Kumarikunda hidden in the Sitakunda hills: gas bubbles rise through its blue water

Hidden in the hills of Sitakunda in Chattogram, behind streams, rocky paths and greenery, lies Kumarikunda. The clear blue water of this ancient well-like reservoir, hidden behind dense bushes and a rocky stream, the gas bubbles rising from its bottom and the old brick structures scattered around it stir curiosity among lovers of history and nature.

Located in a remote part of the hills, outside Sitakunda's well-known pilgrimage sites, the place is the subject of much local curiosity.

It is believed that Kumarikunda may once have been part of an ancient religious structure or pilgrimage site. However, reliable archaeological information about its exact date of construction, its founding history or its religious use is limited, so much of its history still awaits research.

The path to Kumarikunda is also difficult. Travellers must follow a stream along a rocky route; in places there is dense vegetation, in others a narrow path covered by bushes. Beyond that path, old brick structures suddenly come into view.

The site's main attraction is a stone-bound, well-like reservoir. The water of this pool, an estimated eight to ten feet deep, has a bluish tint.

The sight of gas bubbles rising from the bottom of the water makes the place more mysterious. Parts of the surrounding walls have collapsed, and strangely shaped stones and remains of old bricks can be seen scattered around.

One belief about Kumarikunda is that in ancient times religious beliefs could grow around places with natural features such as hot springs or gas escaping from underground. Various pools and pilgrimage sites in the Sitakunda region have also carried religious importance for a long time.

However, no such connection has been established with certainty in Kumarikunda's case. Although gas bubbles are seen in its water, scientific testing would be needed to identify it as a hot spring.

Because of its remote location, dense forest and distance from the familiar pilgrimage area, Kumarikunda has remained outside ordinary tourists' attention, and the place is still unknown to many.

To travel from Dhaka to Sitakunda, one can take a Chattogram-bound bus by road. From Saydabad bus terminal, AC and non-AC buses of operators including S. Alam, Saudia, Green Line, Silk Line, Sohag, Baghdad Express and Unique operate, and all of them stop at Sitakunda.

After reaching Sitakunda market, visitors will need local help on Kumarikunda's exact location and route. As the place must be reached across a difficult stream and hill path, arranging an experienced local guide in advance is advisable.

During the rainy season there is a risk of rocks becoming slippery, water flow suddenly increasing and difficulty recognising the path. Travelling in bad weather is therefore best avoided for safety.