Even though some may say that sunny and dry seasons are preferable for travelling, in Bangladesh, it’s quite the opposite. From swamp forests to magnificent waterfalls, Bangladesh has some splendid attractions that stand out during the monsoon season, which occurs from June to October. Monsoon transforms the landscape of Bangladesh into a lush, verdant paradise. The heavy rains bring life to the fields, forests, and waterways, making it an ideal time to explore the natural beauty of the country. Here are five of the best destinations to experience the enchanting monsoon in Bangladesh.
Tanguar Haor
Sunamganj
Nestled in the northeastern part of Bangladesh, Tanguar Haor is a vast wetland that comes alive during monsoon. This biodiversity hotspot, recognised as a Ramsar site, turns into a stunning mosaic of blue and green as far as the eye can see. The area is home to numerous species of birds, fish, and plants, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
The best way to enjoy this place is on the amazing houseboats that offer people the opportunity to stay overnight. This allows visitors to glide over the water, surrounded by the serene beauty of floating plants and blooming lotuses. Local fishermen and their traditional boats add to the picturesque scenery, offering a glimpse into the rural life of Bangladesh.
Last but not the least, one must visit the mesmerising Shimul (Bombax Ceiba) garden, which is one of the highlights of Sunamganj. This is another sight that should not be missed when visiting the district.
Ratargul Swamp Forest
Sylhet
The Ratargul Swamp Forest in Sylhet is one of the few freshwater swamp forests in Bangladesh. This unique ecosystem is best experienced during monsoon when the forest gets submerged in water, creating a surreal landscape that resembles the Amazon rainforest. The reflection of the trees on the still water creates a mesmerising and tranquil mirror-like effect.
Visitors can rent small boats to navigate through the forest, where they can observe various species of birds and aquatic life. The cool and shaded environment of the swamp provides a refreshing escape from the summer heat, making it an ideal destination during monsoon.
MONSOON TRANSFORMS THE LANDSCAPE OF BANGLADESH INTO A LUSH, VERDANT PARADISE. THE HEAVY RAINS BRING LIFE TO THE FIELDS, FORESTS, AND WATERWAYS, MAKING IT AN IDEAL TIME TO EXPLORE THE NATURAL BEAUTY OF THE COUNTRY.
Kaptai Lake
Rangamati
Kaptai Lake, which is the largest man-made lake in Bangladesh, is a gem located in the heart of the Chittagong Hill Tracts. During monsoon, the lake reaches its full capacity due to the heavy rains, enhancing its beauty with lush green hills and vibrant blue waters. The lake is surrounded by scenic hills and forests, creating a picturesque backdrop for activities such as boating, fishing, and hiking.
Monsoon is the perfect time to visit Kaptai Lake as the weather is cooler and the landscape is at its most vibrant. Houseboats and traditional wooden boats offer a unique way to explore the lake, and the nearby tribal villages provide a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage. Other attractions include the famous Hanging Bridge and Buddhist temples located near the lake.
Nafa Khum Waterfall
Bandarban
Nafa Khum is one of the largest waterfalls in Bangladesh, located in the remote hills of Bandarban. During monsoon, the waterfall is at its most powerful, with torrents of water cascading down the rocky cliffs into the Sangu River. The journey to Nafa Khum is an adventure in itself, involving boat rides and treks through dense forests and rolling hills.
Monsoon transforms the area around Nafa Khum into a lush, green paradise. The cool mist from the waterfall and the surrounding forest create a magical ambiance, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Bichanakandi
Sylhet
Bichanakandi, located in Sylhet, is a place where several layers of the Khasi hills meet at a single point from both sides. During monsoon, the area turns into a natural wonder, with streams of water flowing down the hills and merging into a crystal-clear river. The boulders and stones, washed smooth by the flowing water, create a striking contrast with the lush greenery.
The cool, clear water and the scenic beauty of Bichanakandi make it an ideal spot for a refreshing dip or a relaxing day by the river. The monsoon adds to the charm, making the hills and streams more vibrant and alive.
Bangladesh in monsoon is a treasure trove of natural beauty, waiting to be explored. From the serene wetlands of Tanguar Haor to the mystical Ratargul Swamp Forest, the majestic Kaptai Lake, the powerful Nafa Khum Waterfall, and the picturesque Bichanakandi, each destination offers a unique experience that showcases the country’s rich biodiversity and scenic splendor. So pack your bags, embrace the rain, and embark on an unforgettable journey through the monsoon-soaked landscapes of the country.