Napittachora Waterfall
The three-step cascade of Mirsharai
Overview
Located in the Mirsharai upazila near Sitakunda, the Napittachora trail is one of the most popular and rewarding waterfall treks in Bangladesh. Unlike a single destination, the trail follows a deep, rocky stream (chora) that leads adventurers to three distinct, beautiful waterfalls hidden deep within the forested hills: Kupikatakum, Mithachari, and the massive Bandarkhum.
The trek begins at the Napittachora village and immediately plunges you into a lush, tropical environment. Trekkers must wade through the flowing stream, climb over massive boulders, and navigate narrow gorges. The first fall, Kupikatakum, features a deep, calm plunge pool. Further up the challenging trail is Mithachari, and finally, the roaring Bandarkhum waterfall, which offers a spectacular natural shower.
The combination of the thrilling, moderately difficult trek and the pristine beauty of three different waterfalls makes Napittachora a favorite weekend adventure for youth and nature lovers traveling from Dhaka or Chattogram.
History & Culture
Like many of the waterfalls in the Mirsharai range, Napittachora was known only to local woodcutters and indigenous communities until travel groups popularized it on social media in the mid-2010s.
It has since become a staple of the 'Sitakunda Waterfall Circuit', heavily contributing to the local eco-tourism economy.
Top things to do in Napittachora Waterfall
Trek the Stream
Navigate the rocky stream bed, wading through cool water and climbing over boulders to reach the falls.
Swim in the Plunge Pools
Take a refreshing, well-deserved swim in the deep natural pools at the base of Kupikatakum and Bandarkhum.
Shower under Bandarkhum
Stand under the powerful final waterfall, Bandarkhum, to experience the raw force of the cascading water.
Napittachora Waterfall in pictures
Photos via Wikimedia Commons under their respective Creative Commons licences. Click a photo credit for the source and full licence terms.
Highlights
- ✓Three beautiful waterfalls on a single trail
- ✓Thrilling boulder climbing and stream trekking
- ✓Deep, refreshing natural plunge pools
- ✓Lush, untouched jungle scenery
- ✓Highly accessible from the Dhaka-Chattogram highway
How to get to Napittachora Waterfall
Take any Chattogram-bound bus from Dhaka and get off at the Noyduaria Bazar stop in Mirsharai. From the highway, the trailhead is a short walk or CNG ride into the village.
Best time to visit Napittachora Waterfall
Monsoon (July to September): The waterfalls are massive and roaring, but the trail is extremely slippery and flash floods are a risk.
Post-Monsoon (October to November): The perfect balance of strong water flow and a safer, more manageable trekking trail.
Winter (December to March): The waterfalls largely dry up, making the trek less rewarding.
Where to stay
There are no accommodations at the trail. Visitors stay in hotels in Sitakunda town, Feni, or Chattogram city.
What to eat
- 🍽️Traditional Bengali lunch at the small 'hotels' near the trailhead
- 🍽️Fresh papaya and pineapple sold by locals along the trail
Travel tips
- 💡Hire a local village boy as a guide at the start of the trail. The path to the upper falls can be confusing and dangerous without local knowledge.
- 💡Wear sturdy trekking sandals (like trekking grip shoes or plastic sandals); sneakers will get soaked and heavy.
- 💡Carry your phone and electronics in a waterproof dry bag, as you may have to wade through chest-deep water in some sections.
- 💡Avoid the trek during heavy downpours due to the high risk of sudden flash floods in the narrow gorge.
Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the trek?+
It takes about 40 minutes to reach the first fall, and another 1 to 1.5 hours of challenging climbing to reach the final fall.
Is the trail safe for beginners?+
The path to the first fall is relatively easy. However, the trek to the upper falls involves steep climbs and slippery rocks, requiring moderate fitness and caution.
Are there leeches?+
Yes, especially during the monsoon. Wearing appropriate clothing and checking your legs frequently is recommended.
