Saint Martin Island, Bangladesh

Saint Martin’s Island, also known as “Narikel Zinzira” in Bengali, which means “Coconut Island,” is one of the most beautiful places in Bangladesh. This stunning destination is located in the Bay of Bengal. It is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Bangladesh. I had the opportunity to visit. The water is crystal clear. The landscape is paradisiacal. There are also many traditional fishing boats.

A nine-month tourist restriction on St. Martin’s Island will take effect on February 1, 2025. Currently, amid tensions along the Myanmar border, only the Cox’s Bazar–St. Martin route remains open.

Tourism Halted on St. Martin’s Island for 9 Months

The government has imposed a 9-month tourism ban on St. Martin’s Island starting February 1, 2025. This decision is aimed at protecting the island’s delicate coral ecosystem from the damage caused by rising tourist activity.

Authorities emphasize that the move is temporary but essential for preserving the island’s biodiversity. The ban aligns with national conservation goals and serves as a wake-up call for more sustainable tourism practices in Bangladesh.

Visit Saint Martin Island, Bangladesh

How to go to saint martin island bangladesh? To visit Saint Martin’s Island, Bangladesh, the only coral island in the country, you’ll need to travel to Teknaf on the mainland and then take a ferry to the island. The island is located in the Bay of Bengal, about 9 km south of the Teknaf peninsula. It’s known for its beautiful beaches, clear blue waters, and opportunities for snorkeling and scuba diving. 

Getting to Saint Martin’s Island

1. 1. To Teknaf:
   • By plane: Fly from Dhaka or Chittagong to Cox’s Bazar Airport, then take a private car, public bus, or microbus to Teknaf. 
   • By bus: Several bus companies offer direct routes from Dhaka and other major cities to Teknaf. 
   • By train: Take a train to Cox’s Bazar, then take a bus or private car to Teknaf. 
2. 2. From Teknaf to Saint Martin’s:
   • By ferry: The most common way to travel is by ferry. Government-owned ferries take around two hours, according to Beautiful Bangladesh. 
   • By speedboat or trawler: These are other options, but their availability may vary, and they can be more expensive. 

What to do on Saint Martin’s Island

• Enjoy the beaches: Relax on the picturesque beaches, swim in the clear waters, and soak up the sun. 
• Snorkeling and diving: Explore the underwater world with snorkeling or scuba diving, especially in the lagoon. 
• Visit Chhera Dwip: Take a boat trip to Chhera Dwip, a small island near Saint Martin’s, known for its unique rock formations and coral reefs. 
• Seafood: Indulge in fresh seafood at the many restaurants and beach shacks on the island. 
• Sunset views: Enjoy breathtaking sunset views over the Bay of Bengal. 
• Explore the island: Walk around the island, interact with the friendly locals, and experience the laid-back island life. 

Important Considerations

• Travel pass: All tourists to Saint Martin’s Island require a mandatory travel pass, which can be obtained through a dedicated app, according to Cox’s Bazar Life. 
• Ferry schedule: Check the ferry schedule in advance, as it can be affected by weather conditions and tides. 
• Accommodation: Book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak season. 
• Best time to visit: The best time to visit Saint Martin’s Island is during the winter months (November to February) when the sea is calmer. 

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