Kuakata’s white seashells new attraction for visitors

Kuakata has long attracted tourists with its breathtaking natural beauty. Now, a new spectacle is adding a fresh dimension to the familiar charm of the coastal destination. Thousands of white seashells are scattered across the vast sandy beach, creating a striking contrast with the blue waters of the Bay of Bengal.

As the tide recedes after dawn, the shells become visible across different parts of the beach, giving the shoreline the appearance of a white carpet. The sight is particularly captivating in the soft morning light, when sunlight reflects off the shells and creates a mesmerizing natural scene.

The abundance of shells can be seen in several areas, including Tin Nadir Mohona, Gangamati, Lemburchar and Dolna Point. In some places, the shells lie in neat rows, while in others, white fragments are scattered across the sand and mixed with shallow seawater.


Why are so many shells appearing?
According to local residents, different types of seashells and mollusc shells are carried towards the shore by the natural movement of tides and ocean currents. After reaching the beach with the incoming tide, they remain on the sand when the water recedes.

Mahabub, a fisherman who has lived near the beach for many years said that he had seen thousands of shells washing ashore during his childhood. Their presence declined for several years, but he has noticed an increase since last year.

He said the phenomenon was a source of joy for both local residents and tourists.

Mokhlesur Rahman, who has been involved in fishing along the beach for 40 years, said, “From my long experience, I have seen different types of shells being washed ashore from the sea at various times with the tides. However, the quantity is not the same every year. This year, comparatively more shells are visible in different parts of the beach.”

Amir Hamza, beat officer of the Lemburban Forest Department, said, “The abundance of shells on the beach is comparatively higher from mid-September through the winter season. Tourists need to be aware of the importance of protecting these naturally occurring shells and the biodiversity of the estuary.”


As a result, the shell-covered beach is a constantly changing natural spectacle. Visitors cannot expect to find the same quantity of shells in the same place every day. Exploring different parts of the beach during low tide may offer the best chance to enjoy the sight.

Kuakata is already known as a destination where visitors can enjoy both sunrise and sunset over the sea. The newly visible seashells are providing another memorable experience.

Sumaiya Ripa, who came from Khulna, said she had never seen such a sight in Kuakata before. She was fascinated by the large number of shells and was busy taking photographs.

Another tourist, Rajib Kishan, said: “The sight of white shells against the blue sea looks like something from a fairy tale. If this beauty can be preserved, it will increase the enjoyment of tourists visiting Kuakata.”

Ruman Imtiaz Tushar, president of the Tour Operators Association of Kuakata (TOAK), said, “This natural spectacle of shells has become a new attraction for tourists. If it is preserved in a planned manner, it could be incorporated into Kuakata’s tourism promotion. However, attention must also be paid to preventing people from collecting shells indiscriminately for commercial purposes.”

KM Bacchu, convener of the Coastal Environment Protection Movement Kuakata (UPRA): “The natural abundance of shells on Kuakata beach is an important part of coastal biodiversity. These shells accumulate on the beach through the natural process of tides. For tourists, they are a new attraction of aesthetic beauty, but they are also part of the natural coastal environment.”

He urged everyone to refrain from picking up, breaking or damaging the shells. He also called on visitors to keep the beach clean by avoiding plastic and other waste.

“Preserving this natural beauty will increase Kuakata’s tourism appeal, allowing future generations to enjoy it as well,” he said.

Bacchu also stressed the need for caution regarding vehicles operating on the beach. He said e-bikes, auto-rickshaws, vans and motorcycles should not be allowed to damage shells, sand dunes or coastal biodiversity.

Local residents and environmentalists are therefore urging tourists to admire the shells, take photographs and enjoy the scenery without taking them home.

Amir Hamza, the Lemburban beat officer, said monitoring was being carried out to prevent shell collection, breakage, damage and littering on the beach. Conservation activities include regular patrols and observation.

However, he acknowledged that monitoring every part of the vast beach at all times remains difficult because of limited manpower.

For now, Kuakata’s white seashell carpet remains a seasonal and ever-changing gift of the sea. Its beauty offers visitors a memorable experience, while also reminding them that the best way to enjoy nature is to leave it intact.