The topography of Sylhet is highly diverse, departing from the typical deltaic flatlands of Bangladesh.
- **Hills and Tillas:** The north and east feature rolling hills (locally called *tillas*), which provide the perfect drainage and elevation for tea cultivation. - **Plains:** The central area consists of fertile floodplains formed by the Surma and Kushiyara rivers. - **Haor Basin:** The western and south-western areas (especially in Sunamganj and Habiganj districts) plunge into deeply depressed basins. These low-lying areas spend half the year submerged under monsoon waters and the other half as rich, green agricultural land. - **Highest Points:** The highest elevations are found along the border with the Indian state of Meghalaya, though most peaks within Sylhet's actual borders do not exceed 150-200 meters.