Ratargul Swamp Forest, located in the Gowainghat Upazila of Sylhet, Bangladesh, is a remarkable wetland forest that transforms with the changing seasons. This unique forest is submerged in water for a significant part of the year, creating a surreal and captivating landscape that offers a glimpse into the harmony of nature.
What to do?
Starting by a boat ride through the submerged forest is the highlight of visiting Ratargul. The experience allows you to glide through narrow water channels surrounded by towering trees and submerged roots. It’s a chance to observe the diverse flora and fauna that thrive in this distinct ecosystem.
How to get there?
To reach Ratargul Swamp Forest, you’ll need to travel to the Gowainghat Upazila. Start by reaching Sylhet city through bus or plane. From Sylhet, take a road journey to Gowainghat, where the forest is situated. The picturesque route adds to the overall experience.
To reach Sylhet City from Dhaka:
- By Air: Available domestic flights are NOVOAIR, US-Bangla Airlines, Biman Bangladesh Airlines Ltd.
- By Bus: You can reach Sylhet by bus using Ena Transport (Pvt) Ltd and Hanif Enterprise. There other other bus services but they are not that renowned. You can buy bus ticket here at shohoz.com.
- By Train: There are few Intercity Train services available named Kalni Express, Paharika, Jayantika, Parabat, Udayan and Upaban Express. These trains are serving their passengers to travel to different locations like Dhaka, Chittagong, and stops between those tracks. You can have a look at railway’s website for more details. You can buy ticket online at Bangladesh Railway.
Ratargul’s swamp forest gallery
Nearby tourist spots
While exploring the area, don’t miss out on visiting following areas:
- Sylhet City Tour would be a nice time for knowing the local culture and cuisine. This city is near to the Surma river. You can enjoy street foods such as “Fuchka”, “Chotpoti” etc at the river bank during the evening time. There is a huge pond at the heart of the city and you can feel the city life under the night light.
- Sylhet Shahi Eidgah: A historical mosque with intricate architecture, offering a glimpse into the city’s cultural heritage.
- Hazrat Shah Jalal Mazar Sharif is a significant shrine honoring Hazrat Shah Jalal, a revered Sufi saint, attracting pilgrims and tourists alike.
- Shahjalal University of Science and Technology (SUST) is a very beautiful place for any tourist visiting the Sylhet area. The place is quiet and calm, environment is clean and tourist friendly.
- Jaflong is the most popular tourist destination in the Sylhet region. It’s mostly surrounded by the attractive view of Meghalaya mountains, river with crystal clear water and colorful stones. This is one of the most popular place in Bangladesh. If you’re looking for a peaceful and scenic getaway, Jaflong is a great choice.
- Lalakhal is small shallow river with it’s unique beauty. It’s mysterious green color water would definitely amazed you. You may enjoy a boat ride over the river’s green water at the evening.
- Sada Pathor (White Stones) at Bholaganj upazila. It has a river with crystal clear water flowing over the colorful stones bed. You can enjoy the natural Jacuzzi in the shallow river’s water.
- Bichanakandi is similar to the Sada Pathor. You can enjoy the beauty of Meghalaya mountains and a river with crystal clear water and clorfull stones. Boat ride over the river would be fantastic experience.
- Khasia Polli is located near Jaflong. It is the home for some indigenous Khasia people. They have their own culture and ethnic belief. You can see large flat tea fields in the Khasia Polli.
- Khadimnagar National Park is a serene and bio-diverse protected area located near Sylhet city. Spanning over 68 acres, the park is a haven for nature lovers.
Location
Ratargul Swamp Forest lies in the Gowainghat Upazila, within the Sylhet district of Bangladesh. This wetland wonder showcases the beauty of nature’s adaptability and is a must-visit for those seeking to connect with the fascinating world of aquatic forests.