ByNikli Haor is an incredibly popular destination, especially during the monsoon season. Picture a breathtaking scene where nature is adorned in a dreamy form, with the sky and water playing their magical symphony. The shimmering golden light reflecting on the silvery water is a sight that truly captivates the eye.
Among the haors I’ve visited, Nikli Haor stands out as one of the best. It has it all! Vast water expanses, crashing waves, graceful sailboats, floating roads, and the exhilarating rush of water crashing over massive dams.
When we seek to escape the monotony of everyday life, traveling is often the perfect remedy. And when it comes to embarking on a trip, Nikli Haor holds undeniable appeal. Just close your eyes and envision a small dinghy boat, riding the waves that resemble towering mountains.
Let’s talk about Nikli Haor. Situated in Nikli Upazila, Kishoreganj District, this remote area has recently gained recognition as a must-visit destination for haor tourism. Although Nikli Haor may not have the extensive history and tradition of places like Tanguar Haor or Chalan Bill, it has undoubtedly left a lasting impression on the minds of tourists.
What thrills the youthful mind? Well, it’s the desire to explore the vast expanse of white waters. It’s no wonder that Nikli Haor has quickly claimed its place as a sought-after destination, gaining both recognition and popularity in a remarkably short period.
Essential Information about Nikli Haor
Nikli is a remote upazila nestled within the Kishoreganj district. As part of the haor area, it remains submerged for the majority of the year. Covering an area of approximately 214 square kilometers, its geographical coordinates are between 24.15 – 24.27 degrees North latitude and 90.52 – 91.03 degrees East longitude.
The establishment of Nikli dates back to August 15, 1823, when it became the first police station. Later, on March 24, 1983, it was elevated to the status of an upazila. With 7 unions and 128 villages, the population density in this upazila is around 575 people per square kilometer. Due to its haor region, Nikli boasts a significant number of water bodies, including 11 smaller ones (under 20 acres) and 27 larger ones (over 20 acres).
According to legend, the Mughal army once arrived in this area to confront Khwaja Osman. During their pursuit, they set up a temporary settlement. Curious onlookers gathered to observe their accommodations, and the head of the party playfully commanded the sepoys to “jump out.” Over time, the phrase transformed into the word “Nikli,” which is the present-day name of the place.
It is also known that Nikli was previously called “Agar Sundar.” Additionally, the word “Nikhli” is mentioned in Charyap, an ancient poetry of Bengal. While the exact meaning of Nikhli in Charyap remains unknown, the name Nikli has become universally recognized.
Why Visit Nikli Haor?
The sea is far away. So we cannot go to sea. The haors of Kishoreganj turn into the sea when the monsoons come. But this sea is a different form. It has a beginning and an end, just no line of sight. Everywhere you look you see only water and water. This scene can only be seen in the sea. Therefore Nikli Haor of Kishoreganj looks like the sea in monsoon.
Nikli’s sky changes color after a while during monsoon. The reflection of the sky on the water’s surface looks like a watercolor painting by a skilled artist. Such a nation you won’t find anywhere else, Queen among all nations, it is my birthplace, it is my birthplace, it is my birthplace.
Nikli’s morning starts with sunbathing after the good morning. If you want, you can also take a dip in the sun. It’s up to you whether you want to take a dip or not, but your mind will soak in the enchanting sunbath. By swaying to the rhythm of the south wind and waves, you will not feel the sun shining on your body when the morning passes.
Once the evening falls, the red sunset may not look like Cox’s Bazar, but Nikli Howre can enjoy the peace in the paradise of capture. It is not possible in Cox’s Bazar or Kuakata. I am talking about a full moon in haor. When the moon rises, the scene changes dramatically. It catches a different Nikli Haor.
Whether it’s a full moon or not, the glimmer of golden light on the water will make your heart flutter. Jocha’s sneak peek into the water chest will transport you to another world. Such love of Jochana-Jal is possible only here. Love, thrill, and a little silence on a barge or any boat in the vast water will teach you to rethink life. Also, Chatirchar looks like the swamp forest of Ratargul.
So, tell me why you will not come to Nikli Haor.
How to Reach Nikli Haor?
Nikli Haor can be reached through various routes from any part of the country. If you’re traveling from North Bengal, the easiest route is from Mymensingh to Kishoreganj, and then onwards to Nikli. For those coming from the eastern and southeastern regions, you should first head to Bhairab Bazar by bus or train, and then take a direct route to Bhairav.
If your journey originates from the South, West, or North-West, it’s most convenient to reach the capital city of Dhaka first. From there, you can travel directly to Bhairab or Kishoreganj by train or bus. Nikli can be reached directly from both Kishoreganj and Bhairab.
CNG (auto-rickshaw) services are available directly from Bhairav, with a travel time of approximately one to one and a half hours. The fare per person for the CNG ride usually ranges from one hundred to one hundred and fifty taka.
Another option to reach Nikli is by CNG or auto-rickshaw from Kishoreganj. The journey takes around one to one and a half hours, with a fare of 100-120 taka per person.
Where to Stay in Nikli Haor?
Being a remote area, Nikli Haor does not offer luxurious accommodation options. However, there are some decent facilities available. Guests can consider staying at the Guest House, Hotel Arabia, Alam Resort, or Nikli Upazila Dak Bungalow.
While Nikli Haor may not be renowned for its resorts or hotels, nearby Mithamain Haor provides resort facilities for those who prefer such accommodations.
Where to Eat?
Along the embankment in Nikli, you’ll find several restaurants that serve delicious meals, making them ideal dining destinations. Nikli Bazaar also boasts small shops where you can grab light snacks. For quality food, be sure to visit Chaduibhati Restaurant in Gachihata.
You can order any food of your choice at these establishments. Alternatively, you can also order from your hotel and have the food delivered to you. Just remember to allow some time for the food to reach your hands, as it might take a little while.
FAQ
Why Nikli Haor Is Famous For?
Nikli haor is famous for its boating on the water bodies. The water body of Nikli looks like a sea. Also, floating roads are another fascination for tourists.
