Sajek Valley

Sajek Valley () is a popular tourist spot in Bangladesh, situated among the hills of the Kasalong range of mountains in the northern area of the Chittagong Hill Tracts. Referred to as the "Queen of Hills" and the "Roof of Rangamati", the valley is known for its greenery and dense forests, situated at an elevation of above sea level.

History

The designation of Sajek Valley is derived from the Sajek River, which originates from the Karnaphuli River. Previously considered one of the most remote regions due to its challenging steep terrain and lack of significant economic activity, the valley has settlements dating back to 1885. Tourism commenced in the early 2010s, following the establishment of a road network connecting the valley to the rest of the country. The construction of this road was undertaken by the Bangladesh Army and took approximately 10 years to complete. As of 2020, there are 83 registered resorts in the region, up from six in 2016. In 2020, tourism was temporarily halted for five months due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In late February 2025, a fire broke out at a tourist resort in Sajek and completely destroyed 32 resorts and cottages, 36 residential houses, six restaurants and 20 shops.

Geography

Sajek Valley is situated within Sajek Union—the largest union of the country by area—positioned in the northern region of the Chittagong Hill Tracts, among the Kasalong range of hills. It falls under the administrative jurisdiction of Baghaichhari Upazila in the Rangamati Hill District, situated about from Khagrachhari. The valley is located close to the Indian border state of Mizoram, surrounded by the hills of Mizoram on the east and Tripura on the north. It rises above sea level.

Environment

Sajek Valley is known for its natural environment and is surrounded by green mountains, dense forests, and hilly terrain. Many small rivers flow through the mountains, among which the Sajek (also Kasalong) and the Masalong are notable. On the way to Sajek Valley, one has to cross the Mayni Range and the Mayni River. The road to Sajek features steep inclines and descents.

Settlements

At the onset of Sajek Valley lies Ruilui Para village, while at its farthest point stands Konglak Hill, with Konglak Para village situated atop its summit. There are several more remote settlements, including Hamari Para, inhabited by small ethnic minority groups.

Demographics

The inhabitants of Sajek Valley comprise various ethnic minority groups, including the Chakma, Marma, Tripuri, Pankho, Lushai, and other indigenous communities. In this community, there is a notable involvement of women in economic pursuits, particularly in activities such as fruit and vegetable picking. While proficiency in Bengali may not be widespread among them, the younger generation often possesses some degree of proficiency in English.

Communication

The valley is more conveniently accessed via Dighinala in Khagrachhari District. Covering a distance of approximately from Khagrachhari to Sajek, the main mode of transport is four-wheelers known as ( or ), which visitors typically hire for group travel. Although it is located in Rangamati district, Khagrachhari road is more attractive for travel and scenic beauty.

Gallery

File:Chander Gari.jpg, Chander Gari
File:Sajek Valley 20160807.jpg, Sajek at Night
File:View from Sajek, Rangamati.jpg, View from Sajek, Rangamati
File:Runmoy Resort.jpg, Runmoy resort at Sajek Valley

File:Sajek Valley Rangamati 3.jpg, A resort at Sajek Valley
File:Sajek Valley Bangladesh.jpg, Konglak Hill
File:Sajek Valley Rangamati 1.jpg, View from Sajek Valley
File:Sajek, Rangamati.jpg, Road from Baghaichhari to Sajek Valley
File:KonglakView 03.jpg, View of Konglak Hill or Konglak Haphong
File:SajekSight 10.jpg, Helipad
File:Konglak Hill 2 at Sajek;Rangamati;Bangladesh.jpg, View of Konglak Hill
File:Konglak Hill 3 at Sajek;Rangamati;Bangladesh.jpg, Sajek Valley from Konglak Hill

References

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Rangamati Hill District
Tourist attractions in Bangladesh
Hill stations in Bangladesh