Absorbed in the Beauty of Lawacherra Rain Forest
If you love wildlife and feel that you simply have to explore the more natural parts of Bangladesh, you will certainly not be disappointed. Though the country may be home to the legendary Bengal Tiger, it is certainly not limited to housing only this delightful but elusive predator.
There are a number of pristine wildlife areas in Bangladesh that have been carefully preserved for the sake of the plants and animals that live here. The Lawacherra Rain Forest is one such place. The forest is home to a fantastic variety of plants, birds and animals and is considered to be of great ecological importance. What a treat to see gibbon apes as they leap and climb from tree to tree. These white-faced, diminutive apes are incredibly fascinating to watch. Birds such as bee-eaters, strikingly colorful parrots and owls can also be spotted in the tree-tops – in fact, this is a bird-watchers paradise. If you cast your gaze downward, you may be fortunate enough to spot wild chicken, squirrels and deer. Some visitors have even spotted leopards and pythons as they bask in the little patches of sun! Botanists will be happy to note that the incredibly rare Chloroform tree can be found here – the only one in Asia. There is also plenty of other vegetation in the area as the hilly terrain is just covered with a variety of plants.
But a visit to Lawacherra Rain Forest is not merely about the plants and animals. Two important ethnic tribes can be found living within the boundaries of the forest – the Manipuri and Khasia. The Manipuri are famous for their culture, singing and dancing as well as their traditional weaving. It is a delight to watch the people as they engage in their various cultural activities and you can easily buy wonderfully woven woolen handicrafts with a practical use at a good price. The Khasia tribe, on the other hand, is famous for their betel leaf cultivation. Their location on top of the hilltops is absolutely breathtaking and has often been called a ‘piece of paradise’.
Another treat worth noting is the pineapple cultivation plants surrounding the forest. You won’t find sweeter or better quality pineapples anywhere! If you’re visiting in summer, make sure to sample them as this is when they are at their best.
