Bhawal National Park

Bhawal National Park (also known as Bhawal Sal Forest) is a protected forest area located in Gazipur District, about 40 km north of Dhaka. Established in 1974, it covers approximately 5,022 hectares of tropical sal (shorea robusta) forest — the most significant remaining sal forest in central Bangladesh. The park is a popular weekend getaway for Dhaka residents, offering walking trails, picnic spots, and a chance to experience a forest environment with diverse birdlife and wildlife including deer, monkeys, and wild boar.

The climate is tropical monsoon: the best time to visit is November to February when the weather is cool and dry. The park is managed by the Bangladesh Forest Department.

By Plane

The nearest airport is Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (DAC) in Dhaka, about 35 km south.

By Train

By Car / Road

Bhawal National Park is about 1–1.5 hours from Dhaka by road. Take the Dhaka–Mymensingh Highway (N3) north to Gazipur, then follow signs to the park. Buses from Dhaka to Gazipur with onward CNG transport.

Walking on designated forest trails is the main way to explore the park. Some roads inside the park are accessible by car.

• Sal Forest – Dense stands of sal trees, some decades old, forming a canopy.

• Bhawal Rajbari – The historic zamindar palace within the forest area.

• Picnic Spots – Developed picnic areas popular with day-trippers.

• Walk the forest trails for birdwatching and nature photography.

• Have a picnic in the designated areas (very popular on weekends and holidays).

• Visit the Bhawal Rajbari.

Bring bottled water.

• Gazipur (nearby) – Bangladesh National Zoo and Botanical Garden.
• Dhaka (40 km south) – The capital city.
• Tangail (north-west) – Handloom saree weaving centre.
• Madhupur Forest (north) – Larger sal forest with hilly terrain.