Mohamaya Lake

Mohamaya is an artificial lake made in 2010 by damming a stream in the hills at Mirsharai for irrigation, covering about eleven square kilometres of a valley system so that the water runs up several wooded arms with hills on both sides. It is the second largest artificial lake in the country. Kayaks and engine boats are hired at the dam and the arms can be paddled, which is the main activity, with a small waterfall at the head of one of them and a rubber dam at the outflow. There are camping spots on the shore. It has become a standard weekend destination from Chittagong, developed quickly and without much planning, so facilities are basic and the shore is busy.

What you actually see

• Wooded arms of water - the flooded valleys between hills.
• Kayaking on the lake - the main activity, hired at the dam.
• A waterfall at one arm head - the fall reached by paddling.
• The rubber dam - the structure holding the reservoir.

When to go

November to March. Half a day. Weekends bring heavy crowds from Chittagong; weekdays are much quieter. Kayaks are hired at the dam and queue at busy times.

Honest expectations

Development has been fast and unregulated; the shore near the dam is crowded and littered. Kayak hire is disorganised and prices are negotiated. Facilities are basic. Engine boats disturb the quiet of the arms.

Nearby

Khoiyachora waterfall is west; Chattogram lies south.