Geography: 

The Chittagong Hill Tracts, often shortened to simply the Hill Tracts and abbreviated to CHT, are a group of districts within the Chittagong Division in southeastern Bangladesh, bordering India and Myanmar (Burma) in the east. It was a single district until 1984, when they were divided into three districts: Khagrachhari, Rangamati, and Bandarban.

Topographically, the Hill Tracts are the only extensively hilly area in Bangladesh. It was historically settled by many tribal refugees from Burma Arakan in the 16th century and now it is settled by the Jumma people. Today, it remains one of the least developed parts of Bangladesh.

Flora: The hills, rivers and cliffs are covered with dense bamboo breaks, tall trees and creeper jungles. The valleys are covered with thick forest.

Fauna: The fauna mainly includes monkey, fox, jungle cat, fishing cat, wild boar, land turtle, king cobra, reticulated python, rattle snake and other non-poisonous snakes together with large number of species of lizards and amphibians like frog and toad, and tree frogs. The bird life of the Chittagong Hill Tracts is wonderfully rich. More than 60 families of birds are found.

Forest: Most of the hills are covered with forests containing valuable timber trees, bamboos, canes and a kind of grass known as shan.

Places must visit: 

Naval beach, Patenga sea beach, Commonwealth War Cemetery, Waterfalls: Shubholong and Rijuk Jhorna, Lakes: Kaptai Lake (man-made artificial lake) in Rangamati and Boga Lake (natural lake) in Bandarban, Hills: The Nilgiri, the Chimbuk hills and the Keokradong, Temples and shrines: The Chandranath Hills and Temples at Sitakunda, the Buddha Dhatu Jadi, also known as the Bandarban Golden Temple, Tribal villages: Shailaprapat, where you can visit a village market and see tribal culture at Bandarban, Bridges: The Parjatan Hanging Bridge, Caves: Alutila Cave and Matai Hakor Cave, Historic sites: The Chittagong Circuit House, Old architecture: Chittagong Railway Station Old Terminal at Chittagong town, Karnaphuli River, Bhatiary Lake, Khaiyachara Falls, Chandanpura Mosque, Guliakhali Sea Beach, Chatteshwari Temple, Chittagong University, Sitakunda, Anderkilla Shahi Jame Mosque, Kaptai Kayak Club, Kaptai Tea Garden, Shrine of Hazrat Shah Amanat, Shrine of Bayazid Bostami, Rangamati Tribal Museum, Chandraghona paper mill, Tribal lifestyle of Chakmas' in Khagrachari, Chittagong ship-breaking yard at Bhatiari, Fish harbor & market.

Food:

The Chittagong Hill Tracts offer a mesmerizing blend of pristine natural beauty and unique cultures. Beyond the enchanting landscapes, this region is also a treasure trove of exotic cuisines, which have found a home in Dhaka through a growing number of culinary ventures.

Must try dishes:

1. Mezban Beef: Mezban beef is the pride of Chittagong’s vibrant culinary scene. This dish is not just food; it’s a symbol of hospitality, tradition, and Chittagong’s generous spirit. The aromatic spices and the succulent texture of Mezban beef make it an unforgettable gastronomic delight.
2. Kaala Bhuna: Beef at its best in taste and aroma
3. Hilsa: Treated as the king of fish. Hilsa is often cooked with mustard and spices.
4. Pomfret: Grilled or fried, Pomfret is a versatile choice many enjoy.
5. Rohu: A freshwater fish, Rohu is part of the classic curries of Chittagong.
6. Prawn Malai Curry: Simmered in coconut milk, this curry is smooth and aromatic.
7. Grilled Prawns: Seasoned with local spices and served with rice.
8. Prawn Biryani: An exquisite mix of flavors where prawns and rice unite.
9. Bamboo Chicken: A popular item that showcases the exotic flavors and aroma derived from stuffing and cooking food inside bamboo.
10. Special Daal and Sobji Seddho: Highly recommended by Biply Chakma, these dishes reflect the unique taste of the Hill Tracts.
11. Mangso Morich Godiye: A spicy treat of chicken and chilies, comparable to bhorta.
12. Sabereng Huro: A chicken recipe featuring the unique tangy aroma of Sabereng, a local herb.
13. Pajon: A brilliant mix of vegetables and shutki, recommended during the Biju festival.
14. Egg Hebaang: A delicacy wrapped in banana leaves, boasting herby flavours.
15. Chicken Laksu (Horbo): A signature dish cooked with native chicken, beloved by various tribes of the Hill Tracts.
16. Special Payesh: A dessert made with binni rice, cultivated in the hills, offering a unique taste and texture.
17. Pitha: A winter staple made from rice flour and molasses, boasting a history that intertwines with Chittagong’s rural traditions.
18. Rasgulla: Originating from Bengal, this spongy ball of cottage cheese soaked in sugar syrup is a festival favorite.
19. Sandesh: A fusion of sweetness and art, these milk-based treats often bear intricate designs reflecting Bengali heritage.