Moulvibazar is a serene gem in northeastern Bangladesh. It offers sprawling tea gardens, picturesque waterfalls, mesmerising beauty of haors (wetlands), historical sites, swamp areas, etc. Its natural diversity, paired with rich cultural heritage, offers an unforgettable travel experience for adventurers and nature lovers alike. Let’s look at the best travel destinations in Moulvibazar.
Location of Moulvibazar
Moulvibazar district is nestled within the Sylhet division in Bangladesh. It is about 200 km northeast of Dhaka, the capital city. It shares borders with the Indian states of Tripura to the south and Assam to the east, while being surrounded by the Bangladeshi districts of Habiganj to the west and Sylhet to the north. This district is renowned for its scenic tea gardens, dense forests, and culturally significant landmarks.
How to Visit Moulvibazar from Dhaka
By Air
The fastest route is by flight. You can catch a direct flight to Sylhet Osmani International Airport, which is about 60 km from Moulvibazar. Frequent domestic flights are available, with prices ranging from 3,600 BDT to 10,000 BDT, and the journey lasts approximately 45 minutes. From Sylhet, you can hire a car or take a local bus to reach the district centre.
By Road
Travelling by bus or car takes about 6 hours. Many AC and non-AC buses depart regularly from Dhaka to Moulvibazar, making road travel a budget-friendly and flexible option. The fares range from 570 BDT to 800 BDT.
By Train
The train journey from Dhaka to Sreemangal (a nearby station) takes about 5 hours. Options include the Parabat Express, Upaban Express, and Kalni Express, with prices between 275 and 938 BDT. From Sreemangal, Moulvibazar town is only a short drive away, accessible by car or bus.
What to See in Moulvibazar: Top Tourist Places
Hakaluki Haor
Hakaluki Haor, one of Bangladesh`s largest marsh wetlands, is a must-visit destination in Moulvibazar. Known for its stunning natural beauty and biodiversity, this vast water body is home to 558 species of animals and birds, including several endangered species.
Visitors can explore the haor by boat, enjoying the tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking reflections of the sky on the water`s surface. Located within Barlekha Upazila, it is also part of Kulaura and Juri upazilas.
To reach Hakaluki Haor from Moulvibazar town, you can take a bus or hire a private car, making it an easy and scenic trip.
Madhabkunda Waterfall
Madhabkunda Waterfall, one of Bangladesh`s largest waterfalls, stands 162 feet tall. Located in Barlekha Upazila of Moulvibazar District, it is a favourite destination for hikers. It is also a great picnic spot for the tourists. The breathtaking sight of the waterfall, surrounded by lush hills and forests, makes it an ideal place for photography and relaxation.
There are two routes available to visit Madhabkunda Falls. First, you can reserve a CNG or microbus from Moulvibazar. You can also take a bus from Moulvibazar to Baralekha and stop at Kanthaltali Bazaar, just before Baralekha. From there, you can reach Madhabkunda Eco Park by hiring a local or reserved CNG.
Komola Ranir Dighi
Komola Rani`s Dighi is a historic pond in Rajnagar, Moulvibazar, steeped in local legends and royal heritage. Named after Queen Komola Rani, the dighi is tied to fascinating stories of dreams, rituals, and mystery, making it an intriguing destination for history enthusiasts and curious visitors.
The serene surroundings, ancient ruins, and nearby shrine of Hazrat Shah Qutb Uddin (RA) add to the allure of the place.
To visit, travel from Moulvibazar to Rajnagar Bazar by bus or car, then take an auto-rickshaw or CNG along the Rajnagar-Balaganj road to reach the site.
Shrine of Hazrat Shah Mustafa
The Shrine of Hazrat Shah Mustafa (RA) in Moulvibazar is a significant religious site, attracting visitors and devotees from all over. Hazrat Shah Mustafa, a companion of the famous saint Hazrat Shah Jalal (RA), played a vital role in spreading Islam in the region. The shrine is located in the heart of Moulvibazar town and offers a peaceful atmosphere for spiritual reflection.
Visitors can explore the historical and religious importance of this place while appreciating its serene surroundings. The shrine is easily accessible from the Moulvibazar town centre. You can go by a short walk or a quick ride via CNG auto-rickshaw along Shah Mostafa Road.
Hail Haor
Hail Haor is a significant wildlife sanctuary in Moulvibazar, renowned for its rich biodiversity and stunning wetland scenery. It serves as a vital habitat for migratory and resident waterfowl, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. During the monsoon, the haor expands into a vast water body, while in the summer, it shrinks, offering unique landscapes year-round.
The sanctuary also plays a crucial role in providing water for nearby villagers during dry seasons. Hail Haor is located about 14 km southwest of Moulvibazar town and is accessible by local buses or CNG auto-rickshaws.
The Swamp Village Antehari
Antehari, known as the Swamp Village, is a unique tourist spot in Moulvibazar`s Rajnagar Upazila, located near Kawadighi Haor. For 6-8 months of the year, the village remains submerged, giving it a floating appearance. Its scenic beauty, with water lilies and other aquatic plants surrounding every home, offers a magical and serene atmosphere.
Visitors can explore the entire village by boat, making it a truly distinctive experience. To reach Antehari, it is about 14 km from Moulvibazar town. You can take a CNG auto-rickshaw from Jagatpur Stand near Chandnighat Bridge or hire a reserved vehicle directly to Antehari Bazar.
Rajkandi Reserve Forest
Rajkandi Reserve Forest, located in Moulvibazar, is another pristine destination for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and trekkers. The forest offers exciting trekking trails through dense woodlands, serene streams, and diverse flora and fauna. It is a haven for bird watchers and those seeking to explore rare wildlife species.
The stunning natural beauty makes it an ideal getaway for anyone looking to immerse themselves in nature. To reach Rajkandi Reserve Forest, first travel to Kamalganj, located about 10 km from the forest. From there, you can take a CNG auto-rickshaw or hire a vehicle to the forest entrance for a seamless journey.
Prithimpassa
Prithimpassa is a historical estate located in Kulaura, Moulvibazar, known for its rich royal heritage and role in significant historical events like the Indian Rebellion of 1857 and the Bangladesh Liberation War.
The estate is home to a beautiful Shia mosque, ancient structures, and the legacy of the Nawabs of Longla. Visitors can explore the estate`s fascinating history, architecture, and connection to the royal family.
To visit, Prithimpassa is about 30 km from Moulvibazar town. You can reach the estate by hiring a taxi or taking a rickshaw from Moulvibazar centre, making it a comfortable trip.
Exotic Foods to Try in Moulvibazar
Moulvibazar, part of the Sylhet region, offers a range of exotic dishes that highlight its rich culinary heritage. One of the most popular is beef with citrus macroptera, known locally as “satkora beef”. This unique dish combines tender beef with the tangy, slightly bitter flavor of the satkora fruit, creating an unforgettable taste experience.
Another local favourite is akhni, a Sylheti version of tehari, a fragrant rice dish cooked with meat and aromatic spices, offering a hearty and flavorful meal. Dried meat, or “mangser shutki,” though less common today, remains a beloved delicacy. It involves drying and preserving meat with spices, resulting in a concentrated flavour that locals cherish.
These dishes represent the culinary diversity of Moulvibazar, blending bold flavours with traditional cooking methods. For anyone visiting the region, trying these specialities is essential to experiencing the authentic taste of Sylheti cuisine.
Cautionary Facts
- The monsoon season (June to September) often brings flooding, particularly in the haor areas, so plan your trip accordingly.
- While visiting holy places, be respectful of the respective norms.
- Mobile charging can be unreliable in remote areas, so it is recommended to carry a power bank.
- In rural parts, there are limited accommodation options, so booking in advance is essential.
- Language barriers may arise, as the Sylheti dialect is widely spoken, making communication challenging in some areas.
- Mosquitoes are present year-round, so do not forget to pack insect repellent.
- Be respectful of the environment, supporting eco-friendly practices and local customs.
- Always ask for permission before photographing locals, especially in conservative or rural areas, to respect their privacy and traditions.
Conclusion
Moulvibazar is a destination that promises unforgettable travel experiences, blending natural beauty, history, and cultural richness. From the tranquil waters of Hakaluki Haor to the royal legacy of Prithimpassa, each site offers something unique. The district’s lush green landscapes, local delicacies, and welcoming communities make it a perfect getaway for those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
