Chera Dwip
The southernmost tip of Bangladesh
Overview
Chera Dwip is the southernmost point of Bangladesh, an extension of the famous St. Martin's Island. During high tide, it becomes completely separated from the main island, which is how it earned its name 'Chera' (meaning separated or torn). It is a purely coral island, with jagged, porous rocks dotting the shoreline and shallow, crystal-clear blue waters.
Because it is entirely uninhabited and lacks any permanent infrastructure, Chera Dwip retains a raw, untouched beauty. Visitors can easily peer into the shallow waters to see living corals, starfish, and colorful marine life. The white sandy beaches are littered with seashells and coral fragments, creating a uniquely rugged coastal landscape.
A trip to St. Martin's Island is widely considered incomplete without a visit to Chera Dwip. Whether you walk there during low tide or take a scenic boat ride, the isolation and natural splendor of this tiny island offer a profound sense of peace and natural wonder.
History & Culture
Chera Dwip has never supported permanent human settlement due to its lack of fresh water and its vulnerability during high tides and cyclones. It has always been a transient spot for local fishermen drying their nets and resting.
In recent years, the government has taken measures to restrict overnight stays and heavy commercial activities on Chera Dwip to protect the fragile coral reef ecosystem and biodiversity.
Top things to do in Chera Dwip
Explore the Coral Pools
Walk carefully along the rocky shore during low tide to observe the trapped marine life, including tiny crabs, starfish, and colorful coral polyps.
Walk from St. Martin's
If the tide is low, take the scenic and adventurous walk from St. Martin's Island to Chera Dwip, passing through beautiful coastal scenery.
Take a Speedboat Ride
Hire a wooden boat or speedboat from St. Martin's jetty to reach Chera Dwip. The short boat ride over the clear, shallow water is breathtaking.
Chera Dwip in pictures
Photos via Wikimedia Commons under their respective Creative Commons licences. Click a photo credit for the source and full licence terms.
Highlights
- ✓The southernmost piece of land in Bangladesh
- ✓Pristine, crystal-clear blue waters
- ✓Abundant living corals and marine life in tidal pools
- ✓Quiet, uninhabited atmosphere
- ✓Walking across the sandbank during low tide
How to get to Chera Dwip
First, you must reach St. Martin's Island from Teknaf. From St. Martin's, you can either take a 20-minute speedboat or wooden engine boat ride to Chera Dwip, or you can walk or rent a bicycle during low tide.
Best time to visit Chera Dwip
Winter (November to February): The sea is calm, the water is at its clearest, and the weather is pleasantly cool.
Monsoon (June to October): Access is generally prohibited as the sea becomes too rough and boat services to St. Martin's are suspended.
Where to stay
You cannot stay overnight on Chera Dwip. All visitors must return to St. Martin's Island before sunset, where numerous hotels and resorts are available.
What to eat
- 🍽️Freshly caught fish and lobsters (available back on St. Martin's Island)
- 🍽️Green coconuts (dab) sold by daytime vendors on the beach
Travel tips
- 💡Wear sturdy sandals or water shoes; the sharp coral rocks can easily cut bare feet.
- 💡Do not collect or break any corals—it is illegal and damages the fragile ecosystem.
- 💡Keep track of the tide times; if you walk there during low tide, make sure to return before the high tide separates the island again.
- 💡Carry water and sun protection, as there is virtually no shade on the island.
Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I swim at Chera Dwip?+
Yes, but you must be extremely cautious of the sharp corals in the water. It is better to swim in the sandy areas of St. Martin's main beach.
Are there any restaurants on Chera Dwip?+
No, there are no permanent structures. Occasionally during peak season, a few locals might sell green coconuts or tea, but you should bring your own snacks and water.
Why is it called Chera Dwip?+
'Chera' means separated. During high tide, the land bridge connecting it to St. Martin's goes underwater, physically separating it into its own island.
