Living Above the Clouds: Treehouse & Bushcraft Survival Camp Experience in Bandarban
Discovering Hidden Gems in Bandarban Through Treehouse and Bushcraft Living
In January 2026, I—Ataullah Mesbah—set out on a journey that redefined my understanding of travel. This was not about resorts, room service, or comfortable beds. This journey was about silence, fog, survival, and human connection with nature.
Deep inside the remote hills of Bandarban, I experienced two of the most unique hidden gems I’ve ever visited in Bangladesh:
- A treehouse located high above the clouds in Alikadam and
- A bushcraft survival camp handcrafted by Arif Ryan hidden even deeper inside the wilderness.
This blog is a first-hand account of living above the clouds and surviving with nature—not against it.
Why Bandarban Is the Heart of True Adventure Travel in Bangladesh
Bandarban is not just another travel destination. It is a place where roads slowly disappear, phone signals fade, and nature takes full control.
Unlike popular tourist spots, Bandarban rewards those who are willing to walk, climb, and disconnect. Every hidden trail leads to silence. Every mountain top reveals a new perspective.
For travelers who seek authentic experiences, Bandarban is unmatched.
Treehouse in Alikadam – A Home Above the Clouds
Treehouse above clouds in Alikadam Bandarban visited by Ataullah Mesbah
The treehouse we stayed in does not have an official name. But names are unnecessary when a place speaks directly to your soul.
Located high on a mountain in Alikadam, the treehouse stands quietly among tall trees and endless green hills. From a distance, it feels like it belongs to the sky more than the earth.
The Journey to Reach the Treehouse
Reaching the treehouse was not easy. The trek involved narrow mountain paths, steep climbs, and moments where every step required focus. Some parts were risky and demanded slow movement.
- But difficulty is the price you pay for isolation—and isolation is what makes this place special.
Foggy Mornings That Felt Unreal
Every morning felt like a dream sequence.
Life Inside the Treehouse by ataullah mesbah
The weather was cold and calm. Thick fog surrounded the treehouse, and clouds floated at eye level. Standing on the wooden platform, it felt like we were touching the clouds with our hands.
- There are moments in life that feel staged by nature itself—this was one of them.
Life Inside the Treehouse
There were no luxury facilities. No electricity. No modern comfort.
We brought our own supplies:
- Food
- Cooking tools
- Sleeping essentials
At night, we cooked noodles together. In the morning, we shared tea and biscuits while watching the fog slowly lift. Sometimes, simplicity creates the deepest happiness.
Bonfire Nights and Conversations Under the Cold Sky
As night fell, the temperature dropped. We lit a bonfire near the treehouse, gathering around it for warmth. The fire crackled. Stories flowed. Laughter echoed into the darkness.
Challenges of Staying Deep in the Mountains
Without screens, notifications, or noise, conversations felt deeper. Time slowed down. This is something modern travel often forgets.
Challenges of Staying Deep in the Mountains
This experience wasn’t without challenges.
- Risky trekking routes
- No mobile network
- Carrying all supplies manually
- Cold weather at night
Entering the Bushcraft Survival Camp – A Different World
After the treehouse experience, we traveled deeper into Bandarban to visit a Bushcraft Survival Camp built entirely by Arif Ryan.
This camp represents true bushcraft philosophy—living with nature using minimal tools and maximum skill.
Who Is Arif Ryan and Why This Camp Is Special
Arif Ryan handcrafted the entire camp using natural materials found in the forest. No concrete. No artificial design. Every structure reflects knowledge, patience, and respect for nature.
Bushcraft Survival Camp – A Different World by Ataullah Mesbah
This is not a tourist attraction. It is a living survival space.
One Night of Bushcraft Living
We were invited to stay one night at the camp.
There was:
- No electricity
- No modern kitchen
- No artificial comfort
Instead, there was:
- Fire
- Wood
- Water
- Silence
We cooked simple food, managed the fire, and adapted to the environment.
- This was real survival—not staged
- not commercial.
Bushcraft Survival Camp The Hidden Waterfall and Tea Break
Bonfire at the Bushcraft Camp
Just like the treehouse, the bushcraft camp also had a bonfire. The fire wasn’t just for warmth—it was the heart of the camp. Sitting around it, listening to forest sounds, felt deeply grounding.
In moments like these, you understand how humans lived for thousands of years.
The Hidden Waterfall and Tea Break
Near the bushcraft camp was a hidden waterfall—quiet, untouched, and calming. We sat there during a tea break, listening to flowing water and birds. Time felt suspended. That short moment beside the waterfall felt like meditation.
Who Should Visit These Places?
- Nature lovers
- Adventure travelers
- Survival enthusiasts
- Content creators
- Travelers seeking hidden gems
Not recommended for those who require comfort, luxury, or easy access.
Why This Journey Changed My Perspective on Travel
As someone who explores hidden places, this journey reminded me that true travel is about experience, not convenience.
Living above the clouds and surviving in the forest stripped away distractions and revealed clarity. Sometimes, the most valuable destinations don’t appear on Google Maps.
Travel Tips for Treehouse & Bushcraft Experiences
- Travel with experienced companions
- Carry essentials only
- Respect nature
- Avoid loud noise
- Follow local guidance