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Shah Porir Island is a small fishing town in the southernmost area of Bangladesh, bordered by the Naf River and Myanmar. Standing at the end of the border, one can see vast waterways and the untamed waves of the mighty Bay of Bengal. Looking afar, it feels as if there is nothing beyond.
Although Shapuree or Shahpori is currently connected to the mainland, it was an island in the past, which explains why it was called an island. It is a village in Sabrang Union of Teknaf, Cox's Bazar.
The distance from Cox's Bazar to Shah Porir Dwip is 85.8 km, and it takes 2 hours and 24 minutes to reach the site. There are direct buses from Dhaka to Teknaf. Or you can reach Cox's Bazar and then start for Teknaf.
There are many available buses for Teknaf, starting from early morning to as late as 8 pm. You can also receive a CNG or microbus from Cox's Bazar for a smoother ride through Marine Drive. It is about 13 km from Kulalpara Jeep Station in Teknaf to the Shahpari Island jetty. It takes about 45 minutes to reach Shah Porir Dwip by road.
However, during monsoon season, the time may vary depending on the availability of trawlers. One can also travel from Saint Martin Island by trawler or boat.
On the way to Shahpari Island, visitors can stop by less crowded beaches than Inani or Kolatoli. This journey has other eye-catching views, including mountains, the local communities, and the legendary Mathin's well of Netong.
At the entrance of the village, visitors will find vast salt-cultivation lands. There are available markets, schools, and mosques on this island.
Shahpari Island has three beaches. You can stay for a long time enjoying the fresh air of the seaside while watching the spectacular waves of the ocean. The Arcane Mountains and Saint Martin Island look dreamy, sitting on the sands, contemplating life.
During monsoon, the windy weather makes the environment even more enchanting. It is as if there is nothing else anywhere. Life feels surreal as the waves roar and land on their feet.
Netong in Teknaf would be the best option for a stayover as there is only a little place to stay in Shah Porir Dwip except for BGB or LGED rest houses.
The 'Southern Point' resort by BGB is a beautiful place to stay and enjoy the splendid ocean view. Simultaneously, watch the sunrise from the top of the mountain and the sunset over the vast ocean.
The resort provides many vacation facilities, especially great food and clean rooms. However, it may only be available for some. Apart from that, one can try camping near the beachside.
The population of this island is approximately 40,000. Every day, local people are struggling to survive against the sea. Here, communities use solar panels for electricity. Fishing and salt farming are the main occupations here.
One must remember that Shah Porir Island is less secure than any other beaches of Cox's Bazar. It is better to avoid going into the sea during low tide since there are insufficient security precautions, including a lack of lifeguards. Also, be aware of the local people if you tense something suspicious. Travel as a group and be vigilant of the surroundings. There is a BGB Chowki and a Watch Tower on the island.
While returning from Shah Porir Island, stop by Natong and visit the local bazaars there. The journey towards Shah Prorir Island and the return from there is an outstanding experience.
It is an exciting trip with all kinds of experiences. Make sure to check out the Burmese market and the local bazaar on Teknaf.
Shah Porir Island can be visited in any season. However, the excessive heat can make the journey less comfortable. Monsoons or winter are preferable for travelling as they become windy and more refreshing.
The Bay of Bengal looks surreal as the light breeze touches your skin, cleansing the soul and swallowing the pain away. So, do not contemplate anymore, and put this island on your 2024 bucket list.
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