Viral social media fame transforms remote Rajshahi river island into tourist hotspot nicknamed Mini Switzerland
Photo Collected
A remote riverine tract in Rajshahi, locally known as Middle Char, has emerged as a viral tourist destination after social media users dubbed the area “Mini Switzerland.” Located within Ward 8 of the Hariyan Union in Paba Upazila, the island has seen a surge in visitors over the past fortnight, with local estimates suggesting between 1,000 and 1,200 people now arrive daily.
The char, accessible via a 10-to-12-minute boat ride from the Satbaria Dogar Ghat, offers a pastoral landscape characterized by vast green fields, grazing cattle, and traditional agricultural activities set against the backdrop of the Padma River. While the site has long been a part of the local landscape, widespread exposure through viral drone footage and social media content has transformed it into a popular spot for photography and recreation.
The influx of visitors has significantly impacted local infrastructure and commerce. Boat services at the Dogar Ghat have expanded, with the number of operational vessels increasing from a few to approximately 15 to keep pace with demand. Despite the rise in foot traffic, boat operators have maintained the round-trip fare at 50 BDT per person. The increase in tourists has also spurred the growth of informal small-scale retail stalls on the char to serve visitors.
However, the rapid popularity of the area has raised concerns regarding environmental sustainability and wildlife preservation. Residents have reported an accumulation of plastic waste and litter across the fields. Furthermore, local officials and community members warn that the unauthorized intrusion into grazing areas is disrupting the livestock and potentially endangering the habitat of native and migratory birds.
In response to safety concerns regarding the river crossing, the Rajshahi City Corporation has intervened to enhance maritime security. On Thursday, city officials, led by Secretary Sohel Rana and Magistrate Nazmul Alam, distributed life jackets to boatmen at the Malek Dogar Ghat. Local administrator Mahfuzur Rahman Riton has directed boat operators to prioritize passenger safety and strictly prohibit overloading vessels.
As the community balances the economic benefits of tourism with the preservation of their traditional way of life, local residents like Md. Rafiqul expressed hope that the newfound attention will not come at the cost of the environment. The area remains primarily an agricultural hub, home to approximately 700 to 800 people and a livestock population of over 8,000, where farming and cattle rearing continue to serve as the core economic drivers. Local authorities are currently coordinating with the City Corporation to install waste management facilities, including dustbins, to mitigate the impact of the rising tourist numbers.
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