According to government officials, over 200,000 local and international tourists visited the Sundarbans during the 2023-24 fiscal year, generating Tk 36.1 million (Tk 3.61 crore) in revenue.

Mihir Kumar Doe, the Khulna Zone Conservator of Forests, stated that 2,11,057 tourists, including 2,622 foreign visitors, explored the world’s largest mangrove forest in the past fiscal year. However, this revenue marks a 30% decline compared to the 2022-23 fiscal year.

To enhance the tourism experience, the Forest Department has expanded its tourism offerings, adding four new spots—Alibandha (Shoronkhola Range), Andermanik (Chandpai Range), Shekhertek, and Kailashganj (Khulna Range)—to its existing seven popular locations, which include Kotka, Kochikhali, Dublarchar, Hironpoint, Harbaria, Kalagachia, and Karamjol.

Highlighting the potential of eco-tourism in the Sundarbans, Doe emphasized that tourism raises awareness of history and tradition and plays a crucial role in the economy. He stressed the importance of promoting Khulna’s historical landmarks to a wider audience.

Source: The Financial Express