Plizio Visual Lab
Sangu River
The Sangu River is a unique watercourse in southeastern Bangladesh, notable for being one of the few major rivers that flows almost entirely within the nation's borders (though its headwaters are near the Myanmar border). Originating in the Arakan Mountains, it winds through the rugged terrain of the Chittagong Hill Tracts before emptying into the Bay of Bengal at Banshkhali. The landscape along the Sangu is characterized by dense forests, steep hills, and remote villages of indigenous communities such as the Marma and Mru. The river serves as the primary transportation route in this inaccessible terrain, used extensively for moving bamboo, timber, and agricultural goods to downstream markets. Due to its pristine natural beauty and the dramatic rock formations near Bandarban, the Sangu has become a popular destination for adventure tourists seeking river cruises and trekking. While ecologically significant, the river faces challenges from increased sedimentation caused by traditional jhum (slash-and-burn) cultivation in the surrounding hills. Protecting the Sangu is essential for maintaining the unique biodiversity and cultural heritage of the Hill Tracts.
- Location: Bangladesh
- Top sights: Mirzakhil Darbar Sharif · Sundarban Courier Service (Pvt.) Ltd · Dharmapur Chander Para Shahi Jame Masjid
- Nearby: Khagrachari (8 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 19 | 22 | 26 | 28 | 29 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 25 | 21 |
| Rain mm | 10 | 39 | 62 | 171 | 428 | 749 | 1138 | 732 | 508 | 400 | 89 | 14 |
📋 Practical info
Geography
Facts
- The Sangu River has a total length of approximately 170 kilometers.
- It is also known as the 'Rigray Khiyong' by local ethnic groups.
- The river flows through the Bandarban and Chittagong districts.
- During the dry season, the upper reaches are navigable only by small canoes.
- The Sangu river port is a major hub for the regional bamboo trade.
- The river provides the primary source of drinking water for Bandarban town.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Sangu River (9)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Why is the Sangu considered exceptionally beautiful?
How can the river be explored?
Are there rapids on the river?
Is swimming allowed in the river?
Which tribes live along the banks?
Sangu River: where is it located?
Sangu River: what is there to see?
Sangu River: when is the best time to visit?
Sangu River: why is it worth visiting?














