Muppochora Waterfall, Rangamati - A Traveler’s Field Guide

Overview of Muppochora Waterfall

Muppochora Waterfall (also spelled Muppachara Jhorna) is located in Belaichhari Upazila in Rangamati. It is recognized as one of the widest waterfalls in Bangladesh. The name originates from the indigenous Chakma language, where "Chora" refers to a mountain stream.

Below is a guide detailing the logistical requirements and practical information for traveling to Muppochora.

Features of the Waterfall

• Width: Unlike waterfalls with sheer vertical drops, Muppochora is characterized by a wide, horizontal flow that descends over a terraced rock formation.

• Multi-Tiered Structure: The waterfall consists of multiple tiers of stone steps. The lower sections can be climbed, though the surfaces are continuously wet.

• Additional Site: The trail to Muppochora passes No-Kata (Nokata) Waterfall, located approximately midway along the route, allowing visitors to see two waterfalls on the same trek.

Travel Route

Belaichhari does not have road connectivity to the rest of Bangladesh. Access requires navigating Kaptai Lake via water transport.

Step 1: Dhaka to Kaptai Upazila

Travelers from Dhaka should take a direct overnight bus to Kaptai, bypassing Rangamati Sadar. Bus services depart from Kalabagan, Fakirapool, or Sayedabad. Operators such as Hanif and Shyamoli run this route, which takes 8–10 hours and costs between 800 and 1,500 BDT.

Step 2: Kaptai Lake to Belaichhari

From the Kaptai Launch/Boat Ghat, visitors must take an engine boat (trawler) across Kaptai Lake to Belaichhari Bazar.

• Public Option: Local trawlers depart at specific times (typically 8:30 AM, 1:00 PM, and 1:30 PM). The fare is 60–70 BDT per person, and the journey takes approximately 2.5 hours.

• Private Option: Reserved engine boats are available for 1,000–1,500 BDT.

Step 3: Belaichhari to Bangalkata Trailhead

From Belaichhari’s Hospital Ghat, visitors need to hire a smaller, shallow-water engine boat to reach the Bangalkata area. This 30–40 minute boat ride costs 600–800 BDT for a round trip. The foot trek begins at Bangalkata.

Travel Expense & Route Summary

• Dhaka to Kaptai

  • Mode of transport: Direct overnight bus

  • Average cost: BDT 800–1,500

  • Travel time: 8–10 hours

• Kaptai Ghat to Belaichhari

  • Mode of transport: Local trawler or reserved boat

  • Average cost: BDT 60 (local trawler) or BDT 1,500 (reserved boat)

  • Travel time: Approximately 2.5 hours

• Belaichhari to Bangalkata

  • Mode of transport: Small reserved trawler

  • Average cost: BDT 600–800 (round trip)

  • Travel time: Approximately 40 minutes

• Bangalkata to Muppochora

  • Mode of transport: Foot trek via No-Kata Falls

  • Average cost: BDT 300–500 (guide fee)

  • Travel time: Approximately 2 hours

Travel Guidelines and Recommendations

1. Security and Checkpoints

Belaichhari is located within the Chittagong Hill Tracts, an area with specific security protocols.

• Required Documents: Visitors must carry 4 to 5 photocopies of their National ID Card (NID) or Passport.

• Army Checkpoints: Travelers are required to log their personal details, guide information, and expected return times at local Bangladesh Army camps located along the waterway and trailhead.

2. Footwear

The hike from Bangalkata to Muppochora involves walking on muddy paths and wading through slippery, moss-covered stream beds (Jhiri). Standard sneakers or heavy hiking boots tend to retain water and lack grip on these surfaces. It is recommended to purchase local plastic "grip sandals" (available in Kaptai or Belaichhari Bazar for roughly 150 BDT), which provide better traction on wet rocks.

3. Food and Hydration

• Trail Supplies: There are no commercial shops or vendors past the Bangalkata boat drop. Visitors should pack snacks (such as dates or dry cakes), glucose powder, and drinking water in a waterproof bag.

• Meals: Full meals, typically consisting of local fish, lentils (vhorta), and rice, can be purchased at Belaichhari Bazar prior to starting the trek.

4. Accommodation and Electricity

Note: There are no luxury resorts or eco-lodges in this area.

Lodging is limited to basic boarding houses near Belaichhari’s Hospital Ghat (such as Niribili Boarding). Facilities are modest, with room rates ranging from 300 BDT (Single) to 500 BDT (Double) per night.

Electricity in the area can be inconsistent. Visitors should carry a high-capacity power bank to charge electronic devices. Additionally, travelers should always ask for verbal permission before photographing local residents.