Bhawal National Park is a sal-forest reserve north of Dhaka with walking paths, picnic clearings and small lakes. It offers a shaded break from the city.
Bhawal National Park sits in Gazipur District about 40 km north of Dhaka and preserves a remnant of the Madhupur sal forest. Its shaded trails, small ponds and picnic clearings make a low-effort escape from the city. From central Dhaka the trip takes 1.5-3 hours each way; buses depart from Mohakhali and Uttara for Gazipur Chowrasta, from where a CNG covers the last stretch to the park gate. The forest is best walked in the morning, when birds and monkeys are active. Nearby, Bhawal Rajbari and the Bangabandhu Safari Park can extend the day. Roads are congested on Fridays, so a Thursday or Saturday morning start is easier.
| Distance | About 40 km north of Dhaka |
|---|---|
| Travel time | 1.5-3 hours each way |
| Getting there | Mode: Bus or car; Detail: Bus from Mohakhali terminal or Uttara toward Gazipur, then CNG to the park gate |
| Cost | About BDT 150-400 (~$1.22-3.26) round trip by bus and CNG plus a small entry fee (about BDT 50-100, ~$0.41-0.81) |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Address | Bhawal National Park, Gazipur, Dhaka Division |
How to get there
- Bus: Mohakhali or Uttara to Gazipur Chowrasta (60-120 min, BDT 40-80), then CNG
- Uber/Pathao car (about 1.5-2.5 hrs in traffic)
- MRT Line 6 to Uttara North, then a bus or CNG north
- Car with driver (half-day)
Location
Bhawal National Park, Gazipur, Dhaka Division
24.0833, 90.3667 View on map
Highlights
- Sal forest trails and picnic areas
- Bird life and monkeys
- Sunrise and sunset walks
- Nearby Bhawal Rajbari and Bangabandhu Safari Park
Tips for visiting
- Go on a weekday; weekends are busy with picnics
- Wear insect repellent and long sleeves
- Carry food and water; few shops in the forest
- Leave before dusk
When to visit
Cool, dry season (November-March).
Accessibility
Flat but unpaved forest paths; limited step-free access.
Frequently asked questions
Is Bhawal National Park safe to walk alone?
Trails are short and busy on weekends; stay on marked paths and leave before dusk.
How long should I plan?
A half-day of 3-4 hours on site, plus 3-6 hours of travel round trip.
Are there places to eat?
Only small stalls near the entrance; bring lunch and water.