As the sun began to rise, our journey commenced from the bustling Kamalapur Railway Station in the early hours of the morning. With anticipation coursing through our veins, we hurriedly boarded the Parabat Express, our vessel to the enchanting lands of Sylhet. Despite the rush to catch our train, our spirits soared with excitement for the adventures ahead. Yet, as we settled into our seats, a sense of disappointment washed over us as we gazed out through blurry windows, obscuring the outside view. Disheartened but undeterred, we settled in and embraced the journey, finding solace in ourselves and the promise of the unfolding landscapes. As the wheels set in motion, we initiated a delightful culinary journey, savoring breakfast amidst the rhythmic melodies of the train, fostering a sense of excitement for the enchanting experiences that awaited us in Sylhet.
Despite the hindrance of blurry windows, the beauty of the railway journey unfolded before our eyes, reaching its pinnacle as the train meandered through the breathtaking landscape of Lawachara National Park. With each passing moment, we endeavored to absorb as much of the natural splendor as possible, despite the challenges presented by the obscured view. Finally, our journey culminated as we arrived in Sylhet around 1:15 PM, greeted by the promise of new experiences and the allure of this enchanting destination.
Our first order of business upon arriving in Sylhet was to secure our return journey, and so we made a beeline for the Green Line counter to secure tickets for our trip back. With that task accomplished, our focus shifted to our accommodation, and we headed to the Shuktara Nature Retreat, where we planned to base our exploration of Sylhet. Before entering the serene confines of the resort, we couldn't resist purchasing some local tea as a delightful treat for our family. As we approached the retreat, nestled on the hills, we were presented with a unique choice – traverse the grounds by foot or opt for a hand-pulling cart set on a tiny rail track. Choosing the latter, we embarked on a memorable journey uphill, surrounded by the melody of chirping birds and the tranquility of nature. Upon reaching the summit, we were warmly welcomed at the reception, where we completed the necessary formalities before being ushered to our room, marking the beginning of our stay amidst the picturesque landscapes of Sylhet.
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| Reception Area of the Resort |
Following a revitalizing bath that washed away the weariness of our journey, we made our way to the inviting dining area to savor a hearty lunch. The delectable meal replenished our energy, setting the stage for a leisurely afternoon. Returning to our comfortable room, we seized the opportunity to take a well-deserved rest, letting the serene ambiance of the resort work its magic on our tired senses. As the sun began its descent, casting a warm glow over the landscape, we ventured out to explore the expansive grounds of the resort.
Nestled in the heart of nature, the Shuktara Nature Retreat proved to be a haven of tranquility, shielded from the hustle and bustle of the outside world. The absence of sound pollution allowed the symphony of birds to take center stage, creating a harmonious melody that enveloped the entire resort. Surrounded by an abundance of lush trees, the retreat exuded a serene ambiance, providing a soothing escape from the rigors of daily life. The immersive experience of nature, combined with the gentle rustling of leaves and the diverse avian chorus, made our stay at the resort an oasis of calm and a perfect launchpad for our exploration of the scenic wonders that Sylhet had to offer.
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| Entrance of the Resort's Accommodation Area |
As the evening unfolded, we indulged in a serene atmosphere, opting for snacks and a laid-back chat in the comfort of our room. The subdued lighting throughout the resort area and within our room created a tranquil ambiance, seamlessly blending with the natural surroundings. The dim glow accentuated the calmness, allowing us to connect more deeply with the soothing environment. Later, we made our way to the dinner venue, where we enjoyed a delightful meal amidst the serene setting. The harmonious interplay of nature, subdued lighting, and a shared sense of tranquility made for a truly memorable evening, adding another layer to the overall enchantment of our Sylhet retreat.
Awakening to a new day, we started it off with a delightful complimentary buffet breakfast once again. Energized, we ventured to explore the inviting pool area of the resort. The tranquil waters and serene surroundings provided a refreshing start to our morning.
Recognizing that it was our final day in this enchanting destination, we concluded our stay at the resort after completing the necessary formalities during check-out. Despite the departure looming, we couldn't help but reflect on our fondness for the resort. Its serene ambiance, diverse experiences, and the comfort it provided left a lasting impression. While acknowledging the overall excellence, we noted a minor setback in the form of slightly expensive food options. However, in the grand scheme of our experience, it was a negligible concern amidst the plethora of positives. With content hearts and cherished memories, we bid farewell to the resort, grateful for the delightful stay it provided during our memorable Sylhet tour.
With our bus departure time drawing near, we made our way to the Green Line counter, eager to ensure a timely departure for our journey back. A notable mention is our decision to reserve a CNG vehicle for our entire Sylhet tour, which proved to be a wise choice. Throughout our exploration, the driver had been a reliable companion, assisting us in navigating through the various destinations with ease. Upon reaching the counter, we expressed our gratitude to the driver and bid him farewell, appreciative of his assistance throughout our adventure.
As the appointed time arrived, we boarded the Green Line double-decker bus, having pre-booked the coveted two front seats on the upper deck to relish the scenic views along the highway. The journey unfolded with a spectacular display of landscapes, and the scenes, especially through the Habiganj part, were nothing short of exceptional. The decision to secure the front seats proved to be a wise one as we immersed ourselves in the beauty that unfolded before our eyes.
As we bid adieu to Sylhet, the memories of Shada Pathor's white stones, the lush tea plantations of Malnicherra, and the tranquil charm of Shuktara Nature Retreat remained etched in our hearts. The Sylhet tour became not just a physical journey but a soulful experience, a chapter in the book of Gypsy Soul's adventures that would be revisited with fondness and nostalgia. 🌱🍃 🌳 ⛰️
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| A Glimpse of Shuktara Nature Retreat at Night |
The enchanting offerings of the resort extended beyond the natural beauty, as we discovered a haven for book lovers – a library nestled within the resort. Following a satisfying dinner, we decided to explore this literary sanctuary, perusing the shelves adorned with an array of books. With the night settling in, we eventually retreated to the cozy comfort of our room, concluding the day with a sense of contentment. The peaceful surroundings, coupled with the diverse experiences the resort offered, set the stage for a restful night's sleep.
As the night deepened, a gentle patter of raindrops began to tap on our windowpanes, adding an unexpected yet soothing cadence to the ambiance. The rhythmic sound of rain became a lullaby, enhancing the already tranquil atmosphere of the resort. The enchanting melody of nature's own orchestra, accompanied by the fragrance of earth kissed by rain, provided a serene backdrop as we nestled into the cozy confines of our room. The rain at night, an unplanned element in our Sylhet retreat, became a poetic addition to our experience, heightening the sense of connection with the natural surroundings. The soft pitter-patter on the leaves and the roof created a comforting symphony, intertwining with the diverse experiences the resort offered. The gentle rainfall, nature's way of blessing our night, serenaded us into a restful sleep, casting a dreamlike aura over our anticipation for the adventures that awaited in the forthcoming days.
As the morning sunlight painted the landscape with a gentle glow, we awoke to a new day at Shuktara Nature Retreat. After refreshing ourselves, we eagerly headed to the dining area where a delightful buffet breakfast awaited, courtesy of the resort. The sumptuous spread not only fueled our bodies but also provided a delightful start to our day in Sylhet. Fully energized, we prepared for the day's adventures.
First we visited the Mazar of Hazrat Shahjalal (Rah.). Then, we set out for the Malnicherra Tea Estate.
The Malnicherra Tea Estate, standing as the largest and pioneering tea garden in Bangladesh, holds historical significance as the first established tea estate in the Indian subcontinent. Upon our arrival, we were seamlessly integrated into the immersive experience with the assistance of a guide who accompanied us through the expansive tea estate. The vastness of the plantations unfolded before us as we traversed the well-manicured rows of tea bushes.
As the morning sunlight painted the landscape with a gentle glow, we awoke to a new day at Shuktara Nature Retreat. After refreshing ourselves, we eagerly headed to the dining area where a delightful buffet breakfast awaited, courtesy of the resort. The sumptuous spread not only fueled our bodies but also provided a delightful start to our day in Sylhet. Fully energized, we prepared for the day's adventures.
First we visited the Mazar of Hazrat Shahjalal (Rah.). Then, we set out for the Malnicherra Tea Estate.
The Malnicherra Tea Estate, standing as the largest and pioneering tea garden in Bangladesh, holds historical significance as the first established tea estate in the Indian subcontinent. Upon our arrival, we were seamlessly integrated into the immersive experience with the assistance of a guide who accompanied us through the expansive tea estate. The vastness of the plantations unfolded before us as we traversed the well-manicured rows of tea bushes.
Here is a short glimpse of the Malnicherra Tea Estate from our YouTube channel-
A Short Glimpse of the Malnicherra Tea Estate
Amidst our exploration, a rejuvenating tea break added a delightful pause to our journey, allowing us to savor the essence of the estate by enjoying tea made from the very leaves that surrounded us.
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| A Cup of Tea at the Malnicherra Tea Estate |
Having relished a memorable time in the tea estate, we set our sights on the next destination – Shada Pathor in Bholaganj. The journey continued, promising more discoveries and the continuation of our exploration through the scenic wonders of Sylhet.
Our journey led us to the mesmerizing Bholaganj Zero Point in Companiganj, where we embarked on a shared boat alongside fellow travelers. The boat gently navigated the Dhalai river, revealing a breathtaking route adorned with unparalleled scenic beauty. As we approached our destination, Shada Pathor, the scene at Shada Pathor unfolds like a masterpiece painted by nature's hand. A white carpet of scattered stones blankets the landscape, creating an ethereal setting that feels as though nature itself has meticulously arranged each piece. In the midst of this natural canvas lies clear blue water, a pristine pool that mirrors the expansive sky above. The landscape is embraced by a collection of hills, both large and small, forming a protective boundary around the tranquil haven.
Our journey led us to the mesmerizing Bholaganj Zero Point in Companiganj, where we embarked on a shared boat alongside fellow travelers. The boat gently navigated the Dhalai river, revealing a breathtaking route adorned with unparalleled scenic beauty. As we approached our destination, Shada Pathor, the scene at Shada Pathor unfolds like a masterpiece painted by nature's hand. A white carpet of scattered stones blankets the landscape, creating an ethereal setting that feels as though nature itself has meticulously arranged each piece. In the midst of this natural canvas lies clear blue water, a pristine pool that mirrors the expansive sky above. The landscape is embraced by a collection of hills, both large and small, forming a protective boundary around the tranquil haven.
Once again, here is video from our YouTube channel; we captured it on our way to Shada Pathor by boat-
As if descending from the heavens, clouds gracefully drape over the hills, adding an element of mystique to the already enchanting panorama. The interplay of white stones, azure water, and the embrace of the surrounding hills creates a harmonious symphony of colors and textures, making Shada Pathor a true spectacle for the senses. It's a place where the beauty of the natural world unfolds in a captivating dance, leaving an indelible impression on those fortunate enough to witness its breathtaking allure.
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| Shada Pathor, Bholaganj |
Immersed in the serene ambiance of Shada Pathor, we found ourselves caught in a moment of pure joy and relaxation. Enveloped by the crystal-clear, refreshing waters, we surrendered to the allure of nature's embrace, letting the coolness wash away the heat of the day and invigorate our spirits. Laughter echoed amidst the tranquility as we reveled in the simple pleasures of life, creating cherished memories against the backdrop of this breathtaking landscape.
After passing a memorable time, we reluctantly bid farewell to Shada Pathor. Boarding the return boat, we retraced our journey back to Bholaganj, carrying with us the memories of a truly enchanting experience. The echoes of Shada Pathor's beauty lingered, leaving us with a sense of contentment for the serene moments spent in the heart of nature's embrace.
With hunger urging us on, we embarked on a culinary adventure to the renowned Panch Bhai Restaurant, eager to sample its famed delights. Our appetites were rewarded with a delicious lunch that satisfied our cravings and left us feeling content. Returning to the tranquil embrace of Shuktara Nature Retreat, we refreshed ourselves before settling into a well-deserved rest, taking refuge in the serene surroundings that had become so familiar.
As the day gently transitioned into evening, we indulged in a light snack, savoring the peaceful ambiance that enveloped us once more. Also, the calm surroundings provided the perfect backdrop for a leisurely dinner, capping off the day with a delectable meal. With satisfied appetites and hearts full of contentment, we retired for the night, lulled into a peaceful sleep by the comforting embrace of nature's serenity.
After passing a memorable time, we reluctantly bid farewell to Shada Pathor. Boarding the return boat, we retraced our journey back to Bholaganj, carrying with us the memories of a truly enchanting experience. The echoes of Shada Pathor's beauty lingered, leaving us with a sense of contentment for the serene moments spent in the heart of nature's embrace.
With hunger urging us on, we embarked on a culinary adventure to the renowned Panch Bhai Restaurant, eager to sample its famed delights. Our appetites were rewarded with a delicious lunch that satisfied our cravings and left us feeling content. Returning to the tranquil embrace of Shuktara Nature Retreat, we refreshed ourselves before settling into a well-deserved rest, taking refuge in the serene surroundings that had become so familiar.
As the day gently transitioned into evening, we indulged in a light snack, savoring the peaceful ambiance that enveloped us once more. Also, the calm surroundings provided the perfect backdrop for a leisurely dinner, capping off the day with a delectable meal. With satisfied appetites and hearts full of contentment, we retired for the night, lulled into a peaceful sleep by the comforting embrace of nature's serenity.
Recognizing that it was our final day in this enchanting destination, we concluded our stay at the resort after completing the necessary formalities during check-out. Despite the departure looming, we couldn't help but reflect on our fondness for the resort. Its serene ambiance, diverse experiences, and the comfort it provided left a lasting impression. While acknowledging the overall excellence, we noted a minor setback in the form of slightly expensive food options. However, in the grand scheme of our experience, it was a negligible concern amidst the plethora of positives. With content hearts and cherished memories, we bid farewell to the resort, grateful for the delightful stay it provided during our memorable Sylhet tour.
After checking-out, first we visited the Mazar of Hazrat Shah Paran (Rah.). Then we went to the Panshi Restaurant to take our lunch. It was Friday; hence, I decided to offer my Jumma prayer in an adjacent Mosque. After that we ordered lunch and ate with contentment.
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| A Comfortable Journey by Green Line |
The journey, characterized by smooth roads and picturesque views, seamlessly met our expectations. Green Line, with its comfortable and well-executed service, added a layer of satisfaction to our travel experience. As night fell, the bus carried us back to Dhaka, marking the conclusion of our memorable Sylhet tour. The echoes of scenic beauty and the tranquility of our resort lingered, creating a lasting imprint of the enchanting moments we had experienced in the captivating landscapes of Sylhet.
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