Ratargul Swamp Forest is the only swamp forest in Bangladesh. It is located in the Gowainghat Upazila, about 22 kilometers from the town of Sylhet. The forest covers about 3,325.61 acres. Of this vast area, 504 acres are forest, while the rest is filled with small and large bodies of water. However, during the monsoon season, the entire area looks the same.
Ratargul is known as the “Sundarbans of Sylhet.” The wetlands are submerged for four to five months a year. During this time, tourists from all over Bangladesh come to see the submerged trees in the forest. During the monsoon season, various species of birds can be seen perched in the trees, and some wild animals also take shelter there. Additionally, thousands of migratory birds gather in the Ratargul wetlands in the winter. The best time to visit Ratargul is usually from July to October, at the end of the monsoon season.
Many tourists call Ratargul the “Amazon of Bangladesh.” This mystical swamp forest in the Sylhet region offers a surreal adventure for those seeking tranquility and the thrill of experiencing nature in all its serenity and wildness.
“Ratargul Swamp Forest” is one of only 22 freshwater wetlands in the world.
Ratargul Swamp Forest
The Ratargul Swamp Forest is one of the most important freshwater swamp forests in Bangladesh. Its name is derived from the indigenous term for the “rata” or “pati” tree, which connects it deeply with the local culture.
During the rainy season, the forest undergoes a dramatic transformation when it is submerged under 20 to 30 feet of water. This annual inundation creates a mesmerizing scene of towering trees standing starkly against the flooded landscape, hosting an array of diverse life forms.
The forest is home to over 70 species of plants, including the Dalbergia reniformis, also known as the koroch tree. This rich biodiversity is complemented by a variety of animals and birds, making Ratargul a critical habitat for conservation and study.
Read more: How to Visit Kotka Sea Beach in the Sundarbans
Location
The Ratargul Swamp Forest is located along the Gowain River in the Fatehpur Union of Gowainghat, approximately 22 to 26 kilometers from Sylhet Town. This unique ecosystem thrives within the river’s waters and is interconnected with the Chengir Khal channel.
Ratargul is a natural forest where the local forest department has planted several trees, including hijal, varun, and karach. About 25 species of water-tolerant plants, including kadam, jalibet, and arjun, can also be seen here. In 1973, the Bangladesh Forest Department designated 504 acres of the forest as a wildlife sanctuary.
Ratargul is preserved as a vital ecological haven under the stewardship of the Forest Department, ensuring its flora and fauna continue to flourish.
Read more: Visit Kuakata Sea Beach in Bangladesh
Explore Ratargul Swamp Forest
During the rainy season, as the Meghalaya River merges with the Gowain, Ratargul becomes a vast submerged forest. This rise in water levels creates a dynamic ecosystem where the forest thrives in its flooded state. Small boats weave through the waterways beneath towering trees, offering a tranquil, immersive experience of an untouched environment.
Activities in Ratargul
Ratargul offers a variety of activities tailored to different interests.
Boating: Exploring the forest by boat is an essential experience that allows visitors to navigate through the water-engulfed forest.
Birdwatching: With over 200 species of birds, Ratargul is a paradise for bird enthusiasts.
Kayaking: The more adventurous can enjoy kayaking through the forest’s narrow channels, offering a unique view of the area’s natural beauty.
Photography: The lush scenery and diverse wildlife provide ample photographic opportunities, allowing you to capture the vibrant ecosystem and its inhabitants.
Read more: Bichanakandi Travel Guide: Where to Stay, Costs, and Tips
Ratargul Swamp Forest Photos
Let’s take a look at some stunning photos of the Ratargul Swamp Forest. All of the photos were collected from Facebook and Google Maps.
Food and Accommodation
Although options are limited while staying near Ratargul, Sylhet city offers a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly guesthouses to upscale hotels. Zindabazar’s local cuisine reflects the region’s rich culinary traditions, offering flavorful and authentic dishes.
Restaurants such as Pansi, Pach Vai, and Palki offer diverse dining experiences that encapsulate the essence of Sylheti cuisine, allowing visitors to explore not only the natural wonders but also the gastronomic delights of the region.
Where should you stay?
There are many quality hotels and rest houses at reasonable prices in the Lala Bazar and Darga Road areas. You can find different types of rooms there for 500 to 1,000 taka. Apart from these, according to your needs and ability, you can stay in hotels like Hill Town, Gulshan, Darga Gate, Surma, Kaikobad, etc.
Residential hotels that offer good service include Hotel Holy Gate, Holy Inn, La Vista Hotel, Pansy Inn, Hotel Metro International, and Britannia Hotel. The cost of staying at these hotels ranges from 2,000 to 10,000 taka. Luxury hotels and resorts include Nirvana Inn, Hotel Noorjahan Grand, Rose View Hotel, Nazimgarh Resort, and Grand Palace, among others. The cost per night ranges from 8,000 to 30,000 taka.
How to Visit the Ratargul Swamp Forest from Dhaka
There are several travel options to reach Ratargul from Dhaka:
By bus: Regular buses operate from Dhaka’s main terminals, such as Gabtali and Sayedabad. Air-conditioned buses cost around BDT 1,500 and offer a more comfortable journey, while non-AC buses cost around BDT 700.
By train: Trains from Kamalapur or the Airport Railway Station offer options like the Parabat Express and the Upaban Express. Tickets range from BDT 375 to BDT 863, catering to different comfort levels.
By air: For speed and convenience, several local airlines provide flights from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport to Sylhet, with prices starting at BDT 4,000.
How to Get from Sylhet to Ratargul
Ratargul is about 22 kilometers from Sylhet city. You can therefore go to Ratargul from Sylhet in the morning and return by the afternoon. If you are traveling with a group, you can rent a CNG or Laguna for the day. The daily rental fee is between 1,500 and 2,500 taka. You can also visit Bholaganj or Bichnakandi while you’re in Ratargul. You must pay extra to reserve a CNG vehicle. There is a government fee to enter Ratargul, and you can hire fishermen to take you into the forest by boat. Each small boat can accommodate four to five people. The boat rental fee is 750 taka.
Best Time to Visit Ratargul Swamp Forest
The best time to explore the Ratargul Swamp Forest is during the monsoon season from June to August, when the forest is fully submerged and the scenery is most dramatic. However, visitors should be aware of the potential presence of wildlife, including snakes in the tree branches, and be cautious of leeches. Bargaining is customary when hiring boats or purchasing local goods. Non-swimmers are strongly advised to wear life jackets, available for rent at modest prices.
Visitors are also advised to bring umbrellas and raincoats in case of sudden weather changes. A first aid kit is also essential for dealing with minor emergencies. Since there are no food services within the forest, it is advisable to carry light snacks and water for a comfortable and uninterrupted experience.
Environmental Awareness
As Ratargul is a protected area, visitors are urged to practice responsible tourism and adhere to guidelines that preserve the area’s natural state. This includes properly disposing of waste, minimizing noise pollution, and avoiding actions that could harm the delicate ecosystem. By respecting these principles, tourists can help ensure that Ratargul remains a vibrant, healthy habitat for future generations.
Precautions when traveling at night
Be careful, as snakes usually take shelter in tree branches after the forest floods during the monsoon season. There is also a leech problem here. If you don’t know how to swim, bring a life jacket. If necessary, bring an umbrella and a raincoat.
Discover Sylhet’s Other Attractions
While Ratargul is the main attraction, Sylhet has other notable sites. Popular tourist destinations in the area include Bholaganj, Bichnakandi, Jaflong, Lalakhal, and the Hazrat Shahjalal (RA) shrine, apart from the Ratargul tour.
- Malnicherra Tea Estate: Explore this historic and beautiful tea garden.
- Jaflong: This area is famous for its pristine scenery and the clear waters of the Piyain River.
- Sada Pathor and Lalakhal: These areas are known for their scenic beauty and cultural significance. These areas feature stone quarries and stunning river views.
Conclusion
A journey to the Ratargul Swamp Forest is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the unspoiled beauty of Bangladesh’s natural landscapes. From serene boat rides through the flooded forest canopy to the rich tapestry of flora and fauna, Ratargul offers an educational and exhilarating experience. Coupled with cultural and culinary explorations in Sylhet, a visit to the forest promises comprehensive insight into the region’s natural and cultural heritage.
Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker, or photographer, Ratargul Swamp Forest and its surroundings offer a captivating retreat from daily life. Plan your visit during the monsoon months for the most impactful experience, and let the enchanting landscapes of Sylhet’s Ratargul Swamp Forest leave a lasting impression on your heart and mind.