Ahsan Manzil

Ahsan Manzil is an attractive tourist spot in Dhaka. It is one of the most meaningful architectural heritage of Bangladesh. It is situated in Old Dhaka on the bank of the river Buriganga. The area is called Kumartuli in Islampur. Here you you’ll enjoy the feeling of the lifestyle of the Nawabs of Dhaka. The pink palace was actually built by Nawab Sir Abdul Gani in 1872, and was reconstructed after the tornado of 1888. Now it has been established as a museum. People have the opportunity to visit the museum and here you will find some historical and archeological things.It has 23 galleries displaying portraits, furniture and other objects used by the Nawab.

Location : Kumartuli,Islampur,Dhaka

How to get there

You can visit Ahsan Manzil very easily through rickshaw and public transport with minimum cost of 30 BDT from Motijheel in Dhaka. it’s just few minutes of distance apart from the Jagannath University. Opening Time 10.30 am and Closing Time 5.30pm

World Cultural Heritage part-1

Listed by UNESCO, both of our World Cultural Heritage is idividually unique in their own archaeological integrity which was sincere outcome of year-long devotions of the builders, designers and the persons who sanctioned it. There are two archaeological sites in Bangladesh that are enlisted as World Cultural Heritage. These are:

• Historic Mosque city of Bagerhat
• Paharpur Buddhist Vihara

Historic Mosque city of Bagerhat

The present day town of Bagerhat is about 20 km southeast of Khulna divisional headquarters and 250 km southwest of capital city of Dhaka. Khan-e-Jahan Ulugh Khan by title, a saint-warrior, established a township here in the 15the century AD. It can be approached from Dhaka, Khulna and Barisal by motor way. From Dhaka one can reach there by a steamer also via Barisal and Khulna which usually takes a longer time. Port of Mongla is about 20km south of Bagerhat which is easily approachable by motorway.

Most of the establishments of his township have disappeared with the passage of time. Only a few survive most of which are religious buildings like mosque and mausoleum. Not a single secular structure excepting road is visible now. Water tanks may be related to both types of establishments. The traceable evidences of Bagerhat and Kalifatabad can be distinctly divisible into two groups: surviving monument and structural ruins buried in the earth. The former group comprises Shat Gombuj Masjid (Sixty Dome Mosque), Singara Mosque, Bibi Begni’s Mosque, The Chunakhola Mosque, Noy Gombuj Masjid (Nine dome Mosque), Ronvijoypur Mosque, Rezakodha Masjid (Six-Domed Mosque), Zindapir Masjid, Sabekdanga Monument and Khan Jahan’s Tomb. In the latter group there are many structural ruins scattered in and around Bagerhat town. A few of them are in the form of low mounds while some others are almost leveled down to the surrounding land surface. Some of them are Khan Jahaner Vasatbati, Bara Azina Masjid, Jahajghata, Kotwali Chawtara etc. This township has been inscribed on the World Cultural Heritage List in 1985 by UNESCO under the title ‘Historic Mosque city of Bagerhat’. The important monuments and mound as follows:

Shat Gombuj Masjid

The most spectacular and magnificent monument of Khalifatabad, stands on the eastern bank of a large water tank, locally known as Ghora dighi. It is about 7km west of Bagerhat town. Khulna-Bagerhat high way passes to the south of the mosque. This most imposing brick-built mosque is commonly known by its highly misleading name of Shat Gambuj Masjid or Sixty Dome Mosque. Actually this is roofed over with 77 squat domes including 7 chauchala or four segmented hut shaped domes in the central row.

It is the largest mosque of medieval Bangladesh with its external dimension 49 meter long and 33 meter wide. The large prayer chamber is provided with 11 arched doorways on the east and 7 each on the north and south. The interior of the mosque is divided into 7 longitudinal aisles and 11 deep bays by 60 stones columns of which five are brick piers. Rows of endless diminishing arches spring from these pillars. These arches support the domes. Recent restoration works have covered those stone columns excepting one.

There are ten concave mihrabs on the western wall of which the central one is of stone while the flanking 9 mihrabs are decorated with terracotta motifs. There is a small arched doorway in the western wall close to the central mihrab. The corner turrets are raised above the slightly curved parapet capped by rounded cupolas. The eastern turrets are tall and have entrances from the anterior of the mosque through staircases while the western turrets are dwarfish without staircases. The facade is relieved with usual curved cornice. Besides, over the central arched doorway there existed a small triangular pediment. After repair this pediment is not seen.

Tomb of Khan Jahan

The second important monument of Khalifatabad is the single domed mausoleum of Khan Jahan (Pl.23) located on the northern embankment of a large tank locally known as Thakur dighi. It is about 2km east-southeast of Sixty Dome Mosque.

The tomb is a square building measuring 13.70 meter each side. At the base of the brick wall 5 courses of black Stones have been used. There is an arched entrance in the middle of each side of which the northern one is now closed. The corner towers are faceted at regular intervals with seven brick moldings and crowned with ribbed cupolas. The walls are 2.5 meter thick. Each wall is relieved with two multi cusped arched niches.

The tomb accommodates a stone built sarcophagus in the middle of the floor and actual, grave underneath. The floor was richly embellished with colored glazed tiles which are now missing.

The sarcophagus is profusely engraved with the verses from the holy Quran, Persian expressions and date (27 Zilhaz, 863 AH [24-25 October 1459 AD]) of the demise of the saint Khan-ul-Azam Ulugh Khan-i-Jahan by title. The walls of the crypt, which is now closed, are also full with inscriptions. An attempt to decipher those inscriptions may help to get the Khan Jahan’s identity and also to reconstruct the history of the region.

On the close west of this tomb there is another stone sarcophagus known as Peer Alt Taheerer Majar who was close associate of Khan Jahan. Further west there is an identical but smaller single domed mosque.

The tomb is enclosed by an inner and outer compound. The inner boundary wall accommodates three gateways, one in each side except north. The main gateway in the west is now closed. The outer enclosure has six entrances in it.

Nine-Domed Mosque, Khalifatabad

The mosque is located on the western embankment of the Thakur Dighi and to the southwest of the mausoleum of Khan Jahan. The square mosque (15.1 meter) is roofed over with nine hemispherical domes rest on four free- standing stone columns.

It has three pointed arched openings on the north, south and east sides bordered within tall rectangular frames. Above the arches there are horizontal rows of moldings.

The western wall is relieved with three semicircular mihrabs of which the central one is larger and is projected to the west. The multi-cusped mihrabs are decorated with terracotta floral, scroll and foliage patterns within rectangular panels. Center of each mihrab is decorated with chain and bell motif. Apexes of the arches have diaper designs and large rosettes at the spandrels. Rest three walls are relieved with only two niches in each.

The corner turrets are round and are faceted by eight bands of moldings. The exterior walls are relieved with vertical panels. The curved cornice is very prominent.

Khan Jahan’s Residence, Khalifatabad

A low locally known as Khan Jahan’s Vasatbati (Khan Jahan’s Residence) is situated about 600 north of Shat Gombuj Bus Station and 200m north of Sixty Dome Mosque.

The site is located in Bajeapti-Sundlarghona area under the union of Shaitgumbad on the southern bank of Magra Khal (canal). There are three adjacent and two small tanks known as Bis Pukur and Andhi Pukur respectively.

A small scale excavation carried out by the Department of Archaeology in 2002 in the large revealed some nondescript walls, floors, stone columns, potsherds and porcelains. The exposed remains indicate that probably there was a mosque and residence also which had been repaired several times. Further investigation is required to confirm it and to expose the remains fully.

About 50 meter south of this excavated site a low lies which is locally known as Sona Masjid. This has now been almost leveled to the ground. But the huge potsherds and top of the damaged walls visible clearly indicates that this entire area^ was Sickly inhabited. Extensive excavation will certainly yield important information which will help to reconstruct the history of Ulugh Khan Jahan.

Nearly 200 meter north of Khan Jahan’s residence along an ancient road overlooking the meandering of moriband Bhairab there lies a site locally known as Jahajghata or Port of Khan Jahan or Pathar Ghata. An ornamental stone column is firmly embedded in the ground which supports the people’s common belief. An image of an eight handed Mahismardini Durga (c. llth/12th century AD) is engraved in this stone column. Probably this was subsequently brought here.

How to go

From DHAKA, you can go by Bus such as SHOHAG , HANIF, EGAL for go to DHAKA to KHULNA. From Khulna city the distance is around 7km. So you can go by RICKSHAW or Microbus.

Accommodation
If you want to stay there, some hotels are ready to help you. Here’s the list of hotels:
Sagorika
Rahmot hotel
Mohana hotel
Rahat hotel
Paharpur Buddhist Vihara, Badalgachi, Naogaon

According to the Bengali Vocabulary, the name Paharpur (Pahar = hill, pur = locality) means a locality of hill. It is a village in Badalgachi Upazila of Naogaon District. The nearest railway station of Jamalganj that lies on the Khulna-Parvatipur rail tract and is connected with Paharpur by a 5km long brick metalled bye-way. Paharpur can also be reached from its nearest airport, Sayedpur, following a metalled road via Joypurhat. The village contains the ruins of a Buddhist monastery which was called Somapura Mahavihara (the great monastery situated in the locality of moon) in the ancient Buddhist World. It is now a World Cultural Heritage (BGD. 292)

The monastery is square in plan, being 281m on each side. Built by Dharmapala (781-821 AD) the second ruler of the Pala dynasty, and reconstructed at least twice by his descendants, each of its with has thick exterior wall with two entrance provisions on the north and one in the east. Besides, there has a row of monastic cells, fronted by a running corridor, abutting the exterior wall. Some of the cells contain solid pedestals. There has also a sub-worshipping point in the mid-most part of each wing excepting the north one. Each worshipping point, excepting the southern one, has a staircase connection with the monastery courtyard in front. In the center of the open courtyard of the monastery there stands the residual vestige of a four-faced shrine.

The central shrine is a terraced structure springing from a cruciform ground plan and expanding from a mid-pile of square configuration. The upper terrace has in its each side a sanctum fronted by an ante-chamber with circumambulatory passage around. Each of the second and first terraces has nothing but a circumambulatory passage. The passages of the lower terrace, however, are now covered under recently accumulated soil. Its wall has 63 inches at plinth level, each being provided with a stone sculpture. Whereas the un-plastered wall surfaces of the lower two terraces are decorated with friezes containing terracotta plaques showing different scenes. The cornices of all terraces are turgent and lavishly relieved with carved bricks showing chain, petal, pyramidal, dental, net and lozenge motifs. Moreover, at the juncture of the cornices there are stone gargoyles ended in grinning lion faces.

The courtyard around the central shrine is dotted with several units of straggling structural ruins. Of them, Panchavede > a group of five votive stupas>near the south-eastern comer, a kitchen towards west of Panchavedi, a long paved dinning arrangement towards north-west of Panchavedi and a model of the central shrine on the north of Panchavedi are a few to note. The northeast comer is also occupied by another group of structures, They appear to have been related to office establishments. Close to the basement of the central shrine a number of wells, votive stupas, vedika cruciform model etc. are noticed. The western half of the courtyard is relatively barren in structural finding.

A good number of objects cultural have been salvaged from Paharpur, They include sculptural pieces, terracotta plaques, pottery, domestic tools, ornaments, coins, seals, ceilings, votive stupas etc. They are now housed in Asutosh Museum Kolkata, Bangladesh National Museum , Varendra Museum, Paharpur Museum and other site museums in Bangladesh.

Of these antiquities sculptural pieces as well as sculptured plaques are artistically most alluring. Most of the sculptural pieces are medium in size and a few are smaller. All of them are wrought on stone save a few of metal. Stucco sculptural pieces are, however, not altogether lacking. Among the metal sculptures, the fragmentary bust of a Buddha is worth noted because of its artistic excellence. Only one stone sculpture is related to Mahayana order, the remaining being Hindu. In dating parlance, they may be placed in the 7th-12th AD time-bracket.

The next group of alluring art objects is represented by terracotta plaques. They are at least 2800 in number and appear to be contemporaneous to the 1st constructional period of the Pala monastery. Their sizes vary between 40cm x 30cm x 6cm and 18cm square. They depict diverse scenes reflecting the then socio-political, economic and martial aspects.

How to go

From Bogura, take a bus to Jaipurhat (approximately 44 km). From Jaipurhat, buses leave regularly between 4 pm to 7 pm for Paharpur from Jaipurhat. Then to get to the sights from Paharpur village take a rickshaw or a three wheeler. And to get back to Jaipurhat you can get tempo.

Bus Services
Hanif Enterprise
Phone: 02-9120116, 8114442
Shyamoli Paribahan
Phone: 02-9333803
Train Service
Bangladesh Railway
Phone: 02-9358634, 8315857
Accommodation

There are a few accommodation and restaurant facilities at Joypurhat. But a good number of accommodation and restaurants are available in Bogra town. Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation owns a luxurious motel with restaurant facilities in Bogra town, a number of private hotels, guest and rest-houses are available for tourists. Name and address of some motels are as follows:

Parjatan Motel, Bogra

Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation Sherpur Road, Banani, Bogra

Hotel Naz Garden
Slimpur, Bogra
Tel: 051-66655, 73888, 62468 Tel: 051-66753, 67024-7
Motel Safeway Int’l (Pvt.) Ltd.
Charmatha, Santahar Road, Bogra Tel: 051-66087
Motel North Way
Chinese restaurant and residential facility, Latifpur Colony,Bogra
Tel: 051-66824, Mobile: 0171-385036
Visiting Hours at Paharpur Museum
1st April – 30th September
Monday – Thursday 10:00 am to 6:00 pm (Break 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm)
Friday 9:00 am to 5:00 pm (Break 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm)
1st October – 30th March
Monday – Thursday 9:00 am to 5:00 pm (Break 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm)
Friday 9:00 am to 5:00 pm (Break 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm)

Bangladesh's Geography and Climate

Geography

Bangladesh is a “Land of Stories”. Everything of this land tells a story; a story of Bangladeshi people and their heart. Not only the livelihood of Bangladeshi people is deeply rooted in this land, but also their life is deeply incorporated in this lands.

This country has a very fertile alluvial soil which gives the country abundant crops every year. These lands are like our parents, our eternal guardian who take cares of us, nurture us with providing our primitive needs.

With a grand and resourceful Bay of Bengal at its south, Bangladesh is called the land of rivers. As a riverine country, about 700 rivers including tributaries flow through the country in which the souls and livelihood of Bangladeshi people are strongly connected. Like so many songs and poems — which are written specially to celebrate these rivers — the majestically curvy banks or the turbulent tide of Bangladeshi rivers give the people hope and an excitement to live the best out of it. Apart from these rivers, the country also have plenty of haors, baor, jheel, beel which strengthens our relation with more affection.
Covered with diversified natural wonders and wildlife, this country sees a wide range of Hills in the Chittagong Hill Tracts in the southeast and Sylhet division in the northeast. What make these areas more interesting and exotic are the tribal people inhabited here for a long period of time.

The Sundarbans — home of the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger — are the largest littoral mangrove forest in the world as well as the most important and the biggest forest of Bangladesh. This land is the safest sanctuary for a diverse range of wildlife. The careless look of amazing deer, a rare glimpse or a sudden terrifying roar or even footprints of Royal Bengal Tiger on the swampy land of Sundarbans, hiking against the bushy and thick jungles of Sundarbans etc will completely satisfy any adventure seekers.

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Yes. Apart from some epic storytelling natural lands, the growing urban landscapes manifest the truly blend of modern and traditional setting of Bangladesh too. With rising architectural wonders and topnotch urban facility the country has its major urban areas in Dhaka, Chittagong, Khulna and Sylhet. Even in these urbanized areas, you will find some archeological heritages which will constantly remind us about our traditional and cultural root. If you have been mesmerized by the stories of our rural, hilly and watery land, then you should also be amazed by the urban wonders.

Climate

Our climate, frankly, complements our lands. It completes the stories of our land. Bangladesh is not only a land of stories, but also a land of six wonderful seasons. Seasons that will definitely excite you with their diverse characteristics.

If you haven’t had enjoyed true summer of monsoon area yet, Bangladesh is the right place to do so. A lot of activities will appear; jumping on the river, filling the tummy with mind-blowing range of seasonal fruits, or even cooling down your body with a blissful sip from sorbet made from those heavenly fruits.

If you think rain in Bangladesh brings only water, you are completely wrong. It brings life. It brings joy to the thirsty soul of both urban and rural life. The nature gets their nectar in this season. Dried-up ponds finally find a way to become resourceful. And our lovely people? They dance with joy to celebrate the blessings of nature.

After giving the people to celebrating their life and the nature around them with raindrops, then comes the autumn. The heavenly clouds, floating in the clear sky that comprises thousands shades of blue, will allure you into becoming a painter.

If you are already mesmerized with the heavenly blue in autumn, do not hesitate to follow the late autumn. It is the season which brings happiness for the farmers; for their hard work all over the year. The farmers are busy with harvesting. And the women in their homes sing with joy to welcome the arrival of new crops. At the end, with dew drops this season tips off the arrival of the upcoming season winter.

With a thick blanket of fog, the winter finally arrives in Bangladesh. Even if it gets chilly with a rising urge to stay under the comfy blanket, Bangladeshi winter has plenty of stories to offer you. Freshly baked vapa pitha in front of warm cooker or a sip of freshly collected juice, a chilling walk through the fog in village area, warming sunshine from the rising sun in rural landscape, magnanimous flock of migratory birds etc. will take your breath away. Just to experience these stories you will come back here again and again.

Spring is the last season in Bengali year; but not the least. We call it the season of celebration. We celebrate the awaken nature which was frozen in winter. The presence of joy and life is everywhere. The nature blooms with various flowers. New leaves gain life in their own trees. When do you know the spring is already here? It’s simple! With sweet songs, our birds will inform you about spring.

Life is so good when you live it in Bangladesh. The people and the nature will help you to get the most out of it. Happiness, for us, needs no reason. We are always happy with knowing who we are whether our capability is satisfactory to us or not. We know how to celebrate the life we are give. We know how to get the most out of our life.

There are many kinds of lifestyle of the people can be seen in Bangladesh — urban, rural and Tribal. Amidst the concrete jungle, the urban life follows a different direction than the rural life. The rural life has a much more strong relation with the nature. And, far from the maddening crowd, there are many tribal lifestyles can be noticed which are unique and vibrant in their own characteristics.

If you want to seek happiness with no condition applied, go visit our rural areas. The way of life has always been primitive and there exist no complications. The people in our village areas live by the nature. They respect the nature. In return, they are taken cared by the nature. This is most divine transaction in the entire world. This is why you can even find the most primitive lifestyle here. People uses farming tools just like their ancestors like. They prefer manual labor and natural resources instead of heavy machinery. This is why you will be amazed when you see any farmers ploughing their beloved soil with the help of macho bulls. Or even you will see the village woman making foods in ovens fueled with chopped up woods.

The village kids use the most of their life by playing various footballs, cricket, kabadi and many traditional sports. You can join them. While playing in the rain, the splash of mud will remind you how close you are being with the nature. Most of them are skillful in climbing trees. Ask them, and you will be blessed with freshly picked juicy fruits instantly. You can jump on the river or pond from the peak of a tree. You can swim through the river under the hot sun. The clean and cold water will relieve you from the boredom of life. On a calm evening at the yard of traditional village house, you can stare the clean sky where the moon and stars glaze with their fullest integrity. And that moment, you will get know true meaning of life.

The best thing you will experience and will definitely spice up of you entire vacation is the hospitality of Bangladeshi people. We treat our guest just like anyone of our family. Our smile gives them a hope to live on their wonder life and come back in this land of wonders again and again.

These are definitely not all. There are plenty of other things to do and see in the rural areas of Bangladesh. You will never get bored. And you will never fail to understand the true meaning of life. This is an experience of lifetime. Even if you return to your country, the memory will keep your soul alive and fresh.

Just come visit our rural lands. We treat everyone like family. If necessary contact with tour operators. With a perfect and convenient planning, they will take care of your tour flawlessly. There are so may tour plans available which will certainly give you a detailed experience of rural life.

Places to visit at Rangamati

Rangamati, a small town located amongst the green hills, lakes and rivers of the Chittagong Hill Tracts. This is what makes it a prime Bangladesh hill destination. It is known as the Lake City of Bangladesh as this place is located on the bank of the beautiful Kaptai Lake. It is the administrative headquarter of the Rangamati Hill District, the largest district of Bangladesh and located some 77 kilometres away from Chittagong. For long time Rangamati has been a prime Bangladesh tourist destination for its location, scenic beauty, colourful tribal people, tribal homespun textiles and ivory jewellery.

The rich natural resources, diverse flora and fauna makes Rangamati a Bangladesh Eco-Tourism destination. The road leading to Rangamati circles and winds through hilly terrains covered with lush green forests and creates a memorable experience for years to come. A stay here provides a glimpse into the lifestyle of various tribes living there. The ethnic tribes of Rangamati are the Chakma, Marma, Tonchongya, Tripura, Murong, Bome, Khumi, Kheyang, Chak, Pankhoa, and Lusai. The mix of different races, cultures, religions and customs creates an interesting community at Rangamati. It is said that without visiting Rangamati a tourist will miss a colourful slice of Bangladesh.

Visit Rangamati during October to February as the temperature remains cool and usually there is no rainfall, however, the beauty of Rangamati unleashes during the monsoon as the forest becomes greener, bursts with life and the rivers and waterfalls becomes replenished.

Places to visit at Rangamati

Kaptai Lake

Kaptai lake, beautiful blue watery lake was made by man. The size of Lake is approximately 11000 sq km. You will enjoy the natural beauty of this lake as well as boating on the lake. It is a huge lake and it has some tiny islands. Each island has different name such as “Peda Ting-Ting”, “Tuk-Tuk Echo Village”, “Chang-Pang” etc. “Peda Ting-Ting” is a tiny island and here you will find cottages to stay and enjoy moonlight night with fantastic lake surroundings. “Tuk-Tuk” is an echo park with varities of trees and plants. It is a great place for boating and cruising.

Hanging Bridge is 335 feet long bridge across a portion of the Kaptai lake is an icon of Rangamati. Actually Rangamati is famous for this bridge.It’s really a very beautiful bridge. Every year thousands of people come here to visit this bridge and lake.

Location :Kaptai,Rangamati,Chittagong

How to Go

There are many bus service available from Dhaka to Rangamati. After reaching Rangamati you can hire an auto-rickshaw to visit the Kaptai lake and Hanging bridge.

Where to stay

There are lots of hotel and boarding are available in Rangamati to stay and have food. The rate range of hotel is reasonable over there.

Shuvolong Falls

Shuvolong a place in Borokol sub district, situated about 25kilometers (11kilometers – as the crow flies) away from Rangamati. There are few waterfalls in Shuvolong zone with the largest one falling from as high as 300 feet. In the past more than a few years, this place has twisted into a tourist journey’s end due to stunning waterfalls and the neighbouring market. Shuvolong is simply easy to get to by rapidity boat or motor boats from Rangamati.

Bangladesh is a pleasing country in the world. There are lots of tourist spot in Bangladesh. Rangamati district is one of them. Rangamati is in the Chittagong division. Shuvolong Waterfalls is a good-looking waterfall in Rangamati. It is the attractive place of Rangamati. The only obtainable path to influence at the waterfall is through water, through the lake. People visit there by boat. It is a well-known place with the tourists for the waterfall, high hills and the natural neighbouring it offers. This waterfall is just in advance the Shubholong Bazaar. Means from the waterfall, it will take from one place to another 5 minutes to reach at bazaar. So that Shuvolong is with no trouble easy to get to by speed boat or motor boats from Rangamati.

Tribal Museum

Located in Rangamati, the Tribal Cultural Museum in the Hill Tracts of Bangladesh offers fascinating insight into the history and cultural traditions, as well as socio-economic aspects of the different tribes in the area. Visitors can view displays of tribal dress, ornaments, musical instruments, coins and handicrafts at the museum. Paintings depicting the many facets of tribal life are also on display, as well as a collection of statues made from various metals and wood.The Chittagong Hill Tracts in south-eastern Bangladesh is divided into the Khagrachari, Rangamati and Bandarban districts and is home to a number of the country’s tribal groups. Collectively referred to as the Jumma, these tribal groups include the Marma, Tripura, Chakma, Tenchungya, Chak, Pankho, Mru, Bawm, Pankho, Murung, Lushai, Khumi and Khyang tribes. 

Shajek and Marissa Vally

Sajek is a union at Baghaichari Upazila in Rangamati districts. It is one of the big union in Rangamati districts. Basically it is name of a river which separates Bangladesh from India. The river flows into the Karnafuli River in the Chittagong Hill Tracts. Sajek Valley is situated in the North angle of Rangamati, near the Mizoram border boundary area. The valley is 18000 ft high form sea lavel. Many small rivers flow through the hills among them Kachalon and Machalong are famous. It is one of the biggest union in Bangladesh.

The main ethnic minorities on the valley are Chakma, Marma, Tripura, Pankua, Lushai and Sagma. Before traveling there, be alert about malaria. There is some body lotion or cream to prevent the mosquito. The place is known as hill queen for its natural beauty and roof of Rangamati. Marishsha is a name of a place near Sajek Valley. Most of the houses are made by bamboo. There is another place near Sajek, it is Kanlak, and it is famous for orange orchard.

Most attractions of the spot are sun set, rain, morning, evening, and night and aborigine people. Tourist can buy aborigine people product from indigenous Haat. Roads are like big snake spirals mountains. Most of the people are Buddhist and people are Christian here.

A new road has been built up to the Ruilui Para by the guidance of Bangladesh army. On the way traveler need to take permission from the army camp. Bangladesh army is very helpful and cooperative. Now mobile network is available here.

The valley is in Rangamati but tourist can reach there from Khagrachhari too. The route is Khagrachhori – Dighinala Bazaar – Bagaihat Bazaar – Machalong  Haat – then Sajek. It is 106 km from Khagrachhari. Dighinala to Sajek is 25 km. Main transportation is Chander Gari. It costs tk.5000-tk.6000/- from Khagrachhari. It is like a four wheel jeep. Some time visitor can take some tea berak on the way at Haat. From Dighinala traveler can hire motor bike. It may cost tk 1000-tk1500/- up down. The region is extremely very backward.

Visitor can also go to Sajek from Rangamati by engine vessel.  It takes 5-6 hours. Baghaichari is the landing station. Costing is within tk 200/-. And Baghaichari to Sajek by Chander Gari. Per person it take Tk 300/- Normally it is better to book reserve for return journey.

 Hanging Bridge

This 335feet long bridge across a portion of the Kaptai lake is an icon of Rangamati.
How To Go

It is just 5 kilometer away from Rangamati town. So visitor can hire private jeep or CNG auto rickshaw to go there.

 Kaptai National Park

This forest reserve is located in the Karnafuly and Kaptai range. According to the government statistics some 50,000 people visits the national park every year as it provides some walking trails among the lush green forest. The animal species of Kaptai National park are deer, elephants, monkeys, fishing cats and birds. The Kaptai Forest Rest house, Kaptai Mukh Forest Rest House and several picnic spots are located here.

 Rajban Bihar Pagoda
An internationally known Buddhist Temple, where the spiritualist principal monk of Rajban Vihara, Shrimath Sadhana Nanda Mohasthabir(Ban Vante) lives.

Peda Ting Ting

A small island on the Kaptai Lake, few kilometres away from Rangamati. It is mostly known for its serenity. There are a few tourist accommodation facilities here and a tiny restaurant run by the locals. It offers foods ranging from traditional to indigenous delicacies.

Chakma Royal Palace

This is the palace of the present Chakma King. However, it is open to public for a visit.

DC Bungalow Area

The District Commissioner’s Bungalow is located adjacent to the lake. There is a small light house and a shelter accessible to the public. This spot provides a nice view of the lake.

Others

The local market is also a tourist attraction as it offers handicrafts, textiles and ornaments made by the tribal people.

Places to Stay

Circuit House
Address: Amanat bagh,Vedvedi Area,Rangamati.
Tel:0351-62304(office);0352-62308(Residence);0351-62240(VIP-1);0351-62081(VIP-2)
E-mail:dcrangamati@moestab.gov.bd

Forest Rest House or BON BIVAG Rest House
Address: Banarupa, Rangamati.
Tel:0351-63351(office);0351-63352(res)

LGED Rest House
Address:T.N.T Area(near Rangamati General Hospital),Rangamati
Tel:0351-63148(office);0351-63252(Res)

USAI Rest House
Address:Amanatbagh, Vedvedi Area, Rangamati
Tel:0351-63389(office);0351-2283(Res)

Zila Parishad Rest House
Agricultural Division (Krishi Bivagh) Rest House
Address: Tribel Adam,Banarupa Area
Tel: 0351-62324(office);0351-66146(Res)

Electircity/Power Development Board Rest House
Address:Champpok nagar, Banarupa
Tel:0351-62288(Office);0351-62253(Res)

BISIC Rest House
Address: Near Rangamati Stadium
Tel: 0351-62037(office)

Parjatan Holiday Complex
Address: Near Boarder Guard Bangladesh(BGB) Sector,Tabalchari Area,Rangamati
Tel: 0351-63126(office)

Non-Government Residential Hotel

Hotel Sufia
Address: Kathaltali Area(near Fishery Ghat)
Tel: 0351-61178;0351-62145

Hotel Green Castle
Address: Reserv Bazar Area,Rangamati
Tel: 0351-71214 and 0351-61200
Mobile: 01726511532, 01815459146

Motel JOJ
Address: College gate,Rangamati
Tel: 0351-63348
Mobile: 01558480701

Hotel Al-Moba
Address: New Bus Station,Reserv Bazar,Rangamati
Tel: 0351-61959
Mobile: 01811911158

Hotel Mountain View
Address: Shiddhibhaban (near Burmise Market),Tabalchari Area,Rangamati
Tel: 0351-62748
Mobile: 01553440324

Hotel Dignity
Address: North Kalindipur Area, Rangamat
Tel: 0351-62364

Hotel Shapla
Address: New Court Building Road,Rangamati
Tel: 0351-63235
Mobile: 01819636955

Hotel Raju
Address: New Bus Station,Reserv Bazar,Rangamati
Tel: 0351-62910
Mobile: 01811258305,01820303578

Hotel Geroni
Address: Reserv Bazar Area, Rangamati
Tel: 01198118122

Hamid Boarding
Address: Launch Ghat, Reserv Bazar Area, Rangamati
Tel: 0351-63328, 01740904518

Banani Boarding
Address: Reserv Bazar Area, Rangamati
Tel: 01197264724

Alam Boarding
Address: Launch Ghat, Reserv Bazar Area, Rangamati
Tel: 0351-63328, 01190264192

Somota Boarding
Address: Tridip Nagar Sarak, Banarupa, Rangamati
Tel: 0351-61747, 01556627182

Paharika Hotel
Address: Reserv Bazar Ares, Rangamati
Tel: 0351-62176

Siddik Boarding
Address: Jetty Ghat,Reserv Bazar Area, Rangamati
Tel: 04433326230, 01196124416

Madhumita Boarding
Address: Reserv Bazar Area, Rangamati
Tel: 0351-63359, 01818047386

Al Amin Boarding
Address: Reserv Bazar Area, Rangamati
Tel: 0351-61507, 01815699423

Suktara Boarding
Address: Reserv Bazar Area, Rangamati

Al Helal Hotel
Address: Reserv Bazar Area, Rangamati
Tel: 0351-62703, 01673763306

Santi Boarding
Address: Reserv Bazar Area, Rangamati
Tel: 01190715935

Arju Boarding
Address: Reserv Bazar Area, Rangamati
Tel: 0351-62359, 01556321309

Al Amin Hotel
Address: Reserv Bazar Area, Rangamati
Tel: 01817204461, 01726-000437

Islamia Boarding
Address: Reserv Bazar Area,Rangamati
Tel: 0351-3393

Kor Boarding
Address: Reserv Bazar Arez, Rangamati
Tel: 01814765679

Laxmi-Narayon Boarding
Address: Reserv Bazar Area, Rangamati
Tel:01926695154

Alif Boarding
Address: Banarupa, Rangamati
Tel:0351-3342

Azad Boarding
Address: Reserv Bazar Area,Rangamati
Tel: 0351-61322

Jamal Boarding
Address: Reserv Bazar Area,Rangamati
Tel: 0351-62397

How to go

Both AC and Non AC Bus service is available from both Dhaka and Chittagong to Rangamati.

Dolphin Challenger
11, Fakirpool, Dhaka
Tel: 02-8317557, 8315375

Unique Services
4 Inner Circular Road
Fakirapool, Dhaka-1000
Tel: 02-8123160, 9561252

Shyamoli Paribahan
Arambagh Counter – (+8802) 7194291, 7193910
Asad Gate Counter – (+8802) 9123471, 8124881, 9124514
Darussalam/Technical Counter – 01712-008672
Fakirapool Counter – (+8802) 7193725, 9333364, 7194190, 7195974
Gabtoli New Counter – (+8802) 9014560
Gabtoli Counter (Bus terminal) – (+8802) 8014538, 01711-987028
Kamalapur New Counter – (+8802) 8316246
Kamalapur BRTC office (International) – (+8802) 8360241, 01716-942154, 01711-472297
Kalyanpur Counter – (+8802) 9003331, 8034275
Kolabagan Counter – (+8802) 9141047, 01711-130862
Pantapath Counter – (+8802) 9102082, 01711040881, 01727422045
Syedabad Counter – (+8802) 7540993, 7540991, 7550071, 7541019

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travel sylhet-HumHum Waterfall

HumHum Waterfall

Hamham Waterfall is one of the famous waterfall in Bangladesh .It is situated inside the Rajkandi Forest and located at Komolganj, Moulvibazar district in Sylhet, is a place of amazing beauty, You cannot  imagine how beautiful is this  waterfall is in the northeastern part of the country.
The beauty of this waterfall lies in its surrounding features. Anybody visiting this place can enjoy the whole route to the fall, but the final climax is in the waterfall itself.
You can enjoy various types of landscapes while walking through the Rajkhandi Reserve Forest, discovering some small hillocks. After walking about 30 minutes, you will have to get down in a natural fountain locally called chhara or nala, where you will have to walk through water. The height of this water may vary from ankle to thigh level.

On the way to HamHam you may find people cutting bamboo in and around the fountain. Even if you don't meet them on route, you will come across the sign of bamboo extraction around the fountain. Be careful while walking through those to avoid leg injuries.

Through the clear water you will be able to see stones at the bottom of the fountain which could be slippery. You have to be careful while walking and have a stick to support yourself.
If you plan to see the waterfall, you should take precautionary measures. In rainy season the water way (jhiripath) can be dangerous. There is always the chance of a flash flood as Rajkhandi is a rainforest.
Have a bamboo stick while walking to avoid slips and falls. Carry extra pair of clothes and be ready to walk barefoot. And always bring along mosquito repellent creams.
You must have to go this place if you like adventures and trekking. 

travel sylhet-Srimangal City

Srimangal City

If you need to get a place towards the Mother Nature, an area wherever tranquility along with quietness dominates and then Sreemangal will be the spot for a pay a visit to. Sreemangal is said to be the tea capital of Bangladesh. The gentle sloped hills here are very favorable for the tea production. Thus it is so called the land of two leaves and a bud. Famous Seven Layers Tea- Its locally called Nil-Kontho-Cha. Lawachara Rain Forest, here you can see the Largest Tea estates, Manipuri and Khasias tribal people. (Handicrafts and their living styles),

travel sylhet-Ratargul Swamp Forest

Ratargul Swamp Forest

Ratargul Swamp Forest is a freshwater swamp forest located in Gowainghat , Sylhet, Bangladesh. It is the only swamp forest located in Bangladesh and one of the few freshwater swamp forest in the world. The forest is naturally conserved under the Department of Forestry, Govt. of Bangladesh.
The evergreen forest is situated by the river Goain and linked with the cannel Chengir Khal. Most of the trees grow here are Koroch tree. The forest goes under 20-30 feet water in the rainy season. Rest of the year the water level is about 10 feet dee
Various types of birds are here; such as Kingfisher (Machranga), Dove (Ghughu), many kinds of Crane or Heron (Bok), Water fowl (Pankowri), Folktailed Shrike (Finga), Teal (Balihash) etc. Notable animals of this forest are monkey, Otter, Squirrel, Mechobagh etc. Various types of reptile and snakes are also available here. In 1973, Forest department of Bangladesh declared this forest area as Sanctuary for wild life.
 The natural beauty of Ratargul cannot be expressed in few words in writing. This is only to enjoy. And to enjoy the beauty properly, it is a must to go there. The deeper you go, the higher the density of trees. In many places sunlight doesn’t enter. If it doesn’t rain one or two days, the water becomes very clear. At that time the reflection of green forest looks like another forest under that forest. While visiting
 Mind-blowing beauty in Ratargul :
After starting your tour inside Ratargul Swamp Forest by boat, you will be able to feel the natural attraction of this jungle. This is an extra-ordinary natural world. The more time you spend the more will you amazed. The tour will give you exceptional feeling. The trees, water, the boat and everything around will create an amazing environment. Nobody should miss this. Try to feel the beauty and pulse of Ratargul.

travel sylhet-Tamabil

Tamabil

Tamabil is the last border area in Bangladesh. This Border with India and is 05 km before Jaflong. If you intend to visit Shilong of India then you will have to cross this border by completing your customs formalities. 

travel sylhet-Khadim Rainforest

Khadim Rainforest

Khadim Nagar National Park (Khadim Rainforest) is 10 kilometres away from Sylhet city on the Sylhet-Jaflong Highway past the Shrine of Shah Paran is Khadim Nagar Intersection. Khadim Nagar Rainforest comprising1,673 acres of hills and natural forest surrounded by six tea gardens — Choragang and Habibnagar on the East, Borjan and Kalagul on the West, Gulni on the North, and Khadimnagar on the South. Officially recognised as a national forest, Khadimnagar Rainforest operates with support from USAID.
The rainforest boasts of diverse flora and fauna. There are 217 species of plants and trees. Among the animals and birds are different species of bears, wild cats, apes, pythons, parakeets and doves.

The forest is quite popular with trekkers with a 45-minute trail and a two-hour one. There is a map of the trails in front of the local forest office.
The northward road from the rainforest leads to the Airport-Haripur Road, from where it is easy to go to Ratargul Swamp Forest. Anyone who intends to explore Sylhet in a day can use this road and visit tea gardens, rainforests as well as swamp forests on the way.

travel sylhet-Jaflong

Jaflong

Geography
Jaflong is one of the most attractive tourist spots in Sylhet division. It is about 60 km from Sylhet town and takes two hours drive to reach there. Jaflong is also a scenic spot nearby amidst tea gardens and rare beauty of rolling stones from hills. It is situated besides the river Mari in the lap of Hill Khashia. The Mari river is coming from the great Himalayas of India, which bringing million tons of stone boulders with its tide. You can watch the stone collection from the river in Jaflong as well as you can enjoy the boating in the river Mari. Jaflong is totally a hilly area of real natural beauty where hills are greenish with the forests.
Attractions

• Collection of rolling stones
• Colorful tribal Khashia life
• Khasia Rajbari (king’s palace)
• Dauki and Piyan River
• Tea Garden
• Orange and jackfruit gardens
• Betel leaf

travel sylhet-Bisnakhandi

Bisnakhandi

 Bisnakandi is a village situated in Rustompur Union under Guainghat Upazilla. . Bisnakandi is actually a village of three thousand near this vista point.  This is where many layers of the Khasi mountain meet at a single point from both sides. Flowing from above is a high fall. Adding to its charm are dark clouds hugging the mountain in the rainy season..

The hills in India loomed unexpectedly through the clouds like distant sentinels. And flowing underneath towards Bholaganj is a branch of the Piyain. Along the stream flowing from high up in the mountain come huge boulders that are deposited and mined in Bisnakandi. Bangladesh ended where the hills started, but the view was breathtaking.

On a sunnier day it would have been a great place to frolic in the shallow water and play among the rocks .

travel sylhet-Lalakhal ( The blue Canal)

Lalakhal ( The blue Canal)

Lalakhal is a nice big river which is coming from India. This river is shared with India and Bangladesh. The origin of this river is in the Meghalaya state of India. This river carries huge amount of sediments and stones from the upstream to Bangladesh and local people lift those stone for business purpose.
Journey to the Lalakhal through Shari river is really an wonderful experience. This is a remote place on the both side of the river. The river bank is not so high. Here you can watch the mountain range of Meghalaya from the boat journey. The more you forwarded to Lalakhal the water colour becomes greener. People washing their clothes and bathing in the green water are very much charming. One must be insisted to jump in the river for swimming.
Water is green and clear which will sooth you up. The water is green all over but when you will go close to Indian boarder you will find blue water .Some area both color water means you can understand boarder. At the time of boat ride you can lots of activities by residents of both side of river.

travel sylhet-Shrine of Hazrat Shah Jalal(R)

Shrine of Hazrat Shah Jalal(R)

The town of Sylhet is very popular with tourists, as it is located on the banks of the Surma River and is surrounded by breathtaking lush forests, abundant wildlife, fragrant fruit tree groves and endless tea plantations. It is a small piece of paradise in Bangladesh, hidden between the rolling green hills of Tripura, Jainitia and Khasi. It is the ideal location to escape to, to experience Bangladesh at its best. Over and above the picturesque wonder of the landscape and terraced gardens found in the town, there are many attractions for visitors to explore, and amongst the religious attractions, the Shrine of Hazrat Shah Jalal is probably the most sacred.
The Shrine of Hazrat Shah Jalal has become a place of pilgrimage for hundreds of devotees who come to the shrine in their droves from all over the country. It has been six hundred years since Hazrat Shah Jalal was laid to rest, but his memory and a love for him has been passed down from generation to generation, and he is as admired today as he was when he was still alive.
The exact date of birth and death of Hazrat Shah Jalal is unknown, however some believe that he was born in 1271 and others have suggested that he passed away in 1347. But what is known for certain is that Hazrat Shah Jalal was born Shaikh Makhdum Jalal ad-Deen bin Mohammed. He received his education in Mecca and memorized the Qur’an, making him a Hafiz. He also studied for thirty years to achieve spiritual perfection. It is said his respect for the Muslin religion led to him establishing and preaching Islam in Sylhetregion. He remained a bachelor for his entire life and had no dependants, devoting himself to religion and assisting others.
Hazrat Shah Jalal was buried in Sylhet and his tomb attracts visitors every day. His robes and sword are preserved within the mosque, but these sacred artifacts are not on display to the public. The guardians of the shrine decide who may enter to view the tomb, and sometimes visitors are turned away if the guardians feel that they are dressed inappropriately, or for other reasons, as the tomb is viewed as a place of respect and admiration, not as one of the town’s tourist attractions. Visitors who are allowed to enter are advised to treat this privilege as a great honor. In the evenings, the tomb is illuminated by candles and outside visitors will find a massive pond filled with catfish and a separate tank with gold fish, both of which are considered sacred. Not far from the Shrine of Hazrat Shah Jalal, is the Shrine of Hazrat Shah Paran, who is believed to be Hazrat Shah Jalal’s nephew.
Sylhet is a town filled with tradition, culture and folklore, and the Shrine of Hazrat Shah Jalal is definitely worth the visit. Learning about Jalal’s struggles and the history of this region, which are entwined, is a very rewarding experience.

travel sylhet-Shrine of Hazrat Shah Paran

Shrine of Hazrat Shah Paran

Hazrat Shah Paran was the nephew of Hazrat Shah Jalal who preached Islam in Sylhet. Shah Paran's Mazaar (shrine) is located in the outskirts of Sylhet town, in Major Tilla. Legends says that Shah Paran was very high tempered and would curse people of evil nature and the curse would come true. To save the general people from his wrath, Shah Jalal ordered him out of the city area.

travel sylhet-MAG Osmani Museum,Sylhet

MAG Osmani Museum,Sylhet

In Nur Manzil, near the centre of town and east of Noya Sarok Rd, is the Osmani Museum . This small, colonial-era house is dedicated to General Osmani, a key figure in the Liberation War. As it’s one of the few tourist sights in town, you should visit, but be warned – it’s slightly less interesting than an algebra lesson. It contains such thrilling articles as a ‘chair’ (and that is exactly what it is). Electricity is a hit-and-miss affair and if you’re lucky you’ll get a man following you around with an oil lamp to illuminate the displays for you.

travel sylhet-Madhabpur lake

Madhabpur lake

Madhabpur lake is situated at Madhabpur tea estate in Kamalgonj upozilla of Moulovibazar district of Sylhet,Bangladesh.The place is just 8 km away from vanugach.Vanugachh is just 13 km away from srimongol and 24 km away from Srimangal.So,those who visit Srimongol or Moulovibazar,can easily visit the place.
The lake is a great place at winter season cause all the migratory birds from cold countries get together in this lake and the scene becomes awesome.The lake was initially made due to the irrigation of the tea garden.The lake is sorrounded with dotted hills.
Because the entry of the common people was restricted earlier,the infrastructure and other facility of the tourists was not upto the mark but now a days the upozilla administration is developing the infrastructure so this is possible that the destination is going to be one of the important tourist destination in the country.

travel sylhet-Lawachara National Park

Lawachara National Park

Located within the West Bhanugach Reserved Forest, around 60 km from Sylhet, the Lawachara National Park consists of lush tropical and subtropical coniferous and broadleaf forests, with hilly sandstone areas and a network of streams and small wetlands. Much of the original indigenous forests were removed in the 1920s, with secondary forest taking its place. There are, however, small areas of primary forest scattered throughout the park. There are also bamboo groves and ferns in the forest undergrowth, all of which support a wide variety of wildlife.
Mammals resident in the Lawachara National Park include the fascinating Bengal slow loris (Nycticebus bengalensis), a small primate with huge brown eyes, a characteristically round flat head, small ears and dense brown and beige fur. Unfortunately, these cute little creatures are targeted by poachers who sell them illegally as exotic pets. They are also hunted for certain body parts which some cultures believe have medicinal properties. This has resulted in the Bengal slow loris being listed as 'vulnerable' by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Lawachara is also home to the western hoolock gibbon (Hoolock hoolock), one of the top 25 most endangered primates in the world. Their numbers have dwindled drastically in the last decade as humans encroach on their habitat and they are hunted for food and body parts used in traditional medicines.
As the largest of the cat species, the tiger (Panthera tigris) can weigh more than 300 kgs and reach a total body length of up to 3.3m. Tigers are listed as endangered, also primarily due to loss of habitat and illegal poaching. The Bengal tiger is the national animal of Bangladesh. Other mammals found in Lawachara include capped langurs, golden jackals, Asian black bears, tigers, leopards, leopard cats, fishing cats, sambars, barking dear and wild pigs.
Rare indigenous plant species found in Lawachara National Park include Alstonia scholaris, commonly known as the blackboard tree or milkwood pine; Bridelia retusa;Phyllanthus emblica also known as Indian gooseberry; and Cassia fistula also known as the golden shower tree. Visitors to the Lawachara National Park will no doubt appreciate the beauty and biodiversity of this scenic region of Bangladesh.

travel sylhet-KHASI TRIBE, NIRALA PARA (VILLAGE), SREEMANGAL, BANGLADESH

KHASI TRIBE, NIRALA PARA (VILLAGE), SREEMANGAL, BANGLADESH

KHASI TRIBE, NIRALA PARA (VILLAGE), SREEMANGAL, BANGLADESH
Khasi tribe, Nirala Para (village), Sreemangal (Srimangal), Division of Sylhet, Bangladesh, Indian Sub-Continent, Asia

The Khasi are an indigenous or tribal people, the majority of whom live in the State of Meghalaya in north east India, with small populations in neighbouring Assam, and in parts of Bangladesh. They call themselves Ki Hynñiewtrep, which means "the seven huts" in the Khasi language. The Khasi people who reside in the hilly areas of Sylhet, Bangladesh are of the War sub-tribe. Their language Khasi is the northernmost Austroasiatic language. This language was essentially oral until the arrival of European missionaries. A substantial minority of the Khasi people follow their tribal religion; called variously, KaNiamKhasi and KaNiamTre. Other religions practiced include Presbyterian, Anglican, Unitarian, Roman Catholic and very few are Muslims. The main crops produced by the Khasi people living in the War areas, including Bangladesh, are betel leaf, areca nut and oranges. The Khasis are a matrilineal society. In Nirala Para (village), near Sreemangal (Srimangal) live also some Garo families.


The Betel (Piper betle) is the leaf of a vine belonging to the Piperaceae family, which includes pepper and kava. It is valued both as a mild stimulant and for its medicinal properties. Betel leaf is mostly consumed in Asia, and elsewhere in the world by some Asian emigrants, as betel quid or paan, with or without tobacco, in an addictive psycho-stimulating and euphoria-inducing formulation with adverse health effects. In Bangladesh, farmers called barui prepare a garden called a barouj in which to grow betel.

In Bangladesh, farmers called barui prepare a garden called a barouj in which to grow betel. The barouj is fenced with bamboo sticks and coconut leaves. The soil is plowed into furrows of 10 to 15 metres' length, 75 centimetres in width and 75 centimetres' depth. Oil cakes, manure, and leaves are thoroughly incorporated with the topsoil of the furrows and wood ash. The creeper cuttings are planted at the beginning of the monsoon season.