Panchagarh’s Tetulia upazila has transformed into a colourful Netherlands, attracting hundreds of visitors daily to witness 14 thousand blooming tulips across five vibrant colours.

Border village Darjipara is hosting tulip cultivation for fifth consecutive year, moving beyond its traditional identity as Kanchenjunga viewing destination. Farm-based garden spans 60 decimals, showcasing royal flowers including Lalibela (red), Denmark, Strong Gold (yellow), and Mystic Van Eijk (pink) varieties.

Ten marginalised women entrepreneurs developed the farm under non-governmental organisation Eco Social Development Organisation (ESDO) initiative. Project started as pilot programme in 2022, now injecting fresh vitality into local economy.

Visitors purchase tickets to enter garden featuring aesthetic entrance decorated in colourful arrangements. Special sheds control sunlight and temperature, creating serene and beautiful atmosphere. People capture selfies amid blooming flowers while others present tulips to loved ones.

Farmer Robiul Islam explained each bulb imported from Netherlands costs approximately TK 80. Flowers require daily care and battling adverse weather conditions. Each stick sells for TK 100 with strong demand. Tulips are supplied to local markets and Dhaka.

Tulips naturally thrive in cold climates, requiring 15 degrees Celsius during day and 10 degrees at night. Buds appear 18 to 20 days after planting. Flowers can last 25 to 60 days under favourable weather conditions.

Abdul Matin, Deputy Director of District Agriculture Extension Department, confirmed Panchagarh’s weather proved suitable for tulip cultivation. “Modern technology and proper care have created commercial potential for this flower. We are providing technical support to farmers so tulip cultivation can expand on larger scale in future”, he said.

Dr Muhammad Shahid Uz Zaman, founder and executive director of ESDO, stated the goal was making small farmers self-reliant and reducing tulip imports from abroad. “Dream journey started five years ago has now become reality. This creates possibility of building eco-community tourism in Tetulia”, he said.

Garden operates throughout day, with hundreds of tourists from different parts of Bangladesh visiting location daily. Whole area becomes lively with visitor crowds. Special arrangements maintain controlled environment protecting delicate flowers from harsh weather.

Initiative demonstrates successful adaptation of foreign flower species to Bangladeshi climate through proper technique and dedication. Project provides employment for local women while showcasing agricultural innovation potential in northern region.

Tetulia’s transformation represents blend of tourism and agriculture, offering new economic opportunities for border communities previously dependent on limited income sources.