Photo: Parthapdas100, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Harbaria Forest Trail
About Harbaria Forest Trail
Harbaria lies in the Chandpai range of the Sundarbans, south of Mongla, and is one of the forest’s managed visitor sites. Its main feature is an elevated wooden walkway that loops through the mangroves, so you can walk above the mud and breathing roots and look straight into the forest.
Along the trail there is a watchtower for a view over the canopy, and a freshwater pond that attracts birds and animals. The forest here is dense and quiet; you may hear monkeys before you see them, and spotted deer, kingfishers and monitor lizards are regular sightings. Tigers are present in this part of the forest but rarely seen.
Harbaria is often the first landing on a two or three night boat trip, or the furthest stop on a long day out from Mongla. You need a Forest Department permit and an armed forest guard, and the forest is closed for three months in the monsoon, usually June to August. Evergreen Bangladesh Tours combines it with Karamjal or Katka on private trips with a local guide.
Things to do
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Boardwalk trail
Walk the raised wooden trail through the mangroves, looking down on breathing roots and crab-covered mud.
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Watchtower
Climb up for a view across the forest canopy and nearby creeks.
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Birdwatching
Kingfishers, egrets and other birds are often seen near the pond and along the river.
Getting there
From Mongla: a few hours by boat, depending on the tide. It can be a long day trip or the first stop of an overnight cruise.
From Dhaka: travel to Mongla or Khulna by road via the Padma Bridge or by train first.
Where to stay
On overnight trips you sleep on the boat. For day trips, stay in Khulna or Mongla.
Tours that visit Harbaria Forest Trail
Short Tours
Sundarbans Mangrove & Wildlife Expedition
from $500 per person
Questions
How long does the Harbaria trail take?
About an hour at an easy pace, longer if you stop to watch wildlife.
Can I visit Harbaria on a day trip?
Yes, from Mongla, though it makes for a long day on the boat. Many people visit on an overnight trip instead.
Do I need a permit?
Yes. A Forest Department permit and an armed forest guard are required, arranged by your tour operator.
When is it closed?
During the three-month monsoon closure of the Sundarbans, usually June to August.