Jaflong: An emerging tourist destination with great potential
Nestled at the foothills of India’s Meghalaya state, the area is blessed with cascading streams that flow down the hills and merge into the Piyain River
ATT Desk Report 
Jaflong, often described as “the daughter of nature”, is a popular tourist destination in Gowainghat upazila of Sylhet, drawing large numbers of visitors every year.
Nestled at the foothills of India’s Meghalaya state, the area is blessed with cascading streams that flow down the hills and merge into the Piyain River. Tourists are drawn to its raw, unspoilt beauty—sitting on smooth stones scattered across the riverbed, dipping their feet in the gentle current, and soaking in the tranquil surroundings, reports state news agency BSS.
Every day, visitors from home and abroad flock to Jaflong. However, during weekends and public holidays, the site truly comes alive, buzzing with crowds and activity.
A tea garden at Jaflong in Sylhet. Photo: Abdul Momin/Wikipedia
Samsher Jamal, along with his family, travelled to Jaflong from Ishwardi in Pabna to experience its scenic charm. The family took photographs on a large rock at Jaflong Zero Point.
Jamal said they are on a three-day trip to Sylhet. “Jaflong was our first stop, and everyone is thoroughly enjoying it. Our trip to Sylhet would feel incomplete without visiting Jaflong,” he said.
Most tourists — both local and foreign — visit Jaflong in groups. Abdur Rahim, an official of a German donor agency based in Dhaka, has visited before but returned this time with a group of 11 colleagues.
Speaking to BSS, he said facilities for tourists have improved over time. “However, it would be even better if more attention is given to environmental protection and seating arrangements,” he added.
Sylhet Deputy Commissioner Sarwar Alam said the district administration has taken initiatives to set up environmentally friendly toilet facilities in the area.
Other attractions in Jaflong include Songramponji Khasia Palli, Mayabi Jharna and the Jaflong Tea Garden.
It takes just 15 to 20 minutes to travel from Jaflong Zero Point to Mayabi Jharna, located near the Indian border.
Jaflong attracts tourists for its natural environment. Photo: Ziaul Hoque/Wikipedia
A group of students from Sylhet Polytechnic Institute recently visited the site to see the famed waterfall. Student Murshed Sayem said the waterfall is currently flowing with reduced intensity due to lower rainfall.
“We enjoyed the waterfall a lot. It would probably have been even more impressive during the rainy season,” he said.
The Jaflong Tea Garden adds another layer of attraction to the destination. Situated along the riverbank, it is a favourite spot for photography, with many tourists spending time capturing its scenic beauty.
Local photographers are also on hand to guide visitors and help them explore the area.
Shamsuddin Ahmed, a member of the Jaflong Tourist Guide and Photographer Cooperative Association, said the organisation has around 800 members.
He added that the area sees heavy tourist footfall during holidays. “A significant number of tourists also visit during Eid vacations and other long holidays,” he said.
