Haors offer pristine monsoon retreats for tourists

With the arrival of the monsoon, many travellers seek destinations surrounded by water to enjoy nature at its finest. Among the country's most popular rainy-season attractions are Bangladesh's vast haors, which turn into expansive water bodies during the monsoon, offering breathtaking scenery and a unique travel experience.

Some of the most visited haor destinations are Tanguar Haor in Sunamganj, Hakaluki Haor in Moulvibazar and Nikli Haor in Kishoreganj.

Located at the northern outskirt of riverine Bangladesh, Tanguar Haor is one of the largest Haors of Bangladesh. Photo: Masuk Ur Rahman

Located in Sunamganj, Tanguar Haor is the country's second-largest freshwater wetland, covering nearly 100 square kilometres. Nestled at the foothills of India's Khasi and Jaintia hills, the haor is known for its stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity and vast stretches of water during the rainy season.

Rows of hijal and koroch trees, along with the sounds of migratory and local birds, make the area a haven for nature lovers. The Leuchhamara and Berberia beels are among its key bird sanctuaries.

Nature plays with all of its colors in the sky during sunset at Tanguar Haor. Photo: Kabir Shahriar

Visitors can travel from Sunamganj town to Saheber Bazar Ghat by rickshaw and then hire an engine boat or speedboat to explore the wetland. Many tourists choose to rent houseboats and stay overnight to enjoy the surroundings at a relaxed pace.

Hakaluki Haor, the largest haor in Bangladesh and one of Asia's biggest freshwater wetlands, is another major attraction. Spread over more than 18,000 hectares, it extends across Moulvibazar and parts of Sylhet.

The sky and the water of Tanguar Haor darkens before the storm. Photo: Tarek K/Tripadvisor

Surrounded by the Meghalaya and Tripura hills, Hakaluki contains numerous large and small beels and is rich in fish resources. For many visitors, camping beside the wetland under a moonlit sky has become a memorable experience.

Travellers can reach Hakaluki Haor through Kulaura in Moulvibazar district. Local transport is available from Kulaura, while overnight stays can be arranged in cottages owned by wetland leaseholders with prior permission.

An astonishingly beautiful view of Hakaluki Haor during the monsoon. Photo: Rakib R

Nikli Haor in Kishoreganj has also become a popular destination because of its easy road and rail connections with Dhaka. Stretching across Nikli, Mithamain, Austagram and Itna upazilas, the haor offers sweeping views of endless water during the monsoon.

The period from July to September is considered the best time to visit. Unlike many other haors, Nikli has several residential hotels, allowing visitors to stay for a few days. However, many travellers prefer a day trip and return to Dhaka in the evening after exploring the scenic wetland.

Nikli Haor is a perfect place for a group or family tour, creating awesome feelings in the visitor's mind with a widespread canvas of beauty. Photo: Adar Bepari

As monsoon rains continue across the country, these haors offer ideal retreats for those seeking peace, natural beauty and a break from city life.