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Ratargul Swamp Forest: The Amazon of Bangladesh

Explore Bangladesh's only freshwater swamp forest: a unique, biodiverse ecosystem best experienced by boat during the monsoon season.

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Ratargul Swamp Forest, the only freshwater swamp forest in Bangladesh, offers a unique and enchanting experience. Submerged under water for several months each year, it's best explored by boat, gliding through the serene waterways and marveling at the diverse flora and fauna adapted to this wetland ecosystem.

A brief summary to Ratargul Swamp Forest

  • 2W79+MFG, Gushainpur, BD
  • Monday 8 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-6 pm
  • Friday 8 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the monsoon season (July-October) to experience the forest in its full, flooded glory, but be prepared for strong currents.
  • Hire a local boatman at Motor Ghat or Chowrangi Ghat for an authentic tour and to support the local economy.
  • Wear waterproof shoes and clothing, and bring insect repellent, especially during the wetter months.
  • Bring your own snacks and water, as there are no food vendors within the forest.
  • Consider visiting during the winter months (November-February) for pleasant weather and easier navigation, though the water levels will be lower.
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Getting There

  • CNG/Auto-rickshaw & Boat

    From Sylhet city, the most common way to reach Ratargul is by CNG auto-rickshaw to Motor Ghat (via Shaheber Bazar). A private CNG will cost approximately 800-1200 BDT for a round trip, and the journey takes about an hour. Alternatively, a shared CNG ride from Amberkhana in Sylhet to Shringi Bridge costs around 80 BDT per person. From either Motor Ghat or Shringi Bridge, hire a local 'dinghy' boat to enter the forest. Boat fares range from 700-1500 BDT depending on the ghat and boat size, accommodating 4-6 people. Negotiate the price beforehand.

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Discover more about Ratargul Swamp Forest

Ratargul Swamp Forest, often dubbed the 'Amazon of Bangladesh,' is a remarkable freshwater swamp forest located approximately 26 kilometers from Sylhet. Spanning over 3,325 acres, with a core area of 504 acres, this unique ecosystem is a haven for nature enthusiasts and those seeking tranquility. What sets Ratargul apart is its seasonal flooding, which transforms the forest into a stunning, water-filled landscape, typically from May to October. During the monsoon season, the forest floor disappears under 10 to 20 feet of water, and the trees appear to be growing directly out of the lake. The most common trees found here are the resilient Koroch and Hizol, which have adapted to thrive in these wet conditions. Exploring the forest by boat during this time is an ethereal experience, as you glide through narrow waterways, surrounded by towering trees and dense foliage. Ratargul is also a significant habitat for a variety of wildlife. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the over 73 species of birds, including the Red Junglefowl and Lesser Whistling Duck, that call this forest home. The forest further serves as a crucial breeding ground for migratory birds. Keep an eye out for monkeys, snakes, lizards and other creatures adapted to this unique environment. In 1973, the Bangladesh Forest Department declared 504 acres of Ratargul as a wildlife sanctuary, highlighting its ecological importance. While still relatively undiscovered, ongoing efforts are promoting ecotourism and raising awareness about the forest's conservation needs.

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