Saint Martin Island, also known as Narikel Jinjira (Coconut Island) or Daruchini Dwip (Cinnamon Island), is the only coral island in Bangladesh. It is located in the Bay of Bengal, about 9 km south of the tip of the Cox’s Bazar-Teknaf peninsula, and forms the southernmost part of Bangladesh. The island is a popular tourist destination for its pristine beaches, exotic wildlife and unique culture.
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Geographical Location
Saint Martin Island has an area of about 8 square kilometers, which shrinks to about 5 square kilometers during high tide. The island consists of two parts: the main island and a smaller one called Chera Dwip, which is separated by a channel at high tide. The main island has several villages, such as Paschim Para, Uttar Para, Majher Para, Purba Para, Konar Para, Nazrul Para and Golachipa. The highest point of the island is 18 meters above sea level.
The island lies about 8 km west of the Myanmar coast, at the mouth of the Naf River. The island is part of the Teknaf Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to various endangered species, such as sea turtles, dolphins, whales and dugongs. The island also has a rich biodiversity of coral reefs, fish, mollusks, seaweeds and other marine organisms.
Information for Tourists
Saint Martin Island is a great place to enjoy nature and relax. The island offers various activities for tourists, such as:
- Swimming and sunbathing on the sandy beaches
- Snorkeling and diving to explore the coral reefs
- Boating and fishing in the clear blue water
- Hiking and cycling around the island
- Visiting the local markets and shops
- Tasting the fresh seafood and coconut products
- Learning about the history and culture of the islanders
The island has a subtropical climate with an average temperature of 27 degrees Celsius. The best time to visit the island is from November to February, when the weather is pleasant and dry. The island can be reached by ferry or trawler from Teknaf, which is about 120 km from Cox’s Bazar. The ferry ride takes about 2 hours and costs around 1000 Taka (11.79 USD) per person. The trawler ride takes about 3 hours and costs between 150-350 Taka (1.77-4.13 USD) per person.
The island has a range of accommodation options for tourists, such as hotels, resorts, guest houses and cottages. The prices vary depending on the season and the facilities. Some of the popular places to stay are:
- Blue Marine Resort: A beachfront resort with comfortable rooms, a restaurant, a swimming pool and a garden.
- Coral Blue Resort: A modern resort with spacious rooms, a restaurant, a rooftop terrace and a spa.
- Prashad Paradise: A cozy guest house with clean rooms, a restaurant, a library and a playground.
- Sea Inn: A budget-friendly hotel with basic rooms, a restaurant and a rooftop lounge.
Information for Foreign Tourists
Foreign tourists who want to visit Saint Martin Island need to have a valid passport and a visa for Bangladesh. They also need to have a return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds. They can apply for a visa at the nearest Bangladeshi embassy or consulate in their country or online through the e-visa portal1. The visa fee varies depending on the type and duration of the visa.
Foreign tourists also need to follow some rules and regulations while visiting the island, such as:
- Respect the local customs and traditions
- Dress modestly and avoid nudity or topless sunbathing
- Do not litter or damage the environment
- Do not collect or harm any coral or marine life
- Do not bring any alcohol or drugs to the island
- Do not take any photos or videos without permission
Saint Martin Island is a beautiful and peaceful place that offers a unique experience for tourists. It is a perfect destination for those who love nature and adventure. If you are planning to visit Saint Martin Island, make sure to book your tickets and accommodation in advance and prepare yourself for an unforgettable trip.
