If you think of Bangladesh, you might picture busy towns and rivers. But if you go a little further, you’ll find a world covered in trees. Srimangal and Jaflong, both in the Sylhet area, are two of the most beautiful places in the country. It is called the “Land of Two Leaves and a Bud,” and it is the centre of Bangladesh’s tea industry.
Srimangal, the “Land of Tea and Peace.”
The air feels different when you get to Srimangal. It’s lighter, cleaner, and smells like earthy tea leaves. In the distance, there are never-ending waves of green, and women dressed in bright sarees move gracefully through the tea bushes, picking leaves by hand.
Lawachara National Park is close by, is a wildlife lover’s and photographer’s dream because it is home to the rare Hoolock Gibbons and many other bird species. It’s a little miracle in a glass that shows how creative and friendly the people here are.
“Jaflong” means “where the hills meet the sky.”
Jaflong is a few hours’ drive from Srimangal. It has a very different scenery but the same peaceful feeling. The Khasia Hills surround this border town, which has beautiful rivers with clear water, pebbled riverbeds, and far-off views of Meghalaya’s rolling hills.
The Dauki River comes in from India and is so clear that you can see the rocks below. It makes for a beautiful background for boat rides and quiet meditation. Nearby Khasi tribal villages let tourists see how people used to live in the past. They have bamboo homes, grow betel leaves for food, and greet guests with warm smiles.
The best time to go
When it’s cool and nice outside, from October to March is the best time to visit these green gems. But during the monsoon, the tea fields turn an even deeper green, and the waterfalls in Jaflong come to life. This is a great time to visit if you like adventures that get wet.
Srimangal is about 190 km from Dhaka and can be reached by bus or train. It takes about three hours to drive from there to Jaflong. The roads go through hills and small towns, with beautiful views every step of the way. The trip itself feels like an important part of the experience.
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