Sundarbans Gateway Points

District:Bagerhat•Division:Khulna

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1/8/2026

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About

Gateway to the World's Largest Mangrove Forest

The Sundarbans, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the world's largest mangrove forest and home to the famous Royal Bengal Tiger.

Bagerhat district serves as one of the primary gateways to this natural wonder, with several entry points offering different experiences of this unique ecosystem.

Main Entry Points from Bagerhat

Mongla Gateway

The most accessible entry point, Mongla Port Area serves as the main departure point for Sundarbans tours.

Most tour operators base their operations here, with boats departing for various forest destinations.

Harbaria Eco-Tourism Center

Located about 20 km from Mongla, Harbaria offers a day-trip experience with a wooden walkway through the mangroves, a watchtower for panoramic views, and chances to spot wildlife including deer, monkeys, and various bird species.

Routes to Deeper Forest

From Bagerhat's entry points, boats travel to famous Sundarbans destinations like Hiron Point (Nilkamal), Katka, and Dublar Char.

These deeper areas offer the best chances for tiger sightings and pristine wilderness experiences.

What Makes This Special

The Sundarbans is home to around 400 Royal Bengal Tigers, making it one of the most important tiger habitats in the world.

Beyond tigers, the forest shelters spotted deer, wild boar, crocodiles, dolphins, and over 260 bird species.

The unique mangrove ecosystem, with its tidal waterways and mudflats, creates a landscape unlike anywhere else on Earth.

Planning Your Visit

All Sundarbans visits require Forest Department permits and should be arranged through licensed tour operators.

Tours range from day trips to week-long expeditions.

The Bagerhat gateway provides convenient access combined with visits to the nearby Sixty Dome Mosque and other UNESCO World Heritage monuments.

Nearby Places

•Mongla Port Area - Main departure point for tours

•Sixty Dome Mosque - UNESCO World Heritage Site

•Khan Jahan Ali's Tomb - Historic mausoleum

•Khan Jahan Ali Bridge - Scenic river crossing

•Chitra River - Beautiful river of Bagerhat

Visitor Information

Entry Fee

Forest Department Permit Required

All Sundarbans entry points require permits from the Forest Department:

Permit Fees (approximate)

•Bangladeshi visitors: ৳150-300 per person

•Foreign tourists: ৳1,500-3,000 per person

•Camera fee: ৳200-500

•Video camera: ৳500-1,000

Additional Costs

•Boat registration: ৳500-1,000

•Guide fee: Included in tour or ৳500-1,000/day

How to Get Permits

•Through licensed tour operators (easiest)

•Forest Department office in Mongla

•Must be arranged before entering

*Note: Tour packages usually include all permit fees*

Opening Hours

Forest Entry Hours

Sundarbans entry points have specific operating hours:

General Timing

•Entry allowed: 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM

•Must exit or reach camp before dark

•Night stays only at designated spots

Permit Office Hours

•Forest Department: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

•Closed on government holidays

•Get permits day before if possible

Best Times for Wildlife

•Early morning (6-8 AM): Most active wildlife

•Late afternoon (4-6 PM): Animals come to water

•Avoid midday: Animals rest, hot weather

Seasonal Considerations

•Peak season: November to February

•Book early during winter months

•Limited access during monsoon (June-August)

Time Needed

Varies by Entry Point and Tour Type

Day Trip (Karamjal)

•Duration: 4-6 hours

•Best for: First-time visitors, limited time

•See: Crocodile breeding, deer, mangrove trails

Day Trip (Harbaria)

•Duration: 6-8 hours

•Best for: Nature lovers, photographers

•See: Watchtower views, diverse wildlife

Overnight Trip (Hiron Point)

•Duration: 2 days / 1 night

•Best for: Serious wildlife enthusiasts

•See: Best tiger habitat, pristine forest

Extended Tour (Multiple Points)

•Duration: 3-5 days

•Best for: Complete Sundarbans experience

•See: Multiple entry points, deep forest areas

Recommended Minimum

•First visit: At least 2 days

•Wildlife photography: 3-4 days

•Comprehensive experience: 5+ days

Best Time to Visit

November to February (Winter)

This is the ideal season for Sundarbans:

•Pleasant weather (20-28°C)

•Clear visibility in the forest

•Wildlife most active and visible

•Best chance for tiger sightings

•Migratory birds arrive

•Calm waters for boat travel

March to May (Pre-monsoon)

•Warmer but still possible to visit

•Fewer tourists

•Good for birdwatching

•Increasing humidity

June to September (Monsoon)

•Limited tours available

•Some areas inaccessible

•Heavy rainfall

•Rough water conditions

•Not recommended for first-time visitors

October (Post-monsoon)

•Forest lush and green

•Water levels still high

•Transition period - can be good

How to Reach

Getting to Sundarbans Gateway Points

From Dhaka to Mongla

*By Bus (Most Common)*

•Dhaka to Khulna: 6-8 hours (AC/Non-AC buses)

•Major operators: Green Line, Hanif, Shyamoli

•Fare: ৳600-1,200

•Then Khulna to Mongla: 1.5 hours by bus

•Local bus fare: ৳80-100

*By Launch (Scenic Route)*

•Dhaka (Sadarghat) to Mongla

•Departure: Evening (usually 6-7 PM)

•Arrival: Next morning

•Duration: 12-14 hours

•Fare: ৳400-1,500 (deck to cabin)

From Khulna to Mongla

•Distance: 48 km

•Bus: 1.5 hours, ৳80-100

•CNG/Auto: 1.5-2 hours, ৳300-500

•Private car: 1 hour

From Bagerhat to Mongla

•Distance: 35 km

•Bus/CNG: 45 minutes to 1 hour

•Combine with Sixty Dome Mosque visit

To Harbaria from Mongla

•By boat only

•Duration: 2-3 hours

•Arranged through tour operators

Recommended Approach

Book a complete tour package from Dhaka or Khulna - includes transport, boat, permits, food, and guide.

Facilities

Facilities Vary by Entry Point

Mongla Gateway

•Tour operator offices

•Hotels and guesthouses

•Restaurants and food stalls

•Boat rental services

•Forest Department office

•ATM (limited)

•Mobile network available

Harbaria Eco-Tourism Center

•Wooden walkway through forest

•Observation tower

•Rest house (limited capacity)

•Basic toilet facilities

•Drinking water

•Designated picnic area

•Forest guard station

On Tour Boats

•Sleeping cabins (larger boats)

•Kitchen and cooking facilities

•Toilet facilities

•Life jackets provided

•First aid kit

•Drinking water storage

•Generator for electricity

Inside Forest Stations

•Rest houses at major points

•Basic toilet facilities

•Forest guard assistance

•Emergency communication

•Limited electricity (generator)

*Note: Facilities are basic.

Bring essentials from Mongla or Khulna.*

Things to Do

Wildlife & Nature Activities

•Tiger Tracking: Guided searches in prime tiger habitat (best at Hiron Point and Katka)

•Bird Watching: Over 260 species including kingfishers, eagles, and migratory birds

•Wildlife Photography: Spotted deer, wild boar, monitor lizards, crocodiles, dolphins

•Boat Cruises: Navigate through narrow creeks and wide rivers

Exploration Activities

•Forest Walks: Guided walks on designated trails at eco-tourism centers

•Watchtower Visits: Panoramic forest views from observation towers

•Mangrove Exploration: Learn about this unique ecosystem

•Creek Navigation: Enter narrow waterways by small boats

Cultural & Local Activities

•Fishing Village Visits: See traditional fishing communities

•Dublar Char Visit: Famous fishing island (seasonal, October-February)

•Local Fishermen Interaction: Learn about their lifestyle

•Honey Collection (seasonal): Watch Mawalis collect wild honey

Photography Opportunities

•Sunrise and sunset over the forest

•Wildlife in natural habitat

•Mangrove reflections in water

•Traditional fishing boats

•Bird colonies

Do's and Don'ts

✓ DO: Essential Guidelines

•✓ Book through licensed tour operators only

•✓ Get proper Forest Department permits

•✓ Follow your guide's instructions at all times

•✓ Stay with your group - never wander alone

•✓ Wear neutral-colored clothing (avoid bright colors)

•✓ Carry insect repellent and sunscreen

•✓ Bring adequate drinking water

•✓ Keep medicines for motion sickness

•✓ Maintain silence in the forest

•✓ Respect wildlife - observe from distance

•✓ Carry all garbage back with you

✗ DON'T: Strict Prohibitions

•✗ Never go into the forest without a guide

•✗ Don't make loud noises or play music

•✗ Never feed any wildlife

•✗ Don't litter - severe penalties apply

•✗ Never get off the boat in unauthorized areas

•✗ Don't use flash photography near animals

•✗ Never attempt to approach wild animals

•✗ Don't carry plastic bags (banned in forest)

•✗ Never swim in forest waters (crocodiles)

•✗ Don't collect plants, shells, or forest products

•✗ Never ignore safety warnings from guides

Safety Tips

Wildlife Safety

•Tiger Awareness: Royal Bengal Tigers are present - always stay with group and guide

•Crocodile Danger: Never put hands/feet in water, don't swim anywhere

•Snake Caution: Watch your step on forest trails, wear boots

•Bee/Wasp Alert: Avoid disturbing hives, carry antihistamines

Boat Safety

•Always wear life jackets when required

•Don't lean over boat edges

•Stay seated during navigation

•Follow crew instructions during docking

•Be careful on wet decks

Health Precautions

•Carry personal medications

•Bring motion sickness tablets

•Use insect repellent (mosquitoes carry malaria)

•Stay hydrated - carry water bottles

•Bring basic first aid supplies

•Sun protection essential

Emergency Preparedness

•Save tour operator's emergency numbers

•Know location of first aid kit

•Forest guards have radio communication

•Nearest hospital: Mongla or Khulna

•Inform guide of any medical conditions

Weather Awareness

•Check weather before departing

•Avoid travel during storms

•Monsoon brings rough waters

•Carry rain gear during shoulder season

Location

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More Places in Bagerhat

historical

Khan Jahan Ali's Tomb

Bagerhat

Khan Jahan Ali's Tomb (also known as Khan Jahan Ali's Mazar) is one of the most important religious and historical sites in Bagerhat, Bangladesh. This sacred tomb holds the remains of Hazrat Khan Jahan Ali, the 15th-century saint, soldier, and city builder who transformed the region and left behind an amazing collection of monuments including the famous [Sixty Dome Mosque](/tourist-places/sixty-dome-mosque). The tomb is located on the northern bank of the beautiful Thakur Dighi (also called Khan Jahan Dighi), a large historic pond that Khan Jahan Ali himself is said to have dug. The peaceful setting by the water, with ancient trees and the sound of birds, creates a calm and spiritual atmosphere that draws both pilgrims and tourists throughout the year. **Who Was Khan Jahan Ali?** Khan Jahan Ali (also spelled Ulugh Khan Jahan) was a Muslim saint and administrator who came to Bengal from Delhi (or possibly Turkey, according to some accounts) in the early 15th century. He arrived during the reign of Sultan Nasiruddin Mahmud Shah and was given responsibility for governing the southern region of Bengal. But Khan Jahan Ali was much more than just a governor. He was a visionary leader who turned the wild, forested swampland of southern Bengal into a thriving city called Khalifatabad (now Bagerhat). He built mosques, roads, bridges, tanks (water reservoirs), and public buildings. His greatest creation, the [Sixty Dome Mosque](/tourist-places/sixty-dome-mosque), still stands as one of the finest examples of medieval Islamic architecture in South Asia. He was also known for his kindness to the people and his simple lifestyle. Local legends say he was a friend to crocodiles, and even today, large crocodiles live in Thakur Dighi and are believed to be descendants of his pets. Feeding these crocodiles has become a popular attraction for visitors. Khan Jahan Ali passed away in 1459 AD and was buried at this spot, which has since become a place of pilgrimage. **The Tomb Structure** The tomb building is a beautiful example of 15th-century Sultanate architecture. It sits on a raised stone platform and features a single large dome. The building is made of brick with stone decorations and follows the same architectural style as the other monuments Khan Jahan Ali built in Bagerhat. Inside the tomb, visitors can see the grave covered with beautiful cloth and surrounded by an iron railing. The interior is simple but dignified, with Arabic inscriptions and Islamic geometric patterns decorating the walls. **Religious Significance** The tomb is an active place of worship and pilgrimage. Thousands of devotees visit throughout the year to pay respects, offer prayers, and seek blessings. The site is especially crowded during: - The annual Urs festival (death anniversary celebration) - Every Thursday evening, when special prayers are held - The months of Ramadan and Muharram - Friday afternoons after Jummah prayers Many believe that prayers offered at this tomb are specially blessed, and people come from all over Bangladesh and beyond seeking help with health problems, family issues, or other difficulties. **Thakur Dighi and the Crocodiles** One of the unique features of this site is Thakur Dighi, the large pond next to the tomb. Legend says that Khan Jahan Ali dug this pond and kept pet crocodiles in it. Today, several large crocodiles still live in the pond, and visitors can see them being fed at specific times. The most famous crocodile was named Kalapahar (Black Mountain), who lived to be very old. When Kalapahar died, another crocodile took his place. Feeding these crocodiles with chickens or meat has become a tradition and a tourist attraction. This feeding usually happens in the morning and attracts many visitors. **UNESCO World Heritage Connection** Khan Jahan Ali's Tomb is part of the [Historic Mosque City of Bagerhat](https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/321/), which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985. The entire area, including the tomb, the [Sixty Dome Mosque](/tourist-places/sixty-dome-mosque), and dozens of other historical monuments, is protected as a site of outstanding universal value.

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historical

Nine Dome Mosque

Bagerhat

The Nine Dome Mosque (Noy Gumbad Masjid) is one of the most beautiful and well-preserved medieval mosques in the Bagerhat heritage area. Built by Khan Jahan Ali in the 15th century, this elegant mosque features nine domes arranged in a 3x3 pattern, giving it its name. It stands as a fine example of the Sultanate-era architecture that flourished in southern Bengal. Located just 300 meters north of the famous [Sixty Dome Mosque](/tourist-places/sixty-dome-mosque), the Nine Dome Mosque is smaller but equally impressive in its craftsmanship. The mosque is part of the [UNESCO World Heritage Site](https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/321/) known as the Historic Mosque City of Bagerhat, which includes dozens of monuments from the same period. **Architecture and Design** The mosque is a single-story rectangular building measuring approximately 15 meters by 11 meters. The exterior walls are made of brick and are about 2 meters thick, a common feature of Khan Jahan Ali's buildings that helped keep the interior cool. The nine domes are arranged in three rows of three, supported by four stone pillars inside the prayer hall. The corner domes are slightly smaller than the central ones, creating a pleasing visual balance. The central dome is the largest and sits directly above the main prayer area facing the mihrab. The building has three arched entrances on the east side (the main entrance), and one entrance each on the north and south walls. The mihrab (prayer niche) on the western wall is beautifully decorated with terracotta floral patterns, though much of the original decoration has worn away over the centuries. **Historical Significance** Like the other mosques in Bagerhat, the Nine Dome Mosque was built during the reign of Khan Jahan Ali, the saint and administrator who transformed this swampy region into the prosperous city of Khalifatabad. The mosque was likely used for daily prayers by local residents and may have also served educational purposes. The mosque demonstrates the architectural style that Khan Jahan Ali brought to Bengal - a blend of Turkish and local influences that created a unique regional style. The thick walls, hemispherical domes, and terracotta decorations are hallmarks of this period. **Current State** The Nine Dome Mosque has been well-preserved by the Department of Archaeology and continues to serve as a place of worship. Local Muslims still come here for prayers, especially during Friday Jummah and religious occasions. The surrounding area has been maintained as a peaceful garden, making it a pleasant spot for visitors. Compared to the crowded [Sixty Dome Mosque](/tourist-places/sixty-dome-mosque), the Nine Dome Mosque offers a quieter, more intimate experience. Visitors can take their time to admire the architecture without the crowds, making it a favorite spot for photographers and history enthusiasts. The mosque is best visited as part of a heritage tour that includes the [Sixty Dome Mosque](/tourist-places/sixty-dome-mosque), [Khan Jahan Ali's Tomb](/tourist-places/khan-jahan-ali-tomb), and the other historic mosques scattered around Bagerhat.

mosque

Reza Khoda Mosque

Bagerhat

**About Reza Khoda Mosque** Reza Khoda Mosque is a historic single-domed mosque in Bagerhat's [UNESCO World Heritage Site](https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/321/). Built in the 15th century during Khan Jahan Ali's rule, this mosque is named after Reza Khoda, believed to be a local saint or notable figure of that time. It represents the typical neighborhood mosque architecture of the sultanate period. **History & Background** - Built during the 15th century Khan Jahan Ali era - Named after Reza Khoda, a local religious figure - Part of the Historic Mosque City of Bagerhat - UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985 **Architecture** - Single hemispherical dome on square base - Thick brick walls for climate control - Traditional curved Bengali cornice - Simple mihrab on the western wall - Corner towers at four corners - Sturdy construction that has lasted 600 years **What Makes It Special** - Well-preserved example of local mosque design - Shows how smaller communities worshipped - Less visited than major monuments - Authentic medieval atmosphere **Why Visit** Reza Khoda Mosque offers a glimpse into everyday religious life during the sultanate period. Unlike the grand [Sixty Dome Mosque](/tourist-places/sixty-dome-mosque) built for large congregations, this smaller mosque served local residents. Its simple design and peaceful setting make it perfect for those wanting to experience history away from tourist crowds. **Nearby Places** - [Khan Jahan Ali's Tomb](/tourist-places/khan-jahan-ali-tomb) - The saint's mausoleum - [Nine Dome Mosque](/tourist-places/nine-dome-mosque) - Multi-domed historic mosque - [Zindapir Mosque](/tourist-places/zindapir-mosque) - Another single-dome mosque - [Chunakhola Mosque](/tourist-places/chunakhola-mosque) - Known for terracotta decorations

$Kodla Math$

temple

Kodla Math

Bagerhat

**About Kodla Math** Kodla Math is a historic Hindu monastery complex located in Bagerhat district. Dating back several centuries, this religious site showcases the Hindu heritage of the region alongside the famous Islamic monuments. The Math features traditional Bengali temple architecture and serves as an active place of worship. **History & Background** - Ancient Hindu monastery complex - Shows religious diversity of historic Bagerhat - Has been a center of Hindu religious activities for centuries - Features traditional Bengali architectural style **Architecture** - Traditional Bengali temple structures - Terracotta decorations on temple walls - Central courtyard design - Multiple shrine buildings - Classic curved roofs (chala style) - Brick and lime mortar construction **What Makes It Special** - Represents Hindu heritage in predominantly Islamic heritage area - Active religious site with regular worship - Traditional Bengali temple architecture - Less known but historically significant **Why Visit** Kodla Math offers a different perspective on Bagerhat's rich cultural heritage. While the area is famous for its Islamic monuments like [Sixty Dome Mosque](/tourist-places/sixty-dome-mosque), this Hindu monastery shows the religious diversity that existed in medieval Bengal. The temple architecture and peaceful atmosphere make it worth visiting for those interested in complete cultural understanding of the region. **Nearby Places** - [Sixty Dome Mosque](/tourist-places/sixty-dome-mosque) - UNESCO World Heritage mosque - [Khan Jahan Ali's Tomb](/tourist-places/khan-jahan-ali-tomb) - Historic mausoleum - [Ghora Dighi](/tourist-places/ghora-dighi) - Historic pond with legends - [Ronvijoypur Mosque](/tourist-places/ronvijoypur-mosque) - Single-dome mosque with large dome

Sundarbans Gateway Points

Find Places to Stay Near Sundarbans Gateway Points

About

Gateway to the World's Largest Mangrove Forest

Main Entry Points from Bagerhat

Mongla Gateway

Harbaria Eco-Tourism Center

Routes to Deeper Forest

What Makes This Special

Planning Your Visit

Nearby Places

Visitor Information

Entry Fee

Forest Department Permit Required

Permit Fees (approximate)

Additional Costs

How to Get Permits

Opening Hours

Forest Entry Hours

General Timing

Permit Office Hours

Best Times for Wildlife

Seasonal Considerations

Time Needed

Varies by Entry Point and Tour Type

Day Trip (Karamjal)

Day Trip (Harbaria)

Overnight Trip (Hiron Point)

Extended Tour (Multiple Points)

Recommended Minimum

Best Time to Visit

November to February (Winter)

March to May (Pre-monsoon)

June to September (Monsoon)

October (Post-monsoon)

How to Reach

Getting to Sundarbans Gateway Points

From Dhaka to Mongla

From Khulna to Mongla

From Bagerhat to Mongla

To Harbaria from Mongla

Recommended Approach

Facilities

Facilities Vary by Entry Point

Mongla Gateway

Harbaria Eco-Tourism Center

On Tour Boats

Inside Forest Stations

Things to Do

Wildlife & Nature Activities

Exploration Activities

Cultural & Local Activities

Photography Opportunities

Do's and Don'ts

✓ DO: Essential Guidelines

✗ DON'T: Strict Prohibitions

Safety Tips

Wildlife Safety

Boat Safety

Health Precautions

Emergency Preparedness

Weather Awareness

Location

Reviews

More Places in Bagerhat

Khan Jahan Ali's Tomb

Nine Dome Mosque

Reza Khoda Mosque

Kodla Math

Estimated Cost

Tour Package Costs (Per Person)

Day Trip (Harbaria/Karamjal)

2 Days / 1 Night Tour

3 Days / 2 Nights Tour

If Arranging Independently

Total Budget Estimate

Reviews

More Places in Bagerhat

Khan Jahan Ali's Tomb

Nine Dome Mosque