Chhoilar Char

Chhoilar Char rose out of the Bishkhali river at Kathalia a little over a decade ago and now covers about 70 acres. It takes its name from the tens of thousands of chhoila trees that grew up on it, mixed with keya, hogla and other plants. Mynas, waterhens and herons are common. The district administration listed it as a tourist spot in 2015, but it has never been developed: there is no jetty, no toilets and no paths, and visitors wade through mud to get ashore. For those who like rough edges, it is one of the least-known green spots in the south.

How to get there

From Jhalokathi go by road to Kathalia, then hire a boat from Kathalia launch ghat; there is no road access.

Good to know

Go between January and March when the char is dry. Wear clothes and sandals you can get muddy, carry water, and go with a local boatman; return before dark.

• #char
• #river
• #forest
• #birdwatching