Kaptai Lake, Artificial lake in Rangamati district, Bangladesh
Kaptai Lake is an artificial reservoir in the Rangamati district of southeastern Bangladesh, formed by damming the Karnafuli River. It sits among forested hills and is one of the largest man-made bodies of water in the country.
The lake came into being in 1962 when a dam was built on the Karnafuli River as part of a hydroelectric project. The rising waters flooded entire valleys, and many villages disappeared beneath the surface, forcing large numbers of people to leave their homes.
Along the shores, indigenous communities go about daily life closely tied to the water and surrounding hills. In Rangamati, a cultural institute displays traditional crafts and stories from local groups, giving visitors a way to learn about the people who have lived here for generations.
The cooler months from November to February are generally the most comfortable time to visit, when the weather is dry and boat trips run smoothly. During the monsoon season, heavy rain can make travel on the water more difficult, so it is worth checking conditions before heading out.
In areas where the water is shallow and clear, the outlines of old buildings from submerged villages can sometimes be seen beneath the surface from a boat. These remains are a quiet reminder that the lakebed was once inhabited land.
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