Despite 54 years of independence, the country's tourism sector has not developed adequately. Legal complications, political instability, and negative publicity have left this sector lagging behind, despite possessing numerous resources to attract tourists from home and abroad.
Bangladesh boasts a wealth of tourist attractions, including the world-famous Cox's Bazar sea beach, the sprawling 6,000 square kilometres of the Sundarbans, Mahasthan Garh and Natore Rajbari, all of which have the potential to captivate visitors. Strengthening security measures and ensuring enjoyable travel experiences could unlock significant revenue from this sector.
Experts in the country's tourism industry assert that proactive steps are necessary to attract travel enthusiasts to these picturesque destinations. However, the government has historically shown little initiative to draw tourists.
Sri Lanka, financially bankrupt just two years ago, has managed a remarkable economic turnaround by successfully attracting global tourists. Similarly, increased tourist arrivals could enable Bangladesh to earn substantial foreign currency.
The Sundarbans, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a polythene-free zone, stands out as a prime destination for travel. Visitors can safely explore 14 to 15 designated points, including Karamjal, Andarmanik, Harbaria, Patka, Kachikhali (Tiger Point), Dimer Char, Dhublar Char, Hiron Point (Neel Kamal), Tin Kona Island (Kokilmoni), Dhobki, Notabeki, Mandarbaria, Kalabagi, and Ali Banda. Nonetheless, there are many other areas where safety concerns deter tourists.
Travel to the Sundarbans can be arranged via air-conditioned launches. To unlock the full potential of this sector, the government should prioritise resolving legal complications and undertake effective promotional initiatives. Providing amenities like quality hotels and comfortable transportation, including launches and steamers, could establish tourism as a vital source of foreign exchange.
Globally, over 1.5 billion people travel annually, with approximately 250 million visiting South Asia. Popular South Asian destinations include India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Singapore. Yet, Bangladesh attracts minimal foreign tourists.
Key barriers to tourism in Bangladesh include natural disasters, negative publicity, political instability, substandard facilities, a lack of quality hotels and restaurants, inadequate transportation, and safety concerns. Furthermore, there is insufficient promotion of the country's tourism potential.
Taufiq Rahman, Executive Director of Journey Plus, told The Daily Observer that the lack of publicity for Bangladesh's tourist attractions is a significant obstacle to drawing foreign visitors. Those who do visit often face challenges, including security risks, visa issues, and customs difficulties. He suggested that promoting the Sundarbans and Cox's Bazar could significantly boost foreign tourist arrivals and revenue.
M Nazmul Azom David, Managing Director of Rupantar Eco-Tourism Ltd and General Secretary of the Tour Operators Association of Sundarban, noted that Bangladeshi embassies in various countries have issued red alerts discouraging travel to Bangladesh. As a result, foreign tourists rarely visit. He also highlighted issues such as the absence of qualified guides and a lack of foreigner-friendly cuisine, which often deters visitors.
David emphasised that coordinated efforts by the government and private sectors, including the removal of red alerts, positive promotional campaigns, and enhanced security measures, are essential to attract foreign tourists and unlock the sector's potential.
