Introduction: Discover the Amazon of Bangladesh
Ratargul Swamp Forest sits just outside Sylhet, and it’s pretty special—it’s one of the only freshwater swamp forests in all of South Asia, and the only one you’ll find in Bangladesh. People call it the “Amazon of Bangladesh,” and honestly, that fits. Imagine gliding through calm water, trees half-submerged all around, everything quiet except for the birds. It’s a whole other world. If you’re planning to go, here’s what you need to know about taking a boat tour through Ratargul.
Getting There
Ratargul is about 26 to 30 kilometres from Sylhet city. Most travellers set out from Amberkhana or Shibganj, grabbing a CNG (that’s an auto-rickshaw) or hiring a private car to reach Motorghat in Gowainghat. The ride from Sylhet to Motorghat takes 45 to 60 minutes, and you’ll pass rivers, hills, and a lot of green along the way. Once you hit Motorghat, you’ll hop onto a wooden boat and head straight into the heart of the forest—another 20 to 30 minutes drifting through the water, the scenery just keeps getting better.
Best Time to Visit
Ratargul the swamp forest of Bangladesh looks good year-round, but the vibe changes with the seasons, mostly because of the water level.
Monsoon (July to September) – This is when Ratargul is at its wildest. Trees are half underwater, the water turns deep and clear, and all the boat routes are open. The whole place feels mysterious—like you’re in some kind of fantasy movie.
Post-Monsoon (October to November) – The water level drops a bit, but the forest is still lush. It’s less dramatic, but great for photography or a chill boat ride.
Winter & Summer (December to June) – Water levels really go down. Some parts of the forest aren’t even accessible by boat. It’s still peaceful, but if you want those classic swampy views, this isn’t the best time.
Types of Boats
At Motorghat, local boat operators run everything under the forest department’s watch. You’ve got a few options:
Standard Wooden Boat – Fits 6 to 8 people. It’s the usual choice for small groups and gives you that classic, simple experience. Plus, it’s affordable.
Shallow Water Paddle Boat – These move more slowly, but they’re quiet. Perfect if you want to take photos or just drift along peacefully.
Guided Boat – Go for this if you want someone explaining the forest’s story, pointing out birds and plants, and sharing local secrets.
Tour Duration & Costs
Most boat tours last between an hour and a half to three hours, depending on how far you want to go and the water level. As for costs:
- Standard Boat: BDT 500–1,200
- Guided Boat: BDT 1,200–2,000
Extended Tour (for a deeper trek): BDT 2,000 or more
Prices can go up during weekends or peak season.
What You’ll See
Ratargul is a treat for anyone who loves nature, adventure, or photography. On the boat, you’ll float under archways of trees, glide over green water that mirrors the forest, spot birds like herons, egrets, and kingfishers, and sometimes even see fish swimming in the clear water. You’ll pass local fishermen, rare swamp plants, and just soak in the kind of silence that makes you forget about the rest of the world—except for the sound of the paddles.
Tips for Your Trip
A few things to make your visit smoother:
- Always wear the life jackets the boatmen give you.
- Don’t go during heavy rain—the current gets strong.
- Bring water, sunscreen, and something for mosquitoes.
- Keep your phone and camera in something waterproof.
- Stick to registered boats for safety.
- Go early in the morning if you want the forest all to yourself.
In the end, Ratargul Swamp Forest is one of those places you remember. Whether you’re chasing adventure, looking for the perfect photo, or just want to float through something beautiful, a boat ride here is the way to do it. Try to visit during monsoon or just after for the best views, and experience one of Bangladesh’s real natural wonders.
Read Also: Best Time to Visit Sylhet for Scenic Views
