Sherpur is the garden of the north. It sits right against the border of the Indian state of Meghalaya, and this proximity to the hills defines its geography and tourism. It is one of the greenest districts in Bangladesh. The Madhutila Eco Park and the Gazzni Abakash center are the primary attractions. These spots are located in the foothills of the Garo mountains. The landscape here is undulating, with small hillocks, dense Sal forests, and lakes. It is a favorite destination for winter picnics. Standing on a watchtower in Gazzni, you can see the green wall of the Indian hills rising sharply in the distance. The air here is cooler and fresher than in the deltaic plains.
Sherpur is culturally distinct because of its significant indigenous population. The Garo and Koch communities have lived here for centuries. Their villages, with their distinct mud houses and matriarchal social structure, add a rich layer of diversity to the district. You can see their influence in the local markets, where they sell handicrafts and forest produce. The district is also known for a very special type of rice called Tulshimala. This is an aromatic rice that is small-grained and incredibly fragrant. It is considered a premium variety, often used for polao and biryani in the region. The locals are fiercely proud of this grain, branding it as the 'fragrant gold' of Sherpur.
Historically, the district was the site of the Fakir-Sannyasi revolts and the peasant uprisings led by Tipu Shah. The rebellious spirit is part of the local folklore. There are also archaeological remnants like the Ghagra Laskar Bari Mosque, which features ancient terracotta architecture. Sherpur does not have heavy industry or massive cities. It is a district of nature, silence, and borders. It feels like a quiet corner of the country where the plains meet the hills, and the culture is a beautiful mix of Bengali and indigenous traditions.