Sreemangal, located in the Moulvibazar District within the Sylhet Division, proudly holds the title of the tea capital of Bangladesh. With a staggering 163 tea gardens, this region alone significantly contributes to Bangladesh’s tea production.
Imagine strolling through miles of lush green landscapes, knowing that Bangladesh ranks as the 10th largest tea exporter globally. It’s a place that every tea lover should visit, as it produces 3% of the world’s tea, sustained by over 300,000 dedicated plantation workers.
Today, I will walk you through the tour of this location and explain how to get the most out of it. Of course, to go on the tour here, make sure to reserve your spot first. Now that we got that out of the way let’s get started.
Day 1: Arrival and Local Sightseeing
Early Morning Departure
Hopping on the Parabat Express out of Dhaka Station at the crack of dawn may not sound like the most exciting start to the day, but it’s all part of the experience. Board the Parabat Express at 6:20 AM The ride might be a bit of a bumpy one, but trust me, the destination makes it worth it. You’ll roll into town around noon and meet up with a local guide, who’ll take you straight over to the Nishorgo Eco Resort – that’s where you’ll be nestled in for the night.
Afternoon Exploration
After checking in, I’d recommend checking out some of the local spots around here. A good place to start is Madhabpur Lake in Kamalganj. It’s a really peaceful lake surrounded by lush, green tea gardens in the hills.
If you happen to visit in the winter, you’re in for a real treat – the area attracts tons of migratory birds, it’s quite the avian spectacle. From there, I’d suggest wandering through the local pineapple, lemon, and guava orchards.
Seeing all that fresh, delicious fruit might just inspire you to rethink your diet a bit. There’s just such an abundance of it around here.
Evening Relaxation
After a day of exploration, retreat to your resort. A quiet evening under the stars in Sreemangal is the perfect way to end the day.
Day 2: Deeper Insights Into Sreemangal’s Natural Wonders
Morning at Lawachara Rainforest
Rise and shine early – the Lawachara Rainforest is calling your name. This isn’t your average forest; it’s a legit wildlife sanctuary that has been preserved. As you wander through this ancient woodland, keep your eyes peeled for some pretty elusive critters like the slow loris, hoolock gibbons, and, if you’re really fortunate, the Asian black bear.
And don’t miss the chance to visit the hilltop tribal village inside the forest – the Khashia people will give you a glimpse into a way of living that’s refreshingly simple yet deeply connected to nature.
Mid-Morning Tea Garden Visits
Around mid-morning, I’d recommend heading back to the resort for a quick break. Afterward, when you freshen up a bit, you can make your way over to the tea gardens.
The plan is to learn about the tea cultivation process straight from the experts – you’ll get to meet the plantation workers and you can even try your hand at plucking some leaves yourself. Fair warning though, it’s not as easy as it seems!
Afternoon Village Tour
Exploring the tea gardens is a must, but I’d also recommend checking out some of the rural villages nearby. Seeing how the locals live is a real eye-opener – it’s a completely different way of life compared to the fast-paced city grind.
You get to glimpse a lifestyle that’s a stark contrast to the typical urban hustle and bustle. Definitely worth taking the time to soak it all in.
Departure
Your guide will ensure you catch the 5 PM Parabat Express back to Dhaka. Expect to be back around 10 PM, though train schedules can be a bit of a gamble.
Must-Try Experiences in Sreemangal
- Seven-Color-Tea: A local specialty you absolutely cannot miss. Each layer has a distinct flavor, and it is a truly unique tasting experience I wholeheartedly recommend.
- Lawachara Railway Track: Straight out of a Hollywood movie, this old railway track running through the forest is perfect for those Instagram-worthy shots.
The Natural Beauty of Sreemangal
- Madhabpur Lake: This natural lake, surrounded by rolling hills and tea gardens, is one of the most picturesque spots in Bangladesh. The clear water reflecting the greenery makes for a postcard-perfect scene.
- Lawachara National Park: From majestic trees to exotic wildlife, this park offers a tranquil retreat from the chaos of everyday life.
Things to Pack
- Snicker shoes for the walk
- Hat/Cap for sun protection
- Sunglasses
- Binoculars
- Toothpaste & Toothbrush
- Towels
- Medicine
- Flashlight
- Camera
Practical Tips
- Modest clothing is a must when visiting mosques or temples. Ladies, cover your hair and arms.
- No guide accompanies you on the train, so bring a good book or download some podcasts.
- The eco-tour guide speaks English, so there are no worries about communication barriers.
Pricing
When I first went, I booked the Sreemangal Tea Gardens & Rainforest Eco Tour, which offers various pricing options:
- 1 Person: $190 / BDT 19,000
- 2 People: $180 / BDT 18,000
- 3 People: $170 / BDT 17,000
- 4 or More: $150 / BDT 15,000
There are, of course, other tours on offer, but this is the one I had a lovely experience with, so I would suggest you try it out if you don’t want to gamble.
Inclusions
- Train tickets (Dhaka-Sreemangal-Dhaka)
- Transfers (Train Station-Resort-Train Station)
- One night’s accommodation at a hotel/resort in Sreemangal
- Complimentary breakfast on the second day
- Local transport for sightseeing
- English-speaking local guide
- All entrance fees
- Applicable local taxes
Exclusions
- Meals other than breakfast
- Personal shopping
- Additional snacks and beverages
Final Thoughts
Sreemangal is a pretty sweet destination – not just for the stunning scenery but also the rich cultural vibe. You got your sprawling tea plantations, dense rainforests, the whole nine yards.
There’s something unique around every corner, that’s for sure. So ditch the expectations, pack up your stuff, and get ready for one heck of an adventure. The tea capital of Bangladesh awaits!
