Sajek observes World Tourism Day for first time

World Tourism Day 2026 has been observed in Sajek Valley on Sunday, September 27, for the first time, with a range of programmes highlighting the region’s indigenous cultures, traditional food and tourism potential.

The event was organised by the Rangamati Hill District Council under the supervision of the Cottage and Resort Owners Association of Sajek, with support from the Bangladesh Tourism Board and Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation.

Local communities and tourism entrepreneurs in Sajek were also involved in organising and supporting the event.

The day’s programmes began with a roadshow from Rangamati to Sajek Valley, featuring the council chairman, officials and tourism stakeholders.

At 3:00pm, a colourful procession was brought out from the Sajek entry point which paraded to Zero Point following a balloon release. Participants wore traditional attire and showcased the cultural heritage of local communities.

The programme also included a cleanliness drive, a tree-planting campaign and the inauguration of a traditional food court.

After welcoming guests and delivering opening remarks, the Cottage and Resort Owners Association of Sajek launched its information website in line with this year’s World Tourism Day theme.

A cultural programme began at 4:00pm at the helipad premises, featuring performances by Lusai, Tripura, Chakma and Marma artists. Invited Manipuri artists later presented a special dance and mridang performance as part of cultural-exchange tourism.

Traditional food prepared by local Lusai, Tripura and Chakma communities was available at the event venue, alongside displays of traditional clothing and cultural representations.

Media representatives, tourism vloggers and influencers, as well as tourists, attended the programme.

Resorts, cottages and restaurants in Sajek offered special discounts to attract tourists around the World Tourism Day celebrations.

Suparna Deb Barman, president of the Cottage and Resort Owners Association of Sajek, invited visitors to attend the celebrations in Sajek Valley.