During the recent Eid-ul-Fitr holidays, Sylhet, known as Bangladesh’s tea capital, experienced a surge in tourism activity. The weeklong break, which commenced last Tuesday, attracted families and groups from various parts of the country to popular spots like Srimangal, Kamalganj, Jaflong, and Madhabkunda.
While smaller resorts in Srimangal were fully booked, larger establishments reached around 70 percent occupancy. Tourism operators mentioned a slow start in advance reservations during Ramadan, but there was a significant increase in bookings just before Eid.
Visitors shared mixed reviews about their experiences. Some expressed disappointment at overcrowded and poorly managed locations that they had seen on social media, while others found solace in the peaceful and rejuvenating atmosphere of the tea gardens. Cultural encounters, such as visits to Manipuri villages, were highlighted, along with the reassuring presence of visible police patrols that enhanced the sense of security for traveling families.
Although the tourist influx during this Eid season was slightly lower compared to previous years, it brought relief to the tourism sector in Moulvibazar, which sustains numerous families. Key attractions like Lawachhara National Park, Baikka Beel, Hakaluki Haor, Hamham Waterfall, and Madhabkunda attracted large crowds. However, traffic congestion in Srimangal town underscored the necessity for improved management. Some visitors advocated for the establishment of a government-operated tourist center to enhance visitor experience and oversight.
Superintendent of Police Mohammad Billal Hossain confirmed the deployment of tourist police and district forces to ensure safety and crowd control.
For many holidaymakers, the annual trip to Sylhet during Eid has become a cherished tradition, blending photography, cultural immersion, and the enduring beauty of the tea gardens.