Suptodara Waterfall: The Hidden Gem of Sitakunda, Chattogram

Suptadhara Waterfall, nestled within the Sitakunda Eco Park in Chittagong, Bangladesh, is a captivating natural wonder that offers visitors a serene escape into nature's embrace. This hidden gem, whose name translates to "hidden stream," truly comes to life during the monsoon season when its waters cascade down the lush green hills with vigor and grace.​

A Tranquil Retreat Amidst Nature

The journey to Suptadhara is as enchanting as the destination itself. As you meander through the verdant trails of Sitakunda Eco Park, the symphony of chirping birds and rustling leaves sets a peaceful tone. The park's hilly landscape offers scenic hiking trails, leading to the famous Chandranath Temple at the summit, and the Suptadhara Waterfall. Visitors come to enjoy the tranquil environment, bird watching, and the panoramic views of the Bay of Bengal. ​

Seasonal Splendor

While Suptadhara maintains a gentle flow throughout much of the year, it is during the rainy season that the waterfall reveals its full splendor. The increased rainfall transforms the stream into a powerful cascade, creating a mesmerizing spectacle for onlookers. However, visitors should exercise caution during this period, as the water levels can rise significantly, making the surrounding paths slippery and challenging to navigate. ​

Nearby Attractions

In close proximity to Suptadhara lies the Sahasradhara Waterfall, another natural marvel within Sitakunda Eco Park. Translating to "thousand streams," Sahasradhara offers a complementary experience, with its multiple rivulets weaving through the landscape. Exploring both waterfalls provides a comprehensive appreciation of the area's natural beauty.

Planning Your Visit

Reaching Suptadhara Waterfall is relatively straightforward. From Chittagong city, a 38 km drive along the Dhaka-Chittagong Highway (N1) leads to Sitakunda, taking approximately 45 minutes by car. Upon arrival, clear signage directs visitors to Sitakunda Eco Park, where Suptadhara is located. The park charges a nominal entry fee, contributing to its maintenance and conservation efforts. ​

Transportation Options and Costs

• By Car: Driving from Chittagong to Sitakunda is convenient, with the journey taking about 45 minutes. Fuel costs will vary depending on the vehicle's efficiency.​
• By Public Transport: Buses to Sitakunda depart from various stations in Chittagong, including Motherbari and Kadmatoli bus stations. The fare is approximately 80-150 BDT, depending on the bus service. Upon reaching Sitakunda, local transportation such as CNG auto-rickshaws can be hired to reach the Eco Park, costing around 20-50 BDT.
• By Train: While there is no direct train service to Sitakunda, travelers can take a train to Kumira station and then hire a taxi or CNG auto-rickshaw to Sitakunda. The combined cost is approximately 500-1000 BDT.

Entry Fees

• Sitakunda Eco Park: The entry fee is 20 BDT per person. If entering with a CNG auto-rickshaw, the fee is 80 BDT.

Embracing Responsible Tourism

As with all natural sites, it's imperative to approach Suptadhara with a mindset of preservation and respect. Visitors are encouraged to adhere to park guidelines, avoid littering, and ensure that their presence does not disturb the local flora and fauna. By doing so, we can ensure that Suptadhara remains a pristine sanctuary for generations to come.​