Rajkandi Forest & Kurma Forest Beat

Rajkandi Reserve Forest (including the Kurma Forest Beat and Kolabon border sector) is one of the most pristine and biologically diverse tropical semi-evergreen rainforest reserves in northeastern Bangladesh, situated in Kamalganj upazila of Moulvibazar district along the international frontier with India. Covering over 12,000 acres of rugged hill terrain, Rajkandi is the wild ecological cradle that shelters Hum Hum Waterfall.

The forest is characterized by deep ravines, swift rocky streams (jhiri), towering evergreen canopies, and immense wild bamboo forests. Ancient trees draped in strangler figs, wild cinnamon, and hanging lianas create a dense canopy that filters the sunlight into a cool emerald glow.

Rajkandi is a critical sanctuary for endangered wildlife, including the western hoolock gibbon, Phayre's leaf monkey, Asian black bear, clouded leopard, sambar deer, and King Cobra. It is also home to traditional indigenous Khasia and Tripura forest settlements (punjis) such as Kolabon and Kurma, where villagers live in harmony with nature cultivating betel leaf on forest trees.

For experienced trekkers, botanists, and adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness expedition through untamed jungle, the trails of Rajkandi Forest offer unmatched raw exploration.

Designated as a reserve forest during the British colonial period in the early 20th century, Rajkandi served as a vital ecological corridor connecting the forests of Sylhet with the Lushai and Tripura hill systems.

Indigenous Khasia communities have resided within the forest for generations under the traditional Punji headman (Siem) governance system, practicing sustainable betel leaf agroforestry.

The Forest Department and community co-management groups actively patrol the forest to prevent illegal logging and protect the natural habitats of endangered primates.

November to February: Cool winter weather; ideal for long wilderness hikes and visiting Khasia punjis.

July to October: Monsoon season; forest is lush and roaring with water, though trails are muddy with leeches.

March to May: Warm spring with blooming wild orchids and active bird nesting.