Rapid assessment of the context and current status of tourism development and management in Bandarban

Bandarban – ‘the roof of Bangladesh’, as described by the Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation (the National Tourism Organization of Bangladesh), is a hidden paradise away from the din and bustle of the world. Though not developed for tourism activities yet, today or tomorrow it will be one of the paradises for eco-tourism. Undeniably, the number of tourists is increasing rapidly and this will continue in future. Tourism is seasonal in pattern in Bandarban, and can be divided into peak and off-peak season. It has been estimated that almost half a million tourists visit Bandarban during peak season (Oct – March). And in off season (April – September) almost 0.15 million tourists visit Bandarban making a total of almost 0.65 to 0.70 million tourists per year. Though local farmers are busy with their winter vegetable cultivation during the peak season, they can manage time to work in the tourism industry. Moreover, a huge number of young people are unemployed, who will be happy to work in the tourism industry round the year.As a rough estimate, if one tourist spends a minimum of Taka 1500 everyday on average, then the total receipt from tourism sector in Bandarban stands at around Taka 100 crore (12.5 million US $). From surveying tourists it was found that Bandarban is a destination for young people as it attracts them for adventure tourism. Majority of them (59.26%) fall into the age range between 25 and 34 years, followed by 33.33% into 15-24 years, and 7.41% into 45-54 years. Almost all of them visit Bandarban without taking any service from tour operator or travel agent. Most of them travel to Bandarban with their friend circle. Purpose of their visit is adventure and leisure (70% for adventure and 26% for leisure and recreation). Main motivation to visit Bandarban is seeing the serene hills and forest, enjoying the natural environment, adventure activities (mainly hill trekking, walking through Jhiripath or waterway to see waterfall in remote areas, and boating), and sensing peace and tranquillity. Value chain mapping is an approach to show the flow of values to the ultimate customer- the tourist from the suppliers of tourism product and it includes supporting sectors also. For tourism development we must address the gaps in between different parties in the value chain. The tourism value chain in Bandarban generally integrates five main productive activities or sectors: accommodation, restaurants, transportation, handicrafts/shopping and tourism related services. Government and private sector, along with other national and international organization, should involve local community and the tourists for the sustainable development of tourism in the paradise of Bandarban. Tourism development is expected in Bandarban for the greater benefit of the local people- both the ethnic and non-ethnic. But it must be in a sustainable way without hampering the nature of this paradise and unique culture of the ethnic people and for their long-term economic benefit.