Sylhet's Golapganj emerges as agro-tourism hub, offering rural experiences

Golapganj upazila in Sylhet is witnessing growing interest in agritourism, with pineapple plantations, agroforestry ventures and scenic rural landscapes drawing visitors and investors alike.

Once known primarily for its agricultural output, Golapganj is increasingly being recognised for offering immersive rural experiences that combine farming, nature and local hospitality. At the heart of this shift is the rise of large-scale agro-tourism attractions, including private fruit gardens and community-run eco-sites.

One of the standout destinations is the Chand Mia Pineapple Garden in Dhakadakshin Union. Covering more than 2,000 acres, the plantation cultivates the popular Honey Queen variety of pineapple.

According to local sources, more than 200,000 saplings have been planted since 2019, with peak harvesting months attracting hundreds of domestic tourists interested in tasting the fruit directly from the fields.

Another fast-growing site is Alveena Garden in Niz Dhakadakshin village, which features a mix of pineapples, coffee, cashew, lemon, malta and ginger.

Operated with support from the Bangladesh Agricultural Development Corporation (BADC), the garden has been developed with tourism in mind, offering ticketed access and guided tours.

“The garden has become more than just a farm — it’s a place where people come to relax, take photos and learn about agriculture,” said Abdullah Al Manaur, site manager at the plantation.

He said a significant number of tourists visit Alveena Garden during the peak tourism season from December to February and enjoy the fruits grown there alongside recreational activities.

Md Abdur Rab, owner of Alveena Garden and a former expatriate, said he returned from London in 2022 and established the garden on 17 acres of hilly land leased from a local landowner.

He said that after seeing his success, many investors have come forward to establish orchards in Golapganj, helping to promote agritourism in the area.

To explore the full potential of Golapganj, Abdur Rab urged the government to develop the area as an agritourism zone.

Experts say Golapganj is well-positioned to develop a sustainable agritourism sector, though infrastructure and marketing remain major challenges.

Currently, access to some sites remains limited due to underdeveloped roads and a lack of signage. In addition, most tourism activity is seasonal and dependent on local arrangements.

“There is strong local enthusiasm and significant natural beauty here,” said Muhammad Anisuzzaman, additional deputy director at the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE), Sylhet.

He said plans have been taken to increase agricultural production in Golapganj through agritourism.

So far, he said, pineapple, coffee and cashew orchards have been established on 40 hillocks.

“There are still around 1,200 uncultivated hillocks covering about 1,635 hectares that are planned to be brought under cultivation,” Anisuzzaman said.