Scope Of Development Of Tourist Spot In Sylhet A Study On Lalakhal 2s6lf

A seminar Paper on The scope of development of tourists spot in Sylhet: A Study on Lalakhal

Department of Business istration Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, Sylhet

A seminar Paper on The scope of development of tourists spot in Sylhet: A Study on Lalakhal Course No: BAN-200 Submitted to: Mr. Abdul Hamid Assistant professor And seminar supervisor Department of Business istration, Shahjalal University of Science & Technology Sylhet -3114 Submitted by: Registration no

Name

2005731008

Monsur Ahmed

2005731033

Dip Mazumdar

2005731042

Santanu Kumar Das

2005731045

Tanvir Raihan

2005731047

Asraful Islam

2005731050

Losikanta Hazong

2005731057

Raju Kumar Das

Department of Business istration, Shahjalal University of Science & Technology Sylhet -3114 Date of submission: 22-03-09 This project proposal paper has been prepared for submission into the Department of Business istration, Shahjalal University of Science and Technology, Sylhet as a partial requirement for fulfillment of the B.B.A. (Honors) degree program.

March 10, 2009 Letter of certificate I am extremely pleased to declare that the following students have been given with me the topic “ The scope of development of tourists spot in Sylhet: A Study on Lalakhal” for preparing their seminar paper. They have received all the relevant literature and source for the collection of both primary and secondary data and have done their assigned task. I have supervised them throughout the preparation of the paper. Registration no

Name

2005731008

Monsur Ahmed

2005731033

Dip Mazumdar

2005731042

Santanu Kumar Das

2005731045

Tanvir Raihan

2005731047

Asraful Islam

2005731050

Losikanta Hazong

2005731057

Raju Kumar Das

I also certify that the paper is an original one and has not been submitted elsewhere previously for the publication in any form. I wish them all very best.

Mr. Abdul Hamid Assistant professor And seminar supervisor Department of Business istration, Shahjalal University of Science & Technology, Sylhet -3114.

March 20, 2009 To Mr. Abdul Hamid Assistant professor And seminar supervisor Department of Business istration, Shahjalal University of Science & Technology Sylhet -3114 Subject: Letter of submittal. Dear Sir, We are assigned to prepare a seminar paper on the tourists spot in Bangladesh, Focusing on Lalakhal for writing a project paper for presentation. We have investigated into the journal, literature and according to the collection of data (from primary and secondary source). In our study we find lot of problems and opportunities on present scenario. May we note here that we tried our best to give concentration on all the relevant sources for a good seminar paper. However, we would like to request you to consider if any error is found in the paper. Finally, we would like to request you to accept our seminar paper and thereby permit us to present it before the of expert. Thank you for your assistance and advice in this connection. Sincerely yours Registration no.

Name

Acknowledgement The study entitled Tourism sector in Bangladesh, focusing on Lalakhal has been under taken by students of the Business istration of Shahjalal University of Science & Technology, Sylhet it is an attempt to promote the tourism aspect of our country. We have prepared a seminar paper on the development of Lalakhal to an attractive tourist spot. We are very grateful to Almighty to complete our study successfully. We are thankful to those people who helped us and give their most valuable time to finish this study. If we fail to get this help the paper could be lifeless and a bookish object. The present study is ed and organized by our assignment supervisor Mr. Abdul Hamid, Assistant professor, Department of Business istration, Shahjalal University of Science & Technology, Sylhet. He had been generous and ed our work throughout the entire period and also a wonderful advisor. We are very much grateful to him for his scholastic guidance and constructive criticism to implement this study. We want to give our special thanks to our honorable chairman of the course seminar and viva Md. Zillur Rahman. We would like to thank to some other persons that would be memorable for us. Mr. Tanvir Chowdhury, President SUST tourist club, Sabbir Ahmed Asst. manager, Lalakhal tea estate (Magnolia Tea). We are also grateful to all of our friends and seniors who have helped us in various ways through the completion of the seminar.

Abstract Tourism is world's largest profitable sector which is generating huge revenue for the tourist country. Bangladesh has lots of tourist spots but most of them are unexplored by the relevant authority. Her main tourist attractions are included archeological sites, historic mosques and monuments, resorts, beaches, picnic spots, forest and wildlife. As a riverside country it’s having attractive panoramic beauty. There are hills, vales, deep and mangrove forests, rivers and the longest beach in the world. Having all the minimum requirements, the tourism industry could not develop sufficiently in Bangladesh yet. The causes of problem could not identify accurately because of paucity of sufficient number of research and investigations in our country. Out of different problems, we have concentrated our focus to development aspect for tourism sector in Bangladesh, especially in Sylhet. We find a great potentiality in Lalakhal as wonderful tourist spot in Bangladesh situated at Jainta in Sylhet. For this we need to introduce multi-dimensional tourism by exploring new places with specific drives, such as religion nature and archaeology. This study will facilitate the decision makers to assess the intensity of the problem and to plan accurate measures to develop tourism sector in Bangladesh. This can benefit the tourism industry of Bangladesh and will change the economic picture of tourism sector as well as contribute a big share in the economy (GDP) of Bangladesh.

CONTENT Topic Chapter-1 Introduction Objectives Scope of the study Methodology Limitations of the study Chapter-2 Literature Review Chapter-3 Contribution of tourism industry in Bangladesh Chapter-4 Tourism and Bangladesh Chapter-5 Potentiality of Lalakhal as a tourists spot Chapter-6 Findings SWOT analysis Chapter-7 Conclusion Recommendation Reference Appendix: Questionnaire

Page

Chapter-1: Introduction

1.1 Introduction 1.2 Objectives 1.3 Scope of the study 1.4 Methodology 1.5 Limitations of the study

Introduction Tourism sector is a potential one in all over the world. Bangladesh is a country of natural beauty. Its beauty is spread all over the countryside which could be a wonderful tourist spot. Though it is not yet developed in Bangladesh for various reasons. From very beginning of independent to till now there haven’t been taken any step to develop this sector. But there is much potentiality in this sector. For this we have to utilize all of our

natural resources. It’s hopeful that some places like Cox’s Bazar, Sundorban, Chittagong hill tracts have come into focus. Sylhet is a prime attraction for all tourists visiting Bangladesh. Sylhet division occupies the north east part of Bangladesh, has an area of 12596 sq. km. and a population of 7.899 million, laying between the Khasia and the Jaintia hills on the north, and the Tripura hills on the south. It (Sylhet) breaks the monotony of the flatness of this land by a multitude of terraced Tea gardens. The Shrine of Hazrat ShahJalal, Sri Chaitannya Dev Temple, Shahi Eidgah, Gour Gobinda Fort, Jaflong , Tamabil, Sripur, tapur’s Rajbari, Srimongol, Madhabkunda Waterfall, Lawacherra Rain Forest, Handicrafts of Sylhet, Manipuri Dance and so on. In our study, we mainly focus on Lalakhal which is situated in the east region of Jaintia in Sylhet. We find a great potentiality as a tourist spot at Lalakhal, although it is not well known to most of the people. We make our research to find its possibility, recover its problems and its potentiality as a wonderful tourist spot in future. At present, some of people are visiting this place throughout the year. And the rate of the visitors is increasing gradually, especially in winter and spring time. Moreover, if there build up any interesting infrastructure like amusement park and related things, many tourists will visit there and there will build up related small business as well as medium enterprise. Which ultimately, develop the living standard of local people as well as will make some contribution on “National Income”.

Scope of the study

1. Our study is a contribution to signify the Lalakhal to the people of home & abroad. 2. The interested tourist will get necessary information about the Lalakhal. 3. The potential investor will inspired to invest in Lalakhal to create a tourist spot.

4. We have showed the inspiring elements as well as real problems so the investor will get the proper view. 5. Our study define the comparison of Lalakhal with others tourist spot. So it will be effective to clarify the potentiality. 6. Tourist and investor can get all necessary and relevant information data, research, paper. 7. Our study has found some problems which can be submitted to concern authority. 8. At last our research is a cordial contribution to the development of tourism industry.

Objectives of the study

 1. Scope of development of tourist spot.  2. Recommend for maximum utilization of natural resources.  3. Find out the limitations.  4. Attract the investor to come forward.  5. Contribute in the economic sector of Bangladesh

Methodology

Two types of data are generally used to prepare a research paper such as primary data and secondary data. We have tried our best to collect both types of data and information and have firm intention to emphasis on primary data as it is often up to date and more useful than any published information. Research Design:

We design our research in different categories like interview, questionnaire, observation and experiments. We highly develop interview and questionnaire method to collect data and then complete our study. Interview: We took interview from two experts, Mr. Tanvir Chowdhury, President SUST tourist club, Sabbir Ahmed Asst. manager, Lalakhal tea estate (Magnolia Tea). And we found valuable data. Questionnaire: We asked 30 tourists predetermined questions to test the potentialities of tourist’s spots in Sylhet reason mainly Lalakhal. Observation: Besides interview and questionnaire we gave stress our study on observation. We visit around the Lalakhal and find the potentiality of Lalakhal as a tourists spot Existing sources: Sources of secondary data or information included the books, publications of journal, magazines and websites. Sample: In this study 50 people were selected randomly from Sylhet city. The selected tourists were students, service holder, business man, low income people, experts, as well as travel agencies and so on. Among them 30 were tourists, 5 local people, 2 experts, 3 travel agencies and rest of them were students and business men.

Limitations of the study

In this study we have found some limitations. For this reason, this report may be ignore or contradictory to the others because of different point of view. Here we mention some .imitations of the study.

 There is a lack of adequate secondary data.  Collection of primary data were so much tough because most of they were not agreed to talk frankly, rather they were hesitating.  There were financial limitations to collect data and to make this study resourceful.  There was limited time to collect data and to prepare for the final paper.  Difficult to find out real adequate and real data from the primary source.  As the survey is based on the limited number of case the generalization is not applicable to all the cases.

Literature Review: Tourism has become one of the largest and fastest growing industries, not only in Bangladesh and the Asia Pacific but also in the global economy. The objectives of the study have emerged from the research problems identified earlier. The main thrust of this study has concentrated on the issues relevant to the development of tourism industry in Sylhet as well as in Bangladesh.

A substantial number of works on tourism as a subject has been done throughout the world. But a relatively few works and literatures on the development of tourism worldwide have been found as yet. Similarly, enough literatures on the same area of tourism industry in Bangladesh are not available. However, a few articles and research reports addressing the marketing issues and dealing with the problems of the tourism industry in a skin-deep manner have been available to us. As a consequence, literatures reviewed for this study include only a handful of papers and the few research reports. Dhaka University Zoology Professor Anwarul Islam says “Tourism can be a powerful force in eradicating poverty.” "The benefits yielded from tourism should be fairly distributed," he (Anwarul Islam) said in a keynote speech, addressing participants at a seminar during the Banglalink Bangladesh Travel Tourism Fair 2007 (BTTF). "Only then will tourism become participatory, and thus the rights of the local residents will be properly recognized. In this way, tourism will become responsible and sustainable." Philip J. DeCosse, Chief of Party of the Nishorgo Project, described the recent growth in the industry as encouraging. He also cautioned that profits must reach the right people in order to create change. TOAB President Hasan Mansur emphasized on tourism growth in Bangladesh must be done in an organized way. The literatures reviewed earlier section clearly indicates that there has been a considerable expansion of tourism activities on Bangladesh. It is understood that a relatively little attention has been given by the professionals and researchers to the issues of Lalakhal as a tourists spot. Therefore, the study on the development of tourism industry has been largely unexplored. So we review our study based on the analyzing of primary data. Chapter-3

Contribution of tourism industry in Bangladesh Bangladesh's tourism industry can contribute around 4.0 per cent or over $ 6.39 billion to the country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 2018 if the government develops infrastructure to woo more local and foreign travelers, said a report.

A report of the World Travel Tourism Council (WTTC), posted in its website recently, said Bangladesh travel and tourism economy is ranked number 94 in absolute size worldwide, 170 in relative contribution to national economies and 31 in long-term (10-year) growth. It said the contribution of the Bangladesh travel and tourism industry to its GDP will stand at around 3.9 per cent or over $2.9 billion in 2008. According to WTTC estimate, Bangladesh's tourism industry contributed around 1.5 per cent or around $998.2 million to the country's GDP in 2007. The WTTC's report, prepared in association with a global management consulting, technology services and outsourcing company, said: "The real GDP Growth for T&T (travel and tourism) economy is expected to be 6.2 per cent in 2008 and to average 5.5 per cent per annum over the coming 10 years”. It is possible to achieve the growth if the government provides required policy to the operators and develop infrastructure, sector insiders said referring to the WTTC report. Tour Operators Association of Bangladesh (TOAB), underscored the need for liberalization of tourism policy, establishment of separate special zones for local and foreign tourists with development of infrastructure. There is scope for attracting local tourists as well as foreign tourists to visit the country's internationally reputed tourism spots. Some steps are underway for establishment of National Tourism Authority to facilitate the private sector tour operators to attract more local and foreign tourists. Through popularizing domestic tourism we can attract more foreign tourists in the country, which will boost our export earning. According to WTTC, Bangladesh's travel and tourism earned $539 million or 3.8 per cent of the country's total exports worth 12.178 billion in fiscal 2006-07. It said export earning from local and international visitors and tourism goods are expected to generate 3.4 per cent or $543.7 million of total exports in 2008, growing to 1099.3 million (5.3 per cent) of total external trade in 2018. Apart from this, the report of the WTTC council said the contribution of the sector to employment is expected to rise from over 2,065,000 in 2008, 3.1 per cent of total employment or one in every 32.0 jobs to 2,791,000 jobs, 3.2 per cent of total employment or one in every 31.7 jobs by 2018. According to the WTTC estimate, Bangladesh Travel and Tourism economy created 2,024,000 jobs.

Investment of foreign and local capital in tourism industry Necessary initiatives will be taken by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Economic Relations Division and other concerned Ministries for attracting local and foreign investment in order to create various tourist facilities of international standard with a view to developing the. Tourism industry, the incentives offered to investors in other industries will also be offered to those of the tourism industry. Tourism projects earning foreign exchange will be given the facilities that are given to export oriented industries. In order to encourage pr ate investment in the tourism sector, loans, tax holidays, payment of taxes at rebated rates and allotment of land at reduced price in special cases, etc may be considered. Creation of tourist facilities may be undertaken tly with the private sector and these may then gradually be handed private fully to the private sector. Bangladesh land has many facts. Her tourist attraction includes archaeological sites, historic mosque and mountain, resort, beach, picnic spot, forest and wildlife. Generally the tourist Decision on selecting any tourist destination can be influencing six factors. ♦Location ♦Transport ♦Attraction ♦Activities ♦Accommodation ♦Catering services.

An investment approach 1. Because the Lalakhal is a private property an investor an understanding with the Nazimgarh. 2. There is huge amount government land in Lalakhal which are not being used. 3. There are some private properties which can be bought from their owners. 4. Some renowned companies of this sector as a promoter of the tourist in Lalakhal.

5. Some other sector investment also inspired if there will be investment to create tourist spot. 6. Foreign investment also is important source of investment. 7. As well as Government Corporation Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation may come forward to invest Lalakhal.

Attraction to local tourists Necessary steps will be taken to motivate local tourists to -visit places in the country and to this end the service-establishments that are built for development of tourism would be operated in a manner to generate incomes barely enough for keeping them going. Through these steps the investment area will expand, thereby people of the mid- income group and even those of the low-income one will be accorded the opportunities for leisure and recreation. For the purpose, it is necessary to build additional accommodation and other facilities, especially at sea-resorts, places of natural attraction and religious and archaeological sites in order to create attentions of youth, religious and cultural tourism. In this behalf the following steps shall be taken 1. Arrangements for bank loans at a reduced rate of interest applicable to this industry will be made for 'creating cheaper accommodation facilities at the main religious and archaeological sites 2. Connection of telephone, telex and fax facilities may be given on a priority basis to those ed travel agencies and tour operators who will organize package tours for local tourists. Moreover, system of awarding prizes to such travel agents and tour operators annually may also be introduced. 3. Departments/Organizations concerned will have to take up projects to develop road communication facilities to places of- religious and cultural importance on priority basis. 4. In order to encourage youth tourism at the local level, permission will be given for the use of Government Dak-bungalows, rest-houses, etc., to students of schools, colleges and universities: Local istration will coordinate such matters.

5. A selected number of the government and semi-government rest-house Dakbungalows situated at different places of the country will by phases be transformed into economy-hotels and services of these establishments may be improved having them operated by private management.

Attraction to the foreign tourist Natural, historical and religious attractions of Bangladesh will be nicely projected to the foreign tourists. Presentation of our own culture and way of life will be given precedence. But at the same time some facilities for modern recreation may be provided in a limited way. Some special areas/places/sites or islands may be remarked and developed for foreigners only. As well as in Lalakhal where so many initiatives to make an attractive tourist spot are not required because of its god gifted natural beauty. 1. Cultural programs based on the Bangladeshi tradition. 2. Special food items which represents the Bangladeshi culture. 3. Showing colorful life style of various tribes. 4. Presenting resort which is not traditional but will give the taste of traditional cottage. 5. Decoration should represent our value and customers. Investment opportunity on tourism sector in Sylhet: In comparison to others less people are interested to invest in the tourism sector. This phenomenon is not only in Sylhet but also all over the country. That’s why; this sector is legging behind to come into focus though it has a great potentiality. It is because of lacking of knowledge of about this sector. It has been proved that expatriates of Sylhet investing their money in building luxurious houses and shopping complexes. Sylhet is a dreamland for natural lover for its multitude of terraced Tea gardens, The Shrine of Hazrat ShahJalal, Sri Chaitannya Dev Temple, Shahi Eidgah, Gour Gobinda Fort, Jaflong , Tamabil, Sripur, tapur’s Rajbari, Srimongol, Madhabkunda Waterfall, Lawacherra Rain Forest, Handicrafts of Sylhet, Manipuri Dance and so on.

Sylhet city is offering different types of facilities for the eager investors, like transport facility, building and reforming roads, bridges in remote areas, hotels and motels and shopping mall near to airport as well as tourists spot. Bangladesh Parjoton Corporation (BPC) Parjoton training centre have their branches in Sylhet who are launching campaign, protecting and conserving tourists spot enhancing tourism. Lalakhal is an ideal tourists spot in Sylhet for investing, which is situated in the region of Jainta. There is a sufficient security facility because of Bangladesh Rifles (BDR.) who is responsible for securing the tourists as well as the local people. Near to the BDR. Camp there is a vast plane land which can be a Golf field for enthusiast golfer in future. The main attraction of Lalakhal is the water multicolor of the lake. If there build any infrastructure beside the lake, the more tourists will attract to come. In conclusion, we can say that if we utilize the natural recourses of country as well Sylhet especially Lalakhal it will be a weapon for the luring tourists. This will benefit the tourism industry of Bangladesh and will change the economic picture of tourism sector as well as contribute a big share in the economy (GDP) of Bangladesh. For this government and private sector should come forward to invest and make the whole country as a tourists spot.

Chapter-4

Tourism And Bangladesh “Tourism: The Next Driving Sector of Bangladesh Economy“, questions remain unaddressed. Is Bangladesh ready by and large to receive international tourists? Are our tourist attractions ready? Most assuredly, we don’t think so. Many areas lack accommodations. Even the Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation website needs a great deal of work. Hotels for many areas are not listed. The ones that are give no indication of the amenities available there. There is a big difference in the quality of service from hotels to

hotel. The websites of hotels are not containing enough or required amount of information. In many website information parts remains blank so where is the incentive how you will attract the tourist. Secondly, to build this tourism economy of, Bangladesh needs a new image. The world over, Bangladesh is seen as a country of poverty, flood, famine, and micro credit. This image comes to the most people when you will mention the name of Bangladesh. So the tourism industry needs a new image for Bangladesh. Many Asian countries are doing this, “India, Incredible India”, “Malaysia, Truly Asia” and there are many more. Bangladesh could easily become, “Bangladesh: the Heart of Asia!” But prospect of this sector is highly attractive because the main assets of this industry is natural site is present in Bangladesh. So our government should come forward to create opportunity to invest in this neglected sector.

Some tourist spots of Bangladesh SUNDARBAN: In the south-western part of Bangladesh, in the district of greater Khulna, lies the Sundarbans, the beautiful forest. It is a virgin forest which until recently owed nothing to human endeavor and yet nature has laid it out with as much care as a planned pleasure ground. For miles and miles, the lofty treetops form an unbroken canopy, while nearer the ground, works of high and ebb-tide marked on the soil and tree trunks and the many varieties of the natural mangrove forest have much to offer to an inquisitive visitor.

Here land and water meet in many novel fashions, Wildlife presents many a spectacle. No wonder, you may come across a Royal Bengal Tiger swimming across the streams or the crocodiles basking on the river banks. With the approach of the evening herds of deer make for the darking glades where boisterous monkeys shower Keora leaves from above for sumptuous meal for the former. For the botanist, the lover of nature, the poet and the painter this land provides a variety of wonder for which they all crave.

The Sundarbans is a cluster of islands with an approximate area of 6000 sq. km. forming the largest block of littoral forests. Its beauty lies in its unique natural surrounding. Thousands of meandering streams, creeks, rivers and estuaries have enhanced its charm. Sundarbans meaning beautiful forest is the natural habitat of the world famous Royal Bengal Tiger, spotted deer, crocodiles, jungle fowl, wild boar, lizards, theses monkey and an innumerable variety of beautiful birds. Migratory flock of Siberian ducks flying over thousands of sail boats loaded with timber, golpatta (round-leaf), fuel wood, honey, shell and fish further add to the serene natural beauty of the Sundarbans. This is indeed a land for the sportsmen, the anglers and the photographers with its abundance of game, big and small, crocodile, wild boar, deer, pythons, wild-birds and above all the Royal Bengal Tiger, cunning, ruthless and yet majestic and graceful, For the less adventurously inclined, there are ducks and snipes, herons and coots, yellow-lags and sandpipers. It is also the land for the ordinary holiday makers who desire to rest or wander around at will to refresh their mind and feast their eyes with the rich treasure that nature has so fondly bestowed. Forests limit:

North-Bagerhat, Khulna and Sathkira districts: South-Bay of Bengal; East-Baleswar (or Haringhata) river, Perojpur, Barisal district, and West-Raimangal and Hariabhanga rivers which partially form Bangladesh boundary with West Bengal in India. Main attraction: The main attraction of Sundarbans are the famous Royal Bengal Tiger, wildlife viewing, boating inside the forest will call recordings, nature study, meeting fishermen, wood-cutters and honey-collectors, peace and tranquility in the wilderness, seeing the world's largest mangrove forest and the riverine beauty. Kuakata Beach Kuakata, locally known as Sagar Kannya (Daughter of the Sea) is a rare scenic beauty spot on the southernmost tip of Bangladesh. Kuakata in Latachapli union under Kalapara Police Station of Patuakhali district is about 30 km in length and 6 km in breadth. It is 70 km from Patuakhali district headquarters and 320 km from Dhaka. At Kuakata excellent combination of the picturesque natural beauty, sandy beach, blue sky, huge expanse of water of the Bay and evergreen forest in really eye-catching. The name Kuakata have originated from Kua-Well dug on the sea shore by the early Rakhine settlers in quest of collecting drinking water, who landed on Kuakata coast after expelled from Arakan by Moughals. Afterwards, it has become a tradition of digging KuaWell in the neighborhood of Rakhaine homestead for collection water for drinking purpose and general use.

Tourist’s attraction: Kuakata is one of the rarest places which have the unique beauty of offering the full view of the rising and setting of crimson sun in the water of the Bay of Bengal in a calm environment. That perhaps makes kuakata one of the world's unique beaches. The long and wide beach at Kuakata has a typical natural setting. This sandy beach has gentle slopes into the Bay of Bengal and bathing there is as pleasant as is walking or diving. Kuakata is truly a virgin beach-a sanctuary for migratory winter birds, a series of coconut trees, sandy beach of blue Bay, a feast for the eye. Forest, boats plying in the Bay of Bengal with colorful

sails, fishing, towering cliffs, surfing waves everything here touches every visitor's heart. The unique customs and costumes of the 'Rakhyne' tribal families and Buddhist Temple of about hundred years old indicate the ancient tradition and cultural heritage, which are objects of great pleasure Kuakata is the place of pilgrimage of the Hindus and Buddhist communities. Innumerable devotees arrive here at the festival of 'Rush Purnima' and 'Maghi Purnima'. On these two days they take holy bath and traditional fairs are held here. All these additional offers to panoramic beauty make the beach more attractive to the visitors. One should visit Kuakata and discover the lovely grace of Bangladesh. Means of communication: There exists road communication between Dhaka and Patuakhali district headquarters. It is accessible by road, water or air transport up to Barisal. Then one may travel by road or water to Kuakata or Patuakhali. BRTC has introduced direct bus service from Dhaka to Kuakata via Barisal. Besides that, Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation, National Tourism Organization may organize guided package tours from Dhaka to Kuakata on demand. For rates and booking you may : Manager (Tours), Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation, 233, Airport Road, Tejgaon, and Dhaka-1215. Phone: 8117855-9, Fax: 880-2-8117235.Email: [email protected] Parjoton facilities: Parjatan Holiday Homes at Kuakata is an ideal tourist resort having a number of facilities for the tourists.

Paharpur Budhist Vihara: Paharpur is a small village 5 km. west of Jamalganj in the greater Rajshahi district where the remains of the most important and the largest known monastery south of the Himalayas have been excavated. This 7th century archaeological find covers approximately an area of 27 acres of land. The entire establishment is occupying a quadrangular court, measuring more than 900 ft. and from 12 ft. to 15 in height. With elaborate gateway complex on the north, there are 45 cells on the north and 44 in each of the other three sides with a total number of 177 rooms. The architecture of the pyramidal cruciform temple is profoundly influenced by those of South-East Asia, especially Myanmar and Java. It had taken its

name from a high mound, which looked like pahar or hillock. A site museum built recently houses the representative collection of objects recovered from the area. The excavated findings have also been preserved at the Varendra Research Museum at Rajshahi. The antiquities of the museum include terracotta plaques, images of different gods and goddess', potteries, coin inscriptions, ornamental bircks and other minor clay objects.

Ornmental Kantanagar Temple, Dinajpur: The northern most district of the country, offers a number of attractions to the visitors. The Ramsagar (great sea) lake with rest-houses is a good picnic spot having facilities for fishing and rowing in a serene and quiet green countryside atmosphere. Kantanagar temple, the most ornate among the late medieval temples of Bangladesh is situated near Dinajpur town. It was built by Maharaja Pran Nath in 1752 A.D. Every inch of the temple surface is beautifully embellished with exquisite terracotta plaques, representing flora, fauna, geometric motifs, mythological scenes and an astonishing array of contemporary social scenes and favourite past times. The Maharja's palace with relics of the past centuries and local museum are worth a viz.

Cox's Bazar

Miles of golden sands, towering cliffs, surfing waves, rare conch shells, colorful Pagodas, Buddhist Temples and delightful sea-food - all this makes what Cox's Bazar is today , the tourist capital of Bangladesh. The World's longest uninterrupted (120 km.) beach slopes here down to the blue waters of the Bay of Bengal against the picturesque background of a chain of hills covered with deep green forests. Cox's Bazar is one of the most attractive tourist spots in the world. The warm, shark free, waters are good for bathing and swimming & while the sandy beaches offer opportunities for sun-bathing. The beauty of the setting-sun behind the waves of the sea is simply captivating. Locally made cigars and handloom products of the tribal Rakhyne families are good buys. Located at a distance of 152 km. south of Chittagong, Cox's Bazar is connected both by air and road from Dhaka and Chittagong. Visit to the fascinating picnic spots at Himchari and Teknaf, the Buddhist Temple at Ramu and nearby islands of Sonadia and St. Martin's, Inani Beach and Moheshkhali are certain to become unforgettable experiences for every visitor.

Inani Beach Inani is within Ukhia Thana, 35 km. to the south of Cox's Bazar. With green hills to the east, the golden beach of Inani casts a music spell on anyone stepping on to its fine golden sands. The clean blue waters of the Bay are ideal for swimming. Some Renowned Tourists spot in Sylhet Madobkundo Waterfalls: Madhabkunda waterfall is one of the most attractive tourist spots in Sylhet division. Lots of tourists and picnic parties come to Madhabkunda every day for their enjoyment. You can

go to Madhabkunda either by Busr or by train to Kulaura rail station. From Kulaura rail station its about one hour journey by microbus to Madhabkunda. The journey to Madhabkunda itself is exotic. On the way you can see the greenish beauty of tea garden, the hills and the zigzag road through the hills will increase the joy of your journey. In Madhabkunda you will see the great waterfall – falls of million tons of water form 200ft. height. There is a Parjatan Motel with a good restaurant for accommodation and fooding. There is also a district council Banglow for night stay. Here someone can enjoy adventurous feelings to stay in a jungle. All need to have a prior booking for the Banglow from Moulvibazar Zilla Parishad office.

Lawacherra Rain Forest: Lawacherra Rain Forest is one of the important & well-reserved forests in Bangladesh. Here visitors may see gibbons swimming through the trees and birds like bee-eater owls’ parrot. It is a good habitant of Deer, leopard, wild chicken, squirrel, and python. Don't miss it especially if you are bird watcher. The terrain is hilly and vegetation is fairly thick. Only one rare Chloroform tree of Asia is prime attraction. Khasia & Manipuri is two important ethnic-tribe live here. Manipuri is famous for its rich culture especially for dancing, singing. They are also famous for their traditional weaving. Khasia tribe is famous for their betel leaf cultivation. They make their villages high on hilltop in deep forest and so far from town. It is like "A Piece of Paradise". Certainly it will please you.

Handicrafts of Sylhet: Sylhet is well known for its wide variety of exquisite handicrafts. Well-known Sylhet Cane products such as chair, table, tea trays, flower vases, bags and the exquisitely designed fine Shitol Pati (a kind of mattress having natural cooling effect) are colorful souvenirs. Manipuri Dance: An interesting feature of Sylhet region is the aboriginal tribes such as the Tipperas, the Monipuris, Khasias and Garos who still live in their primitive ways in the hills, practicing their age-old rites, rituals, customs and traditions. During festivals such as, Rash Leela (Full-moon night in February) and Doljatra, the attractive young girls dressed in colorful robes, dance with the male of their choice & love. The Manipuri’s perform their famous dance, based on allegorical love themes of the ancient mythology The Shrine of Hazrat Shah Jalal: Shrine of Saint Hazrat Shah Jalal (R.) is the most historical interest in Sylhet town. Today, more than six hundred years after his death, the shrine is visited by innumerable devotees of every caste and creed, who make the journey from far away places. Legend says, the great saint who came from Delhi to preach Islam and defeated the then Hindu Raja (king) Gour Gobinda, transformed the witchcraft followers of the Raja into catfishes which are still alive in the tank adjacent to the shrine Swords, the holy Quran and the robes of the holy saint are still preserved in the shrine.

Temple of Sri Chaitannya Dev: The place is revered from being the ancestral home of the famous Vaishnava saint. Yearly fair is organized on the full moon day of the Bangla month Falgun. Hundreds and thousands of devotees from home and abroad attend this colorful fair. Shahi Edgah: Three kilometers to the northeast of the circuit house, the Shahi Eidgah was built on a hill by the Mughal Emperor Aourangazeb in the 17th century. It looks like a grade fort but is actually meant for Eid congregation-the two biggest Muslim festivals. Jaflong: Jaflong is one of the most attractive tourist spots in Sylhet division. It's about 60 km far from Sylhet town and takes two hours drive to reach there. Jaflong is also a scenic spot nearby amidst tea gardens and rate beauty of rolling stones from hills. It is situated besides the river Mari in the lap of Hill Khashia. [Stone Collection from the River, Jaflong - Sylhet]

The Mari river is coming from the

great Himalayas of India, which bringing million tons of stone boulders with its tide. You can watch the stone collection from the river in Jaflong as well as you can enjoy the boating in the river Mari. Jaflong is totally a hilly area of real natural beauty where hills are greenish with the forests.

Tamabil: Tamabil is the border area with India and is 05 km before Jaflong. If you intend to visit Shilong of India then you will have to cross this border by completing your customs formalities. Sripur: Sripur is another beautiful tourist spot where you can see the waterfall with great tide falling form the hills. Besides the enchanting views of the area, one can also have a glimpse of the waterfalls across the border of India. Very Big stones sometimes are coming in this waterfall in Sripur. After completion of visiting Jaflong and Tamabil you must visit Sripur on the way to go back to Sylhet. It’s only 7-8km from Jaflong on the same road to Sylhet a sub road entered into Sripur waterfall. Here you can see the stone collection and orange garden if you go inside Sripur crossing the hills. tapur's Rajbari: Jaintiapur is only 5 km. from Jaflong, a scenic spot amidst tea gardens. At about 35 km. northwest of Sylhet town, linked by rail, road and river is Chhatak, the seat of Assam Bengal Cement Factory, Chhatak is famous for orange garden. Jaintapur was the capital of Jainta Kingdome at 18th century. Jainta Rajbari was the palace of Kings of Jainta, it’s just adjacent of Jainta Bazar. Though the condition of this king’s palace is already damaged enormously but a huge number of tourists visit here due to the historical background of Jainta Kingdom. A lot of picnic parties go to Jaintapur forests and also other areas of Jaflong, Sripur and Tamabil to enjoy a full day in the nature. Generally winter is the best season to visit Jaflong but if one wants to enjoy the real beauty of wild waterfall then he should visit Jaflong in Monsoon.

Srimongol: Srimongal is the place of tea gardens, hills and forest areas on the hills. Within your eyesight you will find green throughout. It’s famous for the largest tea gardens of world covered by lush green carpet. One can have a look into the spectacular tea processing at Tea Research Institute. Bangladesh produces and exports a large quantity of high quality tea every year. Most of the tea estates are in Srimongol. It is called "The land of two leaves and a bud". It is also called camellia, green carpet or Tea Mountain. There are a lot of tea estates including the largest one in the world. It is known as the tea capital in Bangladesh. Just offer entering into the tea estates the nice smells and green beauty will lead one many kilometers away.

Chapter-5

A view of Lalakhal Our beloved country Bangladesh has endless amount of nature beauty and resource. Lalakhal is a place of rare natural beauty. Visitors to this remote area would be confronted by a glorious triad of river, hills and blue sky that could have straight come out of an artist canvas. The satellite images revealed a snaking, small river, surrounded by brown, dry landscape, which during the winter season would be more beach-like than flooded. During the monsoon, however, it is not hard to imagine the torrents of water sweeping down from the hills, filling up the region with its life-disrupting force and flooding the entire area with water.

The place remains undiscovered and unknown by most people, even Sylhet. In part this was due to the location’s inaccessibility. Now the spot remained accessible only by boat. As we approached the border, the Khasia hills of India began to appear from the winter haze, looming over Bangladesh’s flatness with a sentinel’s stillness. For the internationallyenabled traveler, the hills looked enticing, full of forests and tiny villages waiting to be explored. But on the Bangladeshi side, the beauty took on a different form—the area would become an inland sea when the monsoon was in full swing. Thai-style long tail engines will take you Lalakhal from Sharee River moving in shallow water. Locals usually do their daily rituals of washing and bathing in Sharee River. Boatloads of sand-miners chugged past in wooden boats. Most impressive or attraction of Lalakhal is the color and quality of the water. Because of mineral deposition, all the rivers of the area are a striking turquoise hue, surreal in the sense that such water normally belongs in the Gulf of Thailand, not here in Sylhet.

In winter season, Lalakhal is not filled with water. Instead, there is a sandy pitch over 300 meters long. Just off the river bank. The tall, narrow trees offered some delicate shade,

People who need more places to recharge his batteries, and rest his nerves, from the cities of chaotic places that flow only to the rhythm of anarchy. Lalakhal is one such place, which takes the traveler far off the beaten path, by offering its antidotal charms to intrepid adventurers. The exceptional feature of Lalakhal can be bought out on three categories Fascinating blue water Beautiful tea garden Charming hill place Fascinating blue water: Lalakhal a canal of Bangladesh situated in Sylhet district, a holy district of Bangladesh. The water of canal is very much different. In the same canal one can find blue, green and clear water. No one can believe this without having watch. It is the paradise of nature lovers specially eco-tourist. Such water normally belongs in the Thailand not here in Sylhet. Beautiful tea garden: The tea garden of Lalakhal miles after miles like a tea carpet spread over the slope of the hills are a feast to the eyes of the travelers. Here also having a soothing and comfortable climate condition. Charming hill place: In Lalakhal the torrents of water is sweeping down from the hills. Sometimes it floods the entire area with water. It is so cheat seen the khasia hills of India on the border of Lalakhal. The hills looked enticing full of forest and tiny village. Nazimgarh The place Lalakhal is used by the Nazimgarh property. The owners are Nazimuddin chowdhuty and Geeti ara shafia chowdhury. They are one of the significant land lords in Sylhet. The Nazimgarh resort and tourist spot has been established to provide the different taste of experience in visiting Lalakhal. Because they are the owner of the Lalakhal property

recently they has taken an initiative to modernize and modify the Lalakhal as a picnic spot. They are developing a tourist cum picnic spot in Lalakhal. Their imitative should be appreciated but they are targeting only the elite class of tourist specially foreigners. They got boat and vehicle of their own to provide the tourist required their tour facilities. Nazimgarh office situated at Boteshwar in sylhet city. The room rent of the hotel is $100 per day. The rent of boat is about 2500 BTD. The service they are providing is luxurious and spontaneous which is enough to satisfy tourist expectations. Though is appreciable but their facilities is not available but their facilities is not available for the all class of people. Because of the rent of the resort is rather higher Bangladesh perspective. It seems that there goal is to attract the foreign tourist. Moreover the rent of boat is also higher. Especially elite society of our country can avail the facilities of Nazimgarh resort. Being the owner of Lalakhal estate Nazimgarh should develop the facilities to provide the necessary amenities to satisfy tourist. Bangladesh is small country but the natural beauty of Bangladesh is fantabulous. To remove the monotony people seek to some places where they can get rid of the pressure. Nazimgarh is enriched having Lalakhal such a nice place. Investment opportunity in Lalakhal is not open because of private ownership so the development is more depends on the Nazimgarh. An interested investor may create a t venture to make an investment in Lalakhal. Nazimgarh should extend its facilities to the general people also.

Developing Lalakhal as a profitable tourist spot The rapid growth of tourism worldwide has created many challenges and opportunities for established and emerging tourism destinations. To develop Lalakhal as a profitable tourist spot we have to fast analyze some basic elements. These are 1. Conduct a preliminary competitive advantage analysis by using a demand driver marketing approach. 2. Environmental project analysis.

3. Identify potential project that contribution to the investment promotion goals. 4. Infrastructure development. 5. Extending recreational facilities. Infrastructure development: Infrastructure development means develops beautiful cottage, hotels, motels or restaurants at the Lalakhal resort. These can situate in the river side so that the tourist can observed the beautiful nature of Lalakhal by stay on there. Here we also make a mini golf ground which profound refreshment to new corner. Giving nature with artificial combination: The total combination of natural and artificial materials would give Lalakhal full maturity. The artificial combination may be eco-park where a mini zoo can be added at the entrance of the park. Identify potential project: The major step could be identifying the space where.

Comparison of existing tourist spot with Lalakhal

Tourist spot Rangamati

Facilities/ attraction Speed boat Water skiing Bathing on lake Hanging bridge Suvlong natural water fall

Compare with Lalakhal In Lalakhal it could be added speedboat cruising as well as water skiing. This may possible because Lalakhal is a water land area. Because having no water fall here artificial water can be created.

Foy’s lake

Beautiful cottage in the foy’s lake resort Enjoying the boat riding Rides in side the resort Nice hills Charming clear water of the lake Sea world

The foy’s lake is mainly an artificial lake but Lalakhal is a natural river. So it is possible to make here an artificial tourist spot. Resort, accommodation, restaurant facilities should be provided.

Mini Bangladesh

Revolving restaurant Various monument of historic places Rides Space for arranging programs

Here in Mini Bangladesh there many monuments historic site so in Lalakhal it is possible to make some monuments.

Saint martin

Offer ship journey Deep fishing Water sports Beautiful coconut trees Visit to neighboring island

Saint martin is basically famous for clean beach and stone. In Lalakhal there are also nice bank of river on which one can enjoy sun basking in the winter. Here the boat facilities should be added.

Himchari

On the south place of Cox’s bazaar. A nice place combines the hills and sea both. Water falls Evergreen and semi evergreen forest

Like himchari national park there is also an eco park can be made. The blue green and clear water will fascinate tourist.

Sitakunda

Huge hills Forest Wild life Mountain riding It has many researching elements

Sitakunda is famous for high hills. In the Lalakhal there are also some hills but the perfect combination of the river and the hills are magnificent.

Kuakata

Enjoying the sun set and the Lalakhal can be a best place for sunrise on the same spot. watching sunset and the sunrise. Nice beach Tourist will enjoy the experience if there any accommodation will be added.

Marketing Plan for Lalakhal Executive summary: Lalakhal is decorating in new way to attract the tourist. Despite it has some dominant tourist spot, we can compete because our offering combines exclusive features. We are targeting specific segments, in the middle and upper-income people and also student. According to there expectation we will provide all facilities to them.

Market situation: Tourism sector

would be thrust business sector in our country. Egypt earns more than

67% revenue from tourism sector. Similarly Thailand, Malaysia also earning a majority portions from tourism. But in Bangladesh, it contributes 11% of the total GDP. Tourist expect some exceptional something which is provided by above those countries. This sector is also competitive but profitable. Product review: ♦Boat journey from Sharee ghat to Lalakhal is the main attraction for the tourist. Both government and private organization may provide boating and water gaming facilities to inspire the tourist to visit Lalakhal. ♦Resort, motels, restaurant facilities are essential part of a tourist spot. In Lalakhal it is possible to offer the tourist traditional Bangladeshi and many special items which represent the Bengali culture to the tourist of home and abroad. ♦ In Lalakhal some cultural programs may be arranged which will represent local culture and tradition. Generally Sylhet is famous for the Monipuri tribe and Khasia, so it is possible show their colorful cultural life to attract the tourist.

♦Modern tourism is being specialized by some festivals and celebration day. Special observation of festival may be introduced to the tourist to provide exceptional taste of tourism. Competition: Lalakhal as a tourist have to compete with other tourist spot such as Jaflong, Madhabkunda, Lawachara, parjatan which are already renowned to the tourist. To compete with the existing tourist spot Lalakhal should provide some essential requirements. Such as accommodation facilities, food court, recreational activities, amusement park. We can mention the foy’s lake in this regard. Foy’s lake was created to supply water for the railway workers in the age of the British ruling. But now it becomes the most attractive tourist spot. Same thing may be happened in Ashulia which named Fantasy kingdom. So to compete with the existing tourist spot Investor should provide the necessary requirement provided by the famous tourist spot in home and abroad.

Chapter-6 SWOT analysis: Strength: Main strength of Lalakhal is the sharee river and its colorful water. Because it situated in the edge of Bangladesh – India border it is able to provide the quite and solitude environment to the tourist. So as a tourist spot it has the quality remove monotony of the tourist. In Bangladesh no tourist spot based on the boat journey has been developed. So it will be new dimension in the tourism sector. It is hopeful that in Sylhet Especially in Lalakhal the responsibility of security system are maintaining by the Bangladesh Rifles. Weakness: ♦ Depend on the foreign investment. ♦Lalakhal area is prone to flood in rainy season Lalakhal contain huge flow of water which floods the area besides the sharee river. ♦There is already exists a private like Najimgor so it is a threat to new investors.

♦ Lalakhal the place situated in the border region so it has some sort of risk. To maintain favorable place visit enough security should be provided.

Opportunity: Tourism industry is a highly attractive investing sector due to monotonous work of our requirements of the tourist spot and the longing for recreational programs ri day by day. It is approved that existing tourist spot are making huge amount of profit. Bangladesh is a populated country. So it is profitable to use the low cost labor and qualified young workforce. Threats: Because there are many tourist spot already in Sylhet so it will be hard to make new place in the tourism sector. People of Bangladesh do not earn a handsome amount of money to spend for tourism. Per capita income of Bangladeshi is $250, so it is hard to manage fund for visiting. In rainy season there is a probability of flood. So it may cause damage to the infrastructure. Due to economic recession in the world a lose wave may affect the domestic tourism spot. Because of many tourist spot depends on foreign. Marketing Strategy: Our marketing strategy is based on positioning of product differentiation. Our primary consumer target is middle to upper-income professionals who need to there leisure time in a fascinating environment also who have the eagerness to enjoy the natural beauty. Our secondary consumer target is the students who need to remove their monotony. Market Positioning: Market positioning is arranging for our product to occupy a clear, distinctive, and desirable place relating to competing products in the minds of the target consumers. According to our consumer expectation, we decorate Lalakhal in a new dimension which will satisfy them.

Marketing Mix strategy:

Price

Product

Comparatively lower Bonus Discount

Service Quality Features

Marketing Mix

Promotion

Place

Advertising (Print media, Electronic media) Publicity

Location Transportation

Chapter-7

Findings

Tourist preference: From our study we have found that 86% of tourist prefer natural site. On the other side 4% of tourist prefers artificial location and 10% of tourist prefers combination of both natural and artificial site. That means that most of the tourist likes to visit the natural site as a tourist spot.

Tourist preference about the spot Types of spot Natural Artificial Both

Percentage 86% 4% 10%

Percentage of tourist

Preference of tourist 100 80 60 Preference

40 20 0 Natural

Artificial Types of tourist spot

Both

Having Knowledge about Lalakhal: Approximately 54% of people have the knowledge about the Lalakhal and 46% of people are not aware of Lalakhal. This contain that huge number of people have no knowledge about the Lalakhal. Obligatory steps should be taken to highlight Lalakhal to the tourist of home and abroad. Tourist knowledge about the Lalakhal Types of comments Yes No

Percentage 54% 46%

Havingknowledgeabout Lalakhal

No 46%

Yes Yes 54%

No

Problems regarding the tour: A tourist generally faces many problems regarding a tour. Our study shows that a tourist faces the transportation problem more than any other problems. After transportation problem a tourist faces the crowd as a problem. Then a tourist faces food facilities, security, accommodation, pollution, no help, and syndicate problem during a tour. Problems regarding a tour Problems in visiting Transportation Parking Food facilities No help Syndicate Security Accommodation Pollution

Percentage 25% 8% 12% 4% 3% 12% 10% 10%

16%

Poblems regarding tour

30 25 20 15 10 5 0 rk in g

Fo

od

Pa

rta i sp o Tr an

fa ci liti es N o Sy help nd ic a Se te Ac c co ur it y m da tio Po n lu tio n C ro wd

Poblems

on

Percentage of tourist opinion

Crowd

Problems

Age of the tourists: We have also surveyed on the age of the tourist who have visited Lalakhal. From our surveyed it shows that approximately 6% of tourists have age between 0-15 years. 54% tourists have age between 16-30 years. 30% of tourists have the age between 31-45 years. 7% tourist of total tourists has age between 46-60 years. Range of the tourist age Age range 0-15 16-30 31-45 46-60 61-75

Percentage 6% 54% 30% 7% 3%

Age of the tourist

Age range

61-75 46-60 31-45 16-30 0-15 0

10

20

30

40

50

60

percentage

Expenditure on traveling: Our study shows that maximum tourist expend between 6000-15000 TK range. Then a lucrative number of tourists also spend between 1000-5000 TK. There also tourist who spends about 50000TK in a year for traveling. Range of tourist expenditure 1000-5000 6000-15000 16000-30000 31000-50000

Percentage 32% 35% 195 14%

Percentage of tourist

Expenditure on traveling. 40 35 30 25 20 15 10 5 0

Expenditure on traveling.

10005000

600015000

1600030000

3100050000

Range of expenditure

Potentiality of Lalakhal: Through our survey we find that most of the tourist has liked the place Lalakhal. Approximately 7% of peoples got an average comment about the place.3% of tourist mention the place good. Approximately 76% people think that the place is excellent. 2% of people have no comments.

Types of comments Average Good Best Not so good No comments

Percentage 7% 13% 76% 2% 2%

Percentage

Pontentiality of Lalakhal 80 70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0 Average

Good

Best

Not so good

Comments of the tourist

No comments

Statistical report World Tourist Arrivals & Receipts (1999-2004) Year

Arrivals (Million) Change % Receipts Billion % Change US$

1999

657.00

2000

687.30

4.61

475

4.40

2001

684.10

-0.47

463

-2.53

2002

702.60

2.70

480

3.67

2003

691.00

-1.65

523

8.96

2004

760.00

9.99

0

-100.00

455

Source: WTO

World’s Top 10Tourist Destinations & Tourism Earners (Year-2004) Rank

Country

Arrivals (Million)

Rank Country

Billion US$ Receipts

1



77.00

1

USA

64.50

2

Spain

52.30

2

Spain

41.80

3

USA

43.50

3



37.00

4

Italy

39.80

4

Italy

31.20

5

China

36.80

5



23.00

6

UK

24.20

6

UK

22.80

7

Austria

18.60

7

China

17.40

8

Mexico

19.70

8

Austria

14.10

9



18.00

9

Turkey

13.20

10

Canada

10

Greece

10.70

Source: WTO

Visitor’s arrival by purpose of study (year -2006)

Month January February March April May June July August September October November December Total

Tourism 3366 3497 5118 4676 3243 1516 2863 1885 2567 2899 3466 4741 39840

Business 1947 2981 2565 2234 2141 1563 4157 4074 3856 5004 4178 9927 44627

Office 738 1154 1386 795 988 166 100 107 135 187 212 350 6318

Study 87 55 115 95 86 89 302 338 184 789 333 1570 4043

Religion 85 197 89 95 92 64 107 130 54 196 117 1847 3073

Others 17447 17128 14989 15275 8409 19622 19462 15404 13064 12710 18902 957 173369

Total 23670 25012 24262 23173 14959 23020 26991 21938 19860 21785 27208 19392 271270

January

300000

February

250000

March

200000

April May

150000

June

100000

July August

50000 0

September Tourism

Office

Religion

Total

October November December

Foreign visitor’s arrivals by months (Year: 1998-2006)

Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

1998 1521 3 1236 2 1113 2 1243 5 9021

1999 12531

1211 3 1324 6 1350 2 1300 2 2140 0 2574 1 2101 4

22411

140000 120000 100000 80000 60000 40000 20000 0

12354 11324 11364 12354

22134 20214 15021 13210 12243 12355

2000 1724 2 1234 5 2513 1 2413 5 2231 4 2231 2 3124 2 2131 2 2211 3 3121 1 2413 4 2931 2

2001 31952

2002 13284

2003 13586

2004 21045

2005 19524

2006 21042

19241

19648

10298

12045

20031

21403

26485

13549

10254

21421

20134

20045

16452

16894

13566

42151

20154

12204

19246

10265

10254

12421

13546

12399

13426

16587

19876

13152

16895

19864

13254

10355

10985

21432

17689

19564

13254

10398

18764

12433

18642

12949

19876

10224

21432

19642

13225 5 10354

19281

10988

21089

24132

15012

10258

18765

10993

22013

21143

21432

12645

16485

10568

19200

21436

21342

10254

Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Chapter-8

Recommendation 1. BPC (Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation) should come forward to enlist Lalakhal in the Parjotan industry. 2. Developing the infrastructure system belonging to Lalakhal. 3. Improving law and order to ensure high level of security for the tourist. 4. Improving the amenities to consent refreshment for the tourists. 5. Transportation should be developed for approaching tourists without any confusion. 6. Providing artificial combination with the nature that’s why it does not lost its natural beauty. 7. Luxury tourist hotel accommodation should be available for the foreigner.

8. Offering restaurants facilities with different cuisine for all classes of tourists. 9. Allocating more budgets in the tourism sector. 10. Finally, we urge the media and entrepreneurs for organizing campaigns and promotional activities at home and abroad to further develop the sector.

Conclusion According to the world tourism organization, nature tourism is the fastest growing segment of the travel industry, averaging a 30 percent increases each year since 1987. A country can earn a lot of foreign currency based on the tourism product it has. Lalakhal could be a potential boom tourism spot in Sylhet. By inquiring with difference class of people like tourist or tourism experts it finds in conclusion that if Lalakhal is developed in properly planned way it could become one of the best Asian tourist circuit. Our tourism industry is seen a better position in winter season. Many tourists said that the natural beauty of Lalakhal is more charming in the winter season. So it needs to improvements of security, infrastructure as a well as the transportation system of the Lalakhal. Moreover government should simplify the visa regulation for the foreign tourists. As the location of the Lalakhal is situated within a reasonable distance from Sylhet tourist can reach the spot without any confusion. The geographical position, natural beauties biodiversity of Lalakhal is

tremendous to attract tourists. The spontaneous combination of the natural beauty of Lalakhal with artificial assistance will make the place attractive to the tourist of home and abroad.

Reference:

.  Journal of Tourism, Vol. 6, No. 6, 2008  Nazimgarh Resort: A taste of Bengali luxury- story by Mikey Leung  The Daily Star, March 18,2009  Bangladesh Parjaton Corporation  Arnold, D. and R. Guha (Eds.). 1996. Nature, Culture, Imperialism

 www.unc.edu/depts/wcweb  Social Science Research Network (http://ssrn.com/abstract=1314800)  www.discoverybangladesh.com  www.joybangla.com

Questionnaire to Tourist Name: Occupation: Age: Address: :

Date:

1. What types of tourist spot do you like most? □ Natural

□ Artificial

2. How do you know about the spot Lalakhal? Ans..... 3. Have you come here first time or more than once? Ans.....

□ Both

4. What is the objective of your visit? □ Picnic

□ Tour

□ Other purpose

5. Did you visit any other place in Sylhet before? □Yes □ No 6. If yes, which places were you visited? What are the differences between Lalakhal and those places? Ans….. 7. Have you found any obstacles while you visiting? □ Yes □ No 8. What kinds of accommodation do you needs? Ans….. 9. Do you think that security system is well enough? □ Yes

□ No

10. Do you think this place (Lalakhal) is neglected or not setting proper negotiation? □Yes

□ No

11. Will you encourage others to visit this place? □ Yes

□ No

12. What is the potentiality of Lalakhal as a tourist spot? Ans….. 13. Are you satisfied with the transportation facilities? □Yes

□ No

14. If no, how transportation facilities can be developed? Ans….. 15. Do you think that the local people are helpful? □ Yes

□ No

16. Of which site of Lalakhal attract you much? Ans….. 17. Do you think there should be any hotel or motels in Lalakhal? □ Yes

□ No

18. Do you think that the development of transport facilities can bring more tourists here? □ Yes

□ No

19. If there build up any artificial spot beside Lalakhal, how much it will be potential? □ Good □ Bad □ Best 20. Can it be a potential tourist spot in Sylhet as well as in Bangladesh? □ Yes

□ No

Questionnaire to the expert 1. How much potentiality of tourism sector in the perspective of Bangladesh? 2. What sort of potentiality of Lalakhal as a tourist spot. 3. How will you compare Lalakhal to others as a tourist spot? 4. What are the major problems it might face by the tourist while they are visiting? 5. What could be the role of govt. to improve the tourism sector? 6. If we want to attract this place to the foreigners what type of steps can be taken. 7. What kinds of step can be taken to focus on Lalakhal as a tourist spot? 8. What will be your opinion towards the visitors?

Questionnaire to others

1. Do you find interest in traveling? 2. Do you think that the spot Lalakhal is potential enough as an attractive tourist spot? □ Yes

□ No

3. Do you think that all the ages of people can come here to visit? □ Yes □ No 4. If no, why? Ans. 5. Do you think that the lack of knowledge about Lalakhal discourage the people to go there? Ans.

6. Do you want to invest in the project of Lalakhal (only for business man)? □ Yes

□ No

7. What types of facilities do provide to your valuable customers (For the travel agencies)? Ans. 8. Do you take any extra step to attract the tourist, especially who is interested to go to Lalakhal (Travel agencies)? Ans. 9. ‘Tourism can create employment opportunity’ what’s your opinion on it. Ans.

Questionnaire to Local people

1. What’s your opinion about the tourist? Ans. 2. Do you think that if there be a potential tourists spot, will it hamper your existence? □Yes □No 3. Do you think that it can make standard your living style? □Yes □No 4. How much you eager to help the tourist? Ans. 6. Can you tell us how much people are going to Lalakhal in a month or in a year? Ans. 7. If there be an artificial lake like Foy’z Lake, will you contribute on it?

□Yes

□No