Hakaluki Haor, situated in the wetlands of Bangladesh, is a perfect area for nature lovers and birders to visit. This vast haor covers parts of two upazilas (Kulaura and Barlekha) located in the Moulvibazar District of the Sylhet Region of Bangladesh.
The wetland area of Hakaluki Haor comes to life during the months of November through March, when thousands of migratory birds travel from Central Asia and Siberia to Hakaluki Haor. During the winter months, visitors have the opportunity to see a wide variety of bird species, resplendent aquatic plants, and beautiful water landscapes.
Because of the ecological richness and inherent beauty of Hakaluki Haor, the destination has become an ecotourist, birdwatching, and photography hotspot.
Travel Routes to Hakaluki Haor
Multiple major urban cities in Bangladesh provide access to the Hakaluki Haor. Visiting from Dhaka, Sylhet, or Moulvibazar is accessible via all routes.
By Road from Sylhet or Moulvibazar
Sylhet and Moulvibazar are the two nearest urban centres located closest to Hakaluki Haor. The haor is approximately 65 kilometres away from Moulvibazar Township.
Visitors can hire private vehicles (e.g., buses, cars, CNG auto-rickshaws) for travel to nearby Kulaura Upazila and Barlekha Upazila. The average duration of these road trips is approximately 2 to 3 hours, depending on traffic and weather.
By Train
Another way to travel to Hakaluki Haor is by train. Visit a railway station, such as the Kulaura Railway Station, which is among the closest railway stations to Hakaluki Haor, and buy tickets, travel to Kulaura, and:
Employ a local auto-rickshaw or a local microbus to access the haor at the nearest access point or a nearby village
By Air
Visitors flying from distant cities will be able to make their travel plans by flying into Osmani International Airport. Subsequently, visitors will continue their journey from the airport by road using public transportation or road transportation to Moulvibazar Township, Kulaura Upazila, or Barlekha Upazila, as well as travelling to Hakaluki Haor using either local transportation or a boat.
Exploring Hakaluki Haor
If you’re planning to visit Hakaluki Haor (wetland), travelling by canoe is probably your best option. Canoes can be rented from many of the nearby hamlets or jetties located near the lookout tower areas. Renting a canoe will allow you to access the many large bodies of water that you can paddle through and see all the local birds and aquatic species.
Although there is no formal entrance fee to Hakaluki Haor, visitors should be prepared to pay the following expenses:
- Rental of the canoe
- Rental of local guiding services
- Rental of photography equipment (if needed)
- Tips for Visiting Hakaluki Haor
There are some things that you can do to help ensure an enjoyable visit to Hakaluki Haor:
Visit During Winter
The best time to visit is between November and March, as this time when some of our migratory bird species are at their most concentrated.
Visit Early in the Morning
Most of the bird species that you’ll see waking up early in the morning to feed are very active and displaying lots of bird-like behaviours, so this is the best time to go out and watch birds.
Hire a Local Guide
Local guides know where all the best birding spots are and also have local knowledge regarding safe routes to navigate. Therefore, hiring a local guide when you go birdwatching can greatly enhance your enjoyment of the visit.
Bring Binoculars and Cameras
You will find that your experience of birdwatching and photographing birds is greatly improved when you can use binoculars or a long focal length lens to get closer views.
Respect the Ecosystem
We must be respectful of the ecosystem that supports these birds and try not to disturb them or litter in this fragile environment.
FAQs
1. Where is Hakaluki Haor located?
Hakaluki Haor is located in Moulvibazar district of the Sylhet Division in Bangladesh, mainly covering parts of Kulaura and Barlekha upazilas.
2. What is the best time to visit Hakaluki Haor?
The best time to visit is November to March, when thousands of migratory birds arrive at the wetland.
3. How far is Hakaluki Haor from Moulvibazar town?
Hakaluki Haor is approximately 65 kilometers from Moulvibazar Sadar.
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