Sunamganj Travel Guide

Explore the natural beauty of Sunamganj, Bangladesh. Know the Best Places to Visit, Hike, Eat, Shop and Stay in Sunamganj.


Sunamganj Travel Guide

Introduction to Sunamganj

Sunamganj is a district located in the northeast region of Bangladesh, in South Asia. The district is surrounded by the hills of Meghalaya and Assam in India. Sunamganj is famous for its beauty and natural resources, particularly its haors – wetlands that fill up with water during the monsoon season.

List of Places to Visit in Sunamganj

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Tekerghat Zamindar Palace: Located in the Tekerghat area, this palace was built in the 19th century and is a piece of historical architecture.
  • Sultanpur Palace: Built in the early 1900s, this palace reminds visitors of the traditional architecture of the sunamganj region.
  • Shaistagonj Mosque: Shaistagonj Mosque is a 17th-century mosque located in the Sunamganj Sadar Upazila. The mosque is one of the oldest buildings in Sunamganj; it boasts a significant architectural design and historical significance.
  • Mausoleum of Hazrat Shah Jalal Yamani: This mausoleum is located in the heart of Sunamganj town and is a popular destination for Muslim pilgrims.

Natural Attractions of Sunamganj: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Tanguar Haor: The largest haor, Tanguar Haor, is a significant source of natural beauty in Sunamganj. It is home to 141 species of fishes, beels, and isles, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.
  • Moulvibazar Tea Garden: Located in the east, the Moulvibazar Tea Garden is an incredible place to visit for those interested in photography and greenery. The garden is vast and provides visitors with a calm and relaxing ambiance.
  • Hakaluki Haor: Located in the southeastern part, the Hakaluki Haor is yet another wetland which is truly one of its kind. The reservoir is a bird sanctuary and a sanctuary to many aquatic species.
  • Bisnakandi: Bisnakandi is a scenic waterfall situated in Sylhet Division, near the Indian border, at the foot of green hills. Visitors can enjoy the shimmering water, lush greenery and surrounding mountains.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sunamganj

  • Satchari National Park: The park boasts ancient trees and is one of the easiest hikes to make when visiting Sunamganj. It is located in the Habiganj district, making it relatively close to Sunamganj.
  • Somapura Mahavihara: Somapura Mahavihara, located close to Srimangal, is a temple from the 8th century. It is a quiet place where visitors can explore while learning about historical architectures.

Best Things to Do in Sunamganj: Activities and Tours

  • Boating in the Haors: Visitors can take a tour by a motor-driven boat or a paddle-powered boat to explore the beauty of the haors. The boat rides are an excellent way for visitors to experience the serenity and peace of the wetlands.
  • Bird Watching Tours: Bird lovers can have a memorable experience by taking a bird watching tour at the Hakaluki Haor, home to over 190 species of birds. Visitors can experience the picturesque beauty of the haor alongside learning about the areas’ wildlife.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sunamganj

Day Itinerary
1 Arrival at Sunamganj, Explore the Sunamganj town.
2 Take a trip to Tanguar Haor and explore the wetlands.
3 Visit the Haor of Hakaluki and take a boat ride to explore its beauty.
4 Visit the historical palace of Sunamganj: Tekerghat Zamindar Palace, Sultanpur Palace, and mosque.
5 Take a trip to Moulvibazar Tea Garden and enjoy the relaxing ambiance.
6 Visit Bisnakandi waterfall and experience the shimmering waters.
7 Departure from Sunamganj.

Food and Drink Scene of Sunamganj

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pitha: Pitha is a traditional food of Sunamganj. It is a sweet made of rice flour mixed with jaggery, milk, and spices.
  • Shutki: Shutki is dried fish cooked with gravy, often served with rice or ruti. It is a popular dish in Sunamganj.

Local Beverages

  • Tea: Srimangal, near Sunamganj is famous for tea production. Visitors can enjoy the green tea produced by the tea estates of Srimangal.
  • Sharbat: Sharbat is concentrated syrup made from fruit juice, sugar, and water. It is a refreshing drink that is perfect for the hot summer days.

Where to Stay in Sunamganj: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hotel Noorjahan: Hotel Noorjahan is a 3-star hotel located in the heart of Sunamganj. It offers modern amenities with comfortable rooms and suites.
  • Shalban Guest House: The Shalban Guest House offers an affordable and comfortable stay, along with its outdoor swimming pool and fitness center.

What to Buy in Sunamganj: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Shital Pati: Shital Pati is a traditional and hand-woven mat made with cane, reeds, and Hessian fabric. It makes an excellent gift or souvenir.
  • Nakshi Kantha: Nakshi Kantha is a traditional embroidered quilt, often made with old saris or dhotis. It is a unique gift that visitors can bring home.

Local Culture and Customs of Sunamganj

  • Religion: The majority of the population in Sunamganj is Muslim. Visitors should respect the local culture and respect local customs.
  • Dress: Visitors should dress in conservative attire, especially when visiting religious places.

Best Time to Visit Sunamganj

The best time to visit Sunamganj is between October and March when the weather is comfortable and dry.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sunamganj

Do:

  • Respect the local customs.
  • Carry cash as many places may not accept the card payment.
  • Try the local cuisine.

Don’t:

  • Do not litter, especially in the haors.
  • Do not disrespect religious places.
  • Do not use foul language.

Safety and Health

Safety in Sunamganj

  • Visitors should be cautious when swimming in the haors, particularly during the monsoon season, when the waters can be dangerous.
  • Visitors should be careful when walking at night and stick to well-lit and crowded areas.

Health in Sunamganj

  • Visitors should be up to date with their vaccinations and carry insect repellent to protect against mosquito-borne illnesses.
  • Visitors should watch what they eat and avoid street food.

Getting to Sunamganj: Transportation Options and Logistics

Sunamganj can be accessed by both land and air transportation.

Airports Near Sunamganj

The closest airport to Sunamganj is the Osmani International Airport in Sylhet, which is approximately 77 kilometers away.

Bus Stations Near Sunamganj

Buses run frequently from Dhaka to Sunamganj. Visitors can find bus service from Sylhet to Sunamganj.

Other Options

Visitors can also take cars or rented vehicles from Sylhet or Dhaka to Sunamganj. It takes approximately 5-6 hours from Dhaka and 2-3 hours from Sylhet to reach Sunamganj.

How to Get Around in Sunamganj

Visitors can hire a private car or take local transportation to get around in Sunamganj. CNG (Auto-rickshaws) and motorbikes are readily available and are a popular mode of transportation in the town.

Where to Go Next from Sunamganj: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Srimangal: Situated in the north-eastern part of Bangladesh, Srimangal is famous for its tea gardens, wildlife sanctuaries, and waterfalls, a great excursion from Sunamganj.
  • Sylhet: Sylhet, known for its religious sites, such as the Sumanganj mosque and the Shrine of Hazrat Shahjalal, is another must-visit destination near Sunamganj.

Conclusion

Sunamganj is an excellent destination for those seeking natural beauty, rich history, and cultural experiences. With its wetlands, palaces, and teagardens, Sunamganj is an exciting place to visit for anyone seeking an outdoor adventure. Visitors can experience the local culture and cuisine while taking a break from their hectic lives. Come to visit Sunamganj, you won’t be disappointed.