United News of Bangladesh

The World's 50 Best Beaches platform, renowned for curating coastal destinations across the globe, has unveiled its anticipated 2025 rankings. This latest compilation celebrates the finest shores that blend natural beauty with pristine conditions. Claiming the coveted top spot this year is Italy’s Cala Goloritze, a striking Mediterranean gem. Let’s explore the key highlights and details that earned this idyllic haven global recognition. About Cala Goloritze Beach Tucked along the Baunei Coast on Sardinia’s eastern edge, this breathtaking cove stands apart from the island’s extensive 1,000-mile shoreline. Sardinia is dotted with countless scenic beaches. Among them, this secluded stretch in the Gulf of Orosei’s southern reaches offers a raw, untouched allure that few can rival. Daily visitor numbers are capped at just 250 to preserve its delicate ecosystem. Yet, those who make the effort are rewarded with a scene born from nature’s drama. It includes towering limestone cliffs, crystalline waters, and a dramatic rock spire shaped by a 1960s landslide. Read more: Hong Kong’s Cloud-Covered Kowloon Peak Resembles Mount Fuji, Sparking Tourist Surge Its striking natural features and ecological significance led to official recognition in the early 1990s. First declared a regional natural monument in 1993, it was further honoured with national monument status by 1995. What Makes Cala Goloritze So Special Along Sardinia’s Baunei Coast, where dramatic cliffs meet sapphire seas, one secluded cove rises above the rest for its exceptional character. Framed by a soaring 143-metre limestone pinnacle, the setting combines natural drama with serene clarity. Its waters are so pure they seem almost unreal. This rare harmony of elements sets the area apart, even amid a coastline renowned for its beauty. Preservation remains at the heart of its allure. Stringent conservation policies include limiting footfall, banning motorised access, and barring boats from docking. All these have helped maintain the site’s pristine condition. No roads carve through its landscape, and no unchecked development mars its rugged charm. Read more: Yemeni Island Socotra: The Most Alien-Looking Place On Earth Drawing Global Wanderers When judges unveiled the beach as the world’s finest, they reflected on how its unspoiled beauty evokes a powerful emotional response. They noted that whether one observes it from the cliffs above or stands at the water’s edge, the experience lingers. Best Season to Visit Travellers hoping to sidestep peak-season crowds would do well to look beyond July and August. These two months, though popular, often bring a surge of visitors that can overwhelm the serenity. For a quieter experience without sacrificing sunshine, June and September offer the perfect compromise. These shoulder months balance mild weather with a calmer atmosphere, allowing the landscape to be appreciated in peace. How to Reach Cala Goloritze Getting to this remote coastal haven takes planning and a fair bit of determination. Its isolation isn’t accidental but a deliberate measure to preserve the purity of its setting. Unlike more accessible beaches, this stretch of Sardinian coastline offers no shortcuts. Read more: Chongqing, The 3D City: Chinese Megacity Looking Like AI-Generated There are only two routes in: a challenging hike or a swim from the sea. Boats are allowed to approach, but only up to 200 metres from the shore. From there, it’s the swimmer’s effort that completes the journey. On land, the journey begins well before the trailhead. Travellers must fly into either Olbia or Cagliari, followed by a scenic 2.5-hour drive to Sa Porteddu. That’s where the footpath begins, open daily from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. The beach itself closes promptly at 5 p.m. Entry is limited and managed strictly. Advance online reservations are essential, as on-the-spot access can’t be guaranteed. The hike takes roughly 90 minutes each way, cutting through rugged terrain that mirrors the untamed character. To reach the shoreline by water, rental services from Arbatax or Santa Maria Navarrese, both nearby ports, provide the most comfortable marine route. Even then, strict regulations prevent motorboat traffic from disturbing the last 200 metres. Read more: Wales’s Stream in the Sky: World’s Tallest Navigable Aqueduct Pontcysyllte

What began as a curious alteration to a local hillside quickly spiralled into a nationwide stir. A summit, once unassuming, now draws attention for its unexpected resemblance to Japan’s iconic Mount Fuji. The transformation, triggered by a smoky grey cloud, sparked a wave of online amusement and confusion. Some locals, too, have remarked on the uncanny similarity, especially when the peak is veiled in cloud. At the centre of it all stands Kowloon Peak. Let's get to know how this phenomenon came to be and how tourists have responded to this spectacle. A Viral View from Quarry Bay From the corner of Healthy Street East and King's Road in Quarry Bay, an unexpected spectacle took shape. This single vantage point offered the only angle precise enough to capture the illusion in full – Kowloon Peak appearing as a snow-capped giant. It was here that the now-famous photographs were taken, just as drifting clouds brushed the summit. The moment aligned perfectly, framing the peak in a way that mimicked the serene silhouette of Mt Fuji. Playfully nicknamed the ‘snow cap matcha volcano’ by amused onlookers, the hill's uncanny resemblance quickly lit up social media. As photos made their rounds online, intrigue followed. The scene, complete with urban foreground and misty ridgeline, lacked only a convenience store to complete the Fuji-like composition. Read more: Yemeni Island Socotra: The Most Alien-Looking Place On Earth Drawing Global Wanderers Compelled by the viral snapshots, several residents made their way to Quarry Bay. Not just to see the hill itself but to stand where the camera did. A similar moment unfolded in Thailand last year. A photo of Khao Ok Talu beside a 7-Eleven drew comparisons to the iconic Lawson snapshot beneath Mt Fuji. About Kowloon Peak Locally known as Fei Ngo Shan, meaning ‘Soaring Goose Mountain’, this peak rises prominently from the northeast edge of New Kowloon. At 1,975 feet, it claims the title of the highest point in the Kowloon region. Tucked within Ma On Shan Country Park, its rugged slopes straddle the border between Sai Kung and Wong Tai Sin districts. Two of Hong Kong’s well-known hiking routes, the Wilson Trail and the MacLehose Trail, cut across its terrain. The route makes a favoured challenge for avid trekkers. Geologically, the peak is built on a foundation of volcanic rocks, particularly tuffs, with solid granite forming its lower reaches. Its natural formation, layered and textured, lends it a raw, untamed character rarely mirrored in artificial landscapes. Read more: Chongqing, The 3D City: Chinese Megacity Looking Like AI-Generated Echoes of Mount Fuji's Symmetry Veiled in mist and rising behind the city’s frame of glass and concrete, Kowloon Peak appears almost sculpted. The way the cloud clings to its summit lends it a hushed, snow-draped elegance. From this perspective, its form takes on a quiet grandeur, unexpectedly reminiscent of a distant volcano. In contrast, Mount Fuji presents a near-perfect cone, its snowy peak often floating above soft horizons. Where Fuji looms with serene isolation, Kowloon Peak surprises, emerging from urban chaos with a momentary stillness. It doesn’t mimic Fuji’s symmetry, yet echoes its silhouette in a fleeting, almost cinematic illusion. Though vastly humbler in scale and fame, the misty peak carves out its own quiet allure. It may lack the majestic sweep and spiritual weight of Mount Fuji, but it doesn’t seek comparison. Instead, it captivates in its own right—less a rival, more a reminder that even modest peaks can inspire awe. Reactions Surrounding Mount Fuji of Hong Kong What began as a light-hearted post on Threads soon rippled across social media, pulling in thousands of viewers intrigued by the resemblance. The buzz caught fire quickly. Some viewers found humour in the comparison, suggesting that all it needed was a denser veil of clouds. Others embraced the idea that this ‘Hong Kong version’ had its own appeal, a kind of localised charm distinct from its Japanese counterpart. Read more: Wales’s Stream in the Sky: World’s Tallest Navigable Aqueduct Pontcysyllte However, several visitors who came after seeing the picturesque images confessed to a sense of disappointment. For them, the so-called ‘mountain’ was little more than an ordinary hill. Some lamented how easy it is to be misled by carefully framed photographs. It pointed to this episode as yet another example of online visuals setting unrealistic expectations. Despite the divided opinions, the view did manage to impress a few passersby. Some expressed genuine appreciation for the scenery, calling it unexpectedly beautiful. Others stopped to capture the moment themselves, aware of the growing online attention. A number of visitors returned to the same vantage point in hopes of replicating the famed composition. Not all succeeded; many missed the fleeting cloud formations that gave the illusion its power. For Hikers, It's More Than Just A View Multiple trails snake their way toward the summit, with routes branching off from both Jat's Incline and Fei Ngo Shan Road. These provide varying levels of challenge, but one, in particular, casts a long shadow over the others. An infamous ascent that has come to be known as Suicide Cliff. Read more: Smiling Quokka Turned Rottnest Island into a Global Tourist Hotspot Despite its ominous name, the moniker does not stem from tragedy but rather from the sheer danger posed by its terrain. This vertical scramble, beginning from Clear Water Bay Road, isn’t a traditional hiking path. It’s an exposed rock face that demands agility, courage, and luck. The risk is not theoretical; the climb has been marked by real peril, including accidents and fatalities. One dramatic incident even saw 160 firefighters deployed in a large-scale rescue when two tourists found themselves stranded. For most hikers, however, the thrill of reaching the peak need not involve danger. Fei Ngo Shan Road offers a far gentler approach, one that rewards effort with breathtaking views, not unnecessary risk. Final Words Hong Kong's clouded Kowloon Peak, as seen from Quarry Bay, drew comparisons to Mount Fuji for its misty silhouette. The image sparked mixed reactions online – some were amused, others felt misled. Hikers, however, admire it for the thrill of Suicide Cliff and its challenging trails. Amid Hong Kong’s dense cityscape, the peak offers a rare blend of rugged beauty and quiet reflection. It proves that even in the chaos of urban life, moments of natural grace can still hold meaning. Read more: UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Bangladesh

Strange, contorted trees stretch toward a sky so vast it feels unworldly. Bare, jagged cliffs rise from a stark, wind-blasted terrain that seems untouched by time or civilisation. Crystalline waters border bizarre landforms, creating a surreal contrast. Among the world’s many awe-inspiring locations, from Africa’s endless sands to North America’s ancient canyons. Few evoke such profound disbelief as this remote island. Long whispered about in niche travel circles, it now draws increasing global attention. The name? Socotra, locally known as Saqatri. Let’s uncover what's behind this alien-looking island in the Indian Ocean that draws modern explorers. Geography of Socotra Tucked between the Guardafui Channel and the Arabian Sea, Socotra forms the largest island in a six-island archipelago. While it falls under Yemen's political boundary, its proximity to Africa gives it a different geographic rhythm. Just 236 miles south of the Arabian Peninsula, this closeness shapes its distinct character. This remote outpost stands among the most isolated continental landmasses on Earth. It parted ways with the ancient supercontinent of Gondwana millions of years ago. That deep-time isolation shaped its singular environment. Read more: Chongqing, The 3D City: Chinese Megacity Looking Like AI-Generated The island is renowned for its extraordinary biodiversity. Many species found here exist nowhere else on the planet, drawing scientific and ecological interest from across the globe. This exceptional natural wealth earned it UNESCO World Heritage status in 2008, marking it as a vital ecological treasure. Unique Landscape and Discrete Demography The distinctiveness of this ancient island lies in its terrain, with Socotra shaped over millennia by time, climate, and isolation. Towering limestone plateaus stretch across the island, rising above arid plains and wind-carved dunes. At the heart of it all, a central mountain range climbs to nearly 5,000 feet. It offers an imposing backdrop to an otherwise barren interior. The terrain breaks into elevations that shift with the landscape. Dry mountains and scattered vegetation tell a stark story of nature’s endurance. This archipelago, over 25 million years old, balances contrasting features- coastal plains brushing against desert stretches, and rocky plateaus giving way to shrub-covered slopes. But what sets Socotra apart is its inimitable biological character. Nearly one-third of its plant species are endemic, including the most iconic locale- the Dragon’s Blood Tree. This umbrella-shaped marvel, known for its crimson resin, casts haunting silhouettes throughout the horizon, lending the landmass its surreal, alien quality. Read more: Wales’s Stream in the Sky: World’s Tallest Navigable Aqueduct Pontcysyllte Despite its remoteness, Socotra is home to a modest community of approximately 60,000 people. The Socotrans speak Soqotri, a pre-Arabic language that survives only here. Their cultural fabric, enriched by centuries of isolation, is preserved through an annual poetry competition.

Often mistaken for scenes from a sci-fi simulation, Chongqing, a Chinese Megacity, stirs curiosity with its dramatic cityscapes. Rarely found on typical tourist routes, this sprawling urban area rises in layers, sparking comparisons to a real-world cyberpunk dream. Its towering structures, elevated highways, and surreal angles give it an almost AI-generated look. Let’s take a closer look at this enigmatic city, uncovering the layers of its futuristic vision. A Rich Urban Profile in Global Tourists’ Blind Spot Tucked in southeast China near the upper reaches of the Yangtze River, Chongqing emerges as a staggering urban force. With a population of over 32 million, it holds the title of the world’s largest city by population. Its footprint spans more than 31,800 square miles, comparable in size to an entire European country like Austria. Yet, despite its immense scale and significance, Chongqing remains a hidden gem on the global tourist map. Few international visitors set foot in this colossal city, even though its geography is breathtaking by all means. Towering mountains, steep valleys, and buildings perched along cliffs define its dramatic terrain. As a major economic and transport hub of China, Chongqing defies conventional urban planning. Roads twist through vertical landscapes. Highways loop over rooftops. Entire metro lines cut directly through residential towers. In recent years, these surreal visuals have captivated social media, leaving many to wonder whether this is an AI-generated city. Read more: Wales’s Stream in the Sky: World’s Tallest Navigable Aqueduct Pontcysyllte History from Ancient Roots to Rapid Rise Chongqing’s roots run deep, with a history that spans more than 3,000 years. For much of that time, it remained a modest riverside settlement. But its transformation over the past four decades has been nothing short of extraordinary. Just 40 years ago, Chongqing was still a village in many parts. What now rises as a sprawling megacity has been built almost entirely within the last 30 years. Its rapid vertical expansion is a modern marvel. During the Second World War, the city served as a key base, and traces of that era still linger. Scattered beneath the surface are old wartime bunkers, once shelters from bombing raids. Today, many of them have been creatively repurposed into lively hotpot restaurants and atmospheric underground bars. Multi-layer City Architecture Often described as a city built in three dimensions, Chongqing earns that reputation with striking justification. Its layered urban layout can be disorienting, even for the most seasoned travelers. Visitors regularly emerge from stairwells only to find themselves on rooftops or staring down into deep valleys. Nothing here feels level. Gravity itself seems negotiable. Read more: Smiling Quokka Turned Rottnest Island into a Global Tourist Hotspot Set against the striking meeting point of the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers, the city clings to a landscape of jagged cliffs and steep mountainsides. Homes rest on bridges. Neighbourhoods stack one atop another. Metro lines cut through skyscrapers as if tunnelling through rock. It’s a vertical maze, engineered with remarkable ambition. The skyline speaks volumes. Chongqing is home to 298 skyscrapers soaring over 100 metres and 26 that breach the 200-metre mark. That places it among the world’s top cities for high-rises and sixth within mainland China. For tourists, this surreal, sky-layered cityscape feels like something out of science fiction. But for many residents, especially those in the lower reaches, living in the shadows is a daily reality. In some corners of Chongqing, sunlight doesn’t pour in. It peeks through momentarily before vanishing behind concrete giants. Read more: UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Bangladesh

Imagine standing on a balcony at night, the ground disappearing into a dark abyss below while a pattern of glittering stars stretches endlessly across the sky canvas above. This breathtaking scene is a reality at a cliffside hotel in east China. "It was a thrilling and romantic experience I'll never forget," said a guest surnamed Zhang, who recently stayed at the hotel located in the Wangxian Valley Scenic Spot in Jiangxi Province, Xinhua reports. Once a granite mining quarry where villagers had lived and worked, Wangxian Valley has been transformed into a popular tourist destination following a government ban on disorderly mining, with its natural cliffs creatively repurposed into attractions such as cliffside hotels, cliff skywalks and waterfalls. Venice broadens tourist tax to tackle overtourism Thanks to its ethereal and mystical views, this valley has garnered wide attention online. The hashtag "Wangxian Valley" has racked up approximately 3.23 billion views on the Chinese short-video sharing platform Douyin. In the first quarter of 2025, the valley hosted 615,800 visitors, generating 120 million yuan (about 16.71 million US dollars) in revenue. This tourism boom has also benefited surrounding villagers. Many of them have opened shops and restaurants within the scenic area, while others have found jobs such as waiters and cleaners. The success of Wangxian Valley exemplifies Jiangxi's efforts to tap into its rich mountainous and hilly landscapes -- accounting for over 70 per cent of the province's land area -- by developing distinctive "cliff" tourism.

Travelling during the summer in Bangladesh often comes with a major challenge: the persistent heat wave. Scorching temperatures, humidity, and overcrowded destinations make conventional holiday plans uncomfortable and exhausting. Amid such conditions, the need for cooler travel destinations becomes essential, especially during Eid vacation, when relaxation is a priority. Quiet retreats surrounded by greenery, water, or hill breezes offer a welcome break from the sweltering weather and festive rush. Let’s explore 10 peaceful Eid summer escapes across Bangladesh that offer both comfort and tranquillity. 10 Summer Getaways in Bangladesh for the Eid Celebration . Hill of China Clay, Netrokona Tucked away in Bijoypur, Durgapur, in the Netrokona District, ‘China Matir Pahar’ presents a rare geological charm in the northern part of Bangladesh. Positioned close to the Meghalayan border, the area offers scenic glimpses of distant Indian hills, enriching the visual appeal of the terrain. The hills themselves are modest in height but carry a distinct sense of adventure. Climbing to the top rewards visitors with a quiet, elevated view, simple yet striking. Nearby, the Blue Water Lake gently mirrors the surrounding slopes, its still waters tinted with a soft, soothing blue that adds to the tranquil setting. Read more: Wales’s Stream in the Sky: World’s Tallest Navigable Aqueduct Pontcysyllte Unlike other Eid destinations, this retreat remains largely untouched by crowds, making it ideal for a peaceful holiday escape. It's well-suited for a single-day outing, with a timely return before nightfall. Regular train and bus services leaving Dhaka ensure convenient access, with train travel offering a more economical choice. New Zealand Para, Khagrachari A village called ‘Pankhaiya Para’ lies just within one and a half kilometres from the Khagrachari district headquarters. It blends seamlessly with parts of nearby Perachhara, creating what locals fondly refer to as ‘New Zealand Para.’ The road linking the two villages carries the fitting name New Zealand Road. This area presents the district’s sole stretch of true plain land, yet it rests in graceful harmony with surrounding emerald hills. Croplands ripple toward the horizon, while distant waterfalls and a murmuring river animate the scene. White clouds drift across a cobalt sky, and newly built homesteads nestle between slopes. They complete a panorama reminiscent of the South Pacific countryside. Khagrachari can be reached directly by bus from Dhaka. From the town centre, a short ride by CNG or auto-rickshaw can take visitors to the New Zealand Para. The celebrated Hazachhara waterfall lies close at hand and may be added to the same day’s excursion. Read more: Smiling Quokka Turned Rottnest Island into a Global Tourist Hotspot Niladri Lake, Sunamganj Sunamganj offers a magical combination of rewarding sights. Among these, Niladri Lake in Tekerghat, Tahirpur Upazila, stands out as a priority destination. Also known as Shaheed Siraj Lake, it captivates with still waters, scattered stone beds, and glimpses of Meghalaya’s hills on the horizon. Located close to the renowned Tanguar Haor, many visitors combine both sites into one seamless trip. The natural symmetry between the lake, hills, and haor creates a tranquil experience. Reaching the location is straightforward. A direct bus journey from the capital to Sunamganj and a short autorickshaw ride complete the journey to Niladri Lake. Boga Lake and Sangu River, Bandarban Tucked into the hills of Bandarban, both Boga Lake and the Sangu River present landscapes that blend silence with spectacle. Sangu, with its ever-winding course through dense green hills, offers one of the most captivating river journeys in the country. A boat ride across its glassy surface feels almost surreal, as if chasing a hill that never arrives. Read more: UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Bangladesh Boga Lake, resting at 1,246 feet above sea level, contrasts with its stillness and myth. Encircled by deep green highlands, the lake draws attention not just for its beauty but also for local legends surrounding a mythical dragon. Reaching this remote lake involves a rugged ride on a 'Chander Gari.' Cottages near Boga Lake offer lodging options, making overnight stays feasible. A lakeside barbecue amid the hills is a popular Eid activity. For those seeking more, a trek to Keokradong, one of Bangladesh’s highest peaks, awaits, provided time and stamina align. Bichnakandi, Sylhet Gowainghat's Bichnakandi presents a spellbinding travel destination, located about 40 km from Sylhet City. Here cascading waters meet rocky riverbeds in a serene embrace. One stream flows from the base of India’s Khasi Hills into the Piain River, while another has carved its own natural course. Small river islands, dotted with houses, add an ethereal layer to the already surreal landscape. Distant mountains seem to shield this little paradise, enhancing its seclusion. Passing through the Sylhet Airport Road bypass, you can reach Hadarpar within about two and a half hours. A one-hour boat ride from there leads to Bichnakandi. To experience the area in full, nearby sites like Barahil, Panthumai Falls, and Lakshanachara are worth including. Read more: City Guide to Bangkok, Thailand for Bangladeshis Khoiyachora Falls, Mirsharai Hidden deep within the folds of Mirsharai, Khoiyachora Waterfall flows through nine distinct cascades, each echoing its rhythm. The sound of rushing water reaches as far as Thakurda Dighi, while the journey leading to it unfolds like a living landscape. The enthralling village trails, narrow bamboo bridges, and forest-carved paths will gradually lead you upward across four hills. Every step forward feels like stepping away from the noise of modernity. The soothing murmur of water blending with chirping cicadas and rustling leaves can remove your stress from routined life. Bathing beneath the falls offers a sense of renewal, while a night in a tent under firefly light and full moon glow will leave lasting impressions in the travellers' minds. Access begins with a bus from Dhaka to Chittagong, getting off at Baratakia Bazar near Khoiyachora Ideal School. Alternatively, intercity trains can drop travellers at Feni station. From Mahipal, local buses take visitors to the school, where a CNG ride marks the final approach to Jhiri, the beginning of the trek. Read more: City Guide to Kathmandu, Nepal for Bangladeshis Tea Garden and Lawachhara, Moulvibazar Sreemangal and Kamalganj Upazilas hold a distinct charm, enriched by the Manipuri community and their traditions. Nature and heritage seamlessly coexist here. Kamalganj, a tourism hotspot, houses Lawachhara National Park, one of Bangladesh’s few evergreen forest reserves. Its wild trails lead to the remote Hamham waterfall, while the tranquil Madhabpur Lake and Adampur forest showcase the region’s biodiversity. The surrounding region boasts Hakaluki Haor, Madhabkunda Falls, Baikkabil bird sanctuary, Gagan Thila, and the floating village of Antehari. From tea gardens in Mathiura to the iconic seven-layer tea in Sreemangal, the area is layered in diversity. Travellers can reach Sreemangal by bus or train originating in Dhaka. From there, Kamalganj is accessible via local transport. Kaptai Lake in Rangamati As the largest man-made lake in South Asia, Kaptai Lake appears like a stretch of sky trapped in water. Surrounded by green hills and dotted with waterfalls, the lake offers quiet grandeur. Read more: Safety Precautions for Traveling on Buses or Public Transport at Night A boat ride across its vast expanse becomes a meditative experience. With nothing but sky above and deep green below, the stillness feels infinite. The famed suspension bridge and the cascading Shuvolong waterfall mark its signature sights. After reaching Chittagong from Dhaka, travellers can take a Kaptai-bound bus from Baddarhat Bus Stand to reach Rangamati. Chalan Beel, Natore Spanning parts of Natore, Sirajganj, and Pabna, Chalan Beel stands as Bangladesh’s largest pond (beel). It is a combination of small wetlands that merge into one vast sheet during the monsoon. The true beauty of this wetland emerges during the rainy season. The journey begins in the heart of the capital, with a Rajshahi-bound bus best exited at Kachikata in Natore. From there, Khubjipur village near Chachkoir Bazar offers the most vivid view of this sprawling beel. The Chalan Beel Museum, located nearby, adds context to the region’s ecological and cultural depth. Read more: Top Reasons Why London Is Tripadvisor's Best Travel Destination for 2025 Don't miss Natore’s signature Kachgolla. Here you can experience an exclusive local sweet treat and create an unforgettable memory. Nikli Haor, Kishoreganj Scattered settlements resemble floating islands, while boat rides reveal scenes of fishing nets, shimmering water, and wetlands brimming with natural beauty. The Nikli Upazila of Kishoreganj is a heavenly place where the haor becomes a stage for bringing sky, water, and village life together. Visitors often spot nightshade groves rising gently from the water. Freshly caught fish from the haor are a culinary highlight for many. Trains from Dhaka reach Manikkhali or Gachihata stations, just before Kishoreganj Sadar. From either of these points, Nikli is about 14 kilometres away. You can reach there by local transport like a bike or CNG. Read more: Visa-free Travel for Bangladeshi Passport Holders in 2025: Top Destinations to Explore Alternatively, you can reach Katiadi Upazila by bus. Arriving at the Katiadi bus stand, it will take about a 22km ride by CNG to reach the haor’s gateway at Nikli Sadar. Bottom Line Ten stunning travel destinations promise serene summer escapes for peaceful Eid celebrations across Bangladesh. China Clay Hill, New Zealand Para, Bichnakandi, and the serene trails of Tea Gardens and Lawachhara whisper nature’s calm. Niladri Lake shimmers beside the rugged charm of Boga Lake and the winding Sangu River. Khoiyachora Falls roars through hills, while Kaptai Lake reflects a vast green silence. Chalan Beel stretches in monsoon glory, and Nikli Haor floats in still, watery wonder. These exotic tourist spots within Bangladesh can offer quiet, scenic, and mysterious experiences during the Eid vacation. Read more: Langkawi Travel Guide 2025: Top Things to Do in Malaysia’s Jewel of Kedah

A British mountain guide has scaled Mount Everest Sunday for the 19th time breaking his own record for the most ascents of the world’s highest mountain by a non-Sherpa guide. Kenton Cool, 51, from southwest England, scaled the 8,849-meter (29,032-foot) peak on Sunday along with several other climbers and he was doing well and on way down from the summit, said Iswari Paudel of Himalayan Guides Nepal, which equipped his expedition. Cool first climbed Mount Everest in 2004 and has been doing it almost every year since then. He was unable to climb Everest in 2014 because the season was canceled after 16 Sherpa guides were killed in an avalanche, and again in 2015 when an earthquake triggered an avalanche that killed 19 people. The 2020 climbing season was canceled because of the coronavirus pandemic. Hundreds of climbers and their guides are at the mountain during the popular spring climbing season, hoping to scale the world's highest peak. Top 10 Countries Offering Post-Study Work Visas for International Students Many of them have already succeeded while more are expected to make their attempt before the climbing season closes at the end of this month when weather condition deteriorates with the coming of the rainy monsoon season making climbing difficult. Only Nepali Sherpa guides have scaled the peak more times than Cool. The highest number of climbs of Mount Everest is 30 times by Nepali Sherpa guide Kami Rita, who is also on the mountain currently and expected to make the climb in the next few days.

Rising high above the Dee Valley in Northeast Wales under the United Kingdom, a remarkable structure stretches across the landscape, both graceful and bold. Known as the 'Stream in the Sky,' the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct stands as the tallest navigable aqueduct in the world. This awe-inspiring engineering marvel has earned its place as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts travellers worldwide. Let’s explore the waterway that defies gravity. Architect of Elevation: The Visionary Behind This Specialty Suspended high above the River Dee, this aqueduct invites a rare encounter with both nature and ingenuity. At 38 metres above the ground and stretching 307 metres in length, this 'Stream in the Sky' appears to defy gravity. Its presence is as serene as it is commanding, an elevated ribbon of water slicing through the skies of North Wales. Completed in 1805 after a decade of construction, the aqueduct stands as a masterpiece of the Industrial Revolution. Its creator, Thomas Telford, a visionary known as "The Colossus of Roads", combined structural brilliance with poetic ambition. The result: an enduring monument to progress, elevated quite literally. Read more: Smiling Quokka Turned Rottnest Island into a Global Tourist Hotspot Comprising 18 massive stone arches, the sky-bound channel carries the Llangollen Canal across the Dee Valley, linking England to Wales. Nestled within an officially designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this engineering marvel remains as functional as it is breathtaking. Crossing Heights: Breathtaking Experiences Adventuring over the span of the waterway demands more than curiosity; it calls for composure at elevation. Kayakers, paddle boarders, and narrowboat passengers all share the same breathtaking route. Each navigates a narrow channel flanked by open air and far-reaching countryside views. For those who prefer their feet on solid ground, walking the aqueduct provides a steadier yet equally rewarding perspective. The gentle sway of the towpath and uninterrupted vistas make for a contemplative journey. At day’s end, the nearby visitor centre offers insight into its construction, detailing the techniques and vision behind its creation. Read more: UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Bangladesh Just steps away, the Pontcysyllte Tea Rooms present a peaceful retreat. Whether after a skyward adventure or a valley walk, this welcoming stop completes the experience. From Global Heritage to Viral Wonder Since being inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site on 27 June 2009, Pontcysyllte Aqueduct has steadily grown into one of the most visited landmarks in Wales. Each year, it draws over half a million visitors. They are captivated by its towering design, engineering significance, and sweeping views over the Dee Valley. In recent years, the historic structure has also found fame in the digital sphere. Social media platforms have been flooded with posts capturing the experience of walking, kayaking, or boating across its narrow expanse. Its videos amassed over 1.8 million views, sparking widespread fascination across the internet. The structure’s sheer height and dramatic setting have made it a favourite subject for reels, travel vlogs, and scenic montages. Read more: City Guide to Bangkok, Thailand for Bangladeshis Reactions in the comment sections reveal a mix of awe, nostalgia, and personal connections. Some praised it as one of the most exciting adventures in North Wales. Others recounted family ties to its maintenance or restoration. A few expressed a sense of vertigo while admiring the beauty, describing the railings as unnerving yet the surroundings as unforgettable.

Quokkas, adorable and, most notably, remarkably photogenic animals, roam across the southwestern corner of Australia. With its perpetual grin and friendly demeanour, this small marsupial, about the size of a domestic cat, has turned an island into a hotspot for wildlife lovers and selfie seekers. A large number of quokkas are found on Rottnest Island, nestled off the coast of Perth, a sun-soaked sanctuary. This quokka haven is now popular for selfies. Let’s unravel how the quokka’s smile shaped Rottnest Island into a popular tourist hotspot. Naming of Rottnest Island The name of this island has an unusual origin, tracing back to a 17th-century Dutch explorer, Willem de Vlamingh. When he arrived on the coast, he was struck by the strange, furry animals hopping through the underbrush. Mistaking the quokkas for giant rats, he dubbed the place 't Eylandt 't Rottnest, Dutch for ‘rat’s nest island.’ But despite the unflattering name, de Vlamingh saw something more. In his journal, he described the landscape as nothing short of ‘paradise on Earth.’ Read more: UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Bangladesh The Global Rise of the Quokka Selfie In the age of social media, few animals have captured global attention like quokkas. Native to southwestern Australia, this tiny marsupial became a sensation not through conservation efforts, but through its smile. The viral trend began when tourists visiting Rottnest Island began snapping photos of the cheerful-looking creatures. In 2013, the Huffington Post dubbed the quokka ‘the world’s happiest animal’, sparking worldwide interest. With their naturally upturned mouths, quokkas became the perfect subject for selfies. High-profile celebrities like Chris Hemsworth and Roger Federer helped solidify their fame. The result was a surge in visitors here, the Paradise on Earth. What was once a quiet retreat transformed into one of Australia’s most photographed destinations. Tourists flock there not only for the beaches but for the chance to share a moment with a quokka. Read more: City Guide to Bangkok, Thailand for Bangladeshis

Starting Friday, Venice is reintroducing its day-tripper fee for a second consecutive year, aiming to address the pressures of overtourism that once jeopardized its status as a UNESCO World Heritage site. UNESCO ultimately decided not to list Venice among endangered heritage sites after the city announced this tourist tax. Still, critics argue that the fee hasn’t significantly curbed the influx of visitors, even during peak times. Here’s a breakdown of how Venice is confronting overtourism through this initiative: This is the fee non-overnight visitors must pay to access Venice’s historic center. Those who register at least three days in advance pay €5, the same as last year’s pilot rate. Last-minute visitors, however, are charged €10. Entry points such as the Santa Lucia train station, Piazzale Roma bus terminal, and Tronchetto parking garage require QR code verification between 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. 49 DaysThis is the number of days in 2025 when the access fee applies — mainly weekends and holidays between April 18 and July 27. That’s an increase from 29 days in 2024. The updated schedule now includes entire holiday weeks and expands the weekend period to start on Fridays. €2.4 MillionVenice collected €2.4 million in 2024 from the tax, though implementation costs reached €2.7 million, resulting in a shortfall. This year, budget official Michele Zuin expects a €1–1.5 million surplus, which will help fund essential services like waste collection. 450,000 VisitorsThat’s how many day-trippers paid the entry fee in 2024. On Friday alone, 12,744 visitors paid — including 7,173 at the higher €10 rate. So far this year, 77,000 people have registered to visit, with another 117,000 granted exemptions, including local residents, workers, students, and those with property in Venice or in the surrounding Veneto region. 75,000This is the average number of daily visitors over the first 11 days of the 2024 fee period — roughly 10,000 more per day than the highest holiday peaks recorded the year before. City councilor Giovanni Andrea Martini, who opposes the measure, believes this proves the tax isn’t deterring tourists. 48,283 ResidentsThat’s the current population of Venice’s historic center, a dramatic drop from 174,000 in 1951. As industries declined and modern amenities became more accessible on the mainland, many Venetians relocated. Activists also blame tourism’s dominance for the decline, as basic services like grocery stores and medical facilities have dwindled. 51,129 Tourist BedsAs of April, there are more places for tourists to stay in Venice’s historic center than there are residents — including over 12,000 beds in unregulated short-term rentals, according to the activist group Ocio. Overnight visitors pay a separate lodging tax and are exempt from the day-tripper fee. 25–30 Million Annual VisitorsCell phone tracking data from Venice’s Smart Control Room shows that between 25 and 30 million people visit the city each year, including both day-trippers and overnight guests.