To experience a unique outline of riverine life, visit Hakaluki Haor, the largest freshwater wetland of Bangladesh. This 44 sq-km swamp has covered Borolekha, Kulaura in the Moulvibazar district. The haor area also spreads through Fenchuganj, Golapganj, and Beanibazar in the Sylhet district. In the winter, Hakaluki Haor becomes the heaven of migratory birds. The same Haor takes the form of the sea in the rainy season. This captivating Haor attracts the local and international tourists round of the year. In this article, we have focused on some interesting features of this vast expanse of water. Let's know more about Hakaluki Haor
Background to the naming of Hakaluki Haor
Although no exact evidence has been found for the origin of "Hakaluki", there are a number of myths surrounding it.
Many years ago, in fear of the army of Omar Manikya who was the king of Tripura, Hangor Singh, the cookie leader of Borolekha, hid in a vast area covered with jungle and mud. So over time, the name of the area became "Hangor Luki", which gradually evolved into "Hakaluki".
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According to another legend, a king named "Aka" and his kingdom were completely buried due to an earthquake about two thousand years ago. Over time, this submerged lowland became known as "Akaluki" and later changed to "Hakaluki".
At one time a tribe called "Hengkel" lived in the western part of Borolekha police station. This "Henkeluki" later bears the name Hakaluki.
Another legend tells that once there were two tribes named “Kuki” and “Naga” who lived near Hakaluki Haor. In their tribal language, this mesmerizing Haor is called "Hakaluki", which refers to 'hidden treasure'.
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The riverine beauty of Hakaluki Haor
This Haor, consists of almost 238 swamps, contains various species of fish and aquatic plants. Among the aquatic plants, there is a considerable amount of Puti in the extinct Makna swamp region, Hingajur, Hawa, etc. During the boat trip over Hakaluki Haor, you can see a few old Hijol and Tomal trees in the water.
In winter, this place turns into a vast green desert, paddy fields and ditches somewhere. During this time about 25 species of ducks and aquatic birds migrated from Siberia in northern Asia. In addition, about 100 species of local birds are visible in the haor zone throughout the year.
In the Haor area, you will find some high grounds wrapped in the carpet of green grass creating amazing views by throwing reflections in the water of the swamp. During the sunrise and sunset, the reflection of the sun on the water of the haor creates a captivating scene.
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Surrounding these pastures and swamps of the huge wilderness, the rustic lives and simple livelihood of the local people will disconnect you from the din and bustle of city life. What is more? The chirpings of migratory birds in Hakaluki Haor give a thrill to the tourists.
Best time to visit Hakaluki Haor
You can choose the time between November and mid-February to visit Hakaluki Haor. During this period, with the arrival of birds, the Haor seems to have turned into a paradise on earth. However, if you want to witness the sea-look of Haor, you have to come in the month of June to August.
