Sylhet set to welcome tourist influx as Eid hotel bookings nearly full

As the much-awaited Eid-ul-Fitr holidays approach, Sylhet is set to become the ultimate holiday destination, with hotel bookings already reaching impressive numbers. With around 70% of cottages in popular tourist spots and nearly 50% of hotel, motel, and resort rooms already reserved, the region is bracing for an influx of visitors seeking to enjoy a well-deserved break after a month of fasting.

This year, the Eid holidays are expected to last 5-6 days, thanks to an extended break, with Eid falling on either March 31 or April 1, depending on the moon sighting. The long holiday has led to an increased demand for accommodations, signaling a peak tourist season for Sylhet, especially with families planning to travel and unwind in this picturesque region.

Known as the "daughter of nature," Sylhet offers a unique blend of stunning hills, rivers, lush tea gardens, and spiritual sites, making it a favourite for both local and international travelers. Eid sees an even larger crowd flock to Sylhet, as millions seek relaxation and rejuvenation in its serene landscapes, including iconic destinations like Jaflong, Sadapathar, Bichnakandi, Ratargul Swamp Forest, Pantumai, and the Digontojora tea gardens. Many also visit the revered shrines of Hazrat Shahjalal (RA) and Hazrat Shahparan (RA), adding a spiritual touch to their getaway.

With high-quality hotels filling up fast, Jewel Ahmed, General Manager of Hotel Sylhet Inn in Mirboxtula, shared that two-thirds of the hotel’s rooms have already been booked for the week after Eid, and the remaining rooms are expected to sell out in the coming days. He urged tourists to secure their bookings early to avoid any last-minute disappointments.

To ensure smooth and safe travel, Sumat Noori Chowdhury Jewel, former president of the Sylhet Hotel and Guest House Owners Group, confirmed that all preparations have been made to welcome tourists. Hotels across the district have been renovated and redecorated to enhance the guest experience.

However, while tourism business owners remain hopeful, Abdul Jabbar Jalil, former president of the Association of Travel Agents of Bangladesh (ATAB), expressed concerns over recent reports of increased incidents of theft and robbery, which could affect the overall tourist experience. Despite this, he remains optimistic about the recovery of the tourism sector, which was severely impacted by recent floods and political unrest.

In response, District Police Media Focal Point Officer Md Samrat Talukder assured that additional security measures have been implemented at all key tourist spots. The tourist police will collaborate with local authorities, and both plainclothes and uniformed officers will be deployed to ensure the safety of visitors.

Deputy Commissioner Sher Mahbub Murad added that the district administration has made all necessary preparations to ensure a smooth and enjoyable tourist experience during the Eid holidays. Special guides will be stationed at tourist centers to assist visitors with any inquiries or directions.

With preparations in full swing and security measures tightened, Sylhet is all set to offer a memorable Eid experience, blending nature, spirituality, and hospitality into a perfect holiday package.