a home to a comprehensive variety of flora and fauna
Rema-Kalenga Wildlife Sanctuary
Rema-Kalenga Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area in Bangladesh's northeastern region. The 6-thousand-hectare sanctuary is home to a comprehensive variety of flora and fauna, including numerous species of mammals, birds, amphibians, and reptiles. A trip to Rema Kalenga forests is the first choice for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and an adventurous travel community.
History of the Forest Establishment
The Taraphil Reserved Forest was announced under the Forest Act of 1927 and covered a total area of 6,232 hectares. Considering its biodiversity values and conservation requirements, the government designated a portion of the Reserved Forest (RF) as the Rema-Kalenga Wildlife Sanctuary in 1982 and subsequently expanded the sanctuary’s area through a 1996 declaration. The sanctuary includes portions of the Kalenga, Chonbari, and Rema basins as well as the southern and eastern portions of Taraphil Reserved Forest.
Topography / Physiography of Rema Kalenga Reserve Forest
The sanctuary encompasses numerous peaks and valleys of varying altitudes. The most prominent hilltop is approximately 67 meters above sea level. There are a series of hill ridges running in various directions, as well as valleys known locally as “lungas,” that contain flowing water during the monsoon but are dry during the winter. The primary drainage system for the area, which consists of the three main channels Karangi Chara, Lokhkhia Chara, and Rema Chara, passes through the sanctuary. All three channels drain into the Khuai River from the west.
Settlements
The history of Taraphil Reserved Forest’s habitation dates back forty to one hundred years. The individuals who reside within the forest are registered with the Forest Department and are known as forest villagers. The Forest Department grants them certain privileges (permission to live on FD land and cultivate level forest land). In return, they contribute to plantation management and forest conservation. According to documents from the forest department, there are currently several hundred or more households of Forest Villagers residing in Tarap Hill Reserved Forest, but their actual number is likely to be significantly higher than predicted by the population growth. There are tribal (Tipra tribe) and Bangalee settlements both within and without the forest. The Tripra are concentrated in Debrabari village and in concentrations along the sanctuary’s northwest and northern boundaries. It is uncertain where they are in relation to the sanctuary.
Information on faunal resources: a summary of previous investigations
In 1995, an expert survey team documented 167 species of untamed animals, 119 of which were birds, 21 mammal species, 20 reptile species and 7 amphibian species.In addition to identifying two turtle species from Rema-Kalenga, they measured the collected specimens in various ways.
The refuge is renowned for its natural beauty, which consists of verdant green forests, hilly terrain, and pristine water bodies. It also functions as a vital habitat for several endangered species, making it a significant location for wildlife conservation efforts in Bangladesh.
The sanctuary offers visitors a variety of activities, including hiking, cycling, bird-watching, and safaris. However, it is important to note that certain areas of the sanctuary may be off-limits to protect the wildlife and their habitats.
If you are interested in visiting the Rema-Kalenga Wildlife Sanctuary, it is recommended that you contact the local authorities or a reputable tour operator for advice on how to experience the sanctuary in the most environmentally responsible manner.
It is a place where you can get away from the chaos of the city and reconnect with yourself.
If you intend to visit Rema-Kalenga Wildlife Sanctuary, here are some recommendations to enhance your experience:
– The ideal time to visit Rema-Kalenga Wildlife Sanctuary is from July to October, when the forest is completely submerged and the views are at their peak.
– The entrance fee to Rema-Kalenga Wildlife Sanctuary is fifty taka per person and one hundred taka per boat.
– The Rema-Kalenga Wildlife Sanctuary is accessible daily between 8 AM and 5 PM.
– You should wear comfortable, water-resistant apparel and footwear.
– We offer knowledgeable local tour guides and homestays with local families around the forest.
– You must bring your own snacks and beverages, as there are no stores or restaurants in the forest. Respect the environment by not polluting and harming plants and animals.
– You should follow your guide’s instructions for your safety.
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Activities around Rema-Kalenga Wildlife Sanctuary area
- Cycling around the tea estates
- Visiting the villages of Khashia, and Monipuri Tribal community
- Hiking through the Lawachara Rain Forest
- Hiking to the Ham Ham Waterfall
- Madhabpur Lake
- Hail Haor, Baikka Bil Haor (Migratory birds Sanctuary)
- Madhabkunda Waterfall
- Mausoleums of Shah Jalal and Shah Paran
- Cruise on Lala Khal
- Ratargul Swamp Forest
- Remakalenga Reserve forest
- Jaflong Mari River
- Stone collecting and crushing industry
- Tanguar Haor