Pablakhali Wildlife Sanctuary

Pablakhali Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area covering about 42,000 hectares of tropical evergreen and semi-evergreen forests at the northern end of Kaptai reservoir. The landscape includes diverse terrain with hills and varying forest types.

The area began as a game reserve in 1962 and received official wildlife sanctuary status in 1983. These two milestones marked institutional recognition of its ecological importance.

Two forest villages from 1950 maintain traditional ways of living while adapting to conservation needs. Local residents use the forest sustainably and shape daily life within the protected area through their practices.

The best time to visit is between November and May when weather is favorable. To reach the area, visitors travel through Rangamati town using road or water transportation.

Construction of Kaptai dam for the Karnaphuli hydroelectric project submerged large portions of the original sanctuary and dramatically altered its ecological structure. Despite this drastic reshaping, the area retained its importance for wildlife protection.