Those looking to spend the Eid-ul-Adha holidays close to nature are finding a perfect getaway in the Garo Hills of Sherpur. Surrounded by green hills, sal forests, lakes and waterfalls, the scenic areas of Gazni and Madhutila have become popular destinations for travellers during the long Eid vacation.
Visitors of different ages are travelling to the hilly region every day to enjoy time with family and friends at relatively low cost. The calm natural environment and fresh hill air continue to attract tourists from different parts of the country.
Spread across the border areas of Jhenaigati, Nalitabari and Sreebardi upazilas near India’s Meghalaya state, the Garo Hill region is home to several well-known tourist attractions. Many travellers are choosing the area during the Eid holidays to experience nature away from the rush of city life.
Sources said the district administration developed the Gazni Recreation Centre on around 90 acres of land in Kansha union under Jhenaigati upazila. Green hills, small mounds, sal forests and scenic surroundings easily attract visitors throughout the year.
The recreation centre includes artificial waterfalls, lakes, hanging and floating bridges, a cable car, watch tower, mini train, children’s rides and decorative sculptures. The atmosphere reflecting Garo culture gives visitors a different experience. During Eid holidays, the centre turns into a major gathering spot for tourists.
Meanwhile, Madhutila Eco Park in Nalitabari upazila, developed under the supervision of the Forest Department, remains another favourite destination for nature lovers.
Spread across nearly 380 acres, the eco park features stairways leading to hilltops, lakes, boating facilities, a watch tower, Star Bridge, children’s park and rest houses. Walking through the dense forest and enjoying sunsets in the hilly surroundings offer visitors a sense of peace and relaxation.
Other attractions in the district include Rajar Pahar, Nayabari Tila and rubber gardens in Sreebardi upazila, Orchid Tourism Centre and Resort, Golden Valley Park and Bonorani Forest Resort in Sherpur Sadar, the historic Baroduari Mosque, Nakugaon land port, the Shimul tree at Narayankhola, Panihata-Tarani hills, Poune Tin Ani Zamindar Bari, Loknath Temple and Raghunath Jiu Temple.
Madhutila Eco Park leaseholder Mojibur Rahman said all preparations had been completed to welcome tourists during the Eid holidays. He said several facilities had been renovated while new structures were added to increase visitor attraction.
Gazni Recreation Centre leaseholder Farid Mia said new rides had been introduced for tourists. He added that visitors travel to the site from different parts of the country throughout the year, though the number increases several times during Eid holidays.
Deputy Commissioner Farida Yasmin said Sherpur is being promoted with a stronger focus on tourism and local heritage. She added that several development works are underway to make Gazni Recreation Centre more attractive.
Direct buses to Sherpur operate from Dhaka’s Mohakhali Bus Terminal. Visitors can also travel by private car or microbus. The journey from the capital usually takes around four to five hours.
Travellers can also go by train from Kamalapur to Jamalpur and then reach Sherpur by bus, CNG-run auto-rickshaw or auto-rickshaw within a short time.
As accommodation facilities remain limited in the border-adjacent hilly areas, most visitors stay in Sherpur district town, where residential hotels, guest houses and government rest houses are available.
With its quiet hills, forests and natural beauty, Sherpur’s Garo Hill region continues to offer travellers a refreshing escape during the Eid holidays.
