Travel Rangamati
Sajek Valley: The Kingdom of Clouds
Why Travel Sajek Valley
Bangladesh is a small country embrace by the Bay of Bengal. It is full of natural beauty. There are mountains, rivers, beaches, crop fields and vast green forests. One of the most beautiful scenerio of Bangla is the Sajek Valley. If you’ve ever wished to roam the kingdom of clouds, you can visit Sajek Valley. Because it is called the kingdom of clouds. When you get there, you’ll feel as if you are floating over clouds. You may be sitting, but the clouds are playing near your feet. Thinking of such a scenario is thrilling, isn’t it? And that is why the Sajek Valley, located in Baghaichhari Upazila of Rangamati district, has become very popular with travelers.
The beauty of Sajek
The intimate association of white clouds, blue mountains and green forests are seen everywhere in Sajek. There are three helipads, from which you may enjoy the spectacular views of sunrise and sunset. Sajek will give you an extraordinary experience, here you will see all three variants of nature within 24 hours. Once a hot breeze, then a short spell of rain, and shortly thereafter the cloud might be covering the valley in its white sheets. It looks exactly a valley of clouds. You can trek from the Ruilui village of Sajek and climb the Kanglak Hills. Kanglak is the highest peak of Sajek. On the way to Kanglak, you will see high mountains on the border of Mizoram, another way of life of the tribal communities, endless wandering of clouds – all these sceneries will overwhelm you. If you go there during the festivals of the tribes, you will get the chance to get acquainted with their different cultures.
Location of the Sajek Valley
The Sajek Valley is located at the Sajek Union, under the Baghaichhari Upazila of Rangamati District, Bangladesh. It is a very popular tourist destination. Tripura of India is situated in the north of Sajek, Longadu of Rangamati on the south, Mizoram of India on the east and Dighinala of Khagrachhari on the west.
Sajek is the largest union in Bangladesh, which measures 702 square miles. The Sajek BGB camp is located here. Sajek has been much improved and disciplined by the planning and hard work of the BGB members. Currently all kinds of security are guaranteed for the tourists traveling to Sajek. At any time of the year, you can travel to Sajek. And there is no risk of a mountain crash or road collapse. Sajek is made up of two Parha or ward: Ruilui Parha and Kanglak Parha. Established in 1885, the Ruilui Parha is approximately 1720 feet above the sea level. And on the Kanglak hill, Kanglak Parha is 1800 feet high. The inhabitants of Sajek are the Lusai, Pankhoa and Tripura tribes. Here the banana and orange yield better. The far reaches of Rangamati can be seen from the Sajek Valley. That is why the Sajek Valley is called the roof of Rangamati.
How to Go to Sajek Valley
The distance from Khagrachhari district Sadar to Sajek is approximately 70 km and about 49 km from Dighinala. You may go to Sajek from Rangamati through the river-way via Kaptai, but in that case there is a lot to walk on. Though Sajek is located in Rangamati district, it is convenient to get there from Khagrachhari. The easiest way to get to Sajek is to start from Khagrachhari city or Dighinala by locally available vehicles like a jeep, CNG or motorcycle. Baghaihaat police camp-10 and army camp will be on the way. From there, travelers need to get permission to travel to Sajek. It’s called Army Escort. Army members guard tourists with their cars to reach Sajek safely. But to remember, army security vehicles depart at two specific times daily, 10:30 am and 3:30 pm. These rules are followed to ensure maximum safety for the tourists. The cars that are heading towards Sajek are called locally “Chander Garhi”. On the way to Sajek, the Hajachhorha fountain is found in Baghaihat. Many tourists enjoy the beauty of this fountain taking a little trekking down the main road.
Best Time to Visit Sajek Valley
Sajek Valley, nestled in the scenic Chittagong Hill Tracts of Bangladesh, is a breathtaking destination that offers awe-inspiring natural beauty, lush green hills, and a unique cultural experience. To make the most of your visit, it’s essential to choose the right time to explore this stunning valley. This guide will help you understand the best time to visit Sajek Valley and make your trip a memorable one.
1. Spring (March to May):
Springtime in Sajek Valley brings pleasant weather, making it an ideal season to visit. The temperature ranges between 18 to 25 degrees Celsius, creating a comfortable environment for outdoor activities. The valley is adorned with blooming flowers and lush greenery during this time, adding to its picturesque charm. However, keep in mind that this season can get crowded due to its popularity among tourists.
2. Summer (June to August):
Sajek Valley experiences monsoon season during the summer months. While rainfall can be heavy at times, it adds a unique touch to the valley’s natural beauty, with misty clouds enveloping the hills. The temperature ranges from 22 to 28 degrees Celsius, providing relief from the scorching heat prevalent in other parts of the country. It’s important to note that landslides can occur during heavy rains, so be cautious and stay updated on weather conditions.
3. Autumn (September to November):
Autumn is another great time to visit Sajek Valley. The weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 20 to 28 degrees Celsius. The skies are clear, offering breathtaking views of the valley, and the hills are covered in lush greenery. This season is considered the best time for trekking and outdoor adventures as the trails are not slippery due to rain.
4. Winter (December to February):
Winter in Sajek Valley brings a cooler climate, with temperatures dropping to around 10 to 15 degrees Celsius. The valley transforms into a winter wonderland, and the mornings and evenings can be quite chilly. If you enjoy cool weather and want to witness the valley’s beauty in a different light, winter is an excellent time to visit. However, do pack warm clothing to keep yourself comfortable during the colder days.
Important Tips
a. Check the local weather forecast before planning your trip to Sajek Valley.
b. Be prepared for temperature fluctuations, especially during the transition months between seasons.
c. Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak seasons, to avoid any inconvenience.
d. Follow guidelines provided by local authorities regarding safety precautions, especially during the monsoon season.
e. Respect the local culture and traditions of the indigenous communities residing in Sajek Valley.
So, When Should You Visit Sajek Valley?
Sajek Valley is a destination that offers natural beauty, tranquility, and a chance to experience the unique culture of the Chittagong Hill Tracts. Consider visiting during spring or autumn for pleasant weather and beautiful landscapes. Summer can be an adventurous time with misty clouds, while winter offers a different perspective of the valley. By choosing the best time to visit Sajek Valley, you’ll be able to create lasting memories and truly appreciate the beauty of this enchanting destination.