A vast stretch of white sand, flowing river water, open skies and a changing natural landscape have turned Padma’s Middle Char into a potential new tourism destination in Rajshahi.
Known locally as the “mini Switzerland”, the river island offers a unique blend of sandbanks, waterways and rural life. The scenery changes with the seasons, with vast sandy expanses emerging during the dry season and the river dominating the landscape during monsoon. The nickname reflects the area’s scenic appeal rather than any official designation.
During winter, the long stretches of sand, the Padma’s waters and the horizon create a picturesque setting that attracts visitors seeking a break from urban life.
Located close to Rajshahi City, Middle Char could become a major river-based tourism attraction if developed with proper planning, safe transport and environment-friendly infrastructure. Boating, sunrise and sunset views, photography and experiences of local culture could form the basis of a tourism package.
The addition of Middle Char to Rajshahi’s tourism map could create a new circuit connecting river tourism with existing attractions such as the Padma riverbank, Varendra Research Museum and Puthia’s historic temple complex. However, safety remains a major concern. As a seasonal river island, the risks are different from conventional tourist spots.
Authorities would need to ensure safe boats, life jackets, trained operators, controlled passenger numbers and emergency rescue facilities.
Visitors would also require designated safe areas, warning signs at risky locations, first-aid facilities and trained rescue teams, particularly during periods of rough weather and strong currents. Environmental protection will be equally important. Unplanned construction, plastic waste, excessive commercial activity and pollution could damage the natural beauty that has made Middle Char attractive.
Experts believe tourism development should focus on low-impact facilities, proper waste management, sanitation and protection of the river ecosystem. Permanent heavy structures may not be suitable due to the changing nature of river islands. Tourism could also create new livelihood opportunities for local communities.
Young people could work as boat operators, guides and service providers, while local women could benefit through food stalls, handicrafts and agricultural product sales.
A planned tourism initiative could link Middle Char with Rajshahi’s cultural and historical attractions, creating longer visitor stays and expanding businesses related to transport, food, boating and local products. On 28 August, Rajshahi City Corporation Administrator Md Mahfuzur Rahman Riton and Director General of the Department of Livestock Services Md Shahjahan Khan visited the area to explore its tourism and development potential.
Riton said the natural beauty of Padma’s Middle Char was highly attractive and that the site had potential to be developed as a planned tourism destination. He stressed the need to prioritise environmental protection, visitor safety and local livelihoods alongside infrastructure development.
With careful planning, Padma’s Middle Char could move beyond being a scenic spot and emerge as a new gateway for river tourism in Rajshahi, creating economic opportunities while preserving its natural character.
