Type of destination: Forest Reserve/Natural Attraction
Ideal visit duration: 2 to 3 hours
Gangamati Reserved Forest is an expanse of mangrove forest located on the eastern edge of the Kuakata beach in southern Bangladesh. Unlike the Sundarbans, the large mangrove forest to the west, Gangamati offers an unspoiled nature scene just adjacent to the beach vibes of Kuakata. One can witness a variety of flora flourishing within the forest area including keora, gewa, and goran trees interspersed with the natural canopies formed by the sundari trees, a mangrove species from which the Sundarbans derive their name. The forest stretches along the coast, creating a unique ecosystem where terrestrial and marine life converge. It is a sanctuary for a variety of bird species, including resident and migratory flocks, making it a fantastic place for bird watching, especially during the migratory season. Despite its biodiversity, the forest faces threats from human encroachment and environmental change. The terrain is generally flat, interlaced with sandy stretches and occasional mudflats. Visitors get the chance to see rare animals such as spotted deer and wild boars. The forest fringes Kuakata itself, which is known for its panoramic sea beach allowing visitors to watch both sunset and sunrise over the Bay of Bengal.