United News of Bangladesh

Strange, contorted trees stretch toward a sky so vast it feels unworldly. Bare, jagged cliffs rise from a stark, wind-blasted terrain that seems untouched by time or civilisation. Crystalline waters border bizarre landforms, creating a surreal contrast. Among the world’s many awe-inspiring locations, from Africa’s endless sands to North America’s ancient canyons. Few evoke such profound disbelief as this remote island. Long whispered about in niche travel circles, it now draws increasing global attention. The name? Socotra, locally known as Saqatri. Let’s uncover what's behind this alien-looking island in the Indian Ocean that draws modern explorers. Geography of Socotra Tucked between the Guardafui Channel and the Arabian Sea, Socotra forms the largest island in a six-island archipelago. While it falls under Yemen's political boundary, its proximity to Africa gives it a different geographic rhythm. Just 236 miles south of the Arabian Peninsula, this closeness shapes its distinct character. This remote outpost stands among the most isolated continental landmasses on Earth. It parted ways with the ancient supercontinent of Gondwana millions of years ago. That deep-time isolation shaped its singular environment. Read more: Chongqing, The 3D City: Chinese Megacity Looking Like AI-Generated The island is renowned for its extraordinary biodiversity. Many species found here exist nowhere else on the planet, drawing scientific and ecological interest from across the globe. This exceptional natural wealth earned it UNESCO World Heritage status in 2008, marking it as a vital ecological treasure. Unique Landscape and Discrete Demography The distinctiveness of this ancient island lies in its terrain, with Socotra shaped over millennia by time, climate, and isolation. Towering limestone plateaus stretch across the island, rising above arid plains and wind-carved dunes. At the heart of it all, a central mountain range climbs to nearly 5,000 feet. It offers an imposing backdrop to an otherwise barren interior. The terrain breaks into elevations that shift with the landscape. Dry mountains and scattered vegetation tell a stark story of nature’s endurance. This archipelago, over 25 million years old, balances contrasting features- coastal plains brushing against desert stretches, and rocky plateaus giving way to shrub-covered slopes. But what sets Socotra apart is its inimitable biological character. Nearly one-third of its plant species are endemic, including the most iconic locale- the Dragon’s Blood Tree. This umbrella-shaped marvel, known for its crimson resin, casts haunting silhouettes throughout the horizon, lending the landmass its surreal, alien quality. Read more: Wales’s Stream in the Sky: World’s Tallest Navigable Aqueduct Pontcysyllte Despite its remoteness, Socotra is home to a modest community of approximately 60,000 people. The Socotrans speak Soqotri, a pre-Arabic language that survives only here. Their cultural fabric, enriched by centuries of isolation, is preserved through an annual poetry competition.

Rising high above the Dee Valley in Northeast Wales under the United Kingdom, a remarkable structure stretches across the landscape, both graceful and bold. Known as the 'Stream in the Sky,' the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct stands as the tallest navigable aqueduct in the world. This awe-inspiring engineering marvel has earned its place as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts travellers worldwide. Let’s explore the waterway that defies gravity. Architect of Elevation: The Visionary Behind This Specialty Suspended high above the River Dee, this aqueduct invites a rare encounter with both nature and ingenuity. At 38 metres above the ground and stretching 307 metres in length, this 'Stream in the Sky' appears to defy gravity. Its presence is as serene as it is commanding, an elevated ribbon of water slicing through the skies of North Wales. Completed in 1805 after a decade of construction, the aqueduct stands as a masterpiece of the Industrial Revolution. Its creator, Thomas Telford, a visionary known as "The Colossus of Roads", combined structural brilliance with poetic ambition. The result: an enduring monument to progress, elevated quite literally. Read more: Smiling Quokka Turned Rottnest Island into a Global Tourist Hotspot Comprising 18 massive stone arches, the sky-bound channel carries the Llangollen Canal across the Dee Valley, linking England to Wales. Nestled within an officially designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this engineering marvel remains as functional as it is breathtaking. Crossing Heights: Breathtaking Experiences Adventuring over the span of the waterway demands more than curiosity; it calls for composure at elevation. Kayakers, paddle boarders, and narrowboat passengers all share the same breathtaking route. Each navigates a narrow channel flanked by open air and far-reaching countryside views. For those who prefer their feet on solid ground, walking the aqueduct provides a steadier yet equally rewarding perspective. The gentle sway of the towpath and uninterrupted vistas make for a contemplative journey. At day’s end, the nearby visitor centre offers insight into its construction, detailing the techniques and vision behind its creation. Read more: UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Bangladesh Just steps away, the Pontcysyllte Tea Rooms present a peaceful retreat. Whether after a skyward adventure or a valley walk, this welcoming stop completes the experience. From Global Heritage to Viral Wonder Since being inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site on 27 June 2009, Pontcysyllte Aqueduct has steadily grown into one of the most visited landmarks in Wales. Each year, it draws over half a million visitors. They are captivated by its towering design, engineering significance, and sweeping views over the Dee Valley. In recent years, the historic structure has also found fame in the digital sphere. Social media platforms have been flooded with posts capturing the experience of walking, kayaking, or boating across its narrow expanse. Its videos amassed over 1.8 million views, sparking widespread fascination across the internet. The structure’s sheer height and dramatic setting have made it a favourite subject for reels, travel vlogs, and scenic montages. Read more: City Guide to Bangkok, Thailand for Bangladeshis Reactions in the comment sections reveal a mix of awe, nostalgia, and personal connections. Some praised it as one of the most exciting adventures in North Wales. Others recounted family ties to its maintenance or restoration. A few expressed a sense of vertigo while admiring the beauty, describing the railings as unnerving yet the surroundings as unforgettable.

In the heart of the Sundarbans, where diverse wildlife roam freely, a silent crisis is unfolding — a disturbing surge in illegal deer poaching is sweeping across the world’s largest mangrove forest and Unesco World Heritage Site. In the past three months alone, Forest Department officials and the Coast Guard personnel have recovered 641 kilogrammes of venison and detained 22 people involved in poaching operations across various areas, according to officials. Wildlife experts and local residents are alarmed, warning that this unchecked poaching could severely disrupt the Sundarbans' delicate ecological balance — potentially leading to the disappearance of its iconic Royal Bengal Tigers, which depend heavily on deer as their primary food source. However, the poaching rings — sophisticated and persistent — show no signs of slowing down. According to data provided by the Eastern and Western Divisions of the Sundarbans Forest Department and the Mongla Coast Guard West Zone, several joint operations were conducted between January and March. These efforts led to the seizure of a slaughtered deer, another dead deer, two hides, two heads, eight legs, 160 traps, four trawlers, five boats, a microbus, seven mobile phones, and the arrest of 22 individuals. Deer poaching in Sundarbans rising at alarming rate amid lax monitoring So far, 25 separate cases have been filed. Despite periodic crackdowns, organised poaching rings continue unabated. Poachers typically enter the forest illegally, set traps or use poisonous bait to capture spotted deer, slaughter them on site and then transport the meat to nearby villages for sale. Venison is reportedly sold for Tk 1,000 to Tk 1,200 per kilogramme in both local and distant markets, including capital Dhaka, over 250 kilometres away. Local voices echo the alarm. Jamal Gazi, a fisherman and community patrol group (CPG) member from Sharankhola upazila, claims that nearly 100 active deer poachers operate in the area, often under the protection of influential figures. Gazi, a long-time advocate for forest conservation, says he has received threats for his stance. “Despite our appeals, the poaching continues. We are risking our lives to save the forest, but they [poachers] are well-organised and well-connected," he said. “Poachers don’t need to invest to obtain deer — they enter the forest, kill the animals, and sell the meat for a significant profit. That’s why they are increasingly motivated,” said Dr Anwarul Islam, wildlife expert and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of WildTeam. “The deer is the tiger’s primary food source. If deer vanish from the Sundarbans, so will the tiger,” he warned. Forest officials said surveillance and patrols are being stepped up, particularly in high-risk zones such as Dacope, Chandpai, Sharankhola and Mongla. Kazi Muhammad Nurul Karim, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of the Eastern Sundarbans, stated that patrols have been intensified and no compromise will be made with anyone found colluding with poachers. DFO AZM Hasanur Rahman of the Western Division admitted the challenges persist. “We’re conducting regular operations and inspecting suspicious trawlers and boats at various forest points,” he said, noting that his division alone had seized 255 kilogrammes of venison and recovered both a slaughtered and a dead deer in the past three months. 'Festival of poaching' endangers bird life in Bagerhat beel Residents and wildlife experts are calling for a multipronged strategy to address the crisis. This includes stricter enforcement of wildlife protection laws, stronger political will, public awareness campaigns, and rehabilitation schemes offering alternative livelihoods to former poachers. “We must involve local communities in conservation efforts. People need to realise that deer are tiger food — not human food. Without reducing demand, we cannot cut off supply,” said Dr Anwarul Islam. He emphasised the need for a national awareness campaign with a clear message: “Say No to Venison.” The Sundarbans — spanning 6,017 square kilometres, including 4,143 square kilometres of land and 1,873 square kilometres of water — is home to an estimated 136,604 spotted deer and 125 Royal Bengal Tigers. As poaching networks grow more sophisticated, officials and conservationists fear time is running out — for the deer, for the tigers, and for the Sundarbans itself. With additional support from Julfekar Dehan.  

Bangladesh, a land rich in culture and history, proudly hosts several UNESCO World Heritage Sites that reflect its diverse heritage and natural wonders. From the serene Sundarbans—the world’s largest mangrove forest—to the ancient architectural marvels of Bagerhat and Paharpur, these sites are globally recognised for their cultural and ecological significance.  Each heritage site tells a unique story of the country’s past, offering a glimpse into its spiritual, artistic, and environmental legacy. As tourism grows and conservation becomes crucial, these treasures not only attract global admiration but also highlight the importance of preserving history for future generations.  List of World UNESCO Heritage Sites in Bangladesh Here is a closer look at Bangladesh’s iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites.  Historic Mosque City of Bagerhat Located in the Bagerhat District in the southwestern region of Bangladesh, the Historic Mosque City of Bagerhat is one of the country's most treasured UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Recognised in 1985 under UNESCO's cultural heritage list, this ancient city offers a fascinating glimpse into the Islamic architectural legacy of the Bengal Sultanate era.  Originally known as Khalifatabad, the city was founded in the 15th century by a revered Turkic general and Sufi saint, Ulugh Khan Jahan, who was appointed governor by Sultan Mahmud Shah. Spread across nearly 50 square kilometres, the city flourished along the banks of the Bhairab River near the edge of the Sundarbans and became an urban masterpiece of its time. Read more: Top 15 Heritage Sites of Bangladesh Bagerhat is especially renowned for its incredible brick architecture, with the iconic Sixty Dome Mosque (Shat Gombuj Masjid) standing as the centrepiece. Built using baked bricks, the mosque features 77 domes supported by 60 stone pillars and showcases a distinctive blend of Persian, Arab, and Bengali architectural influences. Beyond its religious function, it also served as a madrasa and assembly hall. 

The Sundarbans, the world's largest mangrove forest and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is facing an alarming threat as relentless riverbank erosion steadily devours its landmass, displacing communities, destroying infrastructure and shrinking vital forest cover. Spanning the delta region of the Padma, Meghna and Brahmaputra river basins, the Sundarbans is a crucial ecological zone shared between Bangladesh and India. It is home to rich biodiversity, including the endangered Royal Bengal tiger. But continuous erosion is rapidly reshaping the landscape, with islands and coastal land disappearing into the sea. Vanishing Land and Lost Infrastructure Jetties, Forest Department offices and other vital infrastructure are being washed away, forcing officials to abandon their posts. In September last year, the East Sundarbans Division sought assistance from the Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB) to curb erosion at nine vulnerable locations. Although sand-filled geo bags were placed in front of the Forest Office to mitigate the damage, the measure has largely proven ineffective. Top 3 Books in English on the Bangladesh Sundarbans According to sources in the Forest Department, the situation has worsened over the years, swallowing entire forested areas along with their trees. The jetty at the Dubla Forest Office, several drinking water ponds, cyclone shelters and freshwater reservoirs at Meherali Char have already been lost to the rising tides. Meanwhile, the old rest house and jetty at Katka have disappeared, and the two-storey Bogi Forest Office building is on the brink of collapse into the river. “The forest land is continuously being destroyed, and many trees have already vanished. The old rest house at Katka has gone into the sea, and numerous areas deeper into the Sundarbans have been submerged,” said Soyebur Rahman Suman, in charge of the Katka Sanctuary Centre, a popular tourist spot in the Sundarbans. A Sabur, an officer at Bogi Forest Station, echoed similar concerns. “Our office-cum-barracks are also at risk of being submerged. Staff have been forced to move to alternative shelters to avoid further danger.” Despite efforts to control the damage, the situation has not improved. “The Water Development Board placed sandbags in September and October last year to prevent erosion, but they have not been effective,” added Sabur. Nylon net fencing starts in Sundarbans to prevent tigers entering surrounding localities Nine Critical Zones Under Threat Forest officials have identified nine key locations that are severely affected by erosion: ·         Kachikhali Sanctuary Centre ·         Katka Sanctuary Centre ·         Chandeshwar Patrol Outpost ·         Jelepalli Dubla Patrol Outpost ·         Bogi Forest Station ·         Jhapsi Patrol Outpost ·         Jongra Patrol Outpost ·         Karamjal Wildlife Breeding Centre ·         Shuarmara Patrol Outpost Rana Deb, Sharankhola Range Officer of the Eastern Sundarbans Division, noted that while some forest areas are eroding, new chars (sandbanks) are forming in other river regions. But this offers little consolation given the immense destruction already suffered by the Forest Department, particularly after Cyclone Remal. Funding Shortages Hindering Protection Efforts Abu Raihan Md. Albunni, Executive Engineer of BWDB in Bagerhat, admitted that financial constraints have hindered further erosion prevention efforts. “Sand-filled geo bags were placed in front of Bogi Forest Station, but due to budget limitations, no action has been taken in other erosion-affected areas,” he said. Divisional Forest Officer of the East Sundarbans Division, Kazi Muhammad Nurul Karim, expressed grave concern over the worsening crisis, attributing it in part to climate change. “We sent a letter to the Executive Engineer of BWDB in September last year, requesting urgent intervention at nine locations. Although some geo bags were placed in Bogi, they were ineffective in halting the erosion,” he said. Sundarbans Day to be observed Friday, still awaits national recognition Alarming Shrinkage of the Sundarbans A World Bank report, Coping with Climate Change in the Sundarbans: Lessons from Multidisciplinary Studies (2020), presents alarming evidence of the forest's shrinking footprint. The total area of the Sundarbans (including both Bangladesh and India) measured 11,904 sq km between 1904 and 1924. By 1967, it had reduced to 11,663 sq km, and in 2016, it further declined to 11,506 sq km. According to various sources, the Sundarbans is crisscrossed by approximately 450 rivers and canals, stretching about 350 km in total length. Natural tidal activity continuously reshapes these waterways, causing both erosion and deposition. However, the extent of land loss in the last century has far outpaced natural recovery, posing an existential threat to the forest and its inhabitants. Need for Urgent Action The relentless erosion of the Sundarbans demands immediate intervention from policymakers, conservationists and international stakeholders. Without robust mitigation strategies and sustainable erosion control measures, the continued loss of land will exacerbate climate vulnerability, displace more communities, and push the region’s fragile ecosystem further towards collapse. Conservation projects paying fruit as Sundarbans witness increase in tiger population

The Sundarbans, the world’s largest mangrove forest, stretches across Bangladesh and India, with approximately 60% of its vast 10,000 sqkm expanse lying within Bangladesh’s borders. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997 and a RAMSAR site in 1992, this unique ecosystem is home to rich biodiversity and serves as Bangladesh’s last stronghold for the endangered Bengal tiger. For those looking to explore the history, ecology, and mysteries of this remarkable forest, here are three essential English-language books on the Sundarbans. 3 Best English-Language Books on Sundarbans in Bangladesh  If you're specifically looking for books on the Sundarbans in Bangladesh, here are three top recommendations covering its ecology, history, culture, and conservation: The Man-Eating Tigers of Sundarbans by Montgomery "The Man-Eating Tigers of Sundarbans" by Sy Montgomery is an engaging exploration of the Sundarbans, a vast mangrove forest along the Bay of Bengal in India and Bangladesh, renowned for its unique population of tigers. Montgomery's narrative delves into the mysteries surrounding these tigers, blending scientific inquiry with local folklore and firsthand accounts. She offers insights into the tigers' behavior, the challenging environment of the mangrove swamps, and the complex relationship between the tigers and the local communities who both revere and fear them. Read more: Tracing the Roots of Ekushey Boi Mela Critics have praised Montgomery's ability to turn a scientific study into a page-turning mystery. Her writing is noted for its fresh, engaging style that captivates readers, making complex subjects accessible and intriguing. Overall, "The Man-Eating Tigers of Sundarbans" offers a fascinating and informative journey into one of the world's most enigmatic regions, providing a balanced perspective that honors both scientific understanding and the rich cultural narratives of the local people. The Bangladesh Sundarbans by Enayetullah Khan "The Bangladesh Sundarbans" by Enayetullah Khan, published in 2011, offers a detailed description of the world's largest mangrove forest. The book delves into the diverse flora and fauna of the Sundarbans and provides insights into the lives of its inhabitants, exploring their lifestyle, beliefs, social customs, and the profound connection they share with the forest. The author illustrates the natural history of this spectacular forest. A brief overview of the lives and means of subsistence of the forest's resource users is also included in this book. "The Bangladesh Sundarbans" reveals how this forest serves as a natural barrier against cyclones and tidal surges.  Read more: Rich Dad Poor Dad– Worth Reading in Your Quarantine The book is enriched with photographs that capture the landscape, people, and wildlife of the Sundarbans, providing readers with a visual context to the compelling narrative.  Critics have praised the book for its comprehensive portrayal of the Sundarbans' natural beauty and cultural richness. Readers interested in the intricate relationship between the Sundarbans' ecosystem and its people may find this book particularly enlightening. Sundarbans and its Ecosystem Services: Traditional Knowledge, Customary Sustainable Use and Community-Based Innovation by Rashed Al Mahmud Titumir (Editor) This edited collection explores traditional knowledge, customary sustainable usage, and community-based innovation in the Sundarbans, the world's largest single-tract continuous mangrove forest. To show that indigenous and local knowledge (ILK) is crucial for the preservation and sustainable use of natural resources, the book examines the Sundarbans' current condition as well as its many values and ecosystem services.  In addition to being crucial to the achievement of SDGs 14 (life below water) and 15 (life on land), this forest also actively aids in the accomplishment of numerous other objectives. By placing human-nature relationships in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic-heightened interest in biodiversity and climate change, the book offers a fresh perspective on sustainability.  Read more: 10 Best eBook Reader Apps for Android, iOS For sustainable development, the book connects scientific knowledge with the multi, inter, and trans-disciplinary character of ILK gathered from the bottom-up level. The market-based approach to valuing natural resources is contested in this book.  Conclusion The Sundarbans in Bangladesh is the largest mangrove forest in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It covers about 6,017 sqkm in Bangladesh and extends into India. This unique ecosystem is located in the southwestern coastal region of Bangladesh, mainly in the Khulna, Satkhira, and Bagerhat districts.  So far, we have reviewed the top 3 English books written on the Sundarbans in Bangladesh. These books can enlighten readers about the location, geography, ecosystem, and biodiversity of the Sundarbans. Read more: Benefits of Reading Habit for Mind and Body

The Sundarbans, nestled between India and Bangladesh, is the largest mangrove forest in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. My recent trip to the Bangladesh Sundarbans with my family and friends was nothing short of a life-changing experience. This extraordinary place isn’t just a forest; it’s a world teeming with vibrant life and an incredible example of human-nature coexistence. What I saw, learned, and experienced there will stay with me forever. We started our trip from Dhaka, and it took us just over five hours to reach the ‘TigerHouse’ at WildTeam Conservation Biology Centre, Joymoni, near Mongla, Bagerhat. There, we were warmly welcomed by Dr Md Anwarul Islam, CEO of WildTeam. The Museum of the TigerHouse featured many taxidermies and preserved specimens of different animals from around the Sundarbans. After a short break and refreshment, the Village Tiger Response Team (VTRT) also demonstrated how they protect the villagers from tiger attacks when tigers stray into the village.   When it comes to saving tigers and conserving wildlife around the Sundarbans these local volunteers are real heroes. They have dedicated their lives to this noble cause. For me, listening to their stories and seeing their courage up close was incredibly humbling. They in a way embody the delicate balance between humans and wildlife that defines the Sundarbans. We met the BaghBandhus – the friends of tigers and the TigerScouts and listened to how they are involved in tiger conservation in the Sundarbans.  It was not easy to engage the local communities in tiger conservation when their dear ones were taken over by tigers.  The next morning, we went on a boating excursion through the network of waterways that crisscrossed the Sundarbans. The beautiful sunrise and the morning lifestyle of the villagers contrasted with the constant hustle and bustle of city life. Professor Anwar guided us throughout the trip and gave us a lot of information about the humongous mangrove forest. I was astonished by the variety of flora and fauna and their different ways of survival instincts. There were a lot of ‘Sundari’ trees that are in fact the alveoli of the Sundarbans, which are like the lungs of Bangladesh and the broader South Asia region.  The mangrove trees can reach incredible heights and have been providing the community with resources for daily living. However, the Sundari trees have been affected by an unknown top-dying disease, which made this plant species globally threatened.  We took a stop at the Harbaria Ecotourism Center, which was located at the heart of the Sundarbans. The forest rangers showed us around the park and provided us with various information about the wildlife in the Sundarbans.  The fresh pugmarks of tigers, calls of red jungle fowl and the crested serpent eagle and a variety of breathing roots attracted me most.  It was a new experience to see how some of the mangrove species take oxygen through their breathing roots, the pneumatophores.  From the moment I stepped into the Sundarbans, I was surrounded by nature's wonders. One of my most memorable moments was watching a pair of Brahminy Kites glide effortlessly above the dense mangroves.

The Sundarbans, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a mangrove forest known for its rich biodiversity, unique ecosystem, and serene waterways. Among its many treasures is the Kotka Sea Beach, a tranquil coastal retreat where the forest meets the Bay of Bengal. Visiting this natural haven will let you witness the untouched beauty of the forest and the sea. Location of Kotka Sea Beach Kotka holds a special appeal for tourists among the many captivating spots in the Sundarbans. Located in the southeastern corner of the Sundarbans, Kotka Beach is around 90 km from Mongla Port in Khulna. It serves as the heart of the Sundarbans Eastern Sanctuary.  Renowned for its unspoiled natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and peaceful atmosphere, Kotka offers a pristine beach and lush greenery. This picturesque destination allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the untouched wilderness of the Sundarbans, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. ead more: Lawachara National Park Travel Guide: Evergreen forest in northeastern Bangladesh Ways to Reach Kotka Sea Beach from Dhaka: A Detailed Travel Guide Dhaka to Bagerhat By Air  The fastest route is a flight from Dhaka to Jashore Airport which takes around 45 minutes. Several flights operate daily, with costs ranging from 4000 to 5,250 BDT. It is a 3-4 hour journey from Jessore to Bagerhat by bus or car. By Train  Alternatively, you can take a train from Dhaka’s Kamalapur Station to Khulna. The fares range from 625 to 2,200 BDT. The trip lasts around 8-10 hours, followed by a 1-2 hour journey by bus or car to Bagerhat.  By Bus  Direct buses from Dhaka to Bagerhat are available, costing between 650 and 700 BDT. The bus journey takes about 6-8 hours. There are also buses to Khulna from Gabtoli or Sayedabad with fares 650 to 1,600 BDT and a further 1-2 hour trip to Bagerhat. Read more: Sylhet’s Jaflong Travel Guide: Where Nature’s Beauty Blooms From Bagerhat to Kotka Sea Beach To visit Kotka in the Sundarbans, permission from the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) in Khulna is required. The main transport to Kotka is by water, usually via a launch. You can board a launch from Rupsa in Khulna or Mongla Port in Bagerhat.  Alternatively, boats can be rented from Morelganj or Sharankhola. Private motor launches, speedboats, and vessels are available. It is recommended to book through a local tour operator for guided services and permit arrangements. Cost of Visiting Kotka The daily travel fee for domestic tourists in the Sundarbans Sanctuary is BDT 150, and BDT 30 for students. Foreign tourists pay BDT 1,500. Outside the sanctuary, fees are BDT 70 for locals and BDT 20 for students.  Read more: Tinap Saitar Waterfall Travel Guide: Visit a pristine natural fountain in Bandarban In Karamjal, the fee is BDT 20 for locals and BDT 300 for foreigners. Additional charges include BDT 500 per day for guides, BDT 300 for security, BDT 70 for launch crew, and BDT 200 for telecommunication. Video camera fees are BDT 200 for locals and BDT 300 for foreigners.  What to See and Do in Kotka Sea Beach Wildlife Safari  Kotka is famous for its rich wildlife. You can also spot majestic herds of deer gracefully roaming the area. During the winter season, tiger paw prints become visible. Early morning safaris offer the chance to spot the Royal Bengal Tiger, monkeys, and crocodiles in their natural habitat. Bird Watching  Kotka has over 50 species of birds, including rare and migratory ones. All these together make Kotka a haven for bird lovers and photographers. Read more: Manpura Island Travel Guide: Breathtaking Paradise in Southern Bangladesh Trekking  The grassy meadows between Katka and Kachikhali (Tiger Point) offer scenic trekking routes for adventure seekers. It provides a closer look at the Sundarbans’ unique ecosystem. Watchtower Visit  You can climb the watchtower for breathtaking panoramic views of the Sundarbans mangrove forest, Kotka Sea Beach, and the Bay of Bengal. This is an excellent spot for birdwatching and enjoying the sunset.

Although February 14 is celebrated as Valentine's Day, the people of the coastal areas of the Sundarbans celebrate the day as 'Sundarbans Day' with a call to come forward for protecting  the forest and mitigating the impacts of climate change on the Unesco World Heritage Site. Sundarbans,  the land of mangrove and Royal Bengal Tiger, is facing the impacts climate change which is affecting nature-dependent livelihoods, health, and nutrition of nearby communities. The day has been celebrated for two decades in the coastal southwestern region including Khulna to raise awareness among people about the need of conserving the Sundarbans. On February 14, 2001, under the Bangladesh Poribesh Andolan, Khulna University and 70 other environmental organizations of the country declared February 14 as 'Sundarbans Day' and celebrate it every year. Read more: Wood collectors losing interest in Golpata collection in Sundarbans amid falling demand Taking to UNB, Professor Rafiqul Islam, a resident of Paikgachha upazila adjacent to the Sundarbans, said, "The Sundarbans is vital for our survival. The Sundarbans is the lungs of South Asia. If we do not take proper initiatives to protect it, our country will face a great disaster. So first of all you have to love the Sundarbans. February 14 is the Sundarbans Day for us. “ Bidesh Ranjan Mridha, president of Koyra Unnayan Sangram Coordination Committee, said, "On February 14, we want to inspire the coastal people to love the Sundarbans. Many people do not understand what damages are being done to the Sundarbans. Nature in the forest is changing due to the  rise in the salinity level.” “Sundari tree, one of the most extensively found mangrove species in the Sundarbans, is disappearing fast. Goran, Gewa, Keora are growing there. The nature of water and soil of the Sundarbans has changed. If there was no Sundarbans, Koyra upazila would have been vanished by the cyclones, “ he added. Keramat Mawla, a former member of Mahisharipur union adjacent to the Sundarbans,  said, "Now fish are not found in the river next to our Sundarbans. Profit mongers are killing animals with poison to destroy the Sundarbans. The number of deer is also shrinking. Golpata collectors cut thousands of maunds of leaves with a permit of 500 maunds. We want to make local residents aware of these issues on Sundarbans Day.” Read: Jashore flower growers eye Tk 70 cr sale in the month of language, Falgun, Valentine’s Day

Do you dream to experience the spellbinding beauty of Kanchenjunga with your own eyes? You can view Kanchenjunga, the third highest mountain peak in the world without a passport, visa, or stepping outside the country. Let’s find out how to view Kanchenjunga from Panchagarh in Bangladesh. We shall also discuss what to see and do in Panchagarh besides seeing the mountains.  Geographic Location of Panchagarhand Kanchenjunga Panchagarh is a district of the Rangpur division in Northern Bangladesh which lies between 26º00' and 26º38' north latitudes and between 88º19' and 88º49' east longitudes. It became a district on 1 February 1984. It is the lower basin of the Himalayas, geographically and so this land is the most highland in Bangladesh. It is surrounded by three sides of the Indian border 288 km long. It has Darjeeling district on the north, Jalpaiguri and Cooch Behar districts on the northeast, Uttar Dinajpur on the west, Dinajpur and Thakurgaon districts on the south, and Nilphamari district on the east.  Read More: 5 Sundarbans eco resorts to experience world’s largest mangrove forest The total area of the district is 1,404.62 km2 consisting of five Upazilas, 43 unions, 420 mazes, 825 villages, two paurashavas, 18 wards, and 64 mahallas. It has 16 rivers and some main rivers are Karatoa, Atrai, Teesta, Nagor, Mahananda, etc.  Sir Cyril John Radcliffe designed the border of this district in 1947.  Kangchenjunga, the third highest mountain in the world is bounded in the west by the Tamur River, in the north by the Lhonak River and Jongsang La, and in the east by the Teesta River. It is situated in the border region between Nepal and the Sikkim state of India with three of the five peaks, namely Main, Central, and South, directly on the border, and the peaks West and Kangbachen which is in Nepal's Taplejung District. In 2016, the adjoining Khangchendzonga National Park has declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  Read More: Top 10 Historic Places, Landmarks in Dhaka How to Reach Panchagarh from Dhaka You can go to Panchagarh from Dhaka by both bus and train. Panchagarh is about 639 km away from Dhaka.  By train, it will take around 10 hours and 50 minutes to reach. You will find 3 trains available namely Ekota Express (705), Drutojan Express (757), and Panchagarh Express (793) to go to Panchagarhfrom Dhaka. Ekota Express (705) departs at 10:10 am and arrives at 21:00 pm. Drutojan Express (757) departs at 20:00 and reaches at 06:10.  Panchagarh Express (793) departs at 22:45 and reaches at 08:50. Three of them have no off day.  However, Dhaka to Panchagarh train ticket price is comparatively lower than some others. Shevon seat classes 550 Taka, Shevon Chair 730 Taka, First class 1145 taka, Ac Berth 1942 Taka.  Read More: Hassle-free travel tips for senior citizens Dhaka to Panchagor bus services include Nabil Paribahan, Ena Transport (Pvt) Ltd, Hanif Enterprise, etc. The average duration of time is 10-11 hours to reach. However, time depends on the road condition and traffic jams.  The bus ticket price for this route ranges from BDT 800 to BDT 2000, depending on the bus operator's services. How to See Kanchenjunga from Panchagar Located in the foothills of the Himalayas Kanchenjunga became visible from distant regions. Bangladeshis can see a glimpse of this scenic view of Kanchenjunga from its northernmost point Tetulia. If you see Google Maps, you will find that Kanchenjunga is about 157km away from Tetulia or Tentulia which is also called ‘The City of Dream.’   Autumn is the best season to view the enthralling beauty of Kanchenjunga. During the months of October to December, the cherubic beauty of the snow-capped white mountain of Kanchenjunga becomes visible in the cloudless sky. Read More: How to get an Indian Tourist Visa from Bangladesh Besides late Autumn or early Winter, the indescribable beauty of Kanchenjunga can also be seen from Tetulia during the rainy season especially when the Mahananda river gets filled with water.  To enjoy this view, you have to reach Tetulia, which is an Upazila under the Panchagarh district. You can spend the night at the Tetulia Bungalow. There are many other small hotels at Tetulia Bazar which are available to stay at. You'll find quality and local food at different hotels and restaurants in Tetulia. 7 Top Tourist Spots in Panchagarh  What to see in Panchagarh besides enjoying the mesmerizing view of distant Kanchenjunga? Like any other district of Bangladesh Panchagarh has some unique features. While traveling to Panchagarh you can see the following 7 top tourist destinations.  Tetulia Dak Bungalow The historic Tetulia Dak Bungalow is located on the banks of the Mahananda River near the Bangladesh-India border. It is about 21 km away from Tetulia Upazila in the Panchgarh district.  Read More: Qatar Travel Guide: Best Places to See, Amazing Things to Do The king of Behar built this bungalow. This structure is built about 15-20 meters above the ground. Tourists can enjoy the wonderful beauty of the Mahananda River from Tetulia Dak Bungalow. It looks extraordinarily beautiful during the rainy season.  From Tetulia Dak Bungalow, you can experience the view of Besides, late Autumn and winter is the suitable table to view the third highest mountain peak in the world, Kanchenjunga. Golokdham Temple Golokdham Temple is an ancient structure dating back to the 18th century. It is located at the Shaldanga Union in Deviganj Upazila under the Panchgarh district. This historic building was constructed in 1846. Read More: Bhutan Travel Guide: Best places to visit, interesting things to do The specialty of this temple is that it was built in a Greek manner with six corners surrounded by trees. Inside the temple, there is a room known as a pilgrimage site. Every day numerous devotees visit the temple to offer worship rituals like pujas.  Maharaja Dighi Maharaja Dighi is a historic pond located at Omorkhana Union. This lake is about 15 km distant from the Panchgarh district. People believe that Maharaja Prithu dug the Dighi during his reign, a 1500-year-old historical kingdom called Antargarh. This artificial lake has about 10 ghats (stairs leading to the water body) surrounded by trees.  Read More: Where to Learn Car Driving in Dhaka? Every year a huge fair is organized on the bank of Maharaja’s Dighi on the occasion of Bengali new year Pahela Boishakh. Tourists and visitors from different parts of Bangladesh as well as from the neighboring country of India visited the fair. Banglabandha Zero Point Banglabandha Zero Point has made Panchgarh district one of the most popular tourist places in the country. Tourists visit this place to enjoy the as well as Indian border from close. National flags of both Bangladesh and India are drawn near the Banglabandha Zero Point gate. However, you cannot cross the border without permission.  You will enjoy the hypnotic scenic beauty of the river, green surroundings, and mountains, as it stands on the bank of the Mahananda River along with the Bangladesh-India border. Banglabandha Zero Point was constructed on September 1, 1997, on about 10 acres of land.   Read More: Maldives Travel Guide: Best places to visit, recreational things to do Banglabandha Zero Point as well as Banglabandha Land Port are situated at the Banglabandha Union No.1 under Tetulia Upazila. Through the Bangladesh land port,  Bangladesh’s economic relations with her neighbor India, Nepal, and Bhutan are maintained.  Tea Gardens After Sylhet, tea cultivation was started in Panchagarh in 1998. Industrialist Kazi Shahid Ahmad started cultivating tea in Panchagarh by taking inspiration from the tea gardens of India. From Panchagarh, huge Indian tea gardens can be seen which are located on the other of the border.  Around 200 tea gardens are available in Panchgarh right now and the total land area under tea cultivation is about 2255.54 acres. Read More: 9 Best Countries to Retire Abroad Mirzapur Shahi Masjid Situated at the Atwari Upazila in the Panchgarh district, this holy place is about 300 years old. To reach this place, you have to go 200 yards east of Mirzapur Bazar. Mirzapur Shahi Masjid is one of the most ancient archaeological sites in Bangladesh. In 1679, this mosque was built on an area 40 feet by 24 feet holding three domes in a row. Its walls are inscribed with wonderful Terracotta flowers with clay leaves which will take the minds of tourists several hundred years back.  It is anticipated that Mughal Emperor Shah Alam built this mosque and it has an inscription written in French. At present, Bangladesh’s archaeology department has been managing the Mirzapur Shahi mosque. Read More: Moving abroad? Know the Pros, Cons of Migrating to a New Country Panchagarh Rocks Museum The Panchagarh Rocks Museum is Bangladesh's first rock museum. It is found on the Panchagarh Government Women’s College campus. Prof. Nazmul Haque, the principal of Panchagarh Government Women’s College established the rock museum on March 1, 1997. It was built on the honorable principals' personal initiative. The Rocks Museum is divided into two outdoor and internal galleries. There are many rocks in the external gallery, and there are little stones of various ages in the internal gallery. In the rock museum, Petrified wood, fossilized rocks, granite, quartzite shells, limestone, sits, hard rock, basalt, silica, nice, clay-rock, and other specimens of rocks have been kept for exhibition. These rocks range in size from 3 to 4 inches to 10 feet. About 60 pieces are available for exhibition in this museum. Read More: Online Ticket Booking in Bangladesh: Websites for Buying Train, Bus, Launch, Air Tickets What to Do in Panchagarh  In Panchagard you can do many things. Firstly, You can also enjoy the enchanting beauty of Kanchenjunga. In addition to that, you can visit the historical places and landmarks located in Panchagar.  You can enjoy many tea gardens in the surrounding areas of the Bangladesh-India border. The Indian tea gardens look amazingly beautiful at night when the Indian searchlight lights on at night. You can take Indian tea by standing on the border of Bangladesh. Here you will find some picnic corners.  If you want to feel the thrill of stepping on the last point of the northernmost part of the country don’t miss Banglabandha Zero Point.  Read More: How to Perform Umrah from Bangladesh? Besides, you can enjoy many local foods. If you are a nature lover, don’t miss the Mahananda river where the breathtaking beauty will captivate your mind. Special food  Popular local foods include Chingri Bora (fried shrimp balls), deep-fried Mola fish, and Daal Bora (fried lentil balls). Here tourists can try the fresh fish of  Mahananda including Bhetki, Katal, Ayer, etc.   Here, you will also find the meat of wild pheasants (Bon Morog) that were fairly common in the woods of the Panchagarh area. What is more? In Panchagarh, you can enjoy North Bengal sweet, Chhanar Polao-the dessert—a masterpiece creation of Dinajpur confectioners. Read More: Thailand Travel Guide: Top places to visit, amazing things to do Bottom Line Kanchenjunga is a heavenly mountain in the Himalayas. From Tetulia of Panchagarh, the northernmost part of the country you can gaze at the dazzling snow peaks of Mountain Kanchenjunga which is the third-highest peak in the world. Not to mention, Tetulia is one of the most amazing tourist spots in Bangladesh which gives us the opportunity to view Kanchenjunga mountain staying in our own country.  For many travel enthusiasts in Bangladesh, especially those who love mountain views, it is like an annual ritual to visit Panchuagar during the months of October, November, and December. So far we have discussed how to see Kangchenjunga from Bangladesh. We have also shared a Panchagarh travel guide to help travelers visit the other tourist attractions of the northernmost district of the country.