Rich in natural resources and scenic beauty, Tanguar Haor has long been a major attraction for tourists. The wetland takes on an even more vibrant appearance during the monsoon. A boat ride through its clear waters, the enchanting interplay of moonlight and water at night, and the surrounding natural landscape offer visitors a chance to unwind both body and mind.

In the late afternoon, the lush green Meghalaya hills to the north, clouds drifting across the sky and their reflections dancing on the haor’s waters create an enchanting atmosphere. The breathtaking scenery casts a spell over the entire area.

Tourists visiting Tanguar Haor do not simply return after enjoying its beauty. They also explore nearby attractions such as the Jadukata River, Barek Tila, Shaheed Siraj Lake (Niladri Lake), Shimul Bagan and Lakmachhara. Located within a relatively short distance of one another, these destinations complement each other’s natural beauty, making the area an increasingly attractive tourism circuit.

Speaking to several owners of boats registered with the Houseboat Owners Association of Bangladesh, it is learned that around 150–160 houseboats are currently engaged in tourism activities in the haor. Including trawlers, the number exceeds 300. Of these, 122 are registered with the association.

Boat owners said the number of tourists per season is around 50,000, with almost all houseboats carrying visitors to the haor on holidays. On other days, around 20–30 houseboats operate in the area.

The association’s secretary and owner of the houseboat “Moon of Tangua”, Md Mayen Uddin Faruk, said a luxury houseboat costs around BDT 10 million to build and generates BDT 2–3 million in revenue each season. It generally takes four to five years to recoup the investment. But some owners reported slightly higher earnings.

Amit Roy has been involved in the tourism sector since its early days in the haor. As one of the owners of the houseboat “The Ark”, he believes the future of tourism depends on protecting the haor.

“If the haor survives, tourism will survive. Then the sector will expand naturally, and our businesses will also do well. It’s a promising sector. That’s why we need to keep the haor clean and safe,” he said.

Sunamganj Deputy Commissioner Muhammad Minhazur Rahman said, “Various measures and directives have already been introduced to protect Tanguar Haor. Action will be taken against anyone who violates these directives.”