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Bhawal National Park
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Bhawal National Park is located in the Gazipur District, approximately 40 kilometers north of the capital city, Dhaka, making it one of the country's most accessible forest reserves. Established in 1974 and officially designated as a national park in 1982, its primary mission is to protect the remaining tracts of tropical deciduous Sal forests. The park spans an area of roughly 50 square kilometers and is characterized by low, rolling hills locally referred to as chala. These elevations are dominated by Sal trees, which are highly valued for their hard and durable timber. Despite being situated near the industrial zones of Gazipur, the park provides a sanctuary for various wildlife species, including foxes, wild boars, and numerous reptiles. In recent years, management efforts have focused on biodiversity restoration through reforestation and the protection of natural water bodies.
- Location: Bangladesh
- Top sights: Pora Bari Madhye para, Historical landmark · BOF Museum · Unrestricted Freedom
- Nearby: Narayanganj (11 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Nov, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 18 | 22 | 27 | 30 | 30 | 29 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 26 | 23 | 19 |
| Rain mm | 10 | 21 | 54 | 176 | 310 | 387 | 404 | 327 | 271 | 176 | 31 | 16 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The national park is easily accessible by road from Dhaka, with most visitors arriving by bus or private vehicle via the Dhaka-Mymensingh highway.
Best season
The winter months from November to February offer the most pleasant weather for exploring the sal forests, avoiding the heavy monsoon rains and extreme summer heat.
Terrain & paths
The terrain consists mostly of flat, easily walkable dirt paths winding through dense patches of towering sal trees and occasional open clearings.
What to bring
Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended, along with breathable clothing, strong mosquito repellent, and plenty of drinking water for a daytime visit.
Parking
Designated parking areas are typically available near the main entrance gates, where visitors can safely leave their cars before entering the park on foot.
Safety
Stick to the marked trails to avoid getting lost in the dense forest, and be mindful of wildlife; insect repellent is essential to protect against mosquito bites.
Time needed
A typical visit lasts between two to four hours, providing ample time to walk the main trails, enjoy a relaxing picnic, and observe the tranquil natural surroundings.
Geography
Facts
- The park was established in 1974 and declared a national park in 1982.
- The official total area of the national park is 5,022 hectares.
- Approximately 90% of the forest cover consists of Sal trees.
- The park supports around 13 species of mammals and 64 species of birds.
- A total of 221 different plant species have been identified in the park.
- The park is located just 40 kilometers from Dhaka International Airport.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
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Sights in the town Bhawal National Park (12)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is Bhawal National Park?
It is a major forest area near Dhaka, consisting primarily of Sal trees.
Is the park open to visitors?
Yes, it is a popular destination for day trips and picnics with designated trails.
What role does the park play in the region?
It serves as an important ecosystem for wildlife and a recreational zone for the capital.
When should you visit the park?
The best time is between November and March when the weather is pleasantly cool.
Are there attractions nearby?
Gazipur city and various resorts are located in the immediate vicinity of the park.
Bhawal National Park: where is it located?
Bhawal National Park is located in Bangladesh.
Bhawal National Park: what is there to see?
Highlights include Pora Bari Madhye para, Historical landmark, BOF Museum, Unrestricted Freedom.
Bhawal National Park: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Nov, Dec.
Bhawal National Park: why is it worth visiting?
Bhawal National Park is located in the Gazipur District, approximately 40 kilometers north of the capital city, Dhaka, making it one of the country's most accessible forest reserves.
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