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Ratargul Swamp Forest Boat Station: Gateway to a Submerged Wonderland

Discover Bangladesh's only freshwater swamp forest: a boat ride through a submerged world of natural beauty and tranquility near Sylhet.

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The Ratargul Swamp Forest Boat Station serves as the entry point to Ratargul, Bangladesh's only freshwater swamp forest. This unique ecosystem, often called the 'Amazon of Bangladesh,' is best explored by boat, especially during the monsoon season when the forest is submerged, creating a mesmerizing landscape of trees rising from the water.

A brief summary to Ratargul Swamp Forest Boat Station

  • Monday 7 am-7 pm
  • Tuesday 7 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 7 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 7 am-7 pm
  • Friday 7 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 7 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 7 am-7 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the monsoon season (June to October) for the quintessential experience when the forest is submerged.
  • Hire a local guide to navigate the forest and learn about its ecology and local culture.
  • Wear comfortable clothing and waterproof footwear, especially during the rainy season.
  • Be mindful of the environment; avoid littering and respect the wildlife.
  • Negotiate boat rental prices before starting your tour.
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Getting There

  • CNG/Auto-rickshaw

    From Sylhet city, the most common way to reach Ratargul Swamp Forest Boat Station is by CNG or auto-rickshaw. You can find CNG stations at Amberkhana point in Sylhet. A direct CNG ride to Chowrangi Ghat, near the boat station, typically costs between 600-800 BDT. Negotiate the price beforehand. The journey takes approximately 1 hour. From Chowrangi Ghat, it's a short walk to the boat station. Alternatively, reserve a CNG for the whole day (approx. 1200-1500 BDT) if planning to visit other nearby attractions.

  • Public Transport & Boat

    An alternative route involves taking a shared ride to Shringi Bridge from Amberkhana point (approx. 80 BDT per person). From Shringi Bridge, hire a local boat to reach the Ratargul Swamp Forest Boat Station. Boat fares from Shringi Bridge to Ratargul vary, so negotiate the price. Once at the boat station, you'll need to rent another boat to explore the swamp forest itself; boat rentals range from 750-800 BDT, government-determined.

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Discover more about Ratargul Swamp Forest Boat Station

The Ratargul Swamp Forest Boat Station is the starting point for exploring the extraordinary Ratargul Swamp Forest, a natural wonder located in the Gowainghat Upazila, approximately 26 kilometers from Sylhet. This freshwater swamp forest, sustained by the River Goain, sprawls across 30,325 acres, with 504 acres designated as a wildlife sanctuary in 1973. What sets Ratargul apart is its seasonal flooding, typically from June to October, transforming it into a waterlogged paradise. During the monsoon, the forest becomes a haven for tourists seeking to witness trees submerged in water. Visitors navigate through the waterways in small boats, guided by locals who intimately know the forest's hidden paths. The predominant tree species are Koroch and Hizol, thriving in the wet conditions and creating a unique canopy overhead. The experience is akin to gliding through a mystical world, with the sounds of nature amplifying the tranquility. While the monsoon season offers the quintessential Ratargul experience, the forest retains its charm throughout the year. In the winter months, when the water recedes, the forest floor becomes accessible for walking, revealing a different perspective of the ecosystem. The Ratargul Watch Tower provides panoramic views of the forest, though it may be temporarily closed for renovations. Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts will find Ratargul to be a sanctuary, with diverse species of birds and plants inhabiting the area. Local culture is intertwined with the forest, as it supports traditional lifestyles and provides a source of livelihood for many. Visitors can hire local guides to learn about the forest's ecology and its significance to the community. As Ratargul is a natural habitat, caution is advised regarding wildlife, including snakes and insects. It is essential to respect the environment by avoiding littering or disturbing the animals.

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