Kuakata's 'Mini Switzerland', 'Lal Kakrar Char' captivating tourists

Island of red crabs of Kuakata captivates tourists.

Patuakhali: Sagarkanya Kuakata is not only attractive to tourists for enjoying the sunrise and sunset views, but now a new natural spot known as 'Mini Switzerland' is captivating tourists. And 'Lal Kakrar Char' is located near it.

Located about 13 kilometers east of Kuakata Zero Point, 'Mini Switzerland', known as 'Mini Switzerland', is a place of unique natural beauty formed by the wonderful combination of green forests, lakes and sea waves. A heavenly atmosphere prevails there due to the vast green plains, small hills, blue sky and clear air.

Tourist attraction of Kuakata as second Switzerland

Coming here, tourists get the opportunity to take pictures amidst the green nature, roam around with their families and enjoy the peaceful environment. Many travelers spend the night here by pitching tents. One of the special attractions here is the rare experience of enjoying the sunrise and sunset from the same place.

Tourist couple Nilu Abir, who came from Dhaka, said, "We have visited many places, but it is really rare to see both the sunrise and sunset from one place. The environment here is very peaceful and pleasant."

Another tourist, Nijhum, said, "After coming to Mini Switzerland, I feel like I have become one with nature. The silence and fresh air here have captivated me."

Local tour guide Abul Kalam said that initially, a few locals used to call the place 'Mini Switzerland'. Later, travel blogger Mr. Laxsu traveled to different areas of Kuakata on a motorcycle and recorded videos. The surrounding scenes, including Kawarchar and Gangamati Lake, appear in his videos. Since that video went viral on social media, the place has started to gain popularity across the country.

Mr. Laksho said, "When I first came here, the place was not very familiar. Seeing the green trees, blue sky and calm waves of the sea all around, it seemed like a piece of Switzerland hidden inside Bangladesh. From that thought, I used the name 'Mini Switzerland' in the blog."

Another attraction of Kuakata is 'Lal Kakrar Char'. The sight of thousands of red crabs running around on the sand of the beach has created a special attraction for tourists. With the surrounding green forests and peaceful environment, the area is gradually becoming known as a potential destination for eco-tourism.

Tourism related people believe that if 'Mini Switzerland' and 'Lal Kakrar Char' can be developed in a planned manner, a new dimension of tourism will be added to Kuakata.

Former president of Kuakata Press Club and tourism businessman Md. Anwar Hossain Anu said, if an eco-tourism center is built here in a planned manner, new employment opportunities will be created for unemployed youth. In addition, if local youth are involved in guides, boat tour operators and tourism-based businesses, the wheels of their families' economy will be set in motion.

However, locals complain that there is a risk of damage to the natural environment of the area due to some unknowing tourists. This peaceful natural environment is being polluted by playing sound boxes, throwing plastic waste and garbage.

Kuakata Municipal Administrator and Assistant Commissioner (Land) Yasin Sadek said, 'To create a tourism-friendly environment around this area, a plan has been taken to develop infrastructure and increase road connectivity to tourist spots.'

Kalapara Upazila Executive Officer Kausar Hamid said, initial plans for potential tourism projects focusing on 'Mini Switzerland' and the surrounding areas have been undertaken. Sustainable development and environmental conservation will be ensured through the implementation of the Kuakata Master Plan. - Gofran Palash