Jhalakathi, Mar 15 (V7N) – The riverine district of Jhalakathi is emerging as an attractive travel destination during the Eid al-Fitr holidays, drawing visitors with its natural beauty, rivers, canals and traditional rural heritage.

Known for its famous guava gardens and traditional Shitalpati mats, the district is gradually gaining popularity among tourists. The slogan “Guava and Shitalpati—Jhalakathi is all about” reflects the cultural identity of the area.

Several historical landmarks and scenic spots are located across the district. These include the historic Saturia Zamindar Bari, the birthplace of A K Fazlul Huq, and the well-known Kirtipasha Zamindar Bari. Visitors also travel to Chhailar Char on the banks of the Bishkhali River in Kanthalia upazila and the municipal mini park beside the Sugandha River.

A scenic road stretching from Baukathi to Himanandkathi has recently gone viral on social media. With lush green trees lining both sides and a small river flowing nearby, the picturesque route has become a popular attraction for visitors and photographers.

The proposed Dhansiri National Ecopark at the confluence of five rivers southwest of Jhalakathi town is also considered a promising tourism project. Although the development has been delayed due to legal complications over land ownership, the area already attracts local visitors because of its open natural landscape.

Another major attraction of the district is its vast guava orchards. During the monsoon season, these orchards host a unique floating guava market where traders from different parts of the country arrive by boat to collect fresh guavas.

Traditional Shitalpati mat weaving is also still practiced in villages of Rajapur and Nalchiti upazilas. These mats, made from the bark of the local Paitra tree, are widely appreciated across the country for their craftsmanship.

Deputy Commissioner Md Momin Uddin said the district administration has taken various development initiatives to enhance tourism facilities around these potential attractions.

He expressed hope that once the Dhansiri Ecopark project is implemented, it could become one of the country’s major tourist destinations. The administration has also taken measures to ensure the safety and security of visitors travelling to Jhalakathi during the Eid holidays.

END/AIJ/RH