Plizio Visual Lab
Rema-Kalenga Wildlife Sanctuary
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
wildlife-area
Weather…
Water temperature…
Rema-Kalenga Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Habiganj district, is the second largest wildlife sanctuary in Bangladesh and a vital center for biodiversity. The sanctuary comprises two main areas: Rema (established in 1982) and Kalenga (established in 1996), collectively covering about 1,795 hectares. Positioned within the Tarap Hills near the border with Tripura, India, it is part of the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot. Its dense semi-evergreen forests provide a habitat for rare primates such as the capped langur and the slow loris. Birdwatchers can identify over 160 different avian species, making it a prime destination for ornithology enthusiasts in South Asia. The sanctuary is also renowned for its rich botanical diversity, including various wild orchids and medicinal plants. Efforts to protect the area involve co-management with local communities to ensure sustainable conservation. Hiking trails and observation towers allow visitors to experience the profound beauty of this untouched natural wilderness.
- Location: Bangladesh
- Nearby: Muradpur (12 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 | 21 | 26 | 29 | 29 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 26 | 23 | 19 |
| Rain mm | 11 | 23 | 60 | 204 | 359 | 434 | 396 | 322 | 263 | 173 | 32 | 20 |
📋 Practical info
Best season
The optimal period for intensive birdwatching and spotting elusive primates within this dense forest environment is typically during the drier winter months when foliage is slightly less thick and the climatic conditions are far more tolerable for hiking.
Best time of day
Avian activity peaks dramatically just after sunrise, making very early morning treks essential for serious birders, while late afternoon walks also offer excellent opportunities to witness primates foraging before settling in for the impending night.
Etiquette
Maintaining absolute silence is critical in this dense jungle ecosystem; you must stay strictly on the designated forest trails to minimize habitat destruction, and feeding any form of wildlife is universally prohibited to prevent altering natural behaviors.
What to bring
Proper preparation requires sturdy, waterproof hiking boots to handle uneven, damp terrain, long-sleeved clothing to protect against insect bites and thorny undergrowth, powerful binoculars for high canopy viewing, and ample insect repellent.
Getting there
Navigating to this protected sanctuary generally involves a journey from the regional center of Habiganj; organizing local transportation and potentially securing the services of a knowledgeable forest guide will drastically enhance both your safety and overall experience.
What to expect
Spotting fauna in a thick, multi-layered forest is remarkably challenging and relies heavily on interpreting subtle sounds rather than immediate visual confirmation; stand still frequently, close your eyes, and listen intently to the rustling leaves and distant calls to detect hidden life.
Geography
Facts
- Established in 1982 (Rema) and 1996 (Kalenga) respectively.
- The second largest wildlife sanctuary in Bangladesh.
- Covers an expansive area of approximately 1,795 hectares.
- Located in the Habiganj district sharing a border with India.
- Home to more than 160 recorded bird species.
- Serves as a vital habitat for the rare capped langur.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What activities are offered in the sanctuary?
Bird watching and hiking on marked trails through the hill forest are very popular.
What is the difficulty of the hiking trails?
Trails are moderate but require sturdy shoes due to uneven terrain.
When is the best time for bird watching?
From November to February, when many migratory birds visit the area.
Are there toilets in the sanctuary?
Basic toilet facilities are only available at the entrance near the forest office.
Is it mandatory to hire a guide?
It is highly recommended to hire a local guide for safety and orientation.
Rema-Kalenga Wildlife Sanctuary: where is it located?
Rema-Kalenga Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Bangladesh.
Rema-Kalenga Wildlife Sanctuary: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Nov, Dec.
Rema-Kalenga Wildlife Sanctuary: why is it worth visiting?
Rema-Kalenga Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Habiganj district, is the second largest wildlife sanctuary in Bangladesh and a vital center for biodiversity.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Asia
More places in Bangladesh →
Nearby cities
Wamrong
Wamrong is a picturesque ridge-top settlement serving as an important rest stop on the long journey through eastern Bhutan.
Trashigang
Trashigang is a bustling town in the east that was traditionally the center of trade with Tibet, perched above the Drangme Chhu river.
Kanglung
Kanglung is a significant educational town in Trashigang district, home to the renowned Sherubtse College, the first of its kind in Bhutan.
Trashi Yangtse
Trashi Yangtse is a small traditional town in northeastern Bhutan, famous for its woodwork and paper making.
Deothang
Deothang is a scenic town in southeastern Bhutan noted for a strong military presence and educational institutions.
Muradpur
A quiet coastal area near Sitakunda, famous for the unique Banshbaria Sea Beach and its wooden piers extending into the sea.
Pemagatshel
Pemagatshel, known for its religious significance and artisans, is a small town located on a steep mountain ridge in eastern Bhutan.
Sunamganj
Sunamganj is a fascinating aquatic wonderland, famous for its expansive seasonal wetlands (haors) and rich folk music heritage.
Feni
A strategic city located between Dhaka and Chittagong, serving as a vital link in the country's transport network.
Rangjung
Rangjung is a lively town in the Radhi Valley, known for its spectacular monastery and as a center of weaving craftsmanship.
Sonaichhari
A coastal area in Chattogram known for its blend of industrial development and natural beaches along the Bay of Bengal.
Cherrapunji (Sohra)
Cherrapunji is known as one of the wettest places on Earth, famous for its unique living root bridges and waterfalls.
Moulvibazar
Moulvibazar is the heart of Bangladesh's tea industry, featuring undulating green hills, dense forests, and vibrant indigenous cultures.
Nganglam
Nganglam is a rapidly growing commercial town on the southern border of Bhutan, driven by the cement industry and new transport links.
Merak
Merak is a high-altitude semi-nomadic village in eastern Bhutan, home to the Brokpa people.
History & landmarks
Nature
Surma River
A major river in eastern Bangladesh, which often overflows during the rainy season.
Tanguar Haor
A unique wetland ecosystem in northeastern Bangladesh, providing shelter for many migratory birds.
Hakaluki Haor
One of the largest and most significant inland water wetland ecosystems in Asia.
Brahmaputra River
A trans-boundary river flowing through Tibet, India, and Bangladesh.
Parki Sandy Beach
A peaceful coastal landscape in Anwara, where the sandy beach merges into a dense fir forest.
More places
Satchari National Park
A species-rich national park with seven streams, ideal for bird watching and light hikes.
Srimangal Tea Estates
The tea capital of Bangladesh, featuring endless green hills covered with tea bushes.
Lawachara National Park
A major tropical rainforest in Bangladesh, known for its diversity of primates.
Ratargul Swamp Forest
The only freshwater swamp forest in Bangladesh, deeply flooded during the rainy season.
🗺️
Bibiyana Gas Field
This gas field is currently the most productive in Bangladesh.
Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Shilpa Nagar
This is the largest planned industrial city in Bangladesh, spanning across three districts.
Shillong Plateau
A high plateau in Meghalaya, isolated from the main Himalayan ranges, featuring unique geology.
Samdrup Jongkhar Trade Hub
The oldest border town in eastern Bhutan, historically serving as the primary trading post.