Readers School and College Study Tour 2025

  

It was a crisp February morning when the buses rolled out of the Reader’s school campus of Oxygen Chattogram, full of excited students, parents and teachers, all set for an unforgettable study tour to Rangamati. The chatter was loud, the energy contagious, and the air was filled with anticipation as we began our journey.

Our first destination was the iconic Rangamati Jhulonto Bridge, a place of awe and natural beauty. As we approached the bridge, the sound of the gentle waves beneath the hanging structure greeted us. The view from the bridge was nothing short of mesmerizing. The calm waters of the Kaptai Lake stretched endlessly, with the surrounding hills rising majestically in the distance. Everyone rushed to take photos, but it wasn’t just the beauty that captivated us—it was the history behind this bridge. Our teacher explained how this bridge, swaying with the wind, was a symbol of resilience, standing tall despite the challenges it faced over time.

We took a walk on the bridge, carefully stepping on the wooden planks, feeling the sway beneath our feet. The sight of the lake from such a height was unforgettable—clear waters glistening in the afternoon sun, and the gentle breeze added a serene touch to the experience. We stood there for what seemed like hours, soaking in the beauty, as our teachers told us about the region's culture and the significance of the bridge in connecting the various tribal communities. As we continued our journey, one of the most delightful experiences came when we stopped at a local vendor along the way. The crisp mountain air made everything taste even better as we each got a slice of fresh, juicy pineapple. Its sweetness, combined with the tangy bite, was the perfect refreshment after our exploration. It wasn’t just pineapple—there were other hilly fruits we hadn’t tasted before. There were bright jackfruits with their rich flavor, wild berries that burst with sweetness, and even some hill mangoes, smaller but packed with an intense, tropical flavor. Every bite was a new discovery, and the group couldn’t stop talking about how much they loved the flavors of the region.

At the same time, the local vendors had set up little stalls with a collection of tribal items, which added a unique touch to the experience. Intrigued, we wandered over to check out the array of handmade crafts. There were Thami—beautifully woven traditional hats and accessories, crafted by the indigenous people of the region. The vibrant colors and intricate designs were so different from what we were used to, and many of us took the opportunity to buy a Thami as a souvenir, carrying a piece of Rangamati back home.

Some of us also picked up handcrafted jewelry made of beads and shells, wooden sculptures, and traditional clothing—all symbols of the rich cultural heritage of the tribal communities. It was fascinating to learn about the significance of each item. Our teacher explained how these handmade goods weren’t just souvenirs but held stories, traditions, and beliefs that had been passed down for generations.

The market area buzzed with life. It wasn’t just about shopping; it was about connecting with the local community, understanding their way of life, and supporting their craft. As we filled our bags with these keepsakes, it felt like we were taking a piece of Rangamati’s soul with us.

By the time we gathered back at the bus, our hands were full not only with fresh fruits but also with the treasures we had collected. As the buses rolled away, we all leaned back, savoring the fruits of the hills and the memories of the cultural exchange that had made this journey so special. The pineapples, the tribal items, and the stories we shared were all part of what made this study tour such a rich, unforgettable experience.

After the visit to the bridge, we made our way to Aronnok Resort, a beautiful getaway nestled in the heart of Rangamati's natural landscapes. As the sun began to set, the resort was bathed in a golden hue, creating a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere. The view from the resort was nothing short of breathtaking. The mist was beginning to settle over the hills as the cool evening air swept over us.

As night approached, our teachers gathered us together and led a party of raffle draw and a small discussion about the importance of preserving nature and respecting the environment, lessons that rang loud and clear after seeing the untouched beauty of Rangamati.

The evening concluded with a peaceful walk around the resort, feeling the cool breeze and hearing the distant sounds of nature—Football, rustling leaves, and the calm waters of Kaptai Lake. The day had been a perfect blend of adventure, learning, and relaxation, and as we boarded the buses to head back to Chattogram, everyone knew that the memories of Rangamati’s natural beauty and the lessons we learned would stay with us forever.

The study tour was not just about sightseeing; it was an experience that broadened our horizons, teaching us about the importance of nature, culture, and resilience. The trip from Oxygen Chattogram to Rangamati would remain etched in our hearts for years to come.