Ratargul | An Amazing Swamp Forest In Sylhet

Ratargul which is one of the most beautiful places in Sylhet is the only freshwater swamp forest in Bangladesh. Gigantic green nature, colorful water, and a prosperous number of animal species make a mysterious environment that always influences visitors to visit the place. The forest occupies an area of about 504 acres and is located in Gowainghat which is 26 kilometers away from Sylhet. 

Ratargul Swamp Forest

The name of the forest mainly comes from the word, "Rata" or "Pati" tree. Near about 73 species of plants can be seen there. 80 percent of the forest area which is covered with an umbrella of the trees is situated by the river Goain and Chengir Khal. The extension of the forest is located in two Haors, Shimul Bil Haor, and Neoa Bil Haor. Generally, two layers of plants can be found in the swamp forest whereas the upper layer consists of trees and the lower one consists of intense Schumannianthus dichotomous. Though the forest is submerged under 20–30 feet of water in the rainy season, the water level remains about 10 feet deep rest of the year. Dalbergia reniformis is the dominating tree in the plant species of this swamp forest, although, Calamus tenuis, Neolamarckia cadamba, Barringtonia acutangular, Banyan and so many trees can be seen. 

 

Unworldly view of Swamp Forest

 

Ratargul forest is a territory of different animal species like Snake and Worm snake, Mongoose which can be seen in the dry season, Monkey and Water monitor. Heron, Egret, Kingfisher, Bulbul, Swan, Dove, Waterfowl, Parrot, Eagle, and Kite Bird are the main local birds of this forest. However, in the winter, a vast number of migratory birds and Vultures like Cotton Pygmy Goose come there. Batasio, Rita, Pabda, Rohu, etc are mainly caught by local fishermen from there.

 To visit the forest, visitors have to reserve a local boat known as a “Traller”. This amazing forest is also called “Sundarban of Sylhet” by locals. 

“If there is magic on this planet, it is contained in water.” — Loren Eiseley. Really, the magic in Ratargul is waiting for tourists. You can go there any time of year.