Moulvibazar, Sylhet
One of the best-known waterfalls in Bangladesh, fullest in the monsoon.
For Hindus, Madhabkunda is a place of pilgrimage. During Baruni snan, held in Chaitra each year, pilgrims bathe in the holy water and worship at the Madhabeshwar temple, and a fair grows up around the site. Visitors are welcome to watch respectfully.
Madhabkunda, in Barlekha upazila of Moulvibazar, is one of the best-known waterfalls in Bangladesh. A stream drops over a sheer rock face into a deep pool, surrounded by forested hills, and in the rainy season the fall is loud and full of spray. An eco-park has been set up around it, and a short walk from the entrance brings you to the foot of the fall.
The place is also sacred to Hindus. Near the waterfall is a temple of Madhabeshwar (Shiva), and every year a large bathing festival, Baruni snan, draws pilgrims who come to bathe in the kunda (pool) on an auspicious day in the month of Chaitra.
A little further along the same stream is a second, smaller waterfall, Parikunda, for those willing to walk. Around the park are tea gardens and Khasi villages, making the drive itself part of the trip.
Leave Sylhet or Sreemangal early; the road passes tea gardens and hills.
Walk from the eco-park gate to the foot of the fall and spend time by the pool — without going in.
Visit the Madhabeshwar temple near the fall, dressed modestly.
If the water allows, walk up to Parikunda; otherwise have lunch by the park and start back.
June to October, when the fall is at its fullest. In the dry season the flow becomes thin.
About two hours by road from Sylhet city; or from Kulaura or Barlekha by CNG.
From the eco-park gate a paved path and steps lead to the foot of the fall in a few minutes. Reaching Parikunda means a longer walk along the rocky stream bed; ask locally whether it is safe in the current water level.
