Hidden in the quiet beauty of Jaintiapur lies Dibir Haor, also known as Shapla Beel — the Lotus Lake of Sylhet. It’s a magical place where water, sky, and flowers become one. During the lotus bloom, the entire haor turns crimson-red, creating a view that feels like a painting come to life.
When I first arrived early morning just after Sunrise, the still water was scattered with floating blossoms — each one gently swaying with the breeze. It was calm, poetic, and deeply grounding.
Background & About the Place
Dibir Haor (Shapla Beel) is located in Jaintiapur Upazila, around 35 km from Sylhet city near the Bangladesh–India border. It’s a natural wetland that transforms with the seasons — a flooded mirror in monsoon, a lotus paradise in late summer, and a birdwatching haven in winter.
Locally called Shapla Beel for its abundance of red and pink lotus (shapla), the haor has become a beloved destination for nature photographers and travelers seeking serenity away from the crowds.
Surrounded by paddy fields and small fishing villages, this is where nature speaks softly — through ripples, petals, and reflections.
My Experience
I visited Dibir Haor during lotus season, and the sight was breathtaking. My boat slowly glided between thousands of pink blossoms — the water beneath so still it felt like a mirror.
The locals told me that the lotus blooms mostly from July to January, depending on rainfall. I met a few fishermen collecting lotus stems to sell in the market — every face carried pride in their simple yet beautiful way of life.
The drone footage I captured here is among my favourite from Sylhet — pink flowers stretching to the horizon, golden sunlight reflecting off the water, and the stillness that only nature can create.
🎥 Watch the Full Experience
If you’d like to see Shapla Beel from above, don’t miss my exclusive drone video on TikTok and YouTube. You’ll see the endless field of lotus blossoms floating on calm water — one of Bangladesh’s most peaceful sights.
👉 Watch here: @DiscoverWithRuhul
👉 Subscribe: YouTube Channel – Discover with Ruhul
Every shot in this video was filmed during my visit — authentic, colourful, and full of emotion. I hope it inspires you to visit Dibir Haor yourself and experience the magic of Shapla Beel.
Travel Tips
📍 Location: Dibir Haor (Shapla Beel), Jaintiapur, Sylhet (approx. 35 km from Sylhet city)
🚗 Best Way to Explore: Drive or take a CNG to Jaintiapur, then hire a local boat for a haor ride
🕒 Best Time to Visit: July to January (for lotus bloom), November to February (for migratory birds).
🎒 What to Bring: Camera or drone, sunglasses, hat, water, snacks, and light clothing.
💰 Estimated Budget: Boat ride ~300–500 BDT, CNG from Sylhet ~1000 BDT (round trip).
Local Food & Culture
You’ll find small roadside stalls serving tea, fried snacks, and local fish dishes.
The nearby villages reflect the charm of rural Sylhet, with friendly locals and simple, nature-based lifestyles. If you visit early morning, you may even see farmers and fishermen starting their day among the lotus blooms — a moment of pure authenticity.
Final Thoughts
Dibir Haor, or Shapla Beel, is a living painting — red, gold, and green all flowing together. It’s not just about the view; it’s about slowing down, breathing, and connecting to something pure.
If you ever visit Sylhet, make time for this hidden gem. It’s a reminder of how beautiful simplicity can be.
