When there is a lot of noise and overcrowding of tourists at Laboni, Sugandha, or Kolatoli beaches in Cox’s Bazar city, many people seek a quiet place of peace. Where the blue waters of the vast ocean crash against coral rocks, cool breezes blow through the jungle, and green mountains on one side and a world-class path stretching along the sea on the other. If you want to see such a secluded and beautiful sight, then you are welcome. Shamlapur Beach, Cox’s Bazar.
This is one of the most beautiful and eye-catching places on the Cox’s Bazar Marine Drive. Shamlapur Sea Beach. With a touch of a rocky beach like St. Martin’s or Inani Beach, clear water, and colorful rows of traditional wooden boats of local fishermen, all together, Shamlapur Beach will take you very close to nature. For those who love to forget the urban machinery and spend time with their loved ones in a calm and quiet environment, Shamlapur sea beach in Cox’s Bazar is an ideal destination. In today’s detailed travel guide, we will detail the location, transportation, travel costs, safety, and all the necessary travel information for Shamlapur Beach.
Quick Facts: Shamlapur Beach, Cox’s Bazar
| Subject | Information |
| Place name | Shamlapur Beach |
| Location | Teknaf Upazila, Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh |
| Main road | Cox’s Bazar-Teknaf Marine Drive Road (Marine Drive) |
| Beach type | Coral and calm sea beach (Fishermen’s Trawler Point) |
| Suitable | Family, Couple, Group of Friends, Photographer |
| Best time to travel | Winter (November to February) |
Where is Shamlapur beach?
Shamlapur Sea Beach. It is located in Baharchhara Union of Teknaf Upazila in Cox’s Bazar District, Bangladesh. It is located in the middle of the Cox’s Bazar-Teknaf Marine Drive road, which stands at the junction of the sea and the Teknaf Hill Reserve Forest.
- Distance: The distance from the center of Cox’s Bazar town (Kalatoli/Sugandha Point) to Shamlapur Beach along the Marine Drive road is approximately 55 to 60 kilometers. On the other hand, it is located at an approximately equal distance from Teknaf town.
- Nearby notable places: To the north of Shamlapur Beach are Inani Beach and Patuartek Sea Beach, and very close by are the mouth of the Noakhali Canal and the Shamlapur local forest.
- Geographical location: On one side of the beach are high and low green hills, and on the other side are the blue waters of the Bay of Bengal. In between, the spiral Marine Drive road passes, which has increased the beauty of this entire area several times.
(Special Note: Travel time and distance may vary slightly depending on the specific route and speed limit of Marine Drive.)
Why is Shamlapur Beach so popular?
Despite being a bit far from the main town of Cox’s Bazar, it is close to travel enthusiasts. Shamlapur Beach Marine Drive is becoming a favorite name day by day. The main reasons for this are given below:
- Relatively secluded and clean environment: Unlike Laboni or Sugandha Beach, there is no overcrowding of tourists here. You can enjoy the sea in a peaceful environment, free from the hustle and bustle of hawkers.
- Nature and coral stones: Like Inani Beach, coral hidden under the water naturally emerges here during low tide, making the environment very enchanting.
- Fishermen’s lifestyle and boats: This beach is lined with rows of traditional wooden trawlers and sampans. The sight of fishermen returning from the sea with their catch in the early morning creates a wonderful atmosphere of real rural and maritime life.
- Charming Road Trip: The entire journey from Cox’s Bazar to Shamlapur along the Marine Drive road is an incredible experience. The view of the green hilly nature on one side and the endless sea on the other is mind-blowing.
- Photography paradise: The natural light, tranquil surroundings, mountains, sea, and the presence of traditional boats make it a unique canvas for photography.
The natural beauty of Shamlapur Beach
As you leave the hustle and bustle of Cox’s Bazar city and approach Shamlapur along Marine Drive, you will immediately feel a change in the quality of the air. The salty sea breeze and the soothing sounds of the forest will envelop you in a gentle atmosphere.
As soon as you step onto the beach, you will see a sandy beach stretching out under the blue sky, where small and large crabs roam freely. The waves of the sea come and crash into the shore. When the sunlight falls on the coral rocks and wet sand, the entire beach seems to sparkle in golden colors. When the sun slowly sinks into the depths of the ocean in the afternoon, the sky is filled with pink, orange and purple colors. And watching this sunset against the background of the colorful trawlers of fishermen floating on the sea is an unforgettable sight.
Featured Snippet Note (Where is Shamlapur Beach and why is it famous):
Shamlapur Sea Beach is located next to Marine Drive in Baharchhara, Teknaf Upazila, Cox’s Bazar district. This beach, about 58 km from Cox’s Bazar town, is famous for its peaceful environment, natural coral reefs, colorful trawlers of fishermen, and the beautiful combination of mountains and sea.
How to get to Shamlapur Beach
To get to Shamlapur Beach from Cox’s Bazar town, you have to use the beautiful Marine Drive road. There are several modes of transportation available for the trip:
1. CNG or Easybike
CNG is a good option for a small family of 3-4 people or friends. CNG is easily available from Kalatali or Sugandha points.
- Advantages: It’s easy to stop and enjoy the view.
- Rent: CNG reserve fares, including up-down and waiting charges, may generally vary depending on the situation and time (approximately ৳1,500 – ৳2,500).
2. Moon Car (Open Jeep)
If you are traveling with a group of 8 to 12 people or a family, taking a moon car is the most exciting option.
- Advantages: The beauty of the entire Marine Drive can be enjoyed in the open air.
- Rent: Approximately ৳3,500 – ৳5,000 (variable; be sure to haggle) for the whole day, depending on the time and seasonal demand.
3. Private car or microbus
If you want to travel comfortably with your family and seniors, it is convenient to reserve a private car or microbus.
- Advantages: Air conditioning and safe driving.
4. Local bus or Mahindra
Budget travelers can take a local bus or Mahindra bound for Teknaf from Cox’s Bazar Terminal or Marine Drive intersection, get off at Shamlapur Bazar, and walk to the beach. However, this may take a little longer.
How to get to Shamlapur Beach from Dhaka
There is no direct route from Dhaka to Shamlapur Beach. You will first have to come to Cox’s Bazar, then from there go to Shamlapur.
[Dhaka] ──(Bus/Train/Plane)──> [Cox’s Bazar City] ──(Marine Drive Road)──> [Shamlapur Beach]
- Bus ride: Non-AC and AC buses from Dhaka’s Sayedabad, Fakirapul, Mohakhali, or Titipara reach Cox’s Bazar Kolatoli Point directly. It takes 8-10 hours.
- Train journey: From Kamalapur Railway Station, you can easily board the ‘Cox’s Bazar Express’ or ‘Tourist Express’ and get off at the iconic Cox’s Bazar Railway Station. From the station, you can take a CNG and go to Marine Drive via Kalatoli.
- Traveling by plane: It takes only 45 minutes to land at Cox’s Bazar Airport from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport. It is possible to go directly to Shamlapur by jeep or car from the airport.
Estimated cost of a trip to Shamlapur Beach
The list of expenses according to the type of travel and preferences is summarized below in three categories:
1. Low budget (Solo / Budget Trips)
- Dhaka-Cox’s Bazar travel (non-AC bus/shovon train):৳1,500 – ৳2,000 (up-down)
- Local transportation (Cox’s Bazar-Shamlapur): ৳২০০ – ৳৪০০
- Food and snacks:৳400 – ৳600 (per day)
- Estimated total cost:৳2,500 – ৳3,500 (per person)
2. Medium Budget (Couple / Mid-Range)
- Dhaka-Cox’s Bazar Travel (AC Bus/Snigdha Train):৳3,000 – ৳4,500 (up-down)
- CNG Reserve (Up-Down and Waiting): ৳১,৮০০ – ৳২,৫০০
- Food (including fresh seafood):৳1,000 – ৳1,500 (per person)
- Estimated total cost:৳6,000 – ৳9,000 (for a group of 2)
3. Family/Group Budget (Family / Group Trip)
- Moon Car/Microbus Reserve: ৳৩,৫০০ – ৳৫,৫০০
- Food and other expenses:৳5,000 – ৳8,000 (for the whole group)
(Special Note: Local transportation fares, food prices, and seasonal costs may vary. It is best to verify key information locally before traveling.)
Where will you stay?
There are no major commercial five-star or large hotels directly in the Shamlapur Beach area for accommodation. However, there are several alternative options:
- Location in Cox’s Bazar city (most convenient): Most tourists stay overnight in hotels in the Kalatali, Sugandha, or Laboni areas of Cox’s Bazar town, leaving in the morning, visiting Shamlapur, and returning in the afternoon.
- Inani or Marine Drive Resort: There are several luxury and mid-range eco-resorts, including Royal Tulip, around Inani Beach, 15–20 kilometers north of Shamlapur.
- Local Cottage/BGB Rest House: There may be some private travel cottages or government/semi-government cottages near Shamlapur, but prior permission or booking is required to stay there.
Where to eat?
There are some small and medium-sized local hotels and food shops at the entrance to Shamlapur Beach and next to Shamlapur Bazaar.
- Fresh seafood: There is a special thrill in buying fresh fish directly from the fishermen on the beach and taking it to a local restaurant nearby to fry or cook it. Coral, Rupchanda, Laitya and Lal Poya fish are available in abundance here.
- Local Bengali food: Hot rice, pulses, and various types of dried dal are available at very low prices in the restaurants here.
Advice: If you prefer branded fast food or specialty foods, it would be wise to bring some dry food and enough water from Cox’s Bazar town.
When to visit Shamlapur Beach?
Shamlapur Beach can be visited at any time of the year, but the experience changes depending on the season:
- Winter (November to February): This is the best time to travel. The weather is pleasant, the sky is clear, and the sun is bearable. The roads are dry, making the journey along Marine Drive very comfortable.
- Rainy season (June to September): The sea becomes turbulent during the monsoon. The green hills come back to life, and the forests look fresher. However, extra caution is required when traveling on hill slopes or roads during heavy rains.
- Summer (March to May): Although the sun is a bit harsh, the cool sea breeze in the afternoon feels quite pleasant.
Best time of day: It is best to leave after 2 pm and spend time at Shamlapur Beach from 3 pm to evening. This allows you to enjoy both the gentle afternoon sun and the sunset.
What to do at Shamlapur Beach?
1. Walking in a peaceful environment: Take a long, peaceful walk on the soft sand of the ocean.
2. Seeing the beauty of coral stones: Take a picture of the green moss-covered coral reefs that float up at low tide.
3. Seeing the life of fishermen: Enjoy the view of fishermen’s trawlers hauling fresh fish from the sea into the canals.
4. Amazing sunset view: Capture the thrilling scene of the sun setting over the ocean.
5. Photography: Create beautiful landscape and portrait frames with mountains, sea, and wooden boat backgrounds.
6. Marine Drive Long Drive: Enjoy the sea breeze as you ride an open jeep or bike.
Shamlapur for photography
Shamlapur Beach is a unique paradise for photographers.
- Morning light: The view of colorful sampans and boats moored on the seashore in the soft light of dawn is excellent for natural and street photography.
- Afternoon light (Golden Hour): After 4 pm, when the golden light of the sun falls on the wet sand and rocks of the sea, great frames for landscape photography are available.
- Mobile Photography Tips: Use a wide-angle lens at sunset and try to capture the silhouette of the trawlers on the beach.
What would it be like if you brought your family?
Shamlapur Beach is excellent for traveling with families and seniors.
- Advantages: Free from crowds and noise, you can spend time with your family in safety and peace.
- Things to note: Small children should not be left alone in the sea. There may not be enough umbrellas or seating on the beach, so it is a good idea to bring a light mat or sheet. Keep enough water in the car for the elderly.
Shamlapur Beach for couples and friends
- For couples: Spending some time alone away from the hustle and bustle of the city and the long drive to Marine Drive makes a couple’s trip romantic.
- For groups of friends: Singing songs in a moonlit car, hanging out by the sea, and eating fresh fish fries will make the trip memorable for a group of friends.
Important safety tips while traveling
1. Be careful of tides: Before going into the sea, find out the exact tide times from the locals.
2. Don’t go into deep water: There may not be any professional lifeguard services in Shamlapur, so it is risky to go far into the water.
3. Precautions when walking on rocks: Coral rocks have slippery moss, so there is a risk of slipping.
4. Check the weather forecast: Do not go near the sea if the weather is bad or there is a storm signal.
5. Leave before evening: The Shamlapur area is somewhat deserted. For safety reasons, it is wise to leave for Cox’s Bazar town soon after dusk.
6. Keep the environment clean: Do not throw plastic bottles or waste on the beach.
7. Respect for the local environment: Do not do anything that disrupts the work or livelihood of local fishermen.
8. Keep emergency numbers with you: Save the tourist police or local emergency numbers on your mobile phone.
9. Take care of valuables: Be careful with your mobile phone and wallet when going into the water.
10. Ensure sufficient fuel: If you are taking your own bike or car, make sure there is enough fuel in the tank.
What to take with you when going to Shamlapur Beach?
- ☑️ Sufficient drinking water and light snacks
- ☑️ Sunglasses and hat/cap
- ☑️ Sunscreen lotion
- ☑️ An extra set of cotton clothes and towels
- ☑️ Power bank (for mobile charging)
- ☑️ Necessary personal medications
- ☑️ Camera/good quality smartphone
- ☑️ Sufficient cash (ATM booths may be limited)
- ☑️ Waterproof small bag for storing wet clothes
- ☑️ National Identity Card (NID) or copy of ID card
Tourists’ responsibility to protect the environment
It is the responsibility of all of us to preserve this wonderful gift of nature. During your visit to Shamlapur Beach, do not throw plastic packets, coconut shells, or water bottles on the beach. Coral rocks are our precious natural resources, so refrain from destroying them. Show respect for local culture and ordinary fishermen and practice responsible tourism.
Suggested Day Trip Plan
An ideal 1-day itinerary to visit Shamlapur Beach from Cox’s Bazar city:
- 12:30 PM – 01:30 PM: The journey starts from Cox’s Bazar town by CNG or moon car (along Marine Drive Road).
- 01:30 PM – 02:30 PM: Take some time to take a break and take pictures at Inani or Patuartek Beach.
- 03:00 PM: Reach Shamlapur Beach.
- 03:15 – 04:00 PM: Lunch or fresh seafood tasting at a local restaurant.
- 04:15 – 06:00 PM: Walking on the beach, enjoying the sea, seeing coral reefs, and enjoying the beautiful sunset.
- 6:15 PM: Departure for Cox’s Bazar city.
- 07:45 PM: Reach Cox’s Bazar town safely.
(Note: Times may vary slightly depending on weather and road conditions.)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Where is Shamlapur Beach located?
Answer: It is located right next to the Cox’s Bazar-Teknaf Marine Drive road in Baharchhara Union of Teknaf Upazila of Cox’s Bazar district.
2. How far is Shamlapur Beach from Cox’s Bazar city?
Answer: The distance from the main center of Cox’s Bazar city (Kalatoli Point) to Shamlapur Beach is about 55 to 60 kilometers along the Marine Drive road.
3. How to get to Shamlapur Beach?
Answer: From Cox’s Bazar city, you can easily reach Shamlapur Beach via Marine Drive Road by CNG, moon car (jeep), private car, or local bus.
4. How much does it cost to go to Shamlapur Beach?
Answer: The cost varies depending on the mode of transportation. CNG reserves can usually cost ৳1,500–৳2,500 and moon cars can cost ৳3,500–৳5,000 (variable).
5. Can I take my family to Shamlapur Beach?
Answer: Yes, Shamlapur Beach is a very safe and ideal place to spend time with family and children in a calm and clean environment.
6. Are there any hotels to spend the night at Shamlapur Beach?
Answer: There are no large hotels directly on the beach, but it is most convenient to stay at the Inani Eco-Resort or hotels in the main town of Cox’s Bazar.
7. Is there food available at Shamlapur Beach?
Answer: There are several small restaurants on the beach and in the local Shamlapur market, where rice, lentils, and fresh seafood fries are available.
8. When is the best time to visit Shamlapur Beach?
Answer: November to February (winter) is the best and most pleasant time to visit Shamlapur.
Conclusion
With the waves of the clear blue sea, the shadows of the green mountains, and the foamy waters blocked by coral rocks, Shamlapur Beach, Cox’s Bazar, is a unique natural paradise. Leave the familiar hustle and bustle of Cox’s Bazar and immerse yourself in the natural tranquility. Shamlapur Sea Beach. There is no alternative to traveling. Add Shamlapur Beach to your next Cox’s Bazar trip plan along with Marine Drive. Enjoy the beauty of Bangladesh with proper preparation and natural care.
