Khadimnagar National Park | Sylhet

Information

Landmark: Khadimnagar National Park
City: Sylhet
Country: Bangladesh
Continent: Asia

Khadimnagar National Park, Sylhet, Bangladesh, Asia

Khadimnagar National Park is a protected area located in the Sylhet Division of northeastern Bangladesh. It is situated approximately 25 kilometers east of the city of Sylhet.

Visual Characteristics

The park is characterized by dense tropical evergreen and semi-evergreen forests. Dominant tree species include various types of Dipterocarpus, Artocarpus, and Shorea. The terrain is undulating, with hills and valleys. Small streams and rivulets traverse the landscape. The undergrowth is thick with ferns, bamboo, and various herbaceous plants.

Location & Access Logistics

Access to Khadimnagar National Park is primarily via the Sylhet-Tamabil Highway (N2). The park entrance is located approximately 25 kilometers from the Sylhet city center. Turn off the highway onto the local road leading to the park. Parking is available at designated points near the park entrance. Public transport options include local buses traveling towards Tamabil, which can drop visitors at the turn-off point for the park. From there, local auto-rickshaws or taxis can be hired for the remaining distance.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Khadimnagar was declared a National Park on March 13, 1996, under the Bangladesh Wildlife (Conservation) Order, 1973. Its ecological origin is that of a tropical monsoon forest ecosystem, preserved to protect its biodiversity and natural landscape. The area is part of the larger Sylhet Division's hilly terrain, shaped by geological processes over millennia.

Key Highlights & Activities

Hiking is a primary activity, with several marked trails of varying difficulty. Birdwatching is significant due to the diverse avian population. Wildlife observation, though challenging due to dense cover, is possible. Photography opportunities exist for flora and fauna. Visitors can explore the forest interior and observe the natural vegetation.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Basic infrastructure within the park is limited. Restrooms are available near the main entrance. Shade is provided by the forest canopy. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) can be intermittent within the denser forest areas. Food vendors are typically found near the park entrance and along the main highway, but not within the park itself.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit for pleasant weather is during the dry season, from October to March. The monsoon season (June to September) brings heavy rainfall, which can make trails muddy and difficult to traverse. For photography, early morning and late afternoon offer softer light conditions. There are no specific tide requirements as the park is inland.

Facts & Legends

A notable aspect of Khadimnagar National Park is its role as a habitat for the endangered Hoolock Gibbon, the only ape species found in Bangladesh. Local folklore sometimes speaks of spirits inhabiting the older, larger trees within the forest, though these are unverified accounts.