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Lawachara National Park is one of Bangladesh's most important protected forests and a must-visit place for nature lovers.
Located in Kamalganj Upazila of Moulvibazar District, about 8 kilometers from Sreemangal town, this 1,250-hectare evergreen forest was declared a national park on July 7, 1996.
It is often called the "rainforest of Bangladesh" because of its thick green cover and rich wildlife.
Lawachara is home to the Western Hoolock Gibbon, the only ape found in Bangladesh.
These amazing animals swing from tree to tree and call loudly in the early morning.
About 48 gibbons live here in family groups, making this the largest gibbon population in the country.
The forest is also home to other rare animals like Phayre's Leaf Monkey, Capped Langur, and the Northern Pig-tailed Macaque.
You might also spot Bengal Slow Loris, barking deer, wild boar, and even the shy clouded leopard if you're lucky.
With over 246 bird species, Lawachara is a dream place for bird lovers.
You can see the beautiful Oriental Pied Hornbill, the colorful Kalij Pheasant, and many kinds of kingfishers and bee-eaters.
The forest comes alive with bird songs, especially in the early morning hours.
The park has about 167 plant species.
You'll walk under tall trees with thick leaves that create a cool, shaded path.
The forest has a mix of evergreen and deciduous trees, including Chapalish, Jarul, Gamari, and various bamboo species.
One of the most interesting things about Lawachara is the indigenous Khasi community living inside the forest.
About 120 Khasi people live in two villages called "Punji" within the park.
The Khasi are one of the few matriarchal communities in the world, meaning family lineage passes through women.
They mainly grow betel leaves for their living and have their own unique language and Christian faith.
You can visit the Khasi village, learn about their way of life, and buy fresh betel leaves directly from them.
Other indigenous groups like the Tripura and Manipuri also live in nearby areas like Manipuri Para, each with their own traditions and crafts.
A popular attraction inside the park is the old railway track that passes through the forest.
Walking on these tracks with tall trees on both sides is a favorite photo spot for visitors.
However, be careful as trains still run on this track occasionally.
Lawachara faces challenges from habitat loss and human activity.
The forest was damaged in 2005 when a gas pipeline explosion started a fire.
But conservation efforts have helped the forest recover.
Local guides and the forest department work together to protect the wildlife and maintain the trails.
Hiring a guide is optional but highly recommended, especially if you want to spot wildlife like gibbons.
Local guides know exactly where the animals usually stay.
Note: Prices may change slightly.
Always confirm at the entry counter when you visit.
The park is open every day of the week from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
The best time to enter the park is early morning, around 9:00 AM, when the forest is cool and quiet.
This is also when you have the best chance of seeing gibbons, as they are most active in the morning when they call out to each other.
Afternoon visits (after 2:00 PM) can be hot and humid, especially in summer months.
Most wildlife also tends to hide during the hottest part of the day.
Plan to spend 2-4 hours for a complete visit to Lawachara National Park.
This includes walking through the main trails, possibly spotting gibbons, and visiting the Khasi village.
Good for a basic walk on the main trail.
You will see the forest, the railway track, and some birds.
Not enough time to search for gibbons or visit the tribal village.
Best if you are short on time or just want a taste of the forest.
The recommended duration.
Enough time to walk the main trails, try to spot gibbons with a guide, see various bird species, and walk on the famous railway track.
You can also make a quick stop at the Khasi village entrance.
Perfect for nature lovers.
Includes all the above plus a proper visit to the Khasi village where you can interact with villagers and learn about their culture.
You can also explore less-traveled trails and spend more time photographing wildlife.
Bring snacks and water as this will be a long walk.
If you have a full day, combine Lawachara with other nearby attractions like Madhabpur Lake, tea gardens, or the famous Seven Color Tea in Sreemangal.
Start early to make the most of your day.
Lawachara National Park is located in Kamalganj Upazila, about 8 kilometers from Sreemangal town.
You need to first reach Sreemangal, then take local transport to the park.
Trains are the most comfortable way to reach Sreemangal.
Several trains run daily:
Book tickets in advance, especially during weekends and holidays.
Once you reach Sreemangal station or bus stand, you have several options:
The park entrance is on the Sreemangal-Bhanugach road.
It is well marked and any local driver will know the way.
The drive from Sreemangal passes through beautiful tea gardens, making the journey itself enjoyable.
The park trails are natural forest paths with uneven ground, tree roots, and occasional steep sections.
Not suitable for visitors with mobility issues or wheelchairs.
Comfortable walking shoes are essential.
Some trails can be slippery during or after rain.
The park has three main trails of different lengths (30-minute, 1-hour, and 3-hour routes).
Walking through the evergreen forest is the main activity here.
The trails take you through thick vegetation, under tall trees, and across small streams.
Guides can point out interesting plants and animal tracks along the way.
Lawachara is famous for spotting the Western Hoolock Gibbon, the only ape in Bangladesh.
Early morning (6-9 AM) is the best time when gibbons call loudly.
You might also see:
With over 246 bird species, this is a paradise for birdwatchers.
Bring binoculars if you have them.
You can spot:
One of the most popular spots is the old railway track that runs through the forest.
The track surrounded by tall trees on both sides makes for beautiful photos.
But be careful, trains still use this track sometimes.
Walk to the Khasi village inside the park (about 1.5-2 km from entrance).
Here you can:
The forest offers excellent photography opportunities:
Combine your Lawachara visit with:
The railway track inside the park is still active.
Trains pass several times a day.
Leeches are common during July-October:
The best time to visit Lawachara National Park is during the winter months from November to February.
The weather is comfortable with temperatures around 15-25°C, no humidity, and clear skies.
This is also the best time for wildlife watching as animals are more active.
Winter (November - February) - The best season.
Weather is cool and pleasant.
Gibbons and other wildlife are active and easier to spot.
This is also the peak tourist season, so weekends can be busy.
Spring (March - April) - Still good for visiting.
Days start getting warmer but mornings and evenings are pleasant.
Some migratory birds can still be seen.
Summer (May - June) - Hot and humid.
Temperatures can reach 35°C or higher.
Not ideal for long walks in the forest.
If you must visit, come early morning.
Monsoon (July - October) - Heavy rainfall makes trails slippery and muddy.
Leeches become common during this time.
Some trails may be closed.
However, the forest is at its greenest and most beautiful during this season.
Early morning (6:00-9:00 AM) is the absolute best time to spot gibbons.
They call loudly at dawn and are active in the early hours.
Your guide can take you to spots where gibbon families are usually found.
Note: Foreign visitors should add 450 BDT to the above for the higher entry fee.
Costs are per person and may vary during peak season.
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**The Tea Capital of Bangladesh** Srimangal is known as the [tea](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tea_production) capital of Bangladesh, home to the country's largest tea gardens and most diverse natural ecosystems. The [eco-tourism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ecotourism) areas around Srimangal offer visitors a chance to experience the stunning beauty of rolling tea estates, lush rainforests, pristine wetlands, and rich wildlife. This region has become one of Bangladesh's premier eco-tourism destinations, attracting nature lovers, bird watchers, and adventure seekers from around the world. **Vast Tea Gardens and Plantations** The landscape around Srimangal is dominated by endless tea gardens that stretch as far as the eye can see. The area is home to over 150 tea estates, including some of the oldest and most productive plantations in the country. Walking through these manicured tea gardens, with workers plucking fresh tea leaves, offers a peaceful and scenic experience similar to visiting [Malnichhera Tea Garden](/tourist-places/malnichhera-tea-garden) in Sylhet. The gentle hills covered in bright green tea bushes create a mesmerizing pattern across the landscape. Many tea estates offer guided tours where visitors can learn about tea cultivation, processing, and tasting. **Lawachara National Park** One of the crown jewels of Srimangal's eco-tourism is [Lawachara National Park](/tourist-places/lawachara-national-park), a protected tropical rainforest spanning 1,250 hectares. This evergreen forest is home to the endangered Hoolock gibbons, along with various species of monkeys, deer, and over 246 species of birds. The park features well-maintained trails that wind through dense forest canopy, allowing visitors to explore the rich biodiversity. The sounds of wildlife and the filtered sunlight through ancient trees create a magical atmosphere for nature walks and wildlife photography. **Diverse Bird Watching Opportunities** Srimangal is a paradise for bird watchers, with over 200 species of birds recorded in the region. The varied habitats - from tea gardens to wetlands to forests - support an incredible diversity of avian life. Visitors can spot rare species like the Oriental Pied Hornbill, Brown Fish Owl, White-rumped Shama, and various kingfishers. Early morning bird watching tours are particularly popular, with experienced local guides helping identify species and their calls. The mix of resident and migratory birds makes every season interesting for enthusiasts. **Pristine Wetlands and Water Bodies** The eco-tourism areas include several beautiful wetlands, lakes, and streams that add to the region's natural charm. [Baikka Beel](/tourist-places/baikka-beel-wetland-sanctuary), a large natural wetland, is a major attraction for its scenic beauty and rich aquatic life. During winter, the wetlands become gathering spots for migratory water birds. The area also features numerous small streams flowing through the tea gardens and forests, creating picturesque settings perfect for photography and peaceful contemplation. For those interested in wetland ecosystems, [Ratargul Swamp Forest](/tourist-places/ratargul-swamp-forest) offers a contrasting freshwater swamp forest experience. **Sustainable Tourism and Local Communities** Srimangal's eco-tourism areas emphasize sustainable practices that benefit both nature and local communities. Many initiatives involve local tea garden workers and indigenous communities as guides and hosts. Visitors can stay in eco-lodges run by local cooperatives, enjoy traditional meals prepared by community members, and participate in cultural exchanges. This approach ensures that tourism revenue supports conservation efforts and improves local livelihoods while minimizing environmental impact.
**A Hidden Gem in the Rainforest** Hum Hum Waterfall is one of Bangladesh's most breathtaking and adventurous waterfalls. Hidden deep inside the Rajkandi Reserve Forest in Kamalganj Upazila, this stunning cascade drops about 135 to 160 feet (41-49 meters) into a natural pool below. The waterfall was only discovered in 2009-2010, making it one of the newer additions to Bangladesh's natural wonders. The name "Hum Hum" comes from the humming sound the waterfall creates as water crashes down. Locals also call it "Cheetah Falls" (চিতা ঝর্ণা) because of the spotted rocks surrounding the base. Some also refer to it as "Ham Ham" waterfall. **The Adventure Awaits** Reaching Hum Hum is not for the faint-hearted. This is a true adventure destination. You will follow the [Ham Ham Trail](/tourist-places/ham-ham-trail) through dense tropical rainforest, cross streams where water rises from ankle to thigh-deep, climb the challenging Mokam Tila hill, and navigate muddy jungle paths. The journey takes 3 to 4 hours each way through some of the most beautiful forest scenery in Bangladesh. **What Makes It Special** - One of the tallest waterfalls in Bangladesh - Pristine natural setting with almost no commercialization - Trek through virgin rainforest with rich wildlife - Chance to see rare birds, monkeys, and other forest creatures - The thrill of discovering something truly remote and wild The waterfall is most impressive during and after monsoon season (June to October) when heavy rains fill it with powerful cascading water. During winter and dry season, the water flow reduces but the trek becomes easier. **A Word of Caution** This is not a casual tourist spot. Hum Hum requires good physical fitness, proper preparation, and hiring a local guide is absolutely essential. The journey is demanding but the reward of seeing this magnificent hidden waterfall makes every step worthwhile.
**The Tea Capital of Bangladesh** Sreemangal is proudly known as the "Tea Capital of Bangladesh" and the "Land of Two Leaves and a Bud." This beautiful region in Moulvibazar district is home to over 163 tea plantations spread across approximately 450 square kilometers of rolling green hills. When you visit here, you will be surrounded by endless rows of tea bushes creating a stunning green carpet that stretches as far as the eye can see. **A Rich History** Tea cultivation in this region dates back to the British colonial era. The Malnicherra Tea Estate, established in 1854, was the first commercial tea garden in the entire subcontinent. Since then, tea has become the heart and soul of Sreemangal. The British planters introduced modern plucking and processing methods, and over time, these estates passed into Bangladeshi ownership after independence. **Famous Tea Estates** - **Malnicherra Tea Estate**: The oldest and most historic tea garden in Bangladesh, founded in 1854 - **Finlay Tea Estate**: One of the most famous estates, known for producing high-quality tea - **Dhamai Tea Estate**: A peaceful, less crowded garden perfect for a relaxing experience - **Zareen Tea Estate**: Beautiful landscape with panoramic views - **Lakkatora Tea Garden**: Popular for its accessibility and scenic beauty **What Makes It Special** The tea gardens here produce some of the finest tea in the world. The unique soil, climate, and elevation create perfect conditions for growing high-quality tea. The misty mornings, lush green hills, and the sight of tea workers carefully plucking leaves by hand create an experience you won't find anywhere else. The region is also famous for the unique Seven-Layer Tea, served at the iconic Nilkantha Tea Cabin - a must-try experience for every visitor.
Madhabkunda Waterfall is one of the highest and most beautiful waterfalls in Bangladesh. Standing at about 162 feet (some say up to 200 feet), this stunning waterfall is located in Barlekha Upazila of Moulvibazar District. The Gangamara stream flows down from the rocky Patharia Hill, creating this amazing natural wonder that attracts thousands of visitors every year. **The Waterfall and Its Streams** The water cascades down from a great height into a pool below, then continues as the Madhabchhara stream. This stream flows westward and eventually joins the famous [Hakaluki Haor](/tourist-places/hakaluki-haor), one of the largest wetlands in Bangladesh. During monsoon season, the waterfall is at its most powerful, with water rushing down in multiple streams creating a misty spray that you can feel from far away. **Madhabkunda Eco Park** The waterfall is the main attraction of Madhabkunda Eco Park, established in 2001. The park covers about 267 hectares (roughly 660 acres) of beautiful forest land. In 2023, a plan was approved to expand the protected area to 925 acres. The eco park was created to protect the waterfall and the rich plants and animals living in the surrounding forest. **A Place of Legend** The waterfall has an interesting story behind its name. Local legend says that in 1335 AD, Raja Govardhan of Gour, the last Hindu king of Sylhet, was hunting in this area when he met a holy man named Madhaveshwar who was meditating by the water. The monk wished to become one with the goddess Ganga, and after he merged with the waters, a divine voice called out "Madhav Madhav Madhav" three times. This is how the waterfall got its name. **Indigenous Khasi Community** The forest around the waterfall is home to the indigenous [Khasi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Khasi_people) tribe. These people live in small villages on the hilltops deep in the forest. They are famous for growing betel leaves, which they cultivate on the hillsides. Visiting their villages offers a glimpse into their unique way of life and culture. **Parikunda - The Sister Waterfall** Just a 10-15 minute walk along the stream from Madhabkunda, you will find Parikunda waterfall, sometimes called the "sister waterfall." While smaller than Madhabkunda, Parikunda has its own charm and is less crowded, making it worth the short walk. **Religious Significance** Near the waterfall pool, there is a Hindu temple on the right side and a small cave that is considered a sacred pilgrimage site. Every year, Hindu devotees gather here for special rituals and a fair is held at the site.