Hatiya Island
The isolated coastal beauty of Noakhali
Quick Travel Facts & Visitor Guide (2026)
Hatiya Island is a prominent travel destination in Chattogram Division, Bangladesh. The optimal time to visit is Winter (November to February) is the only recommended time. for a recommended trip duration of 2 to 3 days (Including transit and Nijhum Dwip). Entry ticket is Free admission / Standard entry and weekly off day is Open daily (Public attraction). A large, remote island in the Bay of Bengal known for its quiet, rustic lifestyle, massive river journeys, and the pristine Nijhum Dwip located at its southern tip.
Overview
Located in the Noakhali district, right where the massive Meghna River empties into the Bay of Bengal, Hatiya is a large, remote, and fascinating island. Constantly shaped and reshaped by river erosion and land accretion, the island is a testament to the dynamic geography of the Bangladesh delta.
Unlike the highly commercialized St. Martin's Island, Hatiya offers a raw, authentic glimpse into coastal Bangladeshi life. The island is characterized by endless green paddy fields, quiet villages shaded by coconut and betel nut trees, and massive muddy shores lined with colorful fishing boats. The journey to Hatiya is an adventure in itself, involving a long, scenic ride on a massive multi-deck ferry (launch) or sea-truck from the mainland.
While the island has its own quiet charm, Hatiya is most famous among tourists as the essential transit point to reach Nijhum Dwip (Silent Island), a stunning national park located just off its southern coast. For travelers seeking isolation, fresh seafood, and an unhurried pace of life, Hatiya is a rewarding off-the-beaten-path destination.
History & Culture
Hatiya has a turbulent history of devastating cyclones and river erosion, which has forced the entire island community to migrate and rebuild several times over the past century.
Despite its isolation, it has a rich cultural heritage, heavily reliant on deep-sea fishing and agriculture.
Top things to do in Hatiya Island
Enjoy the River Cruise
The overnight launch journey from Dhaka to Hatiya is one of the most scenic and relaxing river cruises in the country.
Explore the Villages
Rent a motorcycle to ride through the quiet, shaded roads of the island, observing the traditional fishing and farming communities.
Visit Nijhum Dwip
Travel to the southern tip of Hatiya (Moktaria Ghat) to cross over to Nijhum Dwip to see the massive herds of wild deer.
Video Guide: Experience Hatiya Island
Watch cinematic 4K footage and essential visual travel highlights before planning your trip to Hatiya Island.
Hatiya Island in pictures
Curated photography via Wikimedia Commons under Creative Commons licensing.
Highlights
- ✓Thrilling, scenic launch (river ferry) journey from Dhaka or Noakhali
- ✓Authentic, untouched rural coastal lifestyle
- ✓Endless green fields and quiet, tree-lined village roads
- ✓The gateway to the famous Nijhum Dwip National Park
- ✓Extremely fresh and affordable sea and river fish
How to reach Hatiya Island (Transport Routes)
The most comfortable way is taking the daily overnight launch from Sadarghat in Dhaka directly to Hatiya (Tamuruddin Ghat). The journey takes about 12-14 hours.
Drive to Chairman Ghat in Noakhali, then take a 2-hour sea-truck or trawler crossing the rough Meghna river to reach the island.
Best time to visit Hatiya Island& Seasonal Advisory
Winter (November to February): The river and sea are calm, making the boat journey safe. The weather on the island is cool and pleasant.
Monsoon/Summer (April to October): Strongly discouraged for tourists. The Meghna river crossing becomes extremely dangerous, and the island is prone to severe cyclones.
Where to stay near Hatiya Island
Accommodations on Hatiya are very basic. There are a few simple guesthouses in the main town (Oskhali). Most tourists prefer to stay in the slightly better eco-resorts on the adjacent Nijhum Dwip.
Local food & dining
- 🍽️Freshly caught Hilsa (Ilish) from the Meghna River
- 🍽️Various types of dried fish (Shutki) and fresh sea crabs
- 🍽️Fresh buffalo milk yogurt, a regional specialty
Essential Travel Tips & Rules for Hatiya Island
- 💡Book a cabin on the launch well in advance, as the journey from Dhaka is very long.
- 💡Transport on the island is primarily via motorcycles (rented with a driver) or battery-operated rickshaws. Expect bumpy, unpaved roads.
- 💡Carry sufficient cash, as ATMs are scarce outside the main town area.
Nearby Places to Visit around Hatiya Island
Combine your visit to Hatiya Island with these closely located attractions and scenic destinations.
13.8 km (W)An isolated island district in Bhola surrounded by the Meghna River estuary, famous for green coconut groves, buffalo milk curd, and tranquil sunrises.
13.8 km (W)An isolated 373-square-kilometre oceanic island in the northern Bay of Bengal, Bhola, famous for having both sunrise and sunset over the water, wild deer mangrove forests, and traditional buffalo curd.
14.2 km (W)An off-the-beaten-path island in the Meghna estuary, beloved for its cycling paths, spotted deer, and mesmerizing sunrise and sunset views.
22.9 km (N)Nijhum Dwip is a small, car-free island off the southern coast of Hatiya in Noakhali, offering mangrove channels, sandy beaches, spotted deer and rich winter birdlife within a protected national park.
Curated Destination Highlights
Frequently Asked Questions about Hatiya Island
Is there a sea beach on Hatiya?+
Hatiya does not have a sandy swimming beach like Cox's Bazar. The shores are mostly muddy and used for fishing or agriculture.
Is it safe to travel by boat?+
The large, multi-deck launches from Dhaka are generally safe in the winter. Avoid crossing on small trawlers during bad weather.
Can I take my car to the island?+
No, there is no Ro-Ro ferry service for cars to Hatiya. You must leave your car on the mainland.
Related Destinations & Travel Guides
Explore 5 interlinked destinations in Chattogram Division& surrounding regions
Nijhum Dwip is a small, car-free island off the southern coast of Hatiya in Noakhali, offering mangrove channels, sandy beaches, spotted deer and rich winter birdlife within a protected national park.
An off-the-beaten-path island in the Meghna estuary, beloved for its cycling paths, spotted deer, and mesmerizing sunrise and sunset views.
An isolated 373-square-kilometre oceanic island in the northern Bay of Bengal, Bhola, famous for having both sunrise and sunset over the water, wild deer mangrove forests, and traditional buffalo curd.
Tucked away in the forested hills of Mirsharai, this stunning multi-tiered waterfall offers a thrilling trekking experience and refreshing natural pools.
Sandwip is a large, flat island in the Meghna estuary off Chattogram, known for sandy shores, traditional weaving, and a long, layered past.