Muhuri Irrigation Dam & Coastal Beach
The monumental 40-vent coastal regulator, mangrove belt, and migratory bird haven
Quick Travel Facts & Visitor Guide (2026)
Muhuri Irrigation Dam & Coastal Beach is a prominent travel destination in Sonagazi, Feni, Chattogram Division, Bangladesh. The optimal time to visit is November to February for winter migratory birds, pleasant breezes, and comfortable boating. for a recommended trip duration of Half day to 1 full day (Ideal day trip from Feni or Chattogram). Entry ticket is Free Entry and weekly off day is Open Daily. The second-largest river irrigation and water regulator project in Bangladesh, situated at the confluence of the Feni and Muhuri rivers in Sonagazi, famous for vast estuaries, coastal mangroves, and winter waterfowl.
Overview
The Muhuri Project (Muhuri Dam & Coastal Regulator) is one of the most impressive hydraulic engineering and eco-tourism destinations in southeastern Bangladesh, located at Sonagazi in Feni district. Situated where the Feni River, Muhuri River, and Kalidas Pahalia River converge before discharging into the Bay of Bengal, this massive infrastructure project features a monumental 40-vent automated sluice regulator.
Beyond its vital role in flood control and agricultural irrigation for over 27,000 hectares, the Muhuri Project has evolved into a spectacular coastal eco-park. The vast reservoir creates a shimmering freshwater lake on one side, while the tidal coastal estuary on the other is lined with expansive artificial mangrove plantations (Jhobon), mudflats, and a sandy river mouth beach.
During the winter months from November to February, the reservoir and coastal sandbars become a paradise for birdwatchers, attracting hundreds of thousands of migratory waterfowl, including Siberian ducks, flamingos, sandpipers, egrets, and kingfishers.
Visitors can charter motorized country boats for scenic cruises along the estuary, watch fishermen casting nets for famous Feni river Hilsa and tiger prawns, and enjoy spectacular sunsets over the boundless water horizon.
Equipped with observation walkways, picnic parks, and fresh seafood stalls, the Muhuri Project offers a refreshing coastal escape just an hour from Feni town.
History & Culture
Constructed between 1977 and 1986 by the Bangladesh Water Development Board with support from the World Bank and OECF Japan, the dam was built to close the Feni River mouth against saline tidal intrusion.
The project transformed the barren, flood-prone coastal plains of Feni into one of the most fertile multi-crop agricultural zones in the country.
Recognizing its extraordinary natural beauty and biodiversity, the local administration developed scenic parks, tree-lined promenades, and tourist facilities around the regulator.
Top things to do in Muhuri Irrigation Dam & Coastal Beach
Walk Across the 40-Vent Regulator
Stroll along the massive engineering barrage to watch powerful water currents rushing through the automated sluice gates.
Go Winter Migratory Birdwatching
Bring binoculars between November and February to spot rare migratory ducks, waders, and raptors along the sandbars.
Take an Estuary Boat Cruise
Hire a motorized wooden boat to sail past mangrove islands towards the open waters of the Bay of Bengal.
Taste Fresh Estuary Seafood
Enjoy freshly caught Feni river Hilsa, fried tiger prawns, and coastal crabs at local waterside eateries.
Video Guide: Experience Muhuri Irrigation Dam & Coastal Beach
Watch cinematic 4K footage and essential visual travel highlights before planning your trip to Muhuri Irrigation Dam & Coastal Beach.
Muhuri Irrigation Dam & Coastal Beach in pictures
Curated photography via Wikimedia Commons under Creative Commons licensing.
Highlights
- ✓Monumental 40-vent automated coastal water regulator and barrage
- ✓Vast freshwater reservoir merging with coastal saline estuary
- ✓Thriving winter migratory birdwatching sanctuary with thousands of waterfowl
- ✓Scenic coastal mangrove forest belt (Jhobon) and sandy river mouth beach
- ✓Engine boat cruises along the Feni River towards the Bay of Bengal
- ✓Fresh Feni river Hilsa (Ilish), giant tiger prawns, and coastal crabs
How to reach Muhuri Irrigation Dam & Coastal Beach (Transport Routes)
Take a direct bus or CNG auto-rickshaw from Feni Mohipal / Old Bus Stand south to Sonagazi, then proceed 8 km to Muhuri Project (approx. 28 km, 45 to 60 mins).
Take an intercity bus or train to Feni town, then take local transport directly to the Muhuri Project.
Best time to visit Muhuri Irrigation Dam & Coastal Beach& Seasonal Advisory
November to February: Prime birdwatching season; cool sea breezes, clear blue skies, and dry walking trails.
July to October: Monsoon season; massive roaring water discharge through all 40 regulator vents, creating a dramatic sight.
March to May: Warm dry months with breezy coastal evenings and spectacular sunsets.
Where to stay near Muhuri Irrigation Dam & Coastal Beach
Water Development Board (BWDB) rest house at the site (requires advance booking) or modern hotels in Feni town (Hotel Mid-Way, Hotel Kasturi).
Local food & dining
- 🍽️Fresh Feni river Hilsa (Ilish) fish curry and fry
- 🍽️Freshly caught estuary tiger prawns (Chingri)
- 🍽️Traditional Feni spicy duck curry
- 🍽️Fresh coconut water and tea from dam stalls
Essential Travel Tips & Rules for Muhuri Irrigation Dam & Coastal Beach
- 💡Bring binoculars and telephoto camera lenses if visiting during winter birdwatching months.
- 💡Wear life jackets when taking boat cruises out towards the open estuary.
- 💡Combine with Bijoy Singh Dighi in Feni town for a complete district day tour.
- 💡Sunsets over the coastal water horizon are especially breathtaking.
Nearby Places to Visit around Muhuri Irrigation Dam & Coastal Beach
Combine your visit to Muhuri Irrigation Dam & Coastal Beach with these closely located attractions and scenic destinations.
15.1 km (SW)A spectacular coastal water regulator and estuary beach at the mouth of the Choto Feni River in Companiganj, Noakhali, featuring extensive mangrove forests, mudflats, and sunset vistas over the Bay of Bengal.
18.9 km (E)A breathtaking man-made reservoir in Mirsarai surrounded by emerald green hillocks, waterfalls, and peaceful kayaking waters.
20.4 km (N)A monumental 37.5-acre historic royal lake in Feni, excavated in the 12th century by King Bijoy Sena, surrounded by manicured green parks, ancient trees, and walking promenades.
20.8 km (E)Mirsarai Waterfalls (including Bhabanipur & Napittachora trails) in Mirsarai, Chattogram offer an adventure trek through green mountain canyons to spectacular hidden multi-step cascades.
Curated Destination Highlights
Frequently Asked Questions about Muhuri Irrigation Dam & Coastal Beach
What is the Muhuri Project?+
It is a major coastal irrigation and flood control barrage featuring a 40-vent automated water regulator built at the mouth of the Feni and Muhuri rivers.
How far is Muhuri Project from Feni town?+
It is located approximately 28 kilometres south of Feni town, taking about 45 to 60 minutes by road.
Is there an entry fee to visit Muhuri Project?+
No, entry to the regulator walkways, dam, and public parks is completely free.
Related Destinations & Travel Guides
Explore 5 interlinked destinations in Sonagazi, Feni, Chattogram Division& surrounding regions
A spectacular coastal water regulator and estuary beach at the mouth of the Choto Feni River in Companiganj, Noakhali, featuring extensive mangrove forests, mudflats, and sunset vistas over the Bay of Bengal.
A monumental 37.5-acre historic royal lake in Feni, excavated in the 12th century by King Bijoy Sena, surrounded by manicured green parks, ancient trees, and walking promenades.
Mainamati, near Cumilla in eastern Bangladesh, is the country's largest Buddhist archaeological site, with over 50 monasteries, the famous Shalban Vihara, and a fine on-site museum.
Mirsarai Waterfalls (including Bhabanipur & Napittachora trails) in Mirsarai, Chattogram offer an adventure trek through green mountain canyons to spectacular hidden multi-step cascades.
Guliakhali, also known as Muradpur beach, is a tranquil stretch of sand in Sitakunda where the Sangu River meets the Bay of Bengal, perfect for sunset seekers.