Dublar Char The Hidden Gem of the Sundarbans

Nestled deep within the Sundarbans mangrove forest lies Dublar Char, a remote island rich in natural beauty, cultural heritage, and unique biodiversity. Located along the southern coast of Bangladesh, Dublar Char is known for its pristine beaches, seasonal fishing activities, and the famous Hindu religious event, Rash Mela. This lesser-known destination offers a rare glimpse into the harmony between humans and nature in one of the world’s most ecologically sensitive regions.

Where is Dublar Char?

Dublar Char is located in the southern part of the Sundarbans, near the Bay of Bengal. Administratively, it falls under the Satkhira and Khulna divisions of Bangladesh. The island is accessible via waterways from Mongla Port or Burigoalini, making it a perfect stop for eco-tourists and wildlife enthusiasts exploring the Sundarbans.

Unique Features of Dublar Char

What makes Dublar Char special is its seasonal transformation into a bustling fishing hub. From October to February, temporary fishing villages are set up by thousands of fishermen who arrive here to catch, process, and dry fish. This seasonal fishing camp becomes a hive of activity, where traditional techniques are still practiced, offering visitors a unique cultural experience.

Aside from its economic importance, Dublar Char is celebrated for its unspoiled natural landscapes. Long sandy beaches, clear skies, and dense mangrove forests provide the perfect backdrop for photography, birdwatching, and wildlife spotting. It’s not uncommon to see deer, monkeys, various migratory birds, and even signs of nearby Royal Bengal tigers, especially at dawn or dusk.

A Seasonal Hub of Activity

From October to March, Dublar Char transforms into a vibrant seasonal settlement. According to the Bangladesh Forest Department, more than 35,000 people arrive each year with temporary permission to engage in fishing and fish drying activities. This includes laborers, fishermen, traders, and transporters who set up temporary camps on the island.

The shutki industry here is meticulously organized. Fishermen who own three to five trawlers are referred to as “Mohajons”, while those with larger fleets are known as “Bohradars.” These individuals hire workers to catch, process, and dry fish across several designated zones of Dublar Char.

Main Shutki Processing Areas

Dublar Char includes several key areas that are specifically used for fish drying, such as:

Alorkol
Majherkella
Narikelbaria
Shelarchar
Meher Ali Char

Each zone becomes a mini village during the fishing season, equipped with bamboo structures, drying fields, and basic shelters. Various species including loitta, chhuri, and shrimp are caught, processed, and transported across the country from this very site.

Alongside the traditional Rash festival, this island is also renowned as the largest dried fish market in the country. Approximately dried fish worth Tk 300 crore is distributed across the country from here.

According to the Forest Department, fishermen are permitted to conduct business here each year from October to March, meaning for six months. More than 35,000 people work on this island.

In Dublar Char, under the Sharankhola Range of the Eastern Sundarbans Forest Division, fish drying activities mainly take place in Alorkol, Majherkella, Narikelbari, Shelar Char, and Meher Ali Char.

Fishermen who own three to five fishing trawlers are referred to as ‘Mohajon’. Those who own even more trawlers are known as ‘Bohradar’. The fishermen engaged in dried fish processing work under these Mohajons and Bohradars.

The Rash Mela: Spirituality Meets Tradition

Alongside its economic significance, Dublar Char holds deep religious value. The Rash Mela—held during the full moon of the Bengali month Kartik (usually November)—draws thousands of Hindu pilgrims.

Devotees take a sacred bath in the Bay of Bengal and participate in prayers, rituals, and cultural events honoring Lord Krishna.

This annual festival adds a spiritual dimension to Dublar Char, making it a unique blend of faith, culture, and commerce. The festival also draws domestic and international tourists who come to witness this remarkable confluence of tradition and livelihood.

Ecotourism and Conservation

Dublar Char falls under protected ecological zones. While tourism is allowed, visitors are encouraged to follow sustainable practices. The area is managed by the Bangladesh Forest Department, which oversees permits, guides, and entry regulations to protect both the environment and its wildlife.

Sustainability and Eco-Conscious Tourism

As part of the Sundarbans Reserve Forest, Dublar Char is managed under strict environmental guidelines. Dublar Char falls under protected ecological zones. While tourism is allowed, visitors are encouraged to follow sustainable practices. The area is managed by the Bangladesh Forest Department, which oversees permits, guides, and entry regulations to protect both the environment and its wildlife.

The Forest Department regulates fishing permits, guides, and activities to protect the ecologically sensitive mangrove habitat, home to species like deer, migratory birds, and the iconic Royal Bengal tiger.

Tourists and researchers are welcome, but they are urged to follow eco-friendly travel practices to ensure the preservation of this important wetland.

Why Visit Dublar Char?

Tourists and researchers are welcome, but they are urged to follow eco-friendly travel practices to ensure the preservation of this important wetland.