In the northeastern region of Bangladesh, within the Sunamganj district of Sylhet, lies a vast and serene wetland known as Tanguar Haor. It stretches across the Dharmapasha and Tahirpur upazilas, at the foothills of India’s Khasi and Jaintia mountains in Meghalaya. A total of 30 waterfalls from these mountains flow into the haor, making it a significant waterbody. Locally referred to as “Noykuri Kandaar Chhaykuri Beel,” it is also recognized as a Ramsar site, highlighting its ecological importance. Tanguar Haor is the second-largest freshwater wetland in Bangladesh, covering an area of approximately 126 square kilometers. It serves as a massive sanctuary, often called the “Mother Fishery,” providing a safe haven for fish, birds, and other aquatic life. The haor encompasses around 46 villages, which during the monsoon season, appear as island villages due to the surrounding floodwaters. The wetland itself spans an area of 2,802.36 hectares.
History of Tangua Haor
Tanguar Haor is spread over an area of about 12,665 hectares consisting of 51 haors of 18 mauzars of two upazilas. However, the area of the entire haor during the monsoon season including Nalkhagra forest, Hijal Karach forest is about 20,000 acres. While the main area is 28 square kilometers, the rest is residential and agricultural land. There are about 88 villages in it. Once known as a reservoir of natural biodiversity, in 1999 Tanguar Haor was declared an “Environmentally Critical Area”. This ended the leasehold of nearly 60 years. Later, on 20 January 2000, Haor was declared as the second “Ramsar site”. Sundarbans is the first “Ramsan place” of Bangladesh. The International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (ICUN) is working to protect the biodiversity of Tanguare Haor.Not only that, a memorandum of understanding was signed on February 12, 2001 between the governments of Bangladesh and Switzerland to ensure the development of the socio-economic conditions of the people of Haor area, conservation of resources and sustainable management. After that, the local district administration took control of Haor from 9 November 2003.Since December 2006, the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) and the International Union for the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (ICUN) have been jointly managing the “Socially Based Sustainable Management of Tanguare Hao” project.
Although the water is full in the monsoon season, the water dries up in the winter season. As a result, around 24 beel banks (“kanda” in local parlance) are raised, only the original beel remains inside the kanda, and the dry areas are used by local farmers to cultivate rabi and boro paddy, as well as the area is also used as grazing land.However, since 2012, the kandas have not been seen, so small bamboo or wooden rest poles have been buried there under local NGO and government management. There are about 46 small and large island-like “floating villages” or “island villages” in Hower.
Attractions in Tanguare Haor:-
| Tack Hat | Taker Hat is a market located near the India-Bangladesh border. After anchoring their boats at Taker Ghat, visitors often spend their afternoons exploring the area. As evening falls, the market becomes a popular spot where people gather to enjoy light snacks or fried treats. The market is just a 3-4 minute walk from Taker Ghat. For those on a budget tour, Taker Hat offers good-quality food at affordable prices. |
| Lakma Rhyme | Nestled in the folds of the mountains, a lush green blanket stretches across the landscape. From this verdant cover flows a waterfall known as Lakma, located at the India-Bangladesh border. Though the Lakma waterfall isn’t visible from Bangladesh, its waters flow into the country, eventually reaching the Tanguar Haor. The stream that carries this water into the haor is called Lakma Chhara. The cool, refreshing waters of the stream will invigorate you, and the large rocks scattered throughout the stream enhance its natural beauty. After disembarking from a boat at Taker Ghat, you can take an auto-rickshaw or motorcycle to enjoy the scenic beauty of Lakma Chhara. |
| Watch Tower | The watchtower offers a unique perspective of the haor. On holidays, the Tanguar Haor watchtower attracts quite a crowd. Situated along the Bolai River, within a grove of hijal trees, the watchtower is a popular spot for visitors. Almost every boat makes a stop here at least once. The water around the watchtower is exceptionally clear, and because of this, many tourists choose to take a refreshing dip. One of the special experiences here is enjoying tea while wading in the water. Local vendors sell tea and biscuits from small boats, allowing you to savor a warm drink as you relax in the cool water. If you wish, you can leave your larger boat and explore the area in these smaller boats. |
| Niladri Lake | Niladri Lake, known locally as Pathar Quarry, is often referred to as the “Kashmir of Bengal” due to its stunning beauty and surrounding landscape. The lake’s official name is now “Shaheed Siraji Lake,” in honor of Sirajul Islam Bir Bikram, a guerrilla fighter who was martyred during Bangladesh’s Liberation War. However, within the traveler community, it is still more commonly known as Niladri Lake. The water of Niladri Lake is exceptionally clear, making it a perfect spot for a boat ride. There are also special provisions for kayaking. After a day of exploration, you can refresh yourself with a swim in the cool, transparent waters of the lake. On one side of the lake, you’ll find small hills covered in lush green grass, while the other side is bordered by towering mountains. The harmony of the mountains, hills, and the crystal-clear lake water creates a breathtaking natural beauty that is sure to captivate you. It’s easy to lose yourself in the serenity of this place. After disembarking from your boat at Taker Ghat, you can simply walk straight to Niladri Lake. |
| Magical River | The original name of the Jadukata River is Renuka. According to local legend, a woman was once sitting by the riverbank, cutting a large fish while holding her son, Jadu, in her lap. In a moment of distraction, she accidentally cut her son instead of the fish. This tragic event is said to be the origin of the river’s name, Jadukata. The river originates in the Jaintia Hills of India. Its waters are very cold, so taking a dip after noon is an experience you shouldn’t miss. However, be cautious not to venture too far into the river, as the current can be strong in the middle. On one side of the Jadukata River, you’ll find towering mountains, with the blue sky above and the river’s clear waters below, creating a stunning and unique natural canvas. |
| Shimul Garden | This is the largest Shimul tree garden in Bangladesh, home to nearly 3,000 Shimul trees. The garden spans approximately 100 bighas of land. During the spring, the garden is covered in the vibrant red hues of blooming Shimul flowers. On the opposite side of the garden, you’ll see the towering mountains of Meghalaya, with the clear blue waters of the Jadukata River flowing in between. The contrast between the crimson glow of the Shimul flowers and the serene landscape will fill your heart with joy. |
| Barikka Tila | At the foot of the Meghalaya mountains, on the border’s edge, lies a lush, green hill known as Barek Tila or Barikka Tila. This elevated hill offers stunning views, with India’s towering mountains on one side and the clear waters of the Jadukata River on the other. From Barikka Tila, you can witness the mesmerizing union of clouds and mountains. The breathtaking view of the Jadukata River from the top of Barikka Tila is one that will linger in your memory for a long time. Near Barikka Tila, you’ll find two freshwater streams. These streams are usually dry outside of the monsoon season, so reaching them requires a bit of trekking. Additionally, in the mountains of India, there is the shrine of Shah Arefin and a pilgrimage site. On certain days of the year, the area hosts an Urs (a religious gathering) and a sacred bathing ritual. The Jadukata River flows right next to Barikka Tila, adding to the area’s natural beauty. |
| Hijal Forest | The Hijal Forest in Tanguar Haor is the oldest Hijal forest in the country, located right beside the Bolai River. This forest serves as a sanctuary for the fish and birds of the haor. The forest is home to century-old Hijal trees, which during the monsoon season, are submerged in water up to the neck. The trees are adorned with blooming Hijal flowers, creating a unique and serene landscape. |
| Hasan Raja Museum | Right beside the Surma River in Sunamganj town stands the house of the mystical poet Hasan Raja. Hasan Raja was a prominent zamindar who, alongside managing his estates, composed numerous songs that remain popular to this day. His house has now been converted into a museum, preserving many artifacts associated with his life and legacy. At this museum, you can see a range of personal belongings of Hasan Raja, including his colorful robe, the chair where he composed his songs, and his sword. You’ll also find his tea table, wooden sandals, milk containers, various bowls, betel nut containers, brass pitchers, candle stands, cymbals, drums, and hand-written copies of his songs, as well as the cane he used in his old age. On your way back from Tanguar Haor, you can stop by and explore the Hasan Raja Museum. |
| Dalua Sahid Smriti Samdhi | During Bangladesh’s Liberation War, Dolura in Sunamganj district was one of the key battlefields. Several soldiers who fell in the frontline battles are buried here. In 1973, a memorial was constructed to honor these martyrs, and it is the final resting place for 48 of them. Hidden at the foot of the towering hills, this site serves as a poignant reminder of the bloodshed and struggle of 1971. |
| Pailgaon Zamindar House | The Pailgaon Zamindar House, built 300 years ago on 5.5 acres of land, stands as a testament to beauty, history, and heritage. Despite the passage of time and its deterioration, this historic house remains a significant example of architectural elegance. Located in the 9th Union of Jagannathpur Upazila in Sunamganj District, every room of the Pailgaon Zamindar House reflects a unique style of architectural artistry. It is an exceptional example of ancient heritage and historic preservation. |
Biodiversity of Tanguar Haor
One of the most remarkable aspects of Tanguar Haor’s biodiversity is its diverse range of local, migratory, and rare bird species. Birds from as far away as Siberia can be spotted in this wetland. According to a 2011 bird census, approximately 28,876 waterfowl of 47 species were counted in various beels (wetlands) of Tanguar Haor, including Chatainna Beel, Rowa Beel, Lechuamara Beel, Rupabai Beel, Hatiar Gata Beel, Berberia Beel, Bailar Dubi Beel, Tekunna Beel, and Anna Beel. Among these birds, the census recorded species such as the Cotton Pygmy Goose, the Little Grebe, the Pied Avocet, the Garganey, the Northern Pintail, the Red-headed Pochard, the Red-necked Grebe, the Blue-winged Teal, the Cotton Teal, the Lesser Adjutant, and the Darter. Local species commonly seen include the Vulture, the Darter, the Purple Swamphen, the Cattle Egret, the Black-headed Ibis, the Gull-billed Tern, the Heron, the Crane, the Crow, the Shikra, and the Spot-billed Duck. These birds are frequently observed in the haor area.
As of January 2012-
According to the description of Professor Ali Reza Khan, in total there are about-
Later, according to the bird census of 2019, about 208 species of birds were seen in Haor and its surrounding areas.
Every year Tangua hosts some of the rarest species of birds in the entire country-
It should be noted that five of the eight bear ghosts visible in Bangladesh have been found in this area.
Rare species of birds include-
There is also an endangered species of bird Kurul, which has about 100 specimens in Bangladesh.
Among the rare species of birds are:
Reptiles and Amphibians
In addition to its birds, Tanguar Haor is home to a variety of reptiles and amphibians. The area hosts 6 species of mammals, 20 species of snakes, rare amphibians, 4 species of turtles, and 7 species of lizards, among other animals. The endangered turtles include the Yellow Tortoise, the Kadi Kaita, and the Pura Kaita. However, the Indian Star Tortoise and the Indian Pond Turtle are currently in better condition. You can also find various frogs here, such as the Cricket Frog, the Tree Frog, and the Marble Toad. Although the Marble Toad is rare in other parts of Bangladesh, it is relatively common in Tanguar Haor. Additionally, you might spot the Water Monitor, two species of Cobra, and the Water Snake in the area.
Fisheries
There are about 200 species of small and large fishes in Tangua Haor. Mahashol ranks first among the famous fish of this haor. There are two species of fish, whose scientific names are Tortor and Torputitora respectively.
Plant diversity:
Plants of Tanguare Haor include-
For all the above, Tanguare Haor is now known as a popular tourist destination. Especially during the monsoon season, hundreds of tourists rent boats and float across the Hawar every day. Also many people spend the night in the boat. Hence, the best time to travel to Haor is during monsoons as compared to other times.
| When Will You Go |
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The best times to visit Tanguar Haor are during the monsoon and winter seasons. In the monsoon, the clear waters from 30 waterfalls in the Meghalaya hills of India fill the haor to its brim, creating a vast expanse that resembles a sea. The hijal and koroch trees stand tall above the floodwaters, and the villages in the haor appear as small islands floating on the water. In winter, the landscape is covered in lush green, and meandering rivers within the haor resemble snakes. Migratory birds from distant Siberia arrive, adding to the seasonal beauty. The blooming Shimul flowers in winter and spring transform the haor’s Shimul gardens into a vibrant display of red. |
| Special Advice |
Following the Sundarbans, Tanguar Haor is internationally recognized as Bangladesh’s second Ramsar Site. As such, it is crucial to ensure that no harm comes to the environment during your visit. In the monsoon season, storms can occur at any time, so if you see clouds forming or if there’s a risk of thunder, you should take shelter under the boat’s canopy. Avoid visiting the haor during floods or severe storms. To prevent accidents, check the weather forecast before planning your trip. Additionally, do not take photos of locals without permission and avoid engaging in arguments with them. Do not litter, especially with peels, plastic items, or bottles. Since you’ll be traveling in a water area, it’s best to bring a small bag with light items. Make sure to carry sufficient water, light snacks, a basic first aid kit, and a power bank. When renting a boat, ensure that it has life jackets, toilet facilities, a cooking stove, lights, fans, and rain protection like a canopy. Life jackets and IPS (Inverter Power Supply) can be rented in Tahirpur Market. If the boat lacks electricity and life jackets, rent them separately. The weather at Tanguar Haor can be cool during the monsoon and somewhat chilly at night, so it’s advisable to bring a blanket or a shawl. Also, carry an umbrella or raincoat to protect yourself from the rain while exploring the surrounding areas.
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| Special precautions |
| Since 2003, Tangua has been under the control of Haorti District Administration under the supervision of police and Ansar under the supervision of a Magistrate for the security of Haor Sanctuary and tourists. So refrain from unethical activities including hunting fish and birds, carrying drugs, buying and selling or consuming them. |
| Distance from Various Division Cities to Tanguar Haor | |
| Dhaka | 303 km. |
| Rajshahi |
415 km. (By Dhaka)
599 km. (by Pabna) |
| Rangpur |
465 km. (After Bogra → Sirajganj → Dhaka) 565 km. (After Bogra → Natore → Kushtia → Narayanganj) |
| Sylhet | 109 km. |
| Mymensingh | 505 km. |
| Khulna |
479 km (By Dhaka Root)
487 km (Bagherhat → Pirojpur → Barisal → Feni Root) |
| Barisal | 467 km. |
| Chittagong | 426 km. |
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To go to Tanguare Haor first you have to go to Sunamganj |
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How to go from Dhaka to Sunamganj |
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| Bus |
Dhaka Bus Stands:-
(Bus available from 07.00 PM to 11.00 PM) |
Buses:-
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| Train |
(Since there is no direct train facility from Dhaka to Sunamganj, you have to go by train to Sylhet.) Trains from Dhaka to Sylhet-
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| Biman |
(As there is no direct flight facility from Dhaka to Sunamganj, you have to fly to Sylhet.) Flights to Sylhet:-
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How to get from Rajshahi |
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| Bus |
(Since there is no direct bus, train or air service from Rajshahi to Sunamganj, you have to go to Sunamganj via Sylhet.) Bus Stands to Sunamganj:-
Buses to Sylhet:-
(Before travelling, you must check where you are going, whether the transports will go to your destination. Because the information changes with the change of time) |
| Train |
(Since there is no direct train facility from Rajshahi to Sylhet, you have to go to Dhaka first and then take the train.) Trains to Dhaka:-
(As Dhaka mail train has to be caught. So first it is better to go to Dhaka by fast express from Natore) |
| Biman |
Flights to Sylhet: Flights from Rajshahi Airport to Sylhet Airport-
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Ways to go from Rangpur |
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Bus |
(Since there is no specific bus, train or air facility to go directly from Rangpur to Sunamganj, you have to go to Sunamganj via Sylhet.) Bus Stands:-
Buses:-
(Before travelling, you must check where you are going, whether the transports will reach your destination. Because the information changes with the change of time) |
| Train |
(As there is no direct train facility from Rangpur to Sunamganj, you have to go to Dhaka first and then take the train.) Trains to Dhaka:-
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| Biman |
(If you want to go directly to Sylhet by plane, you have to go to Syedpur Airport, 40 km from Rangpur city.) Flights to Sylhet:
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Way to go from Sylhet |
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| Bus |
(From Sylhet city you can get direct bus or reserve service to Haor from the following bus stand.) Bus Stands to Sunamganj:-
(Before travelling, you must check where you are going, whether the transports will reach your destination. Because the information changes with the change of time) Buses to Chittagong:-
(Before travelling, you must check where you are going, whether the transports will go to your destination. Because the information changes with the change of time) |
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How to get from Mymensingh |
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| Bus |
(How to go from Mymensingh to Sunamganj) Buses from Mymensingh district city to Sunamganj:-
(Before travelling, you must check where you are going, whether the transports will go to your destination. Because the information changes with the change of time) |
| Train |
As there is no train to Sylhet, you have to go from Dhaka. |
| Biman |
As there is no train to Sylhet, you have to go from Dhaka. |
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How to reach from Khulna |
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| Bus |
(Since there is no direct bus, train or flight facility from Khulna to Sunamganj, you have to go through Sylhet.) Bus Stands to Sylhet:-
Buses to Sylhet:-
(Before travelling, you must check where you are going, whether the transports will reach your destination. Because the information changes with the change of time) |
| Train |
(As there is no direct train facility from Khulna to Sunamganj, you have to go to Dhaka and take the Sylhet train from there) Trains to Dhaka:-
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| Biman |
Flights to Sylhet:-
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How to reach from Barisal |
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| Bus |
(As there is no specific bus, train or flight facility to go directly from Barisal to Sunamganj, you have to go through Sylhet.) Bus Stands to Sylhet:-
Buses to Sylhet:-
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Ways to go from Chittagong |
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| Bus |
Bus Stands:-
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Buses:-
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Sunamganj to Tanguar Haor Routes:- Sunamganj → Taherpur → Tanguar Haor (Consult a guide or law enforcement personnel for convenient routes and a good view of the surrounding areas. Also, don’t forget to bargain in all cases.) |
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Accommodation and Food |
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(Houseboats are fully equipped for accommodation and meals.) |
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| Houseboat Group |
Small, medium, large houseboats are conveniently available for day or night to explore all the sights of Hower.
(Go down to the wharf and negotiate the preferred boat at your own risk and book after knowing the trip plan and facilities.) |
| Restaurants |
You will get the facility of eating according to the package in the houseboat itself. |
| Note: Tell the guide or houseboat staff what you need and they will usually arrange everything. | |
Approximate rent of Houseboats and Boats-
Usually everything is included in the package of houseboats. If it is only a day trip, the cost will be less.
Please note that These listings are only indicative of minimum fares. Which is changing in current situation. So negotiate according to the correct information.
Advantages of traveling to Tanguar Haor are-
Note- Beware of all kinds of brokers/scammers. Be very careful on the way so as not to get into any kind of danger. In case of any problem, take the help of local administration or call the National Emergency Service of Bangladesh – 999.
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