Kuakata sea beach, widely known as the “beach of sunrise and sunset,” has seen a dramatic revival in tourism during the Eid-ul-Adha holiday, with thousands of visitors flocking to the scenic coastal destination and boosting the local economy.
For five consecutive days since Eid, the beach has experienced a steady influx of tourists. Hotel occupancy has surged, with more than 80% of rooms booked through the end of the week, according to local tourism operators.
The surge has brought a festive mood to Kuakata, with the beach buzzing with activity. Visitors have been seen bathing in the sea, lounging on benches along the shore, and enjoying time with family and friends. Many have also ventured to nearby attractions such as the confluence of three rivers, Lembur Bon, Shutki Polli, Jhau Bagan, Gangamati, Char Gangamati, and Kakrar Char using small local vehicles.
Tourists have expressed enthusiasm about the destination’s natural charm.
“I’m visiting Kuakata for the first time,” said Abida Sultana Priyo, a tourist. “We had planned a four-day tour, but I’ve extended it by another day because I fell in love with the place. Kuakata isn’t as modern as Cox’s Bazar, but its natural beauty is unmatched.”
Others echoed similar sentiments.
“Eid is the only time of year when I get a long vacation,” said Nasir Uddin, a bank official visiting with his family. “I can’t afford international trips, so we explore destinations within the country. Kuakata feels different this time – the rainy season makes the sea even more beautiful.”
Local businesses tied to the tourism sector are reporting a significant uptick in activity.
Photographer Shahin Mia said he has been working long hours to meet the demands of tourists wanting to capture memories. “I’ve been working from early morning till late at night. We charge Tk5 per photo.”
Ruman Imtiaz Tushar, president of the Tour Operators Association of Kuakata, said the post-Eid tourism wave has brought a much-needed boost.
“There are over 200 residential hotels in Kuakata. First-class hotels are 70–80% booked, while second- and third-class hotels have over 50% occupancy,” he said. “We expect people in all 16 tourism-related sectors to benefit from this increase.”
Tourist safety has also been a key focus during the busy period.
“Tourist police are working to ensure the safety of all visitors,” said Taposh Chandra Roy, officer-in-charge of the Tourist Police in Kuakata. “We have multiple teams patrolling in both uniform and plainclothes. We are fully prepared to provide security to tourists.”
With the Eid holiday drawing visitors in large numbers, Kuakata’s renewed vibrancy offers hope for a sustained rebound in the region’s tourism industry.
