Due to the many barriers to travel abroad, interest in domestic travel has increased every year. However, travel destinations within the country are also becoming limited. Sylhet and Moulvibazar are among the most popular destinations.
But in the last two years, traveling there by road now takes twice as long as before, causing tourist interest to wane. Nevertheless, many people still visit these areas. Tourism in Sundarbans is closed from June to August. Sajek in Chattogram Hill Tracts can again witness crowds this Eid. However, Cox’s Bazar is expected to be the most crowded.
The election manifesto of the ruling party BNP states that despite having immense potential, Bangladesh has not yet become a globally recognized tourism-friendly country. Clean and healthy accommodation as well as safe and comfortable travel will be ensured for domestic and foreign tourists. Tourism policies will be updated to make the country a tourist-friendly destination.
Taufiq Rahman, general secretary of PATA Bangladesh chapter, told Prothom Alo that tourism interest is generally low this Eid season. The improvement that was expected after the elections did not happen. Foreigners are not coming.
Many people are unable to travel abroad due to visa complications. Air ticket prices are very high. Interest in domestic travel also decreases during the summer season. Some places like Cox’s Bazar may still attract crowds. He said, but without foreign tourists the country’s tourism sector will not be able to progress.