Dhadhar Char: A hidden island escape near Dhaka
Locally known as “Majher Char” or “Maijhar Char”, the island is surrounded by calm waters and expansive greenery
Anindya Arif
A quiet river island at the confluence of the Shitalakkhya and the Brahmaputra is drawing attention as a potential new tourism destination near Dhaka. Known as Dhadhar Char, the island lies near Kapasia in Gazipur and remains largely untouched, offering a rare blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue.
Locally also referred to as “Majher Char” or “Maijhar Char”, the island is surrounded by calm waters and expansive greenery. Its name, “Dhadhar Char”, originates from local folklore describing how the island’s shifting shape during the monsoon often confused fishermen and boatmen navigating through foggy river channels. Many believed the island created a kind of natural puzzle, making navigation difficult in the past.
Historians suggest the area once held strategic importance during the Sultanate and Mughal periods, when the river confluence served as a key inland water route. The island may have been used as a resting or monitoring point for naval movements. Over time, sedimentation transformed it into a lush natural landscape.
Today, Dhadhar Char offers a serene escape from the congestion of city life. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views, with one side reflecting the calm flow of the Shitalakkhya and the other revealing the vastness of the Brahmaputra. The island is rich in vegetation and birdlife, attracting day-trippers who arrive by boat or trawler for picnics and short visits.
Despite its appeal, the site lacks structured tourism infrastructure. However, the government has recently expressed interest in developing the island as an eco-friendly destination. Discussions in the national parliament have highlighted plans to introduce eco-tourism facilities, including environmentally sustainable recreation areas, modern landing stations for safer access, and a feasibility study to assess long-term development potential.
Officials believe that with proper planning and investment, Dhadhar Char could significantly boost the local economy by creating jobs, supporting small businesses and promoting regional tourism. Its proximity to Dhaka positions it as a strong candidate for a popular weekend getaway.
As Bangladesh looks to expand its tourism footprint, Dhadhar Char stands out as a promising example of how natural landscapes can be developed responsibly while preserving ecological balance.
