Thanchi Upazila HQ

 township, subdistrict, fourth-level administrative division, local government

Thanchi Upazila (Bandarban district) with an area of 1020.82 sq km, a Upazila town in Bandarban district in the Division of Chittagong, Bangladesh, is bounded by Ruma upazila on the north, Arakan (Myanmar) on the south, Chin (Myanmar) and Belaichhari upazila on the east, Alikadam and lama upazilas on the west. Main river is Sangu (Shankha).

Thanchi is located at 21.7861°N 92.4278°E. Thanchi (Town) consists of one mouza. The area of the town is 84.03 sq km. The town has a population of 2021; male 62.44%, female 37.56%. Density of population is 46 per sq km. Literacy rate among the town people is 26.2%. It has 2885 units of house hold and total area 1020.82 km².

Historical events The Burma-British War of 1824 resulted in inclusion of Arakan as one of the provinces of British India. This had eased the migration of the Arakanis to Thanchi and its neighbouring areas. The migrants later became permanent settlers in the area and were recognised as residents by Regulation-1 of 1900, popularly known as the CHT Manual.

Population 16104; male 55.61%, female 44.39%. Muslim 7.65%, Buddhist 43.25%, Hindu 2.26%, Christian 24.48% and others tribe and others 22.36%; ethnic nationals: Marma, Murong, Tripura, Khumi, Boam, Chakma and Khyang.

Literacy and educational institutions Average literacy 17.4%; male 55.61%, female 44.39%. Educational institutions: high school 1, primary school 14.

Main occupations: Agriculture 25.13%, forestry 8.55%, agricultural labourer 51.45%, wage labourer 2.69%, commerce 2.51%, service 2.91%, others 6.76%.

Value of land: The market value of land of the first grade is Tk 25000 per 0.01 hectare.

Health centres: Upazila health centre 1.

The road to Thanchi from Bandarban is one of the most scenic and awe-inspiring roads to drive through. There are some street-side restaurant in Thanchi where travelers can have lunch; but it must be said not to expect anything fancy. There is no proper accommodation for tourists, except the few very basic Government facilities. It’s best for day visit. One should take plenty of food and water. For commoner, best way to visit is by a 4x4 Jeep, or hire local “Chander Gari”.