United News of Bangladesh

Saint Martin’s Island is a marvellous blessing of nature on the Bay of Bengal. This heavenly island bestows a cherished retreat for both domestic and foreign visitors drawn to its calm, coral-fringed shores. Despite recent travel restrictions and environmental limitations, tourists still find their way to the country's only coral island. The transport system, however, remains limited; only a few authorised ships operate on fixed schedules. Ticketing and travel pass regulations are now more stringent, with tied permits for visits and overnight stays. Let’s unravel all the necessary details of how tourists can visit Saint Martin in the tourist season (2025–26). Saint Martin Visiting Time This Winter Considering the weather conditions and safety protocols, passenger ships to Saint Martin’s Island are permitted to operate only upon approval from the concerned administration. For the ongoing open season, travel is allowed from November 1, 2025, to January 2026. Read more: Visit Saint Martin, Coral Island, Bangladesh: Piece of Paradise on Bay of Bengal During November, visitors must complete their trips within the same day, as overnight stays are restricted. However, from December through January, night halts are authorised, enabling short-term accommodation under regulated supervision. BIWTA Jetty, Cox's Bazar: The Only Departure for Saint Martin Trip For security and administrative reasons, all authorised tourist vessels to the coral island will operate solely from Cox’s Bazar. The Teknaf and Ukhia Inani routes remain legally prohibited. Only authorised passenger ships are allowed to operate; small boats, trawlers, and speedboats remain strictly prohibited under current regulations. Ships will depart from the Nuniya Chhara BIWTA Ghat between 7:00 and 10:00 a.m., their schedules aligned with the low tide. Return journeys from the island are set between 3:00 and 6:00 p.m., also based on tidal conditions. Depending on weather and sea currents, the voyage typically takes five to five and a half hours each way. Read more: St Martin’s reopens, but no ships sail as overnight stays banned Visitors may remain on the island without a fixed time limit during December and January, when night stays are allowed.

The 12th Asian Tourism Fair 2025 will kick off in Dhaka on Thursday. This fair will be held from September 18-20 at the International Convention City Bashundhara in Dhaka. A press conference in this regard was held at a city hotel on Tuesday, said a press release. Mahiuddin Helal, Editor Porjatan Bichitra and chairman of Asian Tourism Fair, said, "As part of the World Tourism Day, the Asian Tourism Fair will inject momentum into Bangladesh's tourism industry. This fair is a significant milestone to showcase the country's hotels, resorts, cruises, airlines, theme parks, tour operators and travel agencies to the global market." The entry fee for visitors is fixed at Tk 30. The fair will be open from 10 am to 7 pm every day.  

Bangladesh’s tourism industry continues to lag behind its South Asian peers, with a decline reported in the business last year, apparently due to deterioration in political stability and law and order. The situation is feared to deteriorate further, with sites of cultural heritage and events of traditional celebration being constantly targeted in attacks, often by radical Islamists, and their masterminds enjoying impunity. In stark contrast to other South Asian countries, the contribution of the tourism industry to Bangladesh’s economy is only about three per cent. “Bangladesh is not considered a safe tourist destination by many nations,” said Kamrul Hassan, who teaches tourism and hospitality at Dhaka University. “You could say the level of security tourists expect is largely absent. Bangladesh’s portrayal in foreign media also discourages a lot of international travelers,” he said. Tourism experts preferred to call Bangladesh not tourism-friendly. Govt seeks to build skilled manpower in tourism sector: NSDA Fresh areas, such as peaceful political settlements, evaded the Chittagong Hill Tracts, while Rohingya infiltration into Cox’s Bazar, the main tourist destination of the country, gave rise to a sense of insecurity. The World Economic Forum placed Bangladesh in 109th position in its latest ranking of countries in regard to the size of their tourism industries. The ranking covered the year 2024 and was published in January. Published every three years, Bangladesh lost 9 places on the ranking, considering its 100th position in 2021. The latest slip came following consecutive improvement in the business since 2017, when the WEF ranked Bangladesh at 125th. Tourism businesses rebound following political unrest and the Covid-19 pandemic in Sri Lanka, the Maldives and Thailand. “It did not happen randomly. The countries took strong steps to revitalise their tourism business,” said Kamrul. According to the Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation’s latest data, while tourism accounts for around 10 percent of global GDP, its contribution to Bangladesh’s GDP remains only 3 percent. In contrast, all of Bangladesh’s neighbors—India, Nepal, Bhutan, the Maldives and Sri Lanka—boast stronger tourism sectors. The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) reported that India earned INR 3.1 trillion (USD 37 billion) from tourism in 2024.  TOAB to host Bangladesh's largest International Tourism Fair from October 30 According to the Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB), tourism income rose from NPR 62.3 billion in FY 2022-23 to NPR 82.33 billion in FY 2023-24, contributing 6 percent to the country’s GDP. In 2024, Nepal welcomed nearly 1.2 million foreign tourists, compared to just around 650,000 in Bangladesh. Even Pakistan ranked above Bangladesh at 101st position on the WEF’s latest Travel and Tourism Development Index 2024, scoring 3.41 out of 7 compared to Bangladesh’s score of 3.19. The Pakistan Business Council estimates tourism contributes over 5 percent to its GDP, generating nearly USD 20 billion in 2024—far higher than Bangladesh’s earnings of under USD 3 billion. The Maldives remains the most tourism-reliant economy in South Asia, with 68 percent of its GDP dependent on the sector. Over 1.5 million tourists visit the island nation annually, each spending an average of USD 2,500, according to its statistics bureau. Sri Lanka, despite economic setbacks, managed to increase foreign tourist arrivals and income. An Asian Development Bank (ADB) report noted that India’s tourism receipts grew from USD 32.2 billion in 2023 to USD 35.02 billion in 2024. Sri Lanka’s income also rose by USD 1.01 billion year-on-year to USD 3.17 billion. Tourism restrictions lifted in parts of Bandarban nearly after a year In sharp contrast, Bangladesh’s earnings from foreign tourists fell in 2024. The ADB report said the country earned USD 453 million in 2023, which dropped to USD 440 million in 2024. Industry insiders blame lack of diversity as another major obstacle to expanding Bangladesh’s tourism business. They say that tourists often have little reason to revisit tourist destinations. “Bangladesh has no plan to attract tourists. The sector looks as it did decades ago,” said Shoeb-Ur-Rahman, associate professor at Dhaka University’s Tourism and Hospitality Management Department. He stressed the need for detailed data on tourist arrivals—both domestic and foreign—their preferences, repeat visits, and feedback, to redesign the sector. “We must learn why Bali or Pattaya attract repeat visitors while Cox’s Bazar does not,” he said. Tourists often complain of syndicates controlling every aspect of travel—from hotels to food to transport, leaving tourists with the feeling of being ripped off.  “In Cox’s Bazar, hotel rates and food are excessively high, with almost every trader exploiting tourists,” said Humayun Rashid, who recently visited the beach town with his family. Labiba Habib, founder of the tour group Let’s Explore World, noted that unlike Bangladesh, where tourism is limited to hills and beaches, other countries offer diverse attractions. “In many destinations, tourists enjoy freedom in both urban and natural sites, while here people feel judged for what they do,” she said. Urban tourism is also overlooked. Cities like Delhi, Bangkok, Jakarta and Tokyo attract millions, while Dhaka lacks any major tourism plan or appeal, experts say. “Dhaka’s haphazard urban landscape with its infamous traffic tailbacks scares away tourists,” said Adil Muhammed Khan, president of the Bangladesh Institute of Planners. Political stability is another prerequisite to expand tourism, said Md Rafeuzzaman, president of the Tour Operators Association of Bangladesh (TOAB). Bangladesh is expecting to hold its national election in February next year with political parties confronting each other or the police in violent clashes. Major city streets often get blocked by protesters without any prior announcement. Security experts warned that the situation might not improve until well after the national election, prompting fears of the tourism business further declining in the coming days. 

The World's 50 Best Beaches platform, renowned for curating coastal destinations across the globe, has unveiled its anticipated 2025 rankings. This latest compilation celebrates the finest shores that blend natural beauty with pristine conditions. Claiming the coveted top spot this year is Italy’s Cala Goloritze, a striking Mediterranean gem. Let’s explore the key highlights and details that earned this idyllic haven global recognition. About Cala Goloritze Beach Tucked along the Baunei Coast on Sardinia’s eastern edge, this breathtaking cove stands apart from the island’s extensive 1,000-mile shoreline. Sardinia is dotted with countless scenic beaches. Among them, this secluded stretch in the Gulf of Orosei’s southern reaches offers a raw, untouched allure that few can rival. Daily visitor numbers are capped at just 250 to preserve its delicate ecosystem. Yet, those who make the effort are rewarded with a scene born from nature’s drama. It includes towering limestone cliffs, crystalline waters, and a dramatic rock spire shaped by a 1960s landslide. Read more: Hong Kong’s Cloud-Covered Kowloon Peak Resembles Mount Fuji, Sparking Tourist Surge Its striking natural features and ecological significance led to official recognition in the early 1990s. First declared a regional natural monument in 1993, it was further honoured with national monument status by 1995. What Makes Cala Goloritze So Special Along Sardinia’s Baunei Coast, where dramatic cliffs meet sapphire seas, one secluded cove rises above the rest for its exceptional character. Framed by a soaring 143-metre limestone pinnacle, the setting combines natural drama with serene clarity. Its waters are so pure they seem almost unreal. This rare harmony of elements sets the area apart, even amid a coastline renowned for its beauty. Preservation remains at the heart of its allure. Stringent conservation policies include limiting footfall, banning motorised access, and barring boats from docking. All these have helped maintain the site’s pristine condition. No roads carve through its landscape, and no unchecked development mars its rugged charm. Read more: Yemeni Island Socotra: The Most Alien-Looking Place On Earth Drawing Global Wanderers When judges unveiled the beach as the world’s finest, they reflected on how its unspoiled beauty evokes a powerful emotional response. They noted that whether one observes it from the cliffs above or stands at the water’s edge, the experience lingers. Best Season to Visit Travellers hoping to sidestep peak-season crowds would do well to look beyond July and August. These two months, though popular, often bring a surge of visitors that can overwhelm the serenity. For a quieter experience without sacrificing sunshine, June and September offer the perfect compromise. These shoulder months balance mild weather with a calmer atmosphere, allowing the landscape to be appreciated in peace. How to Reach Cala Goloritze Getting to this remote coastal haven takes planning and a fair bit of determination. Its isolation isn’t accidental but a deliberate measure to preserve the purity of its setting. Unlike more accessible beaches, this stretch of Sardinian coastline offers no shortcuts. Read more: Chongqing, The 3D City: Chinese Megacity Looking Like AI-Generated There are only two routes in: a challenging hike or a swim from the sea. Boats are allowed to approach, but only up to 200 metres from the shore. From there, it’s the swimmer’s effort that completes the journey. On land, the journey begins well before the trailhead. Travellers must fly into either Olbia or Cagliari, followed by a scenic 2.5-hour drive to Sa Porteddu. That’s where the footpath begins, open daily from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. The beach itself closes promptly at 5 p.m. Entry is limited and managed strictly. Advance online reservations are essential, as on-the-spot access can’t be guaranteed. The hike takes roughly 90 minutes each way, cutting through rugged terrain that mirrors the untamed character. To reach the shoreline by water, rental services from Arbatax or Santa Maria Navarrese, both nearby ports, provide the most comfortable marine route. Even then, strict regulations prevent motorboat traffic from disturbing the last 200 metres. Read more: Wales’s Stream in the Sky: World’s Tallest Navigable Aqueduct Pontcysyllte

What began as a curious alteration to a local hillside quickly spiralled into a nationwide stir. A summit, once unassuming, now draws attention for its unexpected resemblance to Japan’s iconic Mount Fuji. The transformation, triggered by a smoky grey cloud, sparked a wave of online amusement and confusion. Some locals, too, have remarked on the uncanny similarity, especially when the peak is veiled in cloud. At the centre of it all stands Kowloon Peak. Let's get to know how this phenomenon came to be and how tourists have responded to this spectacle. A Viral View from Quarry Bay From the corner of Healthy Street East and King's Road in Quarry Bay, an unexpected spectacle took shape. This single vantage point offered the only angle precise enough to capture the illusion in full – Kowloon Peak appearing as a snow-capped giant. It was here that the now-famous photographs were taken, just as drifting clouds brushed the summit. The moment aligned perfectly, framing the peak in a way that mimicked the serene silhouette of Mt Fuji. Playfully nicknamed the ‘snow cap matcha volcano’ by amused onlookers, the hill's uncanny resemblance quickly lit up social media. As photos made their rounds online, intrigue followed. The scene, complete with urban foreground and misty ridgeline, lacked only a convenience store to complete the Fuji-like composition. Read more: Yemeni Island Socotra: The Most Alien-Looking Place On Earth Drawing Global Wanderers Compelled by the viral snapshots, several residents made their way to Quarry Bay. Not just to see the hill itself but to stand where the camera did. A similar moment unfolded in Thailand last year. A photo of Khao Ok Talu beside a 7-Eleven drew comparisons to the iconic Lawson snapshot beneath Mt Fuji. About Kowloon Peak Locally known as Fei Ngo Shan, meaning ‘Soaring Goose Mountain’, this peak rises prominently from the northeast edge of New Kowloon. At 1,975 feet, it claims the title of the highest point in the Kowloon region. Tucked within Ma On Shan Country Park, its rugged slopes straddle the border between Sai Kung and Wong Tai Sin districts. Two of Hong Kong’s well-known hiking routes, the Wilson Trail and the MacLehose Trail, cut across its terrain. The route makes a favoured challenge for avid trekkers. Geologically, the peak is built on a foundation of volcanic rocks, particularly tuffs, with solid granite forming its lower reaches. Its natural formation, layered and textured, lends it a raw, untamed character rarely mirrored in artificial landscapes. Read more: Chongqing, The 3D City: Chinese Megacity Looking Like AI-Generated Echoes of Mount Fuji's Symmetry Veiled in mist and rising behind the city’s frame of glass and concrete, Kowloon Peak appears almost sculpted. The way the cloud clings to its summit lends it a hushed, snow-draped elegance. From this perspective, its form takes on a quiet grandeur, unexpectedly reminiscent of a distant volcano. In contrast, Mount Fuji presents a near-perfect cone, its snowy peak often floating above soft horizons. Where Fuji looms with serene isolation, Kowloon Peak surprises, emerging from urban chaos with a momentary stillness. It doesn’t mimic Fuji’s symmetry, yet echoes its silhouette in a fleeting, almost cinematic illusion. Though vastly humbler in scale and fame, the misty peak carves out its own quiet allure. It may lack the majestic sweep and spiritual weight of Mount Fuji, but it doesn’t seek comparison. Instead, it captivates in its own right—less a rival, more a reminder that even modest peaks can inspire awe. Reactions Surrounding Mount Fuji of Hong Kong What began as a light-hearted post on Threads soon rippled across social media, pulling in thousands of viewers intrigued by the resemblance. The buzz caught fire quickly. Some viewers found humour in the comparison, suggesting that all it needed was a denser veil of clouds. Others embraced the idea that this ‘Hong Kong version’ had its own appeal, a kind of localised charm distinct from its Japanese counterpart. Read more: Wales’s Stream in the Sky: World’s Tallest Navigable Aqueduct Pontcysyllte However, several visitors who came after seeing the picturesque images confessed to a sense of disappointment. For them, the so-called ‘mountain’ was little more than an ordinary hill. Some lamented how easy it is to be misled by carefully framed photographs. It pointed to this episode as yet another example of online visuals setting unrealistic expectations. Despite the divided opinions, the view did manage to impress a few passersby. Some expressed genuine appreciation for the scenery, calling it unexpectedly beautiful. Others stopped to capture the moment themselves, aware of the growing online attention. A number of visitors returned to the same vantage point in hopes of replicating the famed composition. Not all succeeded; many missed the fleeting cloud formations that gave the illusion its power. For Hikers, It's More Than Just A View Multiple trails snake their way toward the summit, with routes branching off from both Jat's Incline and Fei Ngo Shan Road. These provide varying levels of challenge, but one, in particular, casts a long shadow over the others. An infamous ascent that has come to be known as Suicide Cliff. Read more: Smiling Quokka Turned Rottnest Island into a Global Tourist Hotspot Despite its ominous name, the moniker does not stem from tragedy but rather from the sheer danger posed by its terrain. This vertical scramble, beginning from Clear Water Bay Road, isn’t a traditional hiking path. It’s an exposed rock face that demands agility, courage, and luck. The risk is not theoretical; the climb has been marked by real peril, including accidents and fatalities. One dramatic incident even saw 160 firefighters deployed in a large-scale rescue when two tourists found themselves stranded. For most hikers, however, the thrill of reaching the peak need not involve danger. Fei Ngo Shan Road offers a far gentler approach, one that rewards effort with breathtaking views, not unnecessary risk. Final Words Hong Kong's clouded Kowloon Peak, as seen from Quarry Bay, drew comparisons to Mount Fuji for its misty silhouette. The image sparked mixed reactions online – some were amused, others felt misled. Hikers, however, admire it for the thrill of Suicide Cliff and its challenging trails. Amid Hong Kong’s dense cityscape, the peak offers a rare blend of rugged beauty and quiet reflection. It proves that even in the chaos of urban life, moments of natural grace can still hold meaning. Read more: UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Bangladesh

 

Travelling during the summer in Bangladesh often comes with a major challenge: the persistent heat wave. Scorching temperatures, humidity, and overcrowded destinations make conventional holiday plans uncomfortable and exhausting. Amid such conditions, the need for cooler travel destinations becomes essential, especially during Eid vacation, when relaxation is a priority. Quiet retreats surrounded by greenery, water, or hill breezes offer a welcome break from the sweltering weather and festive rush. Let’s explore 10 peaceful Eid summer escapes across Bangladesh that offer both comfort and tranquillity. 10 Summer Getaways in Bangladesh for the Eid Celebration . Hill of China Clay, Netrokona Tucked away in Bijoypur, Durgapur, in the Netrokona District, ‘China Matir Pahar’ presents a rare geological charm in the northern part of Bangladesh. Positioned close to the Meghalayan border, the area offers scenic glimpses of distant Indian hills, enriching the visual appeal of the terrain. The hills themselves are modest in height but carry a distinct sense of adventure. Climbing to the top rewards visitors with a quiet, elevated view, simple yet striking. Nearby, the Blue Water Lake gently mirrors the surrounding slopes, its still waters tinted with a soft, soothing blue that adds to the tranquil setting. Read more: Wales’s Stream in the Sky: World’s Tallest Navigable Aqueduct Pontcysyllte Unlike other Eid destinations, this retreat remains largely untouched by crowds, making it ideal for a peaceful holiday escape. It's well-suited for a single-day outing, with a timely return before nightfall. Regular train and bus services leaving Dhaka ensure convenient access, with train travel offering a more economical choice. New Zealand Para, Khagrachari A village called ‘Pankhaiya Para’ lies just within one and a half kilometres from the Khagrachari district headquarters. It blends seamlessly with parts of nearby Perachhara, creating what locals fondly refer to as ‘New Zealand Para.’ The road linking the two villages carries the fitting name New Zealand Road. This area presents the district’s sole stretch of true plain land, yet it rests in graceful harmony with surrounding emerald hills. Croplands ripple toward the horizon, while distant waterfalls and a murmuring river animate the scene. White clouds drift across a cobalt sky, and newly built homesteads nestle between slopes. They complete a panorama reminiscent of the South Pacific countryside. Khagrachari can be reached directly by bus from Dhaka. From the town centre, a short ride by CNG or auto-rickshaw can take visitors to the New Zealand Para. The celebrated Hazachhara waterfall lies close at hand and may be added to the same day’s excursion. Read more: Smiling Quokka Turned Rottnest Island into a Global Tourist Hotspot Niladri Lake, Sunamganj Sunamganj offers a magical combination of rewarding sights. Among these, Niladri Lake in Tekerghat, Tahirpur Upazila, stands out as a priority destination. Also known as Shaheed Siraj Lake, it captivates with still waters, scattered stone beds, and glimpses of Meghalaya’s hills on the horizon. Located close to the renowned Tanguar Haor, many visitors combine both sites into one seamless trip. The natural symmetry between the lake, hills, and haor creates a tranquil experience. Reaching the location is straightforward. A direct bus journey from the capital to Sunamganj and a short autorickshaw ride complete the journey to Niladri Lake. Boga Lake and Sangu River, Bandarban Tucked into the hills of Bandarban, both Boga Lake and the Sangu River present landscapes that blend silence with spectacle. Sangu, with its ever-winding course through dense green hills, offers one of the most captivating river journeys in the country. A boat ride across its glassy surface feels almost surreal, as if chasing a hill that never arrives. Read more: UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Bangladesh Boga Lake, resting at 1,246 feet above sea level, contrasts with its stillness and myth. Encircled by deep green highlands, the lake draws attention not just for its beauty but also for local legends surrounding a mythical dragon. Reaching this remote lake involves a rugged ride on a 'Chander Gari.' Cottages near Boga Lake offer lodging options, making overnight stays feasible. A lakeside barbecue amid the hills is a popular Eid activity. For those seeking more, a trek to Keokradong, one of Bangladesh’s highest peaks, awaits, provided time and stamina align. Bichnakandi, Sylhet Gowainghat's Bichnakandi presents a spellbinding travel destination, located about 40 km from Sylhet City. Here cascading waters meet rocky riverbeds in a serene embrace. One stream flows from the base of India’s Khasi Hills into the Piain River, while another has carved its own natural course. Small river islands, dotted with houses, add an ethereal layer to the already surreal landscape. Distant mountains seem to shield this little paradise, enhancing its seclusion. Passing through the Sylhet Airport Road bypass, you can reach Hadarpar within about two and a half hours. A one-hour boat ride from there leads to Bichnakandi. To experience the area in full, nearby sites like Barahil, Panthumai Falls, and Lakshanachara are worth including. Read more: City Guide to Bangkok, Thailand for Bangladeshis Khoiyachora Falls, Mirsharai Hidden deep within the folds of Mirsharai, Khoiyachora Waterfall flows through nine distinct cascades, each echoing its rhythm. The sound of rushing water reaches as far as Thakurda Dighi, while the journey leading to it unfolds like a living landscape. The enthralling village trails, narrow bamboo bridges, and forest-carved paths will gradually lead you upward across four hills. Every step forward feels like stepping away from the noise of modernity. The soothing murmur of water blending with chirping cicadas and rustling leaves can remove your stress from routined life. Bathing beneath the falls offers a sense of renewal, while a night in a tent under firefly light and full moon glow will leave lasting impressions in the travellers' minds. Access begins with a bus from Dhaka to Chittagong, getting off at Baratakia Bazar near Khoiyachora Ideal School. Alternatively, intercity trains can drop travellers at Feni station. From Mahipal, local buses take visitors to the school, where a CNG ride marks the final approach to Jhiri, the beginning of the trek. Read more: City Guide to Kathmandu, Nepal for Bangladeshis Tea Garden and Lawachhara, Moulvibazar Sreemangal and Kamalganj Upazilas hold a distinct charm, enriched by the Manipuri community and their traditions. Nature and heritage seamlessly coexist here. Kamalganj, a tourism hotspot, houses Lawachhara National Park, one of Bangladesh’s few evergreen forest reserves. Its wild trails lead to the remote Hamham waterfall, while the tranquil Madhabpur Lake and Adampur forest showcase the region’s biodiversity. The surrounding region boasts Hakaluki Haor, Madhabkunda Falls, Baikkabil bird sanctuary, Gagan Thila, and the floating village of Antehari. From tea gardens in Mathiura to the iconic seven-layer tea in Sreemangal, the area is layered in diversity. Travellers can reach Sreemangal by bus or train originating in Dhaka. From there, Kamalganj is accessible via local transport. Kaptai Lake in Rangamati As the largest man-made lake in South Asia, Kaptai Lake appears like a stretch of sky trapped in water. Surrounded by green hills and dotted with waterfalls, the lake offers quiet grandeur. Read more: Safety Precautions for Traveling on Buses or Public Transport at Night A boat ride across its vast expanse becomes a meditative experience. With nothing but sky above and deep green below, the stillness feels infinite. The famed suspension bridge and the cascading Shuvolong waterfall mark its signature sights. After reaching Chittagong from Dhaka, travellers can take a Kaptai-bound bus from Baddarhat Bus Stand to reach Rangamati. Chalan Beel, Natore Spanning parts of Natore, Sirajganj, and Pabna, Chalan Beel stands as Bangladesh’s largest pond (beel). It is a combination of small wetlands that merge into one vast sheet during the monsoon. The true beauty of this wetland emerges during the rainy season. The journey begins in the heart of the capital, with a Rajshahi-bound bus best exited at Kachikata in Natore. From there, Khubjipur village near Chachkoir Bazar offers the most vivid view of this sprawling beel. The Chalan Beel Museum, located nearby, adds context to the region’s ecological and cultural depth. Read more: Top Reasons Why London Is Tripadvisor's Best Travel Destination for 2025 Don't miss Natore’s signature Kachgolla. Here you can experience an exclusive local sweet treat and create an unforgettable memory. Nikli Haor, Kishoreganj Scattered settlements resemble floating islands, while boat rides reveal scenes of fishing nets, shimmering water, and wetlands brimming with natural beauty. The Nikli Upazila of Kishoreganj is a heavenly place where the haor becomes a stage for bringing sky, water, and village life together. Visitors often spot nightshade groves rising gently from the water. Freshly caught fish from the haor are a culinary highlight for many. Trains from Dhaka reach Manikkhali or Gachihata stations, just before Kishoreganj Sadar. From either of these points, Nikli is about 14 kilometres away. You can reach there by local transport like a bike or CNG. Read more: Visa-free Travel for Bangladeshi Passport Holders in 2025: Top Destinations to Explore Alternatively, you can reach Katiadi Upazila by bus. Arriving at the Katiadi bus stand, it will take about a 22km ride by CNG to reach the haor’s gateway at Nikli Sadar. Bottom Line Ten stunning travel destinations promise serene summer escapes for peaceful Eid celebrations across Bangladesh. China Clay Hill, New Zealand Para, Bichnakandi, and the serene trails of Tea Gardens and Lawachhara whisper nature’s calm. Niladri Lake shimmers beside the rugged charm of Boga Lake and the winding Sangu River. Khoiyachora Falls roars through hills, while Kaptai Lake reflects a vast green silence. Chalan Beel stretches in monsoon glory, and Nikli Haor floats in still, watery wonder. These exotic tourist spots within Bangladesh can offer quiet, scenic, and mysterious experiences during the Eid vacation. Read more: Langkawi Travel Guide 2025: Top Things to Do in Malaysia’s Jewel of Kedah

Sylhet, renowned for its scenic landscapes and spiritual heritage, is gearing up to host around  15 lakh tourists during the upcoming Eid holidays, with hotels and resorts already nearing full occupancy. The district, celebrated for its picturesque tea gardens, rolling hills, and sacred shrines, is a top destination for holidaymakers. Key attractions such as Jaflong, Sada Pathor, Lalakhal, Ratargul Swamp Forest, Bichnakandi, and Madhabkunda Waterfall are expected to draw massive crowds. Tourists discouraged from visiting Sajek after devastating fire Other notable sites include Jaintia Rajbari, Bir Haor, Lovachara, and the tri-river confluence of Surma, Kushiyara, and Barak Mohana in Zakiganj. Sylhet’s rich cultural and historical landmarks, including Kin Bridge, Ali Amjad’s Clock, Chandni Ghat, the shrines of Hazrat Shahjalal (RA) and Hazrat Shah Paran (RA), Khadimnagar National Park, and Raja Gour Govinda’s Tila, further enhance its appeal. Authorities have completed clean-up and beautification drives at major tourist spots to ensure a pleasant experience for visitors. Tourism Boom & Business Optimism Mazharul Islam Sadiq, President of the Sylhet Tourist Club, confirmed that most hotels and motels are fully booked. “We anticipate around 1.5 million tourists this Eid,” he said. Faiz Hasan Ferdaus, Acting President of the Sylhet Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said extended holiday and suspension of India’s visa services could drive even higher tourist numbers. “About 60-70% of accommodations are already reserved, signaling strong business prospects,” he added. Favorable Weather & Enhanced Security Shah Md. Sajib Hossain, Assistant Meteorologist at the Sylhet Meteorological Office, said the region will experience clear skies and temperatures between 35-36°C during Eid week, offering ideal conditions for travel. To ensure visitor safety, district administrations have ramped up security measures. Ratan Kumar Adhikari, UNO of Gowainghat, said Jaflong’s improved infrastructure will facilitate smoother travel. Over 500 tourists stranded at Sajek amid ‘gunfight’ in Rangamati  

Bangkok, the vibrant capital of Thailand, is a dream destination for many travellers, including Bangladeshis. Known for its dazzling temples, bustling street markets, incredible nightlife, and mouthwatering cuisine, Bangkok offers a perfect mix of tradition and modernity.  Whether you are a first-time visitor or a returning traveller, this travel guide will help you explore the best attractions, food, shopping destinations, and travel tips to make your trip from Bangladesh to Bangkok smooth and enjoyable.  Best Things to Do . Explore Chinatown One of the most energetic areas in Bangkok, Chinatown is a paradise for food lovers and photographers. Walk along Yaowarat Road, where you will find sizzling street food, gold shops, and vibrant temples. At night, Chinatown transforms into a lively dining hotspot with vendors selling everything from dim sum to roasted duck. Read more: City Guide to Kathmandu, Nepal for Bangladeshis

Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal, is a mesmerising destination rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Known as the "City of Temples," Kathmandu offers a unique blend of traditional heritage and modern attractions. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or a foodie, Kathmandu has something for everyone. For Bangladeshis, Nepal is an accessible and affordable travel destination with visa-on-arrival facilities. Let's dive into a detailed city guide to Kathmundu with the best places to see, exciting things to do, and adventurous activities to explore. Best Things to Do in Kathmand . Explore Swayambhunath Stupa – The Monkey Temple Swayambhunath, known as the Monkey Temple, is one of Kathmandu’s iconic landmarks. Perched on a hill, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the valley. The temple, dating back over 2,000 years, is accessed by climbing 365 steps, where playful monkeys may accompany your journey.  Reaching the top of the temple, you can explore the stupa, enjoy its intricate artwork, and embrace the peaceful spiritual atmosphere. This site is perfect for photography and quiet reflection, making it a must-visit for holidaymakers. Experience the Vibrant Streets of Thamel Thamel is the lively heart of Kathmandu, known for its bustling streets, markets, cafes, and restaurants. Here, you can shop for Nepali souvenirs, enjoy local delicacies, and experience the blend of Nepali culture and modern conveniences. Thamel is also a hub for nightlife, making it a great place to relax after a day of sightseeing and exploring. Read more: Safety Precautions for Traveling on Buses or Public Transport at Night Visit Bhaktapur – A UNESCO World Heritage Site Located just outside Kathmandu, Bhaktapur is a short drive away and rich in cultural history. The city boasts impressive temples like Nyatapola Temple and the 55-Window Palace. As you stroll through its narrow streets, you will encounter traditional Newari architecture, local crafts, and vibrant squares like Taumadhi Square. B Bhaktapur is also famous for its food, especially the delicious momo (dumplings). A visit here will take you back in time, immersing you in the mediaeval charm of Nepal. Discover Pashupatinath Temple Pashupatinath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu sites in Nepal, is located along the Bagmati River. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it attracts millions of pilgrims annually. The sprawling temple complex is home to numerous shrines and pagodas, where visitors can witness religious ceremonies, including public cremations on the riverbanks. The site provides a peaceful yet powerful experience, offering deep insight into Hindu rituals and spiritual practices. Read more: Top Reasons Why London Is Tripadvisor's Best Travel Destination for 2025