The scenic hill district of Rangamati is fully prepared to welcome a large influx of tourists during the ongoing Eid-ul-Azha holidays, with tour operators expecting a significant rise in visitors amid the government’s extended vacation.

The government had announced a seven-day Eid holiday this year, prompting many travellers to plan leisure trips to popular tourist destinations across the country. Tourism businesses in Rangamati hope the long holiday will revive the local tourism economy and boost business activities.

Surrounded by green hills, tranquil lakes and breathtaking natural beauty, Rangamati has long been one of the country’s most attractive travel destinations.

Every year, thousands of tourists visit the district, while the pressure increases manifold during long holidays.

Among the district’s most popular attractions, Sajek Valley is expected to witness the highest tourist turnout during the Eid vacation.

Holidaymakers seeking relief from the stress of urban life are expected to flock to Rangamati’s lakes, hills and waterfalls. Tourist hotspots, including Sajek Valley, the iconic Hanging Bridge, Kaptai Lake, Polwel Park and Cottage, Aranyak Resort, Shuvolong Waterfall, Rangadip Resort, Lake View Island and Nisarga Pod House are likely to become vibrant with visitors during the festive break.

Manager of Rangamati Tourism and Holiday Complex Alok Bikash Chakma said all preparations have already been completed to receive tourists during Eid-ul-Azha vacation.

“We are fully prepared to welcome tourists. Around 70-80 percent of rooms at our holiday complex have already been booked through online and offline reservations,” he said.

Bikash Chakma expressed hope that tourist arrivals will be much higher this year because of the long holiday and said efforts had been made to improve infrastructure and services to ensure maximum comfort for visitors.

Sajek Valley, known for its picturesque hills and clouds, remains one of the country’s most sought-after travel destinations during holidays.

Organising Secretary of the Resort and Cottage Owners’ Association of Sajek Rahul Chakma said most resort and cottage rooms in Sajek had already been booked ahead of Eid.

“All rooms are booked on Eid day. From the day after Eid, around 60-70 percent of rooms have been reserved for nearly the following week,” he said.

The Hanging Bridge, one of Rangamati’s most recognisable landmarks, continues to remain the centre of attraction for tourists visiting the district. Authorities have already completed renovation and repainting work to make the site more attractive ahead of the holiday season.

Tourist boat operators on the Kaptai Lake have also completed preparations for visitors planning lake cruises during the Eid break.

Manager of Rangamati Tourist Boat Terminal Md Fakhrul Islam said all repair, maintenance and painting work on tourist boats had already been completed. “We are now waiting to welcome tourists,” he said.

Rangamati Superintendent of Police Muhammad Rakib Uddin said security arrangements had been strengthened to ensure the safety of visitors during the Eid holidays.

He said help desks had been installed at important points to prevent harassment of tourists and ensure smooth travel across different tourist spots in the district.

“We are fully prepared to ensure tourists can travel safely and comfortably throughout Rangamati during the Eid vacation,” the SP added.