps back to Bandarban leave throughout the day until around 4 PM. If you miss the last one, you’ll have to wait until the next morning. Plan your return to Dhaka accordingly.

Traveling to Likkhyang Waterfall is not for everyone. It’s remote, and the journey is tough. But if you’re prepared, it’s an adventure you’ll remember. Just check the latest conditions with the local administration before you go.

Frequently Asked Questions