Rajkandi Reserve Forest & Kurma Rainforest Trail
The dense tropical rainforest sanctuary, biodiversity haven, and jungle stream trails
Quick Travel Facts & Visitor Guide (2026)
Rajkandi Reserve Forest & Kurma Rainforest Trail is a prominent travel destination in Kamalganj, Moulvibazar, Sylhet Division, Bangladesh. The optimal time to visit is October to March for dry, pleasant forest trekking conditions, cool weather, and active birdlife. for a recommended trip duration of 1 full day (An authentic rainforest eco-trekking day expedition). Entry ticket is Free Entry / Nominal Forest Permit (Guide charges approx. 500–1,000 BDT) and weekly off day is Open Daily. A protected 5,000-hectare pristine tropical rainforest reserve in Kamalganj, Moulvibazar, renowned for high biodiversity, endangered Hoolock gibbons, lush tea garden fringes, and the Kurma jungle trail.
Overview
Rajkandi Reserve Forest (Rajkandi Reserved Forest & Kurma Rainforest Trail) is one of the most ecologically diverse, dense, and pristine tropical evergreen rainforest sanctuaries in northeastern Bangladesh, situated in Kamalganj upazila of Moulvibazar district, along the international border with Tripura, India. Spanning over 5,000 hectares (12,500 acres) of rugged hills, deep ravines, and perennial jungle streams (chharas), Rajkandi is an authentic wilderness paradise.
The forest is a critical biodiversity hotspot featuring dense multi-tiered canopies of giant Chapalish, Garjan, Civit, and wild bamboo species, interwoven with thick epiphytic ferns and climbing wild orchids. The canopy echoes with the haunting territorial calls of the endangered Western Hoolock Gibbon (Ulluk), Bangladesh's only ape species.
Rajkandi is also home to diverse wildlife including barking deer, wild boars, slow lorises, capped langurs, fishing cats, king cobras, and over 200 species of resident and migratory forest birds such as the Great Hornbill, emerald doves, and scarlet minivets.
The celebrated Kurma Rainforest Trail winds through scenic tea garden estates before plunging into deep jungle paths, crystal-clear rocky streams, and bamboo bridges, offering eco-trekkers, birdwatchers, and nature photographers an unforgettable wilderness adventure.
History & Culture
Declared a protected Reserve Forest during the British colonial period in the early 20th century to conserve upper catchment watersheds and valuable timber reserves.
The forest is celebrated in local indigenous folklore and is home to traditional Khasi (Punji) and Tipra indigenous forest communities who have coexisted sustainably with the jungle ecosystem for generations.
The Forest Department maintains community-managed eco-guards and conservation co-management committees to safeguard the rainforest from illegal logging and poaching.
Top things to do in Rajkandi Reserve Forest & Kurma Rainforest Trail
Trek the Kurma Rainforest Trail
Hike along the shaded jungle trail crossing rocky forest streams (chharas) and climbing gentle forested ridges.
Spot Endangered Hoolock Gibbons
Listen for the distinctive morning calls and look up into high canopies to catch glimpses of wild gibbons swinging through trees.
Go Forest Birdwatching
Bring binoculars to spot rare tropical forest birds including Great Hornbills, woodpeckers, laughingthrushes, and sunbirds.
Explore Indigenous Khasi & Tipra Villages
Visit traditional forest villages (Punjis) to learn about traditional betel leaf cultivation and indigenous forest stewardship.
Video Guide: Experience Rajkandi Reserve Forest & Kurma Rainforest Trail
Watch cinematic 4K footage and essential visual travel highlights before planning your trip to Rajkandi Reserve Forest & Kurma Rainforest Trail.
Rajkandi Reserve Forest & Kurma Rainforest Trail in pictures
Curated photography via Wikimedia Commons under Creative Commons licensing.
Highlights
- ✓5,000-hectare protected tropical evergreen rainforest reserve and wildlife sanctuary
- ✓Vital sanctuary for the endangered Western Hoolock Gibbon (Bangladesh's only ape)
- ✓High canopy biodiversity featuring giant Chapalish, Garjan, and wild orchid varieties
- ✓Over 200 species of forest birds including the majestic Great Hornbill
- ✓Scenic Kurma rainforest trekking trail crossing crystal-clear rocky jungle streams
- ✓Lush tea garden fringes and indigenous Khasi and Tipra tribal village culture
How to reach Rajkandi Reserve Forest & Kurma Rainforest Trail (Transport Routes)
Take a 45 to 60-minute CNG auto-rickshaw or jeep southeast from Sreemangal via Kamalganj to Kurma / Rajkandi forest beat office (approx. 32 km).
Take a car or auto-rickshaw south via Kamalganj to Rajkandi (approx. 40 km, 1 hour).
Best time to visit Rajkandi Reserve Forest & Kurma Rainforest Trail& Seasonal Advisory
November to February: Cool winter season; ideal for jungle hiking, comfortable stream crossings, and clear weather.
July to October: Monsoon season; lush green forest and roaring streams, though leeches and slippery trails require preparation.
Early Morning (6:00 AM – 9:00 AM): Best time for gibbon calls and active birdwatching.
Where to stay near Rajkandi Reserve Forest & Kurma Rainforest Trail
Eco-resorts and luxury boutique hotels in Sreemangal (Grand Sultan Tea Resort, Swiss Valley, Balishira Eco Resort) located 32 km away.
Local food & dining
- 🍽️Traditional Sylheti spicy duck curry and steamed rice in Kamalganj
- 🍽️Traditional Khasi-style bamboo-steamed herbal chicken
- 🍽️Fresh Sreemangal pineapple and seven-layer tea
Essential Travel Tips & Rules for Rajkandi Reserve Forest & Kurma Rainforest Trail
- 💡Hire a local Forest Department guide or local community eco-tracker at Kurma bazaar before entering the deep forest trails.
- 💡Wear sturdy waterproof hiking boots and leech socks during monsoon and post-monsoon months.
- 💡Carry sufficient drinking water, energy snacks, high-powered torches, and insect repellent.
- 💡Never leave plastic wrappers or trash in the protected reserve forest.
Nearby Places to Visit around Rajkandi Reserve Forest & Kurma Rainforest Trail
Combine your visit to Rajkandi Reserve Forest & Kurma Rainforest Trail with these closely located attractions and scenic destinations.
1.7 km (E)A magnificent 150-foot natural waterfall hidden deep inside the dense Rajkandi Reserve Forest in Kamalganj, Moulvibazar, offering an exhilarating backcountry stream-wading trek.
3.6 km (W)Hum Hum Waterfall (Hamham) in Razkandi Reserve Forest, Kamalganj, Moulvibazar is a towering multi-tiered mountain waterfall deep in pristine rainforest, accessible via an adventurous 3-hour stream trek.
5 km (SE)A vast 12,000-acre protected virgin rainforest reserve along the Tripura border in Kamalganj, Moulvibazar, famous for untamed jungle biodiversity, deep gorges, and indigenous Khasia settlements.
5.4 km (W)A peaceful, lotus-filled lake nestled deep within the Patrokhola tea estate near Srimangal, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding green hills.
Curated Destination Highlights
Frequently Asked Questions about Rajkandi Reserve Forest & Kurma Rainforest Trail
Where is Rajkandi Reserve Forest located?+
It is located in Kamalganj upazila of Moulvibazar district, approximately 32 kilometres southeast of Sreemangal town along the Tripura border.
Are there wild animals in Rajkandi Forest?+
Yes, the forest is home to Hoolock gibbons, barking deer, capped langurs, wild boars, and over 200 bird species.
Is a guide necessary for trekking in Rajkandi?+
Yes, hiring an experienced local guide from Kurma bazaar is strongly recommended for safety and navigation.
Related Destinations & Travel Guides
Explore 5 interlinked destinations in Kamalganj, Moulvibazar, Sylhet Division& surrounding regions
A magnificent 150-foot natural waterfall hidden deep inside the dense Rajkandi Reserve Forest in Kamalganj, Moulvibazar, offering an exhilarating backcountry stream-wading trek.
A vast 12,000-acre protected virgin rainforest reserve along the Tripura border in Kamalganj, Moulvibazar, famous for untamed jungle biodiversity, deep gorges, and indigenous Khasia settlements.
Hum Hum Waterfall (Hamham) in Razkandi Reserve Forest, Kamalganj, Moulvibazar is a towering multi-tiered mountain waterfall deep in pristine rainforest, accessible via an adventurous 3-hour stream trek.
Endless rolling tea gardens, the famous seven-layer tea, and the Lawachara rainforest alive with the calls of Hoolock gibbons.
A protected wetland sanctuary near Srimangal, renowned for its incredible diversity of water birds, lotus fields, and serene natural beauty.