Expedition Overview
Nijhum Dwip — 'Quiet Island' — is a small island in the Bay of Bengal formed from silt deposits within living memory and now covered with dense mangrove and an extraordinary population of wild spotted deer. Introduced in 1974, the deer population has grown to over 30,000 — making Nijhum Dwip one of the highest densities of spotted deer anywhere in the world. They are completely unafraid of humans: you can photograph them at a metre's distance, at sunrise, in herds of dozens, on the beach.
Alongside the deer, the island supports a fishing community of a few thousand people whose life on the edges of the Bay of Bengal is one of great physical beauty and considerable hardship. This two-day expedition is compact, gentle, and intensely photogenic.
Expedition Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival & Dusk Deer Photography
Cross from Hatiya by country boat. Afternoon photography of the island's fishing settlement and the bay. At dusk, dozens of deer emerge onto the beach — completely calm and photographable at very close range. The last light of the day on their spotted coats, with the open bay behind, is exceptional.
The Goal of the Day: Wildlife portraiture at close range; working the golden hour with animals.
Day 2: Dawn Deer & Bay Seascape
Pre-dawn at the deer beach — the animals return at first light and the combination of emerging dawn colour, open water, and unafraid wildlife produces extraordinary images. After sunrise, we photograph the fishing community as they prepare their boats. Return to Hatiya in the afternoon.
The Goal of the Day: Pre-dawn wildlife; environmental portrait photography of fishing community.
Book Your Expedition
Note: Final price may vary based on specific expedition details and customizations.
Expedition Leaders
Professor Nasrul Eam is a seasoned explorer and visual storyteller who has spent over two decades traversing Asia’s diverse landscapes and cultures. As Dean of the Department of Art and Photography at Light & Composition University, he leads immersive photography expeditions to regions like the Himalayas, Sundarbans, and Bali. These journeys blend cultural exploration with hands-on learning, culminating in a complete photography diploma. With a portfolio of over 50 publications—including The Quintessence of Photography and Illuminating Nature—his work captures the profound beauty of everyday life. His background in advertising, linguistics, and visual arts enriches his mentorship, guiding participants to uncover compelling narratives through their lenses. Professor Eam’s expeditions are transformative experiences, inspiring photographers to engage deeply with the world around them.
Travel Information
Nijhum Dwip is reached by boat from Tamarganj (Hatiya Island), itself 2 hours by launch from Noakhali. Noakhali is 3 hours from Dhaka by bus. Best season November–February.
What to Bring
• 100–300mm zoom for deer photography
• Wide-angle for bay seascape
• Long-sleeved clothing (mosquitoes at dusk)
• Rubber sandals for muddy paths
• Cash only (no banking on the island)
