Khadimnagar National Park sits about 10 kilometers northeast of Sylhet town, on the way to the tea gardens and the hills. It’s one of the older protected forests in Bangladesh, established in 2006, and it’s a place where people go to see tall trees, a small waterfall, and a slice of the region’s natural cover. If you’re planning a visit, the first thing you need to sort out is how to get there. The park is not inside Sylhet city, but it’s close enough that you can reach it in under an hour from most parts of town.
The most practical starting point is Sylhet’s main bus stand or the city center. From there, you have a few options. The easiest is to hire a CNG (auto-rickshaw) or a car for the day. The route goes through the Sylhet bypass road, heading east toward the tea estates. You’ll pass through the villages of Khadimnagar and then the park entrance appears on your left. The drive takes about 30 to 40 minutes depending on traffic. If you’re on a budget, you can take a local bus from the Kadamtali bus stand in Sylhet toward Jaintiapur or Companiganj. Ask the conductor to drop you at Khadimnagar. The bus ride is around 30 minutes, and from the drop-off point, you’ll need to walk or take a short CNG ride to the park gate. The park is open from 9 in the morning to 5 in the evening, and there’s a small entry fee for visitors, which is usually around 20 taka for locals and a bit more for foreigners. It’s a good idea to carry cash because card payments aren’t accepted.
Key Takeaways
- Khadimnagar National Park is about 10 km from Sylhet town, reachable by CNG, car, or local bus.
- The park is open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM; carry cash for entry fees.
- Plan for a half-day trip, and combine it with nearby tea gardens or the Ratargul swamp forest.
Once you’re at the park, you’ll find a marked trail that loops through the forest. The path is mostly flat and easy to walk, though it can get muddy after rain. The main attraction is a small waterfall called Parir Tek, which is actually a series of cascades that flow during the monsoon. The best time to see it is from June to September. If you visit in the dry season, the waterfall might be reduced to a trickle. The forest itself is a mix of native trees like garjan and chapalish, and you’ll likely hear birds and see monkeys if you’re quiet. There’s a watchtower near the entrance that gives you a view over the canopy, and a few picnic spots if you want to sit down. The whole walk takes about two hours if you stop to look around.
Getting Around Inside the Park
Inside the park, you’re on foot. There’s no vehicle access beyond the entrance. The main trail is about 3 kilometers long, and it’s shaded for most of the way. You’ll cross a couple of small streams, and in the monsoon, the water can be ankle-deep, so sandals might not be the best choice. Wear closed shoes that can handle a bit of mud. There are no shops inside, so bring water and snacks. You’ll also want insect repellent, especially in the evening.
If you’re coming from Dhaka, the easiest way is to take a bus or train to Sylhet. Several bus companies, like Shyamoli and Green Line, run daily services from Dhaka to Sylhet, and the trip takes about five to six hours. Trains also run from Kamalapur station, and the journey takes around seven hours. Once you arrive in Sylhet, you can follow the same local transport options to reach the park. If you’re staying in a hotel in Sylhet, the staff can usually arrange a car or a CNG for you. The round trip by CNG from the city should cost around 800 to 1,000 taka, but it’s best to negotiate the fare beforehand.
Where to Stay and What to Combine
Most visitors base themselves in Sylhet town, where you’ll find a range of hotels, from budget guesthouses to mid-range options like Hotel Noorjahan Grand or Rose View Hotel. Staying in the city gives you easy access to the park and other attractions. If you want to stay closer to nature, there are a few resort-style places near the tea gardens, but they tend to be pricier and require booking in advance.
Khadimnagar is often combined with a visit to the nearby tea estates, which are just a few kilometers away. You can also plan a trip to Ratargul Swamp Forest, which is about 30 kilometers south, and is best reached by boat. Another option is to visit the shrine of Hazrat Shah Jalal in Sylhet city, which is an important pilgrimage site. If you have a full day, you could start early at Khadimnagar, then head to the tea gardens for lunch, and finish with a boat ride in Ratargul. Keep in mind that the park is closed on government holidays, so check the calendar before you go.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Visit
Mobile phone reception inside the park is patchy, so don’t rely on your GPS once you’re on the trail. The park has basic toilet facilities near the entrance, but they’re not always clean, so it’s wise to use the restroom before you arrive. There’s no ATM nearby, so withdraw cash in Sylhet. The park is safe for solo travelers, but it’s always a good idea to let someone know your plans. During the monsoon, the trail can be slippery, and the waterfall area can be hazardous, so stick to the marked paths.
For the best experience, visit on a weekday when the park is less crowded. The early morning hours are the most pleasant, as the temperature is cooler and the birds are more active. If you’re a photography enthusiast, bring a zoom lens because the wildlife tends to stay high in the canopy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the entry fee for Khadimnagar National Park?
As of 2025, the entry fee is 20 taka for Bangladeshi visitors and 100 taka for foreigners. Children under 3 enter free. The fee is collected at the gate, and you may need to show a photo ID.
Are there guides available at the park?
There are no official guides, but the trail is well-marked and easy to follow. If you want a local perspective, you can ask the park staff, but they may not speak English.
Can I visit Khadimnagar National Park during the monsoon?
Yes, the park is open during the monsoon, and the waterfall is at its best. However, the trail can be muddy and slippery, so wear appropriate footwear and be cautious near streams.
Is there any accommodation inside the park?
No, there are no accommodations inside the park. The nearest options are in Sylhet town, about 30 minutes away.
What is the best time to visit Khadimnagar National Park?
The best time is from November to February when the weather is dry and cool. The waterfall is more impressive during the monsoon, but the trail is harder to walk.
