Because of permit restrictions, there are only a few places around the lake to which boatmen are willing to take foreigners. At the time of research, there were six main places to visit, and you could tailor your trip to see any number of them.
The most popular trip was Shuvalong Falls (90 minutes one way) . This largely disappointing waterfall is little more than a trickle for most of the year, but the boat trip out to it is fabulous; first crossing the vast expanse of the main lake, then entering an area of islands covered with banana plants, and finally a more dramatic scene as you pass through a steep-sided gorge.
About half way to Shuvalong, you’ll pass the restaurant Peda Ting Ting, on a small island, which makes an unusual place for lunch.
The Hanging Bridge , not far from the Parjatan Holiday Complex, is another popular boat-trip destination.
The small Chakma islands at the other end of Rangamati are another popular boat stop, although, like the Hanging Bridge, they can also be reached by land.
Another popular trip with local tourists is the two-hour ride to Kaptai Town , but the town itself is a bit of a dump.
There are small boat ghats all around the lake, but the main two are Reserve-Bazar Ghat and Tobolchuri Ghat . Passenger ferries shuttle locals from Reserve-Bazar to places such as Kaptai Town. They’re sometimes reluctant to take foreigners, but you can get to Shuvalong Falls for Tk 40 if they let you on. Otherwise, you’ll have to hire your own boat. Prices depend largely on your bargaining skills. At the time of research, Tk 400 per boat per hour was the going rate.
