Tanguar Haor
Explore Tanguar Haor Travel Guide — a stunning wetland in northeastern Bangladesh.
Tanguar Haor stretches across approximately 126 square kilometers in the Sunamganj district of Bangladesh.
Crystal-clear water, unspoiled nature, and modern houseboats with all the essentials have turned this haor into a favorite destination for travelers.
Facilities now cater to comfort and convenience, making the experience both enjoyable and easy. Tourism here has grown rapidly in recent years, drawing thousands who want to connect with nature in its purest form.
This time, our journey takes us to the stunning Tanguar Haor in Sunamganj, Sylhet. Its closeness to Meghalaya adds to the beauty, with mountain shadows gently sweeping across the water.
More than 30 waterfalls from Meghalaya flow directly into the haor, enriching its charm. What stands out most are the sparkling freshwater and the peaceful villages nestled within the vast expanse.
The water is so clear you can see the bottom while riding a boat. Forty-six villages, like floating islands, dot the haor and create a landscape that feels calm, magical, and alive.
One of the largest natural wetland clusters (locally called Jalmohal) in Bangladesh is Tanguar Haor. Nestled in the northeastern part of the country, it spans across Dharmapasha and Tahirpur upazilas in the Sunamganj district.
Teeming with wildlife, this freshwater haor is honored as Bangladesh’s second Ramsar site, earning international recognition for its ecological significance.
local terms, a Jalmohal refers to a naturally low-lying area that holds water year-round. Unlike man-made ponds or reservoirs, these wetlands form organically and cover vast areas.
Often, a single Jalmohal can stretch across multiple villages or even entire upazilas. When several of these wetlands connect, they form a haor—a massive, seasonal water basin that supports both nature and local life.
Living and breathing ecosystem, Tanguar Haor is home to 141 bird species (spanning over 208 types), 1 species of amphibian, and 34 species of reptiles—including turtles, chameleons, and snakes.
During winter, the haor comes alive with flocks of migratory birds, setting new records each year. The rare and majestic Pallas’s Fish Eagle, large gray kingfishers, vultures, and many exotic visitors make the skies truly spectacular.
Local birdlife adds to this magical setting. You’ll spot the Little Cormorant, Indian Pond Heron, Kalem, herons, wild geese, egrets, gulls, and cranes gracefully gliding above the water.
Recent counts show that between 2 to 2.5 million birds arrive here during the colder months. Certain areas feature flocks that stretch across several kilometers—a breathtaking sight that lingers in your memory long after you’ve left.
Beyond birds, Tanguar Haor supports a delicately balanced ecosystem where fish, birds, and aquatic plants thrive in harmony. It also serves as a crucial fish sanctuary, helping to preserve local species and sustain the livelihoods of nearby communities.
Our journey began at Dhaka’s Sayedabad terminal, where we caught a non-AC Hanif Transport bus. Sunamganj, distance of Tanguar haor about 200 kilometers northeast from Dhaka, takes around 6 to 7 hours to reach by road.
Depending on the type of bus, ticket prices range between 800 and 1,500 BDT. As dawn approached, the gentle breeze and serene waters of Tanguar Haor welcomed us into nature’s embrace.
Road of Sunamganj runs alongside the haor, offering glimpses of its shimmering surface. Upon arriving at Boitakhali Ghat, we boarded a houseboat, which we had rented for a two-day adventure.
To truly experience the vast 100-square-kilometer stretch of Tanguar Haor, a houseboat trip is the best choice.
Most houseboats come with 4 to 5 rooms, each comfortably accommodating three people. If you’re planning a one-day trip, the cost per person ranges from 2,000 to 3,000 BDT. For a two-day stay, expect to pay around 3,500 to 4,500 BDT per person.
Each room comes equipped with a fan, bed, mirror, and a small table. Upper deck serves as the dining area, beautifully arranged for soaking in the views during meals. Clean bathrooms make the stay comfortable for families and friend groups alike.
By 8 a.m., we were welcomed with refreshing drinks, and shortly after, the rain began to fall—amplifying beauty of the haor. Peaceful morning, coupled with the drizzle, created an unforgettable start to our escape from the chaos of city life.
For a unique view of full tanguar haor, a stop at the watchtower is a must. Located beside the Bolai River, this spot is surrounded by a lush Hijol forest, and it tends to get lively on weekends and holidays.
Here water is incredibly clear—so much so that many visitors can’t resist jumping in for a splash, safely wearing life jackets.
Small boats floating nearby offer a charming surprise: vendors selling tea and biscuits right from their boats. Enjoying a cup of tea while standing in knee-deep water is one of the little joys that make this place special.
For a closer look, you can hop off your main boat and explore the area in smaller traditional boats. While floating, local boatmen often sing haor preservation songs, adding a soulful soundtrack to your surroundings.
After a refreshing break at the watchtower and a delicious lunch, we set sail toward Teker Ghat, followed by a visit to Lakhma Chhara. Nestled here is the stunning Niladri Lake, also known locally as the Stone Quarry.
Lake, now officially named Shahid Siraji Lake, is often described as the “Kashmir of Bengal” for its mesmerizing beauty. Water is crystal clear and refreshingly cool—perfect for a tranquil boat ride.
Kayaking is also available, offering a rare experience in this region. For those looking to unwind, a dip in the clear waters is not just refreshing—it’s rejuvenating.
One side of Niladri Lake is lined with gentle green hills, while the other is guarded by towering mountains that seem to touch the clouds.
Rolling hills, towering peaks, and shimmering blue waters form a breathtaking landscape that deeply resonates with the soul.
It’s easy to lose yourself in the magic of this place. After disembarking at Teker Ghat, a short walk takes you to the lake.
Late afternoons here are perfect for sitting quietly on the grassy banks or taking a romantic boat ride across the tranquil water.
Some well-deserved tea and snacks in the evening fell is served after we return. That night came alive with joyful music, laughter, and anticipation for the adventures of day two.
Our second day began with a visit to Shimul Garden, the largest Silk Cotton garden in Bangladesh. Leaving the houseboat on one side of Tanguar Haor, the journey to Shimul Garden began from Tahirpur.
entry fee is just 30 BDT, and it’s worth every penny. in this garden, home to nearly 3,000 Shimul (Silk Cotton) trees, stretches across 100 bighas of land.
In spring, it bursts into a sea of vibrant red blossoms, turning the landscape into a natural canvas of fiery color and beauty.
Across from the garden rise the towering Meghalaya mountains, reflected in the crystal-clear waters of Jadukata River.
Boats can dock just beneath the garden for easy access, or if you’re up for it, a thrilling bike ride from Teker Ghat is also an option.
In Bengali, “Tila” refers to a rise in land—not quite a mountain, but noticeably elevated. At the base of Meghalaya’s highlands, on the Bangladeshi side, lies the picturesque Barikka Tila.
From this lush green hill, you can enjoy:
Misty mountains draped in clouds
Glimpses of the India-Bangladesh border pillars
Scenic waterfalls cascading down the rocks
Peaceful shrine of Shah Arefin
Barikka Tila is also home to two fresh water waterfalls that come alive during the monsoon season. While the trek to reach them can be a bit challenging, the journey adds a sense of adventure and reward.
When you’re heading to Barikka Tila, be sure to take a refreshing break in the Jadukata River.
According to local folklore, the river got its name from a tragic tale—a mother accidentally cut her son, Jadu, while cleaning fish by the riverside. That heartbreaking moment gave birth to the river’s haunting name, Jadukata.
Originating in the Jaintia Hills of India, the river is known for its icy, clear water. While it’s safe to bathe along the edges, venturing into the middle is not recommended due to strong undercurrents.
We floated nearby, also saw local workers collecting stones washed down by mountain floods—an everyday rhythm of life that speaks to the deep bond between people and nature.
Be mindful of nature. Tanguar Haor is internationally recognized for its ecological importance. Avoid littering or disturbing the natural habitat.
Weather can change quickly. During the rainy season, sudden storms are common. If the sky looks threatening or there’s lightning, stay under your boat’s canopy for safety.
Plan ahead. Always check the weather forecast before deciding your travel dates to avoid any surprises on the water.
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