Staff Reporter :
Keokradong, one of Ruma Upazila’s prime tourist attractions in Bandarban, has reopened to visitors after being closed for three years due to security concerns.
Authorities lifted the ban starting 1 October, following a review of law and order. Travel to the peak had been prohibited since October 2022, though tourists were previously allowed to visit Boga Lake.
The reopening comes ahead of the Durga Puja and Buddhist Probarona Purnima holidays, during which tourism operators and visitors had strongly urged authorities to allow access to the hill.
On the very first day, over 800 tourists climbed Keokradong, according to local guides.
Bikers made up the bulk of the visitors, with some groups numbering 10 to 20 riders and even clusters of 50 to 60 people. Family tourists mostly traveled in chander gari or Land Cruisers to reach the peak.
Located in Ruma’s Remakri Pransa union, about 76 km from Bandarban town, Keokradong stands 4,330 feet above sea level, making it the second-highest peak in Bangladesh after Tajingdong in Thanchi Upazila.
Previously, adventurers would trek three to four hours from Boga Lake to reach the summit. With motorable access now available to the top, the trekking experience has changed, but visitors can still enjoy day trips from Bandarban or stay overnight near Boga Lake.
The Ruma Tourist Guide Welfare Association mandates that all visitors register at the army checkpoint in the garrison before reaching Ruma Upazila headquarters. Tourists must provide personal details on a form and pay Tk50 per person.
Copies of the form are submitted to Ruma Police Station, the guide association, and army camps at Boga Lake and Keokradong.
Hiring a registered guide is compulsory—six bikers or 14 general tourists require one guide. Guide fees are Tk700 per day up to Boga Lake and Tk1,000 per day to Keokradong, excluding food and lodging.
Chander gari fares from Ruma to Boga Lake are Tk2,700 one-way and Tk3,700 for a round trip. For Keokradong, the charges are Tk5,000 one-way and Tk7,000 round trip. Motorcycle fares are Tk1,000 to Boga Lake and Tk2,000 to Keokradong, round trip.
The reopening of Keokradong has reignited adventure tourism in Bandarban, drawing both thrill-seekers and family tourists eager to experience one of Bangladesh’s most scenic peaks.
