Complete travel guide to Teknaf's historic Well of Love

Mathin's Well, also known as Mathin's Well or Mathin's Well , is one of the most emotive historical sites in southern Bangladesh. Located within the Teknaf Police Station premises on Police Station Road in Teknaf, Cox's Bazar district, this preserved well commemorates the tragic love story of Mathin, a young Rakhine woman, and Dheeraj Bhattacharya, a police officer working in Teknaf, during the British colonial period.

Unlike Cox's Bazar, which is famous for its beaches, islands and coastal scenery, the Mathin Well offers visitors the opportunity to discover the human history of the region. Although the attraction is relatively small, its cultural significance extends far beyond its external appearance. The well is a symbol of love, separation, devotion and the eternal memory of a relationship, which has become part of local folklore and Bengali literary tradition.

Although often described as a Cox's Bazar attraction, Mathin's Well is actually located in Teknaf town, which is about 80-90 kilometers south of the center of Cox's Bazar by road. So, instead of taking a short walk from the main tourist beach, it is better to visit it as part of a trip to Teknaf. Travelers can combine this trip with a trip along the Marine Drive Road and stop at Inani Beach and other coastal attractions along the way.

The well is located near the Naf River region, where Bangladesh and Myanmar meet across the river. Its location connects the story of Mathin and Dheeraj to the larger heritage of Teknaf, which includes Rakhine cultural influence, colonial-era administration, and the historical importance of the freshwater source for coastal communities.

Essential information for visiting: This is a general historical monument, not a commercial entertainment center. Allow about 20-40 minutes to take a good look at the well, read about its history, and take photos where permitted. According to publicly available tour information, admission is free, although access is subject to security measures at the police station. A third-party listing lists specific days and times for visits, but the current schedule has not been independently verified directly from Google Maps. Its exact Google Maps place URL and associated pinpoint coordinates have also not been verified and should be confirmed before publishing automated map directions.

The historical significance of Mathin's Well comes from a remarkable love story involving Dheeraj Bhattacharya and Mathin . Their relationship is generally believed to have taken place in the 1920s, when Teknaf was a remote administrative outpost under British colonial rule. The story survives through Dheeraj's autobiography, historical accounts, and local folklore.

Who were Mathin and Dheeraj Bhattacharya?

Dheeraj Bhattacharya was a young Bengali police officer working in Teknaf. He later became known for his work in Bengali films and for his autobiographical writings. Mathin was a young woman from the local Rakhine community, often identified in historical accounts as the daughter of a Rakhine landowner.

A reliable supply of drinking water was an important part of daily life in Teknaf at that time. The well inside the police compound served as a meeting place where local residents, including young women, collected water for their families.

According to a widely circulated account, Mathin would regularly come with other women to fetch water from the well. During this coming and going, Dheeraj noticed her and their repeated encounters gradually developed a mutual affection. What began as a simple meeting place eventually became entangled in one of the most memorable love stories of the region.

A relationship disrupted by separation

This love story depicts the growing affection between Mathin and Dheeraj and the possibility of their marriage is also discussed. However, their relationship developed in a society influenced by communal differences, religion, family expectations and the social norms of the colonial period.

The defining moment came when Dheeraj received news of his father's illness and had to return to Kolkata. According to the popular story, he left without properly informing Mathin or giving any clear explanation for his absence.

It is said that Mathin was waiting for Dheeraj's return. According to local legend, his mental anguish became so intense that he stopped eating and drinking and eventually died. The exact circumstances of his death are difficult to establish independently, and the prevailing account must be understood as a combination of autobiographical recollections, historical interpretations, and local tradition.

How the story became famous

Dheeraj Bhattacharya later described his experiences as a police officer in his Bengali memoir ' Jhaar Ami Eeek Polisi Bham ' (translated as ' When I Was a Policeman ' ) . This work helped preserve the story of his time in Teknaf and brought greater attention to the connection with the Mathin well.

The well gradually became a symbol of unrequited love. Now it is visited by couples, families, literature lovers and tourists interested in the cultural history of Bangladesh. Rather than celebrating a royal monument or military event, Mathina's Well commemorates an intimate human story that has been meaningful to visitors for generations.

For additional historical context, contemporary details, and detailed information on preservation, (historic mathin s well in teknaf renovated) see the report published in the Dhaka Tribune and the historical travel article published in The Daily Star . (travel.htm)

Mathinar Kup is a preserved historical water well and memorial ; it is not a grand palace, archaeological excavation site, or large museum. Its importance lies mainly in its connection with the Mathin-Dhiraj story and the efforts to preserve that memory.

Historic well

Its main attraction is the old well, a reminder of a time when local people relied on a shared freshwater source. Visitors can observe its preserved structure and reflect on the daily encounters that gave the site its historic identity.

Since the structure has been renovated, its current appearance should not be assumed to be exactly the same as it was in the early 20th century. Visitors should not view it as a completely intact archaeological site, but rather as a protected monument containing a historic water source.

Dhiraj Bhattacharya Memorial

As part of the efforts to preserve the story, a sculptural memorial was erected near the well in memory of Dhiraj Bhattacharya. The surrounding area has also benefited from boundary development, landscaping and restoration initiatives undertaken by the local authority.

Together, the monument and the well help visitors understand why a seemingly ordinary structure holds such an important place in Teknaf's cultural identity.

Restoration and historical recognition

Local journalist and historian Abdul Quddus Rana played a key role in promoting and identifying the site. Historical records show that an interpretive plaque was installed in 1984, and subsequent conservation efforts were undertaken in the 2000s and 2010s.

A restoration initiative in 2006 involved the local police administration and Abdul Quddus Rana. Further improvements to the memorial area have been reported in subsequent years, including renovations highlighted in January 2019.

Etiquette for visitors: Do not climb on the well, touch fragile parts of the monument unnecessarily, throw any objects into the water, or damage the surrounding area. As the monument is located within an active police precinct, photography, movement, and access to certain areas may be restricted.

A visit to Mathina's Koop is essentially a cultural and historical experience. Although the attraction is small in size, tourists who know the story behind it can enjoy it as a meaningful stop on their way to explore South Cox's Bazar district.

• Visit the preserved historical well: Observe this artifact associated with the meeting of Mathin and Dheeraj and learn why it became a symbol of separation and devotion.
• Learn about a famous Bengali love story: explore the connections between monuments, local folklore, and Dheeraj Bhattacharya's autobiographical account.
• Explore the features of the monument: Find sculptures and historical information commemorating people associated with this place.
• Take photos respectfully: Take photos of the memorial or its surrounding landscaping with permission. Avoid taking photos of police installations, security personnel, or protected areas.
• Explore Teknaf town: Spend time discovering the local market atmosphere, coastal daily life, and the larger cultural landscape of the Naf River region.
• Plan a heritage-focused trip: Add Mathina's Kup to the selected cultural sites in Cox's Bazar district; if you're traveling through the northern part of the district, you can also include Ramu Buddhist Monastery.

How long should you stay here?

For most visitors, 20-40 minutes will be sufficient for a brief introduction to the well, the monument, and its history. Travelers interested in history buffs and related literature may prefer about an hour, if public access is available.

It doesn't take a whole day to visit Mathina's Kup alone. Since it takes a long time to get here from Cox's Bazar, it is best enjoyed by combining it with a larger itinerary in Teknaf.

Mathina's Kup is usually described as a free historical site in publicly available travel guides . However, due to its location inside the Teknaf Police Station premises, the entry requirements are different from those of a conventional public park or museum.

Important inspection guidelines

• Plan your trip during the day and check local access arrangements before making any special journeys.
• Do not assume that published schedules guarantee entry, especially during security operations, public gatherings, or official functions.
• Ask permission before taking photos of buildings, staff, or any other part of the police station premises.
• Please respect historic architecture and refrain from touching or damaging restored parts.
• Keep the memorial area clean and do not throw flowers, coins, plastic or any other objects into the well without explicit permission.
• Keep a close eye on children around the well and any obstacles.
• Although general admission is free, bring some cash for local transportation and meals.

Accuracy Notice: The opening hours for the selected day are not directly verified current Google Maps schedules, but rather are taken from a third-party travel listing. Travelers should consider them provisional. Similarly, the information provided regarding free admission does not guarantee any future changes to the admission policy.

The Math Well is located inside the Teknaf Police Station, on Police Station Road, in Teknaf town, Cox's Bazar district, Bangladesh. It can be reached by road from Cox's Bazar or by a long journey from Dhaka. Since this attractive place does not have a railway station or commercial airport, tourists arriving by train or plane have to complete the final journey by road.

Option 1: Travel to Teknaf by direct bus from Dhaka

1. Start your journey from any suitable intercity bus terminal or operator counter in Dhaka, such as Sayedabad, Arambagh, Fakirapul, Gabtoli or Abdullahpur, depending on the service.
2. Book an available bus to Teknaf and make sure the service ends in Teknaf instead of Cox's Bazar.
3. Allow approximately 11-15 hours for the entire journey, depending on the route, roadworks, rest breaks, and traffic conditions.
4. After reaching Teknaf town, arrange for a local auto rickshaw or any other authorized vehicle to go to Police Station Road.
5. Ask the driver about the Teknaf Police Station and the historical site locally known as Mathinar Koop or Mathinar Kua.

Estimated long-distance bus fares: A useful historical range of around ৳900–৳2,500 per person for the services discussed in the published travel guide. Fares can vary considerably depending on operator, seat category, travel date and availability. Please confirm current fares before booking.

Option 2: Travel from Dhaka to Cox's Bazar by train

1. Check the current schedule and ticket availability for trains from Dhaka to Cox's Bazar, especially the Cox's Bazar Express and Pariyotak Express.
2. Board the train from the departure station shown on your confirmed ticket. Do not assume that all trains stop at the same stations in the Dhaka area.
3. Upon arrival at Cox's Bazar Railway Station, arrange transportation to the Teknaf-bound bus or minibus departure point in the city.
4. Travel south towards Teknaf using scheduled buses, shared vehicles, or privately rented cars.
5. Upon reaching Teknaf, proceed along Police Station Road towards the Police Station Compound.

Estimated Rail Budget: For initial planning, allow around 700–1500 taka or more per person depending on the train and seat class. These calculations are estimates, not verified rail fares as of October 2026. Additional fares are charged separately for additional journeys up to Teknaf.

Option 3: Travel by plane from Dhaka to Cox's Bazar

1. Book an available domestic flight from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka to Cox's Bazar Airport.
2. The scheduled flight usually takes about an hour, although the total time to the airport and travel will be longer.
3. Rent a car from Cox's Bazar Airport or go to the appropriate bus departure point for Teknaf.
4. Proceed south towards Teknaf, passing through Ukhia, using the available main road or any suitable coastal route.
5. Ask your driver to stop the car at Teknaf Police Station and confirm permission to inspect the well.

Estimated airfare: A budget of approximately ৳4,000–৳12,000 or more for a domestic one-way ticket can be helpful in creating your budget, but the actual fare depends on the airline, booking date, and seat availability. Check the airline's current fare before traveling.

Option 4: Cox's Bazar Town to Mathina's Coop

For travelers who are already staying in Cox's Bazar, traveling by road is the most convenient option. The journey is about 80-90 kilometers, depending on the starting point and the route chosen. Under normal circumstances, it can take about 2-3.5 hours one way, with additional time added for breaks at sightseeing spots or traffic jams.

• Local Bus: Go to the Teknaf-bound bus departure point in Cox's Bazar and board the Teknaf-bound bus and complete the remaining short part by auto-rickshaw or on foot if possible. Budget approximately 200-450 taka for the intercity part.
• Reserved CNG autorickshaw: This is a viable option for short-distance regional travel or negotiated scheduled journeys, although long journeys from Cox's Bazar can be uncomfortable. Agree on the full return fare, waiting time, and route before starting the journey.
• Private car: Convenient for families and groups. Depending on the car, distance, fuel, waiting time, and driver, the cost of a full day of car rental, including a driver, can range from approximately ৳4,000–৳8,000 or more. These are estimated budgets, not verified prices.
• Motorcycle or local rental: Depending on the pickup location and bargaining, a short distance ride within Teknaf city can cost approximately 50–150 taka. Use a helmet and avoid unsafe or unlicensed services.

Proposed scenic route via Marine Drive

If you are traveling by private vehicle from Cox's Bazar, you may want to consider including the Marine Drive Road in your itinerary. This coastal route offers stops at Himchhari and Inani Beaches before heading south towards Teknaf.

Allow a full day to travel comfortably from Cox's Bazar, including stops along the way. Road conditions, local restrictions, and transportation options may vary, so it is best to check the exact route before traveling.

Finding the entrance to Teknaf

Upon reaching Teknaf town, use Teknaf Police Station, Police Station Road and Shapla Chattar for local directions . The historic well is located inside the station premises, not next to the main Cox's Bazar beach. Ask local residents or police station staff for directions to Mathina's Well, then follow the designated entry procedures for visitors.

Navigation Verification: The Google Maps Place URL with the attraction-specific correct /@latitude, longitude coordinates could not be authenticated from the available source. Before enabling automatic navigation on ColoZai.com, verify the original Mathina's Coop Place Pin directly on Google Maps, without using coordinates from Teknaf city, police station, or any nearby photo.

Mathina's Koop is primarily a historical monument, not a food or entertainment center. Therefore, visitors should plan to eat in Teknaf town before or after visiting this interesting place . The local market area and streets around the town center offer simple restaurants, tea shops, and casual Bangladeshi food.

Local food worth trying

• Freshly prepared fish curry: Coastal-style fish dishes served with rice are a common choice in the greater Teknaf region. Before ordering, find out what fish is available that day and how much it costs.
• Rice, dal and vegetable dishes: Some common options for affordable lunch in typical local restaurants.
• Chicken or beef curry: This is often found in traditional Bangladeshi food shops, depending on the establishment.
• Local Food: Tea, biscuits, samosas, singaras, and other light snacks can be found in the market areas.
• Influence of Rakhine Cuisine: Travelers interested in local culture can look for regional food traditions where authentic dishes are available, but there is no need to assume that every restaurant serves it.

Estimated food budget

These prices are for an estimated travel budget, not a restaurant's direct menu price. Seafood prices can vary greatly depending on the type and weight of the fish.

When choosing a restaurant, look for freshly prepared food, clean drinking water, and a clear menu price list. Those with special dietary restrictions should explain their needs before ordering.

If you return to Cox's Bazar in the evening, a variety of food options and prices are usually available in the hotels and restaurant areas around 's Bazar beach .

Tourists visiting Mathina's Kup can choose to stay in either Teknaf town or the larger hotel market in Cox's Bazar . Which is better depends on whether this attraction is part of a short day trip or part of a longer plan to explore South Cox's Bazar district.

Staying in Teknaf

Teknaf is a convenient place for those who want to explore the city, learn about the story of Mathin-Dheeraj, and travel to nearby coastal places without immediately returning to Cox's Bazar. Accommodation here may be of a more modest standard with amenities compared to smaller and larger seaside resorts.

Accommodations listed on the travel listing include Central Resort Limited, Milky Resort, Hotel Ne Taung and Hotel Deep Plaza . You should check their current operating status, room quality, exact rates and availability directly before making travel arrangements.

Staying in Cox's Bazar

For tourists looking for more accommodation options, Cox's Bazar has a range of beachfront hotels, family resorts, guesthouses and high-end accommodation. 's Bazar's proximity to the beach also makes it easy to find evening activities, restaurants and transport options.

It usually takes a lot of time to travel from Cox's Bazar to Teknaf, so leave early in the morning and leave time for the return journey.

Estimated budget per night's stay

These ranges are estimated planned discounts, not verified current hotel prices. Rates may vary based on weekends, holidays, seasonal demand, and hotel quality.

Accommodation Advice: If your itinerary includes a trip to St. Martins , please check the current cruise ship departures, travel permits, and accommodation regulations separately. Do not assume that there will be a ship sailing from Teknaf to the island on your selected date.

Mathinar Koop is a historical site that can be enjoyed all year round, subject to access arrangements. For tourists visiting various destinations in Cox's Bazar district, the months of October to March are usually a convenient time to plan a long coastal itinerary .

Best time of day

Morning and early afternoon are convenient times for visiting, if tourists are allowed to enter the station premises. In daylight, visitors can more easily examine the well, read historical information, and take pictures of the monument.

If traveling from Cox's Bazar, consider leaving early enough to reach Teknaf within the allowed travel time. As the currently published timetable has not been fully verified, make sure to check in locally before deciding on a long journey.

What to bring

• A fully charged mobile phone and an offline copy of your itinerary.
• Drinking water and personal necessities.
• Comfortable shoes suitable for walking in the city.
• A little cash for local travel and food.
• Identification must be shown upon request by local security personnel.
• Camera or smartphone, which can only be used in areas where photography is permitted.

Safety and cultural etiquette

Please note that the Mathina well is located within an active police installation. Follow the instructions of authorized personnel, refrain from entering protected buildings and do not fly drones without the necessary permission. Maintain a respectful distance from the well and its protective structures.

When traveling to other parts of Teknaf, keep in mind that some border and coastal areas may have additional travel or security restrictions. Check the status of nearby destinations before extending your trip, especially if you plan to travel through border waterways or remote coastal areas.

Suggested one-day itinerary from Cox's Bazar

• Early morning: Start the southbound coastal road journey, departing from Cox's Bazar.
• Morning: Stop for a short time at Himchhari or Inani beach as per your schedule .
• Late morning or early afternoon: Arrive in Teknaf and visit Mathina's Coop if the premises are open to visitors.
• Lunch: Enjoy local food in Teknaf town.
• Afternoon: Explore the approved local attractions or make a return trip stopping at some other scenic spots along the way.
• Evening: Return to Cox's Bazar, leaving enough time for changing road and traffic conditions.

This itinerary is a sample plan, not a guaranteed schedule. Please adjust the order to match confirmed openings and available transportation.

Mathina's Well is an interesting cultural destination as part of the larger itinerary of Cox's Bazar district. Although many well-known tourist attractions are not located directly next to the well, they can be visited on the way to Teknaf or as a separate day trip from Cox's Bazar.

Interesting places on the Cox's Bazar-Teknaf route

• Marine Drive Road : One of the most scenic coastal roads in the region, connecting important beaches and offering impressive views of the Bay of Bengal and the surrounding mountains.
• Inani Beach : A beautiful coastal destination, known for its sandy shores, natural rock formations, and relaxing seaside atmosphere.
• Himchhari Cox's Bazar : A popular stopover located south of Cox's Bazar, known for its mountains, coastal views, and scenic views from high places.
• Doria Nagar Cox's Bazar : A coastal tourist attraction that can be part of a larger trip along the Cox's Bazar coast.
• Shapuri Island : Also known as Shah Parir Island, this southern coastal destination near the Bangladesh-Myanmar border offers a different perspective on life. Check current transportation options before traveling.

Island destinations and coastal travel

• St. Martins : Bangladesh's famous coral island, which is best planned as a separate trip, as sea transportation, permits, and regulations for tourists are subject to change.
• Chera Island : A picturesque coastal expanse connected to St. Martin Island, only worth visiting if local access and sea conditions are favorable.
• Sonadia Island : A coastal natural destination near the Maheshkhali area, which is more suitable for exploring separately than a day trip from Teknaf.
• Maheshkhali : An island tourist destination known for its coastal landscape, local culture, and religious heritage.
• Kutubdia Island : A unique island tour, offering a unique blend of local people, coastal scenery, and maritime heritage.

Historical, religious and family attractions

• Ramu Buddhist Monastery : A worthwhile cultural destination for travelers interested in Buddhist religious heritage and the heritage of Cox's Bazar district.
• Adinath Temple : A famous Hindu pilgrimage site located in Maheshkhali, which combines religious history with a high island location.
• Cox's Bazar Sea Beach : The district's most well-known coastal attraction, ideal for relaxing before or after a trip to Teknaf.
• Radiant Fish World : An aquarium in Cox's Bazar that is especially suitable for families and travelers interested in aquatic exhibits.
• Dulahazara Safari Park : A wildlife-centric destination located in the northern part of the district, which is best considered as a separate trip or stopover.

Suggested itinerary: For a realistic one-day itinerary, prioritize one or two coastal destinations like Mathiner Kuo, Marine Drive Road and Inani Beach or Himchhari. Save the outlying islands and major wildlife centers for separate days. This approach keeps the trip off a busy schedule and gives you ample time to appreciate the history of Mathiner Kuo.