Chittagong Hill Tracts: Where Stunning Landscapes Meet Human Resilience

Published on January 6, 2025

Discover the stunning Chittagong Hill Tracts, but delve deeper into its untold stories of resilience, displacement, and the call for ethical tourism.

While Bangladeshis often champion the cause of oppressed communities worldwide, the plight of Indigenous communities in the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) sometimes fades from the spotlight. Despite their ongoing struggles for recognition and rights, the natural beauty of the region draws increasing numbers of tourists each year, creating a dichotomy between admiration for the land and neglect of its people.

Popular tourist destinations like Cox’s Bazar and Sylhet have long held the limelight, but the CHT region—with its rolling hills, winding rivers, and breathtaking valleys—has seen a surge in visitors over the past decade. Sajek Valley, Kaptai Lake, and Bandarban have become must-visit spots for travelers seeking adventure and serenity. However, the allure of these sites belies a darker narrative: one of displacement, suffering, and systemic oppression faced by the Indigenous communities.

The Hidden Costs of Tourism

For decades, Indigenous peoples in the CHT have endured forced evictions, land-grabbing, and violence. In one harrowing example, on February 19, 2010, arson attacks razed 200 Pahari households in the Baghaihat area of Sajek union in Rangamati. Similarly, in Bandarban’s Nilgiri, Mro and Marma families were evicted from six villages to pave the way for tourism infrastructure.

These events raise difficult ethical questions for tourists. By visiting these destinations, are we indirectly endorsing the displacement and marginalization of Indigenous communities? While social media is often flooded with posts advocating equality and justice, the moral responsibility of tourists remains conspicuously absent from mainstream discussions. For many young travelers—the primary visitors to these areas—the thrill of adventure frequently outweighs ethical considerations.

Towards Ethical Tourism

To align actions with principles, travelers must make conscious, informed decisions about their trips to the CHT. Here are some steps that can help ensure a morally responsible approach:

1. Support Ethical Accommodation: Choose hotels or resorts built on undisputed land to avoid contributing to displacement. Verify the background of establishments and their impact on local communities.
2. Stay with Indigenous Hosts: Opt for traditional machang homes—elevated dwellings of Indigenous people. This not only supports their livelihoods but also provides a unique cultural experience and fosters empathy.
3. Integrate Indigenous Communities into Tourism: Advocate for their inclusion in the tourism workforce. Employing locals as guides, artisans, or cultural ambassadors can create sustainable livelihoods while preserving their heritage.
4. Engage in Community Initiatives: Support projects that empower Indigenous communities, from education to healthcare and sustainable development. Donations or volunteer work can make a tangible difference.
5. Learn and Share: Take the time to engage with Indigenous families, listen to their stories, and share their struggles with a wider audience. Humanizing their experiences fosters understanding and solidarity.

Beyond Economic Gains

While tourism is a significant contributor to Bangladesh’s economy, moral considerations should not be sidelined in favor of financial benefits. If global movements can successfully boycott brands for political reasons, why can’t tourists demand ethical practices in the places they visit? Individual actions may not reverse systemic injustices, but collective awareness and responsibility can spark meaningful change.

The beauty of the CHT lies not just in its landscapes but in its people and their resilience. By prioritizing ethical tourism, travelers can honor their values, advocate for justice, and contribute to a brighter future for the Indigenous communities of this enchanting region.