North-east Bangladesh is green hills, tea gardens, rainforest and rivers. Srimangal is called the tea capital of Bangladesh; Sylhet is a historic city near swamp forests and stone-filled rivers. Here's how to plan a visit.
Take a train or flight from Dhaka. Spend 1–2 days in Srimangal for tea gardens, Lawachara National Park and the famous layered tea, then 2 days around Sylhet for Ratargul swamp forest, Jaflong and Lalakhal. Tea gardens are best in the dry season; Ratargul is best in the monsoon when it is flooded.
Intercity trains run from Dhaka to Srimangal and Sylhet; they are scenic and comfortable in air-conditioned classes, but book ahead. Flights go to Sylhet's Osmani International Airport. Roads are improving but journeys can be slow.
October to March is pleasant for tea gardens and hiking. The monsoon (June–September) makes everything lush and is the time for Ratargul, but expect heavy rain and leeches on forest trails.
Sylhet is home to shital pati, the UNESCO-listed cool mat, and of course tea. If you can't carry them, I can buy and ship them for you later.
I'm a Dhaka-based personal shopper and local helper. Through my travel concierge service I can arrange airport pickup, help with hotels and transport, find a guide, and shop with you or for you. If you can't come at all, I can buy things in Bangladesh and ship them to you. Message me before your trip with your dates and what you need.
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Srimangal is known as the tea capital of Bangladesh, with large tea gardens, Lawachara National Park and the famous multi-layered tea.
October to March for tea gardens and hiking. Visit Ratargul swamp forest in the monsoon, when it is flooded.
By intercity train, by bus, or by flight to Osmani International Airport in Sylhet.
Tropical forest, hoolock gibbons, other primates and many birds. Go early with a local guide.
Tea and shital pati, the handwoven cool mat from Sylhet.
Last updated: 6 October 2026. Written by Nazrul Islam, personal shopper in Dhaka.
Help with train tickets, hotels and a local guide.