Tourists flock to Sylhet’s tourist centres during Eid vacation

A large number of tourists have been visiting Sylhet’s tourist destinations during the Eid vacation.

The influx of visitors to tourist attractions across the division has been significant from the afternoon of Eid until the third day of the holiday.

According to tourism professionals, excessively high airfares, limited availability of train tickets, the 12-14-hour road journey from Dhaka to Sylhet, and inadequate infrastructure at tourist destinations are major sources of inconvenience for visitors.

Despite these challenges, thousands of tourists continue to flock to Sylhet during every major festival because of its breathtaking natural beauty.

They believe that the relevant authorities need to address these issues to make Sylhet’s tourism industry more attractive and competitive.

Tourists also said that Sylhet could become a world-class tourist destination if proper infrastructural development is undertaken.

During the Eid-ul-Adha holiday, popular tourist destinations such as Sylhet city, Jaflong, Sada Pathar, Bichanakandi, and the tea gardens witnessed large crowds of visitors.

In addition, many tourists traveled to Madhabkunda and Sreemangal in Moulvibazar, as well as Tanguar Haor in Sunamganj.

From the afternoon of Eid, tourists began arriving at Bholaganj Sada Pathar, a renowned natural attraction in Companiganj Upazila. Other popular spots, including Lakkatura and Malnichara tea gardens, also saw a steady stream of visitors.

Known as the “Daughter of Nature,” Sylhet attracts tourists during every festival season.

Visitors come with their families to enjoy the region’s scenic beauty and tranquil environment.

Thousands of people visited Sada Pathar on the third day of Eid-ul-Adha to enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the rocky river nestled among the hills.

Visitors were captivated by the stunning landscapes, rocky formations, and pristine waters. People of all ages were seen enjoying the festive atmosphere.

On Sunday (June 1), large crowds of tourists gathered at the Sada Pathar tourist spot from early morning. Despite the intense heat, visitors continued to enjoy the destination.

Some cooled off in the clear blue waters, while others took selfies, rode horses, or captured photographs of the picturesque surroundings.

The entire area was filled with excitement and joy.

Sulekha, a college student who traveled from Narayanganj with her family on the third day of Eid, said, “Sada Pathar is an incredibly beautiful place.

We are enjoying our time here very much. However, better infrastructure is needed to enhance the visitor experience.”

Meanwhile, people involved in the tourism sector expressed satisfaction with the large number of visitors.

Small business owners, boat operators, and photographers at the tourist sites said the tourist influx had brought them much-needed economic relief after a prolonged period of hardship.

To manage the large crowds, the Tourist Police and local administration have strengthened security measures across tourist destinations.

Authorities said police personnel have been deployed at key locations to ensure the safety and security of visitors.

Regarding overall tourist safety, the Sylhet Police Administration stated that all necessary measures have been taken to protect visitors.

Police patrols are operating continuously, and any reported incidents are being addressed promptly.

Officer-in-Charge (OC) of Companiganj Police Station, Shafiqul Islam, said the police are maintaining strict vigilance to prevent any disorder.

He added that, alongside the Tourist Police, plainclothes officers have also been deployed to ensure the safety and security of tourists.

Some of Sylhet’s most popular tourist attractions include Jaflong, Sada Pathar, Lalakhal, Sreepur, Ratargul Swamp Forest, Pantumai, Mayaboti Waterfall, Jaintia Rajbari, Dibir Haor, Bichanakandi, Lovachara, Madhabkunda, and numerous tea gardens, as well as the confluence of the Surma, Kushiyara, and Barak rivers.

Other notable attractions include the Surma River flowing through the heart of Sylhet city, Ali Amjad’s Clock, Chandnighat Steps, Raja Gaur Gobind’s Hill, and the shrines of Hazrat Shahjalal (RA) and Hazrat Shah Paran (RA).