Along the banks of the Chengi River in Khagrachhari, an enchanting sight unfolds every year. On one side, lush green hills roll gently, while on the other stretches a vast field of sunflowers, swaying gracefully in the breeze. This picturesque landscape draws visitors from across the country and abroad, who come not only to admire the natural beauty but also to capture photographs and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
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Transforming Agriculture into Tourism
Recently, two local farmers—Apre Marma and Niruttam Chakma—have transformed their sunflower fields into profitable tourist attractions. A modest entrance fee has been introduced, providing them with an additional source of income while simultaneously managing visitor behaviour.
Apre Marma explained,
“Initially, visitors would pluck flowers and damage plants. Frustrated one day, I decided to charge a 20-taka entrance fee. Since then, visitors have been paying willingly, and many even purchase flowers.”
Niruttam Chakma added that last year he earned 10,000 taka from ticket sales, and with the increase in visitor numbers this year, his revenue is expected to grow. Encouraged by the success, Apre Marma plans to cultivate an additional acre of sunflowers next year.
Farmers’ Gardens and Income Details
| Farmer Name | Location | Land Area | Entrance Fee (per visitor) | Additional Income (Ticket Sales) | Flower Price (per stem) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apre Marma | Battali, Chengi River Bank | 20% of an acre | 20 Taka | Expected increase this year | 150 Taka |
| Niruttam Chakma | Khabongpuria, Chengi River Bank | 40 decimal | 50 Taka | 10,000 Taka (last year) | — |
Visitors’ Experiences
Visitors have expressed delight at the experience. Roksana Akter from Matiranga Upazila said,
“I had long wished to see a sunflower garden. Paying the 20-taka entrance fee was completely worthwhile. The joy of seeing such a vast field up close is unparalleled.”
Anuprava Chakma, a student at Khagrachhari Government Women’s College, added,
“Since the garden is close to the college, I visit whenever I get a chance. Even with the entrance fee, spending time and taking photographs here is fully worthwhile.”
Agricultural Support and Prospects
According to the Khagrachhari District Agriculture Extension Office, 40 hectares of land received incentives for sunflower cultivation last year, while 37 hectares were supported this year. Although many farmers grow sunflowers, large-scale cultivation along riverbanks and hillside slopes remains rare, making Apre and Niruttam Marma’s gardens particularly popular among visitors.
District agriculture officer Mukta Chakma commented,
“The soil here is highly suitable for sunflowers. We provide training and support to farmers. Producing sunflower oil locally can help reduce soybean oil imports.”
Today, the sunflower gardens along the Chengi River have evolved beyond mere agricultural plots, becoming vital centres for tourism and local income generation, highlighting the potential of agritourism in the region.