Sherpur’s Garo Hills: Tourists Captivated by Breathtaking Beauty

The Garo Hills along the Meghalaya border in India have made Sherpur an attractive tourist destination. The green landscape, hill roads and roaming wild elephants draw visitors to Nalitabari, Jhenaigati and Sreebardi upazilas, especially during winter, Eid and holidays. Popular attractions include Gajni Obokash, Madhutila Eco Park, Panihata Tarani Hill, Rajar Pahar, rubber gardens, Baromari Christian Mission, Dawdhara Garo Hills, Nakugaon land port, Hariekona Hill and several historic mosques, temples and shrines.

The area also offers views of Meghalaya’s mountains. Local people estimate that more than 200 wild elephants live across the Garo Hills. The culture, food and lifestyle of the Garo and Koch communities, along with local products such as pineapple, banana, orange, latkan, ginger and turmeric, are also popular with visitors.

However, tourism facilities remain limited. Visitors have complained about photographers charging extra fees at Gajni Obokash. Madhutila Eco Park, covering about 383 acres and established in 1999, also reportedly suffers from poor maintenance. Several rides are out of order, while food and accommodation facilities are limited. Safety concerns, including wild elephant encounters, have also been reported.

Visitors Khandaker Jannatul Islam and Abdullah Al Amin said, “There are many things to see at Gajni Obokash and Madhutila Eco Park. However, these places need further renovation.” The Madhutila range officer said the Forest Department was working to ensure a safe and clean environment for tourists and was coordinating with the local administration to address problems.

Sherpur Deputy Commissioner Ms. Farida Yasmin said, “Sherpur, surrounded by the Garo Hills, has many natural attractions for tourists.” She said Gajni Obokash is being modernised and security measures are being strengthened. She also said steps were being taken to address the lack of tourist police. A motel in Rangtia is also planned for tourists.