Tourists swarm tea country during Eid break

Long celebrated as Bangladesh’s tea capital, Sylhet has seen a surge of visitors during the weeklong Eid‑ul‑Fitr holidays, with its tea estates, waterfalls, and eco‑parks turning into bustling hubs of activity.

The seven‑day break, beginning last Tuesday, drew families and groups from across the country to popular destinations in Srimangal, Kamalganj, Jaflong, and Madhabkunda.

Smaller resorts in Srimangal reported full occupancy, while larger establishments reached about 70 percent bookings. Tourism operators noted that advance reservations were slow until late Ramadan but picked up sharply before Eid.

Visitors described both the charms and challenges of the season. “We saw many places on social media, but in reality some spots are overcrowded and not well managed. Still, the tea gardens are peaceful and refreshing,” said Mifta Mia, a university student. Others highlighted cultural encounters, such as visits to Manipuri villages, and praised the visible police presence that gave families confidence to travel.

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Industry insiders said the flow of tourists, though slightly below previous Eid seasons, has brought relief to Moulvibazar’s tourism sector, which supports thousands of families. “Tourists started returning towards the end of Ramadan. However, bookings at large resorts did not reach full capacity,” said Salim Ahmed, a Srimangal entrepreneur.

Key attractions including Lawachhara National Park, Baikka Beel, Hakaluki Haor, Hamham Waterfall, and Madhabkunda drew significant crowds. Yet traffic congestion in Srimangal town caused inconvenience, underscoring the need for better management. Some visitors pointed to the absence of a government‑run tourist centre, arguing that such facilities could boost arrivals and improve oversight.

Superintendent of Police Mohammad Billal Hossain said tourist police and district forces have been deployed to ensure safety and manage crowds.

For many travellers, the Eid journey to Sylhet has become a yearly tradition, blending photography, cultural exploration, and the enduring allure of the tea gardens.