Malnicherra Tea Garden in Sylhet. Photo: BSS

SYLHET, Aug 31, 2025 (BSS)- Malnicherra Tea Garden in Sylhet, widely regarded as the oldest tea estate in the Indian subcontinent, is rapidly gaining recognition as a premier tourist destination in Bangladesh, drawing both domestic and international visitors to its sprawling green landscapes, colonial-era heritage, and scenic surroundings.

Established in 1854 during the British colonial rule, the Malnicherra Tea Garden, also locally known as Malnichora, is located just minutes from Sylhet Osmani International Airport and lies beside the Sylhet-Airport road. 

With an area covering approximately 1,500 acres, the tea estate is one of the largest tea garden in the country and serves as a gateway to the region’s tea culture.

Over the past few years, Malnicherra has witnessed a steady increase in footfall, particularly among nature lovers, photographers, and heritage tourists. The rolling hills blanketed in tea bushes, narrow walking trails, and natural water springs have made it a top attraction in the Sylhet region.

“We are seeing growing interest from tour operators who now include Malnicherra as a must-visit site on Sylhet itineraries,” said Humayun Kabir Liton, president of Tour Operators' Association of Sylhet.

“Visitors are drawn not only to the natural beauty but also the historical significance of the estate,” he said.

"We were excited while visiting the Malnicherra Tea Garden in a calm and cool environment apart from its scenic beauty," said Shawkat Ali, a tourist came here with his family.

Asha Bari, who runs a small shop inside the tea estate, said many tourists visit Malnicherra every day but their number increases in weekends or holidays. The garden has also become a venue for recreational and cultural events. 

Proximity to major tourist destinations such as Ratargul Swamp Forest, Jaflong, and Lalakhal adds further appeal to the site, making it an ideal spot for travelers exploring northeastern Bangladesh.

Additionally, the accessibility of the estate—located only 15 minutes away from the airport—enhances its potential as a short-stay or transit tourism destination.

However, tourism experts stress the need for structured development to unlock its full potential. Suggestions include establishing visitor centres, guided tour services, signage in multiple languages, and community-based souvenir markets that can benefit local artisans and tea workers.

Locals said if sustainably developed, Malnicherra can be the face of tea tourism in Bangladesh, much like Darjeeling in India.

Bangladesh Parjatan Corporation and Sylhet City Corporation have expressed interest in expanding eco-tourism infrastructure in the region, though no formal development plan has yet been announced.

While the tea garden is not currently under any formal tourism authority, its growing popularity has sparked calls for responsible tourism planning to preserve its ecological and historical value.

As global travel interest in offbeat and eco-friendly destinations continues to grow, Malnicherra Tea Garden is well-positioned to become one of Bangladesh’s signature rural tourism attractions — offering a rare combination of heritage, hospitality, and highland beauty, Humayun said.