Rangamati, Dec 21 (V7N) –On the occasion of the weekend holidays on Friday and Saturday, the hill district of Rangamati has witnessed a massive influx of tourists.
Thousands of visitors have flocked to the scenic district surrounded by lakes and hills. The district’s tourist spots are bustling with activity, leaving no space unoccupied.
This surge in tourism has revitalized the local tourism-dependent businesses.
Meanwhile, Sajek, a tourist hotspot in the Baghaichhari upazila, renowned as the kingdom of clouds, is also abuzz with visitors.
According to tourism-related businesses, approximately 4,000 tourists visited Sajek over the past two days.
During the weekend holidays, Rangamati has become a vibrant hub for tourists, with groups arriving from various regions of the country.
Visitors are exploring popular spots such as Kaptai Lake, the Hanging Bridge, Polwell Park, Aranyak Resort, and Sajek.
Over the past few months, restrictions on tourist visits due to various disruptions had severely impacted Rangamati's tourism business.
The recent wave of tourists seems to have reopened opportunities for tourism-related businesses.
Mohammad Salauddin, owner of Hotel Cosmos Inn in Rangamati, said: “About 80% of our rooms are booked for the weekend holidays, and we also have advanced bookings for the coming week.”
Jasim Uddin, a Mahindra vehicle driver on the Khagrachhari-Sajek road, said: “This morning, nearly 100 small vehicles (Mahindras, CNG auto-rickshaws) and around 200 large vehicles (jeeps, pickups) left Khagrachhari for Sajek. Sajek is currently hosting a large number of tourists.”
Rahul Chakma, the organizational secretary of the Sajek Resort and Cottage Owners Association, said: “Sajek is now full of tourists, with no vacant spaces. On Friday alone, nearly 4,000 tourists visited Sajek. Last night, many had to stay outside as the resorts were fully booked. Even this morning, tourists from various regions of the country have arrived at Sajek. Most of the resorts are already booked until December 31.”
The president of the Sajek Resort and Cottage Owners Association, Suporno Dev Barman, said: “All resorts in Sajek are currently running at full capacity. The remaining days of this month are also fully booked.”
Abhirup Das, a tourist from Chittagong visiting Rangamati, shared his experience, saying: “It feels amazing to visit the city of hills and lakes in Rangamati. The clear blue waters of the lake evoke an indescribable thrill in my heart. However, more innovative features should be added for the entertainment of tourists here.”
Dalia, a tourist from Khulna, said: “I have visited Rangamati before. I love the mountains, lakes, Shubhalong Waterfall, and Rajban Bihar here. The natural beauty of this place mesmerizes me.”
Tourism Corporation officials said that tourists have been able to enjoy nature comfortably, thanks to adequate security and a pleasant environment.
Alok Bikash Chakma, manager of Rangamati Tourism Holiday Complex, said: “Over 6,000 tourists visited Rangamati during the two weekend days. Currently, 90% of our motel rooms are booked. We also have bookings until December 27 for the Christmas holiday.”
END/MSS/AJ
Comment: