Maheshkhali Island

Maheshkhali lies off Cox's Bazar and is the only island in Bangladesh with hills, a low ridge running along it with the Adinath temple on top, a Shiva shrine that is one of the more important Hindu pilgrimage sites in the country and draws a large fair in February or March. A Buddhist pagoda stands on the same hill and a Rakhine community lives on the island, so the ridge carries two traditions within a few minutes of each other. The shore has mangrove, salt pans and betel gardens, and the island is known for its paan. The crossing is by speedboat or the slower launch from Cox's Bazar, and the island is small enough to see in a day.

What you actually see

• The Adinath temple on the ridge - the Shiva shrine and its pilgrimage.
• A Buddhist pagoda alongside - the second tradition on the same hill.
• Salt pans and betel gardens - the working land along the shore.
• The only hills on a Bangladeshi island - the ridge running along it.

When to go

November to March; the Adinath fair falls in February or March and is the busiest time. A day including the crossing. Speedboats are faster and rougher; launches are slower and steadier.

Honest expectations

Speedboat crossings are rough and overloaded, and safety standards are poor. The climb to the temple is a long stair. Facilities on the island are minimal. Boat prices are negotiated and inflated for foreigners.

Nearby

Cox's Bazar is across the channel; Sonadia island lies north-west.