Moheshkhali, one of Cox’s Bazar’s most popular tourist destinations, has been witnessing a surge in visitors during the Eid-ul-Azha holidays. Known for its scenic hills, coastal landscape, the historic Adinath Temple, mangrove forests, and tranquil rural setting, the island has become a major attraction for tourists and holidaymakers.
The increase in travellers has resulted in heavy crowds at BIWTA Jetty No. 6 and Nuniachara Jetty in Cox’s Bazar town, the main departure points for passengers traveling to the island.
A visit to the jetties showed large numbers of tourists, local residents, and commuters gathering from early morning. While some were traveling with their families for sightseeing, others were returning home to celebrate Eid with relatives. Ticket counters and boarding areas remained busy throughout the day.
According to transport operators, speedboats and gamboats operate daily from Jetty No. 6. The fare for a speedboat trip to Moheshkhali is Tk 110 per person, while a ghat boat journey costs Tk 40. Meanwhile, sea-trucks operate from Nuniachhara Jetty at a fare of Tk 35 per passenger. Although the journey takes slightly longer, many travellers prefer sea-trucks because they are considered safer.
Tanvir Hasan, a tourist from Dhaka, said, “I came to Cox’s Bazar with my family. Besides visiting the beach, we are also travelling to Moheshkhali. I have heard a lot about the island’s natural beauty and did not want to miss the opportunity.”
Sumaiya Akter, a visitor from Chattogram, said she was travelling to Moheshkhali for the first time.
“There is a giant crowd at the jetty, but the transport arrangements seem fairly good. I hope to have a wonderful day exploring the island,” she said.
Another tourist, Mehedi Hasan from Rajshahi, said, “I have long heard about the Adinath Temple and the island’s hilly landscape. I am visiting with my family during the Eid holidays. A trip to Cox’s Bazar feels incomplete without visiting Moheshkhali.”
Local resident Mohammad Idris said many island residents travel regularly to Cox’s Bazar town for work and other purposes.
“Passenger pressure has increased ahead of Eid, but regular boat services are helping to keep the situation manageable,” he said.
Abul Kalam, a resident of Kalarmarchhara in Moheshkhali, said the number of passengers increases severalfold during Eid.
“Relatives come home for the holidays, while many island residents travel to the town for shopping and other needs. That is why the jetties are now exceptionally busy,” he said.
Mohammad Rokon, a speedboat operator, said they were working to ensure the safe transportation of passengers despite the increased demand.
“We have been instructed by the Speedboat Owners’ Association to treat both tourists and local passengers properly and provide quality service. We are following those instructions,” he said.
He added that speedboat services operate from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm daily and remain dependent on favourable weather conditions.
Officials associated with the jetties said passenger traffic was likely to increase further over the coming days. Boat owners and operators have been advised not to carry excess passengers and to ensure the use of life jackets and other safety measures.
Tourism stakeholders said Moheshkhali has emerged as one of the most attractive destinations for visitors travelling to Cox’s Bazar. Its natural beauty, historical and religious landmarks, and traditional rural lifestyle continue to draw tourists year-round, with visitor numbers rising sharply during Eid holidays and extended vacation periods. The current crowds at the jetties bound for Moheshkhali reflect the destination’s growing popularity.
By Abdu Rashid Manik
Photo: Abdu Rashid Manik
