[🇧🇩] Bangladesh Tourism

[Saif]

Sylhet gears up for massive tourist influx this Eid

Expects 15-20 lakh tourists, Tk 150cr turnover

www.thedailystar.net

Sylhet gears up for massive tourist influx this Eid
Expects 15-20 lakh tourists, Tk 150cr turnover

Sylhet is preparing for a massive influx of tourists during the nine-day extended Eid-ul-Fitr holiday, with around 80 percent of hotel and rest house rooms already booked.

Tourism-related businesses expect at least 15 to 20 lakh visitors, generating a turnover of up to Tk 150 crore.

Despite concerns over recent security incidents on highways and at tourist spots, law enforcement agencies and the administration have taken measures to ensure visitor safety.

Sylhet's top attractions include the shrines of Hazrat Shahjalal (R) and Hazrat Shah Paran (R), tea gardens, Jaflong, Bichanakandi, Sadapathor, Ratargul, Lalakhal, Rangpani, and Pantumai. Many tourists also visit the tea gardens of Sreemangal and Madhabkunda in the Moulvibazar district.

During Eid, two types of tourists typically visit Sylhet -- local visitors from the four districts of Sylhet division, who explore multiple spots in a single day, and travellers from other parts of the country, who stay in hotels and resorts.

Foyez Hasan Ferdous, acting president of the Sylhet Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said Sylhet is the only district where multiple tourist destinations are located close together, allowing visitors to explore several sites in a day.

He noted that natural disasters and political instability had affected tourism in recent years but expressed optimism about this year's turnout.

He said the sector's success benefits various industries and called for government intervention to improve road infrastructure and security.

Sumat Nuri Jewel, former president of the Sylhet Hotel, Motel, and Guesthouse Owners' Association and managing director of Hotel Fortune Garden, said the response from tourists has been overwhelming, with almost all rooms booked in advance.

Mohammad Bashir Uddin, additional superintendent of police of the Tourist Police in Sylhet Region, said security measures have been strengthened across six zones, with Jaflong, Sreemangal, and Madhabkunda expected to receive the highest number of visitors.

He said coordination with district and local police has been ensured to provide a secure environment.

Md Anwar-Uz-Zaman, additional deputy commissioner (general) of Sylhet, said Upazila Nirbahi Officers in areas with tourist attractions have been instructed to take necessary precautions.

Relevant engineering departments have been directed to address minor road defects, while a control room with a hotline has been set up under the district administration to assist tourists.

He expressed confidence that visitors would enjoy a safe and uninterrupted holiday in Sylhet this year.​

 

[Saif]

Radhanagar in Sylhet: From a quiet village to major tourist destination

Radhanagar, once a quiet village located just five kilometres from Sreemangal town in Moulvibazar district, has undergone a remarkable transformation due to the influence of tourism.

www.thedailystar.net

Radhanagar in Sylhet: From a quiet village to major tourist destination

Photo: Collected

Radhanagar, once a quiet village located just five kilometres from Sreemangal town in Moulvibazar district, has undergone a remarkable transformation due to the influence of tourism.

Md Islam Uddin, upazila nirbahi officer of Sreemangal, said there are about 100 hotels and resorts in the upazila, one of the country's most popular destinations.

Of these, approximately 60 percent are located in the Radhanagar area alone.

Today, the village is renowned nationwide and has even caught the attention of international publications like The Economist, which featured a report on a resort there.

The first impression of Radhanagar upon entering is one of growth and change.

The village's entrance is marked by the luxurious five-star Hotel Grand Sultan. As one moves further, one encounters resort after resort, with a total of 30 now established. Radhanagar has become the primary choice for tourists visiting Sreemangal, attracting both domestic and foreign travellers.

The village accommodates around 500 tourists daily.

According to the Srimangal Tourism Service Organisation, Radhanagar has become a preferred destination for those seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

"In Radhanagar, you can explore tea gardens, enjoy nature walks, and visit nearby attractions like Lawachara National Park, Madhabpur Lake, and Baikka Beel Wetland Sanctuary," said Roza Islam, a tourist from Dhaka.

Tourism has fostered the construction of more resorts, with another 25 under development. This booming industry has created employment for over 1,000 local residents. Additionally, land prices have skyrocketed, increasing by 50 times over the past decade, as tourism entrepreneurs continue to invest in the area.

Historically, Radhanagar's economy was built on sugarcane cultivation, with traders and workers from across the country visiting the village. Over time, lemon and jackfruit orchards became popular, and the legacy of these agricultural practices still remains visible.

However, since around 2010, tourism has taken centre stage, with businesses continually emerging to cater to the growing influx of tourists. New restaurants, hotels, and handicraft shops are being built, and even a tea leaf sales centre has opened to showcase the area's main industry.

"Radhanagar is a shining example of how tourism can change the socio-economic landscape of a village. It is also a model for eco-tourism. We have given special importance to tourism development here. Tourists can travel safely day and night," UNO Islam Uddin said.​

 

[Saif]

Ctg's natural spaces, tourist spots abuzz with crowds

With pleasant weather and no rain, parks, the sea beach, Naval Academy Road, the banks of the Karnaphuli River, and Chattogram Zoo witnessed a massive turnout

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Ctg's natural spaces, tourist spots abuzz with crowds

Photo: Star

On the first day of Eid, after spending the morning with families and loved ones, many from Chattogram's port city and its upazilas have flocked to tourist spots as an escape from the regular humdrum life.

With pleasant weather and no rain, parks, the sea beach, Naval Academy Road, the banks of the Karnaphuli River, and Chattogram Zoo witnessed a massive turnout.

The Patenga Sea Beach is one of the most visited places for the people of Chattogram or anyone who is visiting Chattogram.

People with families and friends go to the beach for sightseeing on weekends and especially during the Eid holiday. Some were enjoying the tasty treats on the banks, while others were lounging on chairs or boulders. Some took a dip in the waters during a hot summer afternoon.

There is horse riding, balloon-shooting, and other amusement for kids.

Many are here to watch the sun set in the Bay of Bengal.

Near the sea beach is the Naval Academy Road, known just as Naval to Chattogram dwellers. It's a marine drive from the Shah Amanat International Airport to the Navy base, along the Karnaphuli river where it meets the Bay of Bengal.

People park their cars along the banks to enjoy the summer breeze with some samosa, shingara and fried crabs, which is a specialty of the roadside makeshift stalls.

Foy's Lake Concord Amusement World is one of the most sought after places for the people of Chattogram. The park is abuzz with people since the afternoon. Many have come with families and friends to the amusement park for a leisurely evening.

One such visitor is Mohammad Ismail who came to the park with his wife and daughter. He said he lives in Dhaka due to his job and came to the port city on the occasion of Eid.

"My wife and daughter wanted to visit the park," he said, adding, "They mostly enjoy the park's sea world section."

Many were also seen roaming around with friends.

Contacted, Bishwajit Ghosh, manager (marketing) of Foy's Lake Concord Amusement World, said the park has seen a huge turnout of visitors since the afternoon.

"We have arranged all sorts of amusement here in the park for the visitors for their enjoyment," he said.

"Around 4,000 visitors entered the park in the first two hours of the afternoon and we expect, the number will increase throughout the day... Also in the next seven days during the Eid vacation," he said.

The Chattogram Zoo is place, right beside Foy's Lake, where people usually visit on Eid.

The zoo is home to a total of 620 animals and birds of 66 species, including kangaroo, white tiger, lion, deer and peacock, said officials of the zoo.

The zoo also witnessed a huge turnout of visitors since the afternoon. Around a thousand visitors entered the zoo in first one hour.

Naznin Akter, a resident of city's Bahaddarhat area, was visiting the zoo with her six-year-old son.

"My son like kangaroos... He watches them on Animal Planet [a TV channel]," said Naznin, adding, "I am also excited to see the white tigers at the zoo."

Shahadat Hossain Suvo, curator of Chattogram Zoo, said the zoo has been decorated for the visitors during Eid."We expect a huge number of people everyday during the Eid holiday," he said.​

 

[Saif]

Tourism industry in Cox’s Bazar eyes Tk 700cr revenue during Eid

Currently, over 100,000 people are visiting Cox's Bazar daily

www.thedailystar.net

Tourism industry in Cox’s Bazar eyes Tk 700cr revenue during Eid

Businesses in Cox's Bazar have been expecting over Tk 700 crore in revenue following a massive surge in tourist arrivals on the Eid-ul-Fitr vacation.

After a month-long slowdown in the tourism industry due to Ramadan, the beach town is now bustling with visitors. More than 100,000 tourists are arriving daily, a trend likely to continue through next week, said Abul Kasem Sikdar, president of the Hotel, Motel, and Guest House Owners' Association in Cox's Bazar.

"While the influx of tourists this time is promising, it has not yet reached full capacity. Before Ramadan, Cox's Bazar saw a massive influx of tourists, which is why many have opted not to visit this time. As a result, only about 70 to 80 percent of hotel and motel rooms have been booked. Additionally, the hot weather has discouraged some travelers," Sikdar said.

"However, by Friday and Saturday, we expect hotel occupancy to reach 100 percent. Currently, over 100,000 people are visiting Cox's Bazar daily, with an estimated expenditure of around Tk 10,000 per person. This would bring the total income from the tourism sector to more than Tk 700 crore," he added.

Echoing similar projections, Abu Morshed Chowdhury, president of the Cox's Bazar Chamber of Commerce, estimated that the tourism industry would see a gross turnover of around Tk 700 crore within the first week after Eid. He emphasised that this revenue includes all sectors linked to tourism. Hoteliers have been urged to keep accommodation rates reasonable to ensure a positive experience for visitors, he noted.

With over 550 hotels, resorts, and guesthouses, Cox's Bazar can accommodate more than 150,000 tourists.

Sifat Saifullah, a supervisor at Sea Save Lifeguard, reported that more than 150,000 people visited Kolatoli, Sugandha, and Laboni beaches today from morning till evening. Many enjoyed bathing in the sea, while others admired the scenic beauty. The influx began at 9:00am and continued into the afternoon, with tourists spending their evenings strolling along the shore. He also mentioned that 27 Sea Save lifeguards were on duty to assist visitors.

Ensuring security remains a top priority, Inspector Jahangir Alam of Cox's Bazar Tourist Police said strict security measures have been implemented across the beach and hotel-motel zones. Uniformed officers, mobile patrols, and plainclothes detectives are actively working to ensure the safety of tourists.

Sharif Hossain, a newlywed from Dhaka's Rampura, shared his experience, "The view of the sea beach is breathtaking. You can't truly grasp its beauty without being here. Security arrangements are excellent, but due to high demand, hotel rents and food prices seem a bit expensive."​

 

[Saif]

'Beautiful Bangladesh Run 2025' enlivens Hatirjheel, promotes tourism

The Hatirjheel area in the capital turned into a vibrant display of festivity and fitness this morning as the 'Beautiful Bangladesh Run 2025' was held to promote the country's tourism potential globally.

en.prothomalo.com

'Beautiful Bangladesh Run 2025' enlivens Hatirjheel, promotes tourism
BSS Dhaka
Published: 25 Apr 2025, 17: 37

The 'Beautiful Bangladesh Run 2025' was held in Hatirjheel with the aim of showcasing Bangladesh's tourism potential worldwide. BSS

The Hatirjheel area in the capital turned into a vibrant display of festivity and fitness this morning as the 'Beautiful Bangladesh Run 2025' was held to promote the country's tourism potential globally.

Organised by the Aviation and Tourism Journalists' Forum of Bangladesh (ATJFB), the marathon-style event drew more than 700 participants, including foreign diplomats, professional athletes, travel enthusiasts, and key stakeholders from the aviation and tourism sectors.

The run kicked off at 6:00 am from the Police Plaza end of Hatirjheel and concluded at the Hatirjheel Amphitheatre, where a festive award ceremony followed.

Chief executive officer of the Bangladesh Tourism Board (BTB) Abu Taher Mohammad Jaber, additional inspector general of Tourist Police Md Mainul Hasan, Nepalese ambassador to Bangladesh Ghanashyam Bhandari, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) ambassador to Bangladesh Abdullah Ali Abdullah Al Hamoudi, Philippine ambassador to Bangladesh Nina P Cainglet, Brazilian ambassador to Bangladesh Paulo Fernando Dias Feres and acting ambassador of Thailand to Bangladesh Panoam were present among others.

The event was powered by the Bangladesh Tourism Board, with Rhythm Group serving as the title sponsor.

Speaking on the occasion, BTB CEO Jaber said that this was a thoroughly enjoyable and meaningful event. "We believe such initiatives can significantly enhance Bangladesh's appeal as a global tourism destination," he added.

Rhythm Group managing director Sohagh Hossain and ATJFB president Md Tanzim Anwar also spoke, among others.

Other supporting organisations of the event included the Civil Aviation Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB), Tourist Police Bangladesh, Association of Travel Agents of Bangladesh (ATAB), Tour Operators Association of Bangladesh (TOAB), Electrolyte Drink Active, Dhaka WASA, Famous Specialized Hospital and Famous Creation.

Additional sponsors were Ethiopian Airlines, Bhaiya Group, Eastern Bank, FitsAir, Bengal Airlift, ShareTrip, Air India, American Tourister, TPC, Titan, Samsonite, Skin Perfume, US-Bangla Airlines, NOVOAIR, and Air Astra.

Two race categories were organised for adult participants: a 7.5-km competitive run and a 2-km fun run.

Winners of the 7.5-km (Men's Category):

1st - Elahi Sardar

2nd - Ashraful Alam

3rd - Sajjad Hossain

Winners of the 7.5-km (Women's Category):

1st - Sadia Shawlin Sigma

2nd - Swarna

3rd - Farzana

Winners of the 2-km Fun Run:

1st - Jisan

2nd - Abhi Islam

3rd - Zahurul

Trophies and awards were handed over to the winners at the end of the event amid applause and celebration.​

 

[Saif]

Why tourist deaths on Cox's Bazar beach cannot be prevented

Over the two-day Eid holiday, six people, including tourists, have died after entering the sea at Cox's Bazar. Tourists are often unaware of the danger before entering the water due to erosion and hidden channels forming in multiple spots along the 120-kilometer long beach. The current rescue...

en.prothomalo.com

Why tourist deaths on Cox's Bazar beach cannot be prevented

Abdul Kuddus Cox's Bazar
Published: 10 Jun 2025, 20: 15

Crowd of tourists at Sugandha Point of Cox's Bazar beach on Monday afternoon. Prothom Alo

Over the two-day Eid holiday, six people, including tourists, have died after entering the sea at Cox's Bazar. Tourists are often unaware of the danger before entering the water due to erosion and hidden channels forming in multiple spots along the 120-kilometer long beach. The current rescue efforts are also insufficient, making it impossible to prevent deaths among those swimming in the sea. Despite various infrastructure developments, the lack of safe swimming facilities has frustrated tourism stakeholders.

According to hotel-motel authorities and the tourist police, at least 250,000 tourists visited Cox's Bazar during the Eid holiday over the past two days, with an additional 300,000 expected in the next two days. Of these visitors, 90 per cent go into the sea to swim. However, over the last three decades, no designated safe swimming areas have been established. Despite significant revenue generated from the tourism sector for both hotel-motel owners and the government, everyone remains indifferent to providing safe swimming arrangements. Only 26 staff members from a private organisation are available for rescue operations along a mere 5 kilometers (from Kolatoli to Laboni Point) of the 120-kilometer beach. The remaining 115 kilometers of coastline are left unprotected. Specifically, there's no one to conduct rescue operations if someone goes missing while swimming at beaches in Teknaf, Baharchara, Patuwartek, Inani, Himchhori, Darianagar, or Kolatoli Point.

Police and lifeguard personnel reported that yesterday, Monday, around 2:00pm, two tourists, Shahinur Rahman, 58, and Sifat Rahman, 20, both from Rajshahi and identified as father and son, drowned while swimming at Kolatoli Beach. The previous day, Sunday afternoon, a tourist named Md Rajib, 30, went missing after swimming at Laboni Point. His body resurfaced around midnight, seven hours later. Rajib, a graphics designer, was from Dewanbazar Bhorapukur in Chittagong city.

On the same afternoon, Nurul Islam, a resident of Baharchhara in the city, and an unidentified tourist went missing after swimming at Shaibal Point. Around 12:00pm on Monday, Nurul Islam's body was found at Nazirartek Point. At the same time, the body of another unidentified tourist was recovered from the mouth of the Bakkhali River, near the Khuruskul Ashrayan Project. Police suspect this might also be a tourist's body.

According to police, six bodies have been recovered from various points along the beach in the last two days. Among them, three were tourists, one was local, and the identities of the other two remain unknown.

The officer-in-charge (OC) of Cox's Bazar Sadar Model police station, Elias Khan, said that the sea is rough due to adverse weather conditions, and several hidden channels have reportedly formed at various points. Multiple red flags are being flown near these hidden channels to warn people against swimming, but tourists are disregarding these warnings and getting into trouble.

Sifat Saifullah, supervisor of Sea-Safe Lifeguard, noted that the risk to tourists has increased due to new hidden channels caused by recent rainfall. He explained that recent heavy rains have led to flash floods from the hills, causing erosion and creating hidden channels at different points along the beach. Red flags are being put up on the sandy shores where these hidden channels exist, and public announcements are made to raise awareness. However, people are not adhering to the restrictions.

Managing over 100,000 tourists daily is proving overwhelming for the 25 lifeguards, 25 beach workers, and 70-80 tourist police officers.
According to data from the Sea-Safe organization, five tourists died in August and September of last year after being swept away by currents or getting trapped in hidden channels. In the preceding six years, 49 tourists died after being swept away by currents.

Red flags have been put up at Sugandha Point on Cox's Bazar beach to warn tourists. The photo was taken on Monday afternoon. Prothom Alo

Environmental organisations have advocated for sea-netting systems to ensure safe swimming at the beach. Fazlul Quader Chowdhury, president of the Cox's Bazar district branch of Dharitri, a non-governmental environmental organisation, said that tourists' primary attractions are swimming in the ocean and watching the sunset from the sandy beach. Over the past two decades, billions of taka have been invested around the beach, leading to the development of over six hundred multi-story hotels, resorts, guesthouses, and various businesses. However, no one is willing to spend millions of taka to establish a sea-netting system for safe swimming, even though it would protect tourists.

There's also no provision for compensation if a tourist dies while swimming in an unprotected area. Even transporting a body to the morgue incurs expenses for the tourist's family. Yet, the Beach Management Committee, led by the District Administration, collects substantial amounts of money annually from various beach activities, including umbrella and chair rentals (kitkot), beach bikes, horse rides, and shops.

Several hotel owners, who wished to remain anonymous, mentioned that they have built swimming pools in their hotels to meet tourist demand. They are ready to cooperate if the government initiates a sea-netting system in the ocean.

In this regard, Mukim Khan, general secretary of the Cox's Bazar Kolatoli Hotel Resort Owners Association, said that upon arrival, tourists are made aware of safety risks, including swimming in the sea. Despite this, many disregard the warnings and face danger by swimming in risky areas, which also embarrasses hotel owners.

A District Administration official stated that a decade ago, a safe swimming area for tourists was created at Laboni Point by enclosing it with a net. However, it was destroyed by waves within a few months. Sea erosion has also intensified over the past two years. In such a situation, research is needed to determine where safe swimming facilities can be established.​

 

[Saif]

Make tourism safe and sustainable

Incidents of obstruction in Sylhet tourist spots concerning

www.thedailystar.net

Make tourism safe and sustainable
Incidents of obstruction in Sylhet tourist spots concerning

VISUAL: STAR

It is troubling to learn of some recent incidents of harassment and obstruction faced by tourists in Sylhet. While such incidents in tourist spots are nothing new, the latest development brought two issues to the fore: growing tension surrounding unregulated mass tourism, and the disturbing role played by religious actors in it. According to our report, people visiting the Utmachhara tourist spot in Companiganj on Sunday (the first day of Eid) were asked to leave by members of the Companiganj unit of Jubo Jamiat, the youth wing of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Bangladesh. In a video that has since gone viral, the group members are heard telling visitors of a local decision to bar tourism due to alleged "immoral activities" like drinking and indecent behaviour. The following day, a scuffle broke out between some locals and tourists near the Jaflong BGB camp, although no injuries were reported.

These issues demand critical reflection as mass tourism continues to boom in Bangladesh. There is clearly a fine line to walk here. First of all, tourism is vital for the local economy as it creates employment and supports small businesses. But with too many people rushing to the beauty spots accessible in a small country like Bangladesh, unregulated tourism can be hugely disruptive. We, therefore, must find a way to make this sustainable.

These incidents illustrate how mass tourism can sometimes overwhelm local communities. Complaints about environmental degradation, littering, and disruptive behaviour by visitors are natural in areas where tourist footfall has surged without adequate infrastructure or enforcement of behavioural norms. This creates resentment among locals, who may feel their culture and environment are being disrespected or exploited. But imposing restrictions on tourism—instead of seeking constructive solutions through regulation, education, or improved civic oversight—sets a dangerous precedent. What makes this especially alarming is the involvement of religious groups. While their concerns are shared by many in local communities, their actions—policing public behaviour and dictating who can access shared natural resources—undermine both the rule of law and the inclusive spirit of tourism.

These issues demand critical reflection as mass tourism continues to boom in Bangladesh. There is clearly a fine line to walk here. First of all, tourism is vital for the local economy as it creates employment and supports small businesses. But with too many people rushing to the beauty spots accessible in a small country like Bangladesh, unregulated tourism can be hugely disruptive. We, therefore, must find a way to make this sustainable. Part of the reason for the unregulated mass tourism in Bangladesh is its unregulated development—we cannot address one without addressing the other. Other issues underscored by recent trends involve safety both on the roads and while at the tourist spots. There have been reports of road crashes, criminal activities, and drowning as holidaymakers move to different locations, including Cox's Bazar, which has seen a huge footfall this holiday.

Clearly, to make tourism safe and sustainable, we need to address the persistent lack of safety infrastructure, enforcement of rules, and coordination among all stakeholders. Ensuring community voices are heard while also defending the right to safe and responsible tourism must be the priority. This calls for a comprehensive tourism policy that not only fosters economic opportunities but also protects local culture, the environment, and the safety of tourists. The government may also consider decentralising tourism by investing in new destinations to reduce pressure on existing hotspots. The rise in tourist numbers during holidays is welcome, but without proactive planning and inclusive governance, such growth will only bring more chaos. On their part, Sylhet local administrations must also prevent a repeat of what happened recently and hold to account anyone obstructing tourists.​

 

[Saif]

Tourists allowed back to Debotakhum as weather improves in Bandarban

Previously, due to continuous heavy rain and the risk of landslides, the upazila administration had imposed a one-week ban

www.thedailystar.net

Tourists allowed back to Debotakhum as weather improves in Bandarban

Photo: Mong Sing Hai Marma

The heavy rainfall in Bandarban has ceased, and with the weather now favourable, tourists will once again be allowed to visit Debotakhum -- a popular tourist destination in Rowangchhari upazila -- from today, according to the local administration.

Previously, due to continuous heavy rain and the risk of landslides, the upazila administration had imposed a one-week ban on visiting Debotakhum from June 18 to 25 to avoid putting tourists at risk.

Speaking to The Daily Star yesterday, Rowangchhari Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Md Saiful Islam said, "Rainfall has significantly reduced in Bandarban over the past few days. The weather appears stable, and the overall situation in the area is good. Therefore, from Thursday, there should be no problem visiting Debotakhum. Tourists can travel as they did before."

"Since it's monsoon season, the hills take on a different form during this time. However, sudden rainfall upstream can trigger flash floods. So, wearing life jackets is mandatory for everyone, and all visitors must travel with caution. We've already instructed the local guides accordingly," he added.

He also mentioned that if the weather deteriorates again due to rain, temporary travel restrictions may be reinstated.

Located in the Loi-ra-going or Kachhaptali area of Rowangchhari upazila, Debotakhum is about 30 to 35 kilometres from Bandarban town. Tourists typically travel by open jeep (locally known as chander gari) or three-wheelers/auto-rickshaws to Kachhapatali in Rowangchhari. From there, it takes about 40 minutes to an hour of trekking through hilly trails to reach the spot.​

 

[Saif]

Sylhet needs more focus for tourism: Naser

Despite having diverse natural environment and scenic places as well as many resorts and tourist spots, tourism in Sylhet region cannot fully flourish because of absence of proper infrastructural facilities and easy communication system.

www.newagebd.net

Sylhet needs more focus for tourism: Naser
Zaman Monir . Sylhet 05 July, 2025, 22:31

Despite having diverse natural environment and scenic places as well as many resorts and tourist spots, tourism in Sylhet region cannot fully flourish because of absence of proper infrastructural facilities and easy communication system.

Tourism-related business personalities of Sylhet urged the government to come up with urgent projects to build up sustainable infrastructural facilities and better communication system and focus on the needs of tourists.

Government extended its allout support to tourist spots in Chattogram and Cox’s Bazar region, but remained indifferent to nurturing the growing potentialities of tourism in Sylhert region, said Naser Rahman, a leading tourism entrepreneur and political personality of the region.

In particular, it is very crucial to strengthen the security of visitors, construct adequate number of quality wash blocks at all tourist spots and provide with tourism-oriented entertainment facilities, said Naser, son of former finance minister late Saifur Rahman.

With the development of tourism industry, employment opportunity can be created side by side with the enhancement of revenue, he commented.

New Age talked to Naser Rahman, owner of DuSai Resort and Spa, a quality tourist resort situated along Shrimangal Raod in Moulvibazar, about the prospects and dilemmas of tourism industry in Moulvibazar as well as in the Sylhet division.New Age merchandise

His spontaneous conversation brought out the overall scenario of the tourism sector in Sylhet region, its prospective and limitation. Along with Moulvibazar and Sylhet, he also talked about the overall tourism industry of the country, which could be helpful for further improvement of the sector.

Naser Rahman said that Sylhet division, the northeastern part of Bangladesh, is an ideal place for tourists because of its attractive natural landscape consisting diverse forests, hills, plain land and haors.Bangladesh-themed souvenirs

In 2008, the then caretaker government had recognized only two places of the country as tourist spots and these are Cox’s Bazar and Moulvibazar.

The previous government upgraded the Cox’s Bazar Airport to an international airport,

Chattogram-Cox’s Bazar Road to a national highway, constructed a fresh rail route and Cox’s Bazar-Teknaf Marine Drive Road, which the tourists enjoy much. ‘But, nothing has been done in Moulvibazar to attract tourists,’ Naser Rahman lamented.

‘Work is underway now to turn the Dhaka-Sylhet highway into six-lane. It’s a good initiative. Tourists could reach Moulvibazar within 3 hours and Sylhet in three and a half hours or 4 hours from Dhaka after completion of the ongoing project,’ he commented.

Another disappointing issue is the consistent crisis of train tickets as the online ticketing system has not actually benefited the travelers, he said demanding immediate step to increase the train compartments.

He said that the inter-city trains run on Dhaka-Sylhet and Chattogram-Sylhet routes do not have any air-conditioned coach for Moulvibazar. After a longstanding demand, recently a decision has been taken to allocate only one AC coach for Moulvibazar.

‘In this perspective, I have requested the interim government’s railway affair adviser to launch a tourist dedicated train to operate only between Shrimangal and Dhaka. Because, Shrimangal is the main tourism hub of Moulvibazar as train journey is cost-effective.

It, however, does not need any additional infrastructure, just a few AC coaches and sleeping berths would be sufficient. Because visitors do not want to travel by normal coach in summer, Naser Rahman commented.

Moreover, an airport is also needed if we want to develop Moulibazar as a popular tourist destination, he added. There is an Air Force Base here in Shamsher Nagar near the Moulvibazar twon. Civil aviation also had operated flights here during the Pakistan period. The Air Force Base was operative even after the War of Independence as well. Later, it abandoned in 1973, he stated.

‘following my proposal in this regard, civil aviation ministry already decided to make it operative again,’ Naser Rahman said, adding that they did not want an international airport like Cox’s Bazar, rather a small domestic airport will be sufficient.

Responding to a query, he said that not only the India, Thailand is also rejecting now the visa applications of outbound tourists of Bangladesh. Cashing in the situation, tourist spots of Sylhet region recently experienced a huge crowd of visitors. All resorts, quality hotels, motels and guesthouses were packed with tourists during the vacation of Eid-ul-Azha this year.Bangladesh-themed souvenirs

‘Eighty rooms of DuSai Resort were house full till June 14, the last day of the 10-day Eid holiday,’ he said, adding that it was a good sign for the tourism-oriented businesses.

Naser Rahman, however, observed that developing foreigner-oriented tourism in Bangladesh is very tough. Foreign tourists visit five countries out the seven South Asia countries, except Bangladesh and Pakistan.

Foreign tourists need entertainment along with sightseeing. After a whole day of touring, what is there for them to do at night? Most hotels of our country do not have a bar license because getting a license requires to offer bribe and face many hassles, Naser Rahman alleged.Bangladesh-themed souvenirs

Various entertaining events like traditional music and dance shows as well as concert can be arranged for a certain period in our local cultural institutions like Shilpakala Academy. We can hold a two-hour programme every evening in the academy for tourists and that would be amazing to the foreigners, he continued.

Changing mindset also matters a lot in our society. Cause, only constructing a building and arranging some furniture is not sufficient to establish a quality resort. It needs some other aspects to make it attractive and enjoyable atmosphere for the foreign tourists.

There is no shortage of hotels in the Cox’s Bazar, but the number of standard hotels is very few. So we have to move in a planned way to develop scopes of quality entertainments to attract foreign tourists, he added.

‘Cox’s Bazar has the longest sea beach in the globe, it is a positive aspect. But steps have to be taken to make the environment there safer and more comfortable for foreigners’ movement,’ Naser Rahman commented.

Apart from these, he emphasised the importance of marketing globally the tourism industry of Bangladesh. He said foreign tourists need to be informed that why they should come to Bangladesh?Bangladesh-themed souvenirs

‘If we can overcome these shortcomings, I’m hopeful, Moulvibazar, Sylhet and Cox’s Bazar will one day become popular as gorgeous tourist destinations in the world,’ he added.​

 

[Saif]

Tourist havens overwhelmed, potential new products emergent

Tourist havens like beaches and bewitching forests across Bangladesh being overwhelmed with backpackers, potential new tourism products are now envisaged for the fast-growing economic sector. The country's tourism sector is evolving into a significant economic pillar, contributing around 4.0 per

thefinancialexpress.com.bd

INNOVATIONS FOR FAST-GROWING ECONOMIC SECTOR
Tourist havens overwhelmed, potential new products emergent

Jasim Uddin Haroon
Published :
Jul 12, 2025 00:30
Updated :
Jul 12, 2025 00:30

Tourist havens like beaches and bewitching forests across Bangladesh being overwhelmed with backpackers, potential new tourism products are now envisaged for the fast-growing economic sector.

The country's tourism sector is evolving into a significant economic pillar, contributing around 4.0 per cent of GDP and supporting over 2.0 million jobs as of now.

Its projected market volume is worth US$3.46 billion by 2029, with revenue reaching US$2.40 billion. The hotels market is expected to be the largest within the sector, with a projected market volume of US$1.21 billion in 2025.

The country now needs a shift toward sustainable and alternative forms of tourism, such as agro-tourism, rural tourism, community-based tourism, and river tourism, to ease pressure on the buzzing tourist spots and ensure long-term preservation of its natural and cultural assets, according to tourism experts and operators.

They think these new and unconventional tourism models are gaining traction as the mainstream tourist spots - Cox's Bazar, the Chittagong Hill Tracts, the Sundarbans mangrove forests and Sylhet sites - are overwhelmed with visitor surges during peak seasons.

Such influxes not only strain local infrastructure and ecosystems but also degrade the quality of travel experience, they argue.

"Our iconic tourist destinations become overcrowded during peak periods, and visitors often no longer find the peace or relief they seek," says Md. Rafeuzzaman, President of the Tour Operators Association of Bangladesh (TOAB).

"For this reason, many prefer agro-tourism, rural and community-based tourism, river tourism, and even spiritual tourism where they get peaceful habitat."

These forms of tourism promote sustainability, diversify the travel experience, and generate economic opportunities in rural areas.

But industry stakeholders say coordinated government support and aligned policies are essential to scale these alternatives.

"We need the government to take this seriously - to develop detailed policies, improve infrastructure, and support training and marketing," he adds.

The tour operators say agro-tourism and community tourism in the CHT allow tourists to explore local farms, experience indigenous cuisine, and learn about organic "zoom" farming practices.

River tourism, meanwhile, could offer guided journeys through Bangladesh's vast crisscrossing river networks, blending scenic pastoral beauty with cultural immersion.

The International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD), based in Kathmandu, has initiated community-based tourism projects in Bandarban's Ruma upazila, empowering indigenous communities to participate in and benefit from tourism.

"This type of tourism increases local income by involving communities in activities such as homestays, guiding, cultural performances, and handicrafts," says Md. Kabir Uddin, ICIMOD's Bangladesh representative.

Despite such early progress, tour operators say that government support remains inadequate.

"There are many resorts in places like Gazipur, greater Sylhet, and CHT," says Khabir Uddin Ahmed, the founder-president of the Tourism Resort Industries of Bangladesh.

"But a lack of road connectivity and basic infrastructure frustrates both domestic and foreign tourists. We offer green and rural tourism, but without support, we struggle to expand," Mr. Ahmed adds.

M. Nasir Uddin Badal, chairman of Aral Sea Limited, echoes similar sentiments about the prospects and necessary action for the income-and job-generating hospitality and recreation industry.

"We built a resort in Dakop upazila, called Sundori Eco Resort, where tourists enjoy viewing the Sundarbans by boat through the canals. Ecotourism is expanding fast, but it needs government facilitation."

Some tour operators have urged the interim government to include tourism-sector reforms in its policy initiatives.

"We have potential, but image issues and lack of facilitation hold us back," says Syed Habib Ali, president of the Tourism Developers Association of Bangladesh.

While several tourism master plans have been proposed over the years, implementation has been slow, often failing to prioritize sustainability or local community engagement.

The Bangladesh Resorts Association also warns that without proper zoning, quality standards, and investment in emerging destinations, the country risks overexploiting existing hotspots while leaving culturally rich areas underdeveloped.

Experts say Bangladesh urgently needs a national strategy that integrates environmental protection, economic inclusivity, and cultural preservation - a model that could relieve overcrowded destinations and provide tourists with more meaningful, authentic experiences.​