A veiled mysterious land – unexplored and shrouded with flawless rustic beauty – Sundarbans – is a UNESCO World Heritage Listed site and one of the largest mangrove in the world. It is a gateway to Nature’s unique genesis of wildlife.
The origin of Sundarbans’ name stems out of the ecological conception related to the abundance of ‘Sundari’ trees. The swampy backwaters of the wilderness are lined with sprouting roots of the Sundari trees – causing a blanket of abstruse ambiance.
The Sundarbans covers an area of 10,000 sq km – sharing 60% with India’s eastern neighbor – Bangladesh. The ecological structure of the dense forest is a mix of both newly inducted and on-the-verge-of-extinction species. The mangrove is designed with 102 islands, with only 54 having local inhabitation.
The Star Attraction of Sundarbans is – The Royal Bengal Tiger – enlisted as endangered species but slowly and steadily getting a hike in the number. Sundarban Tour is a must of a traveler’s bucket-list and also a territory worth visiting if you love and are up for experiencing a hauntingly serene Wildlife.
If you’re planning a trip to the Sundarbans or wish to get your mind blown away with everything enigmatic – then read on.
Why visit Sundarbans? I’d say – Why not!
Why not spend a day waking up to the chirping of a million birds? Why not spend an hour listening to the ‘Baul’ songs sung by the fisherman and hum the tune thereafter?
The current climatic conditions and man-made upheaval, some of the most iconic sites, blessed with Nature’s finest components – are almost on the verge of eternal devastation. And the plight of Sundarbans is same. In the near future, tigers will only be seen in zoos.
So, why not visit it now! Why not see the mind-blowing feline in all its regal beauty?
What else is there to see in the Sundarbans apart from Tigers?
Visit Sundarbans to unfold its manifold wild secrets embedded deep in its nook and corners. Explore the home of Royal Bengal Tiger with its equally ferocious amphibian neighbour – the Saltwater Crocodile!
Ferocious Sway of Saltwater Crocodile
Known to be the fiercest of all crocs - the Saltwater Crocodile - stalks prey not only on land but also in the water. Many an animal has lost their lives when trying to cross the river or trying to get a drink, thanks to the cunningness of these sneaky reptiles.
Mass Nesting Olive Ridley Turtles
The Sundarbans is also host to one of the most prolific events to take place - the Mass Nesting of Olive Ridley Turtles. Only two types of turtles do Arribada or mass nesting - the Olive Ridley and the Kemps Ridley turtles - in the entire world. And the Olive Ridley turtles have chosen the Sundarbans as their site for mass nesting! Exalt in a wondrous delight by witnessing these small female turtles lay hundreds and thousands of eggs in a single place! What can be more fulfilling than watching a waylaid baby turtle go up against all odds and survive!
Bird Watchers Paradise - Home To Unique Species Of Birds
Reptiles have co-habitants in the form of hundreds of different species of birds - making it an ideal place to visit for enthusiastic bird watchers - It’s, in fact, a Bird Paradise!
From the grey-headed fishing eagle to the brown fish owl and from the red-whiskered bulbul to the small minivet - in the Sundarbans you will see or at least hear them all.
What is the best time to visit the Sundarbans?
If you’re a wanderlust like me – always on the run searching for adventure and thrill – then Sundarban tourism is your All-Year-Round Wild Tour Site. However, a visit to the forest during the summer months from March to May is most preferred amongst fellow travelers.
Why?
All the animals come to the watering hole to drink and then you can see them, Live in action!
Can’t make it during summer? Don’t worry… ?
The winter months from November to February are best, if you plan to spend a relaxing vacation - all geared to kick your heels!
Monsoon Magic in the wild!
Generally, during the monsoon season from June to October the parks are closed as its mating season for most of the animals. But you can experience the nature’s magic at Sundarbans. Sailing through its swampy backwaters and getting immersed in its pool of rustic delight in a Sundarban Houseboat. Nothing beats seeing the beauty of the forest when all the smell of the wet earth permeates through the wind.
What’s the easiest way to reach Sundarbans from Kolkata?
Being the major hub of eastern India, Kolkata has impressive roads and railways system. A 3-hour bus ride from Kolkata can reach you to Godkhali Port, the entrance of the Sundarbans or a simple train ride to Canning Station puts you within 30 kms of Godkhali Port.
If you daring enough then you can drive to Godkhali Port and leave your car there for the few vacationing days.
The easiest way I would suggest – a car ride. Rent one or book from one of the Taxi Rental service providers.
Yes, it is a bit expensive but you will be travelling in comfort without having to worry about delays, political rallies and bundhs stopping your trip. If you book with us at Sundarban Houseboat, we’ll take care of your pick-up and drop requirements.
How safe is Sundarbans for touring with family or friends?
For a tourist – every city, every town, every alleyway has an element of peril but that’s the excitement of going to a new place!
The Sundarbans is no different. Considering the number of wild animals that reside per square foot in the area – it is a wonder that the Tourism Department has been able to protect the tourists so well. Then again it is up to the tourist visiting to follow the rules and regulations provided and not go hunting for trouble, for then it will surely find you.
What is Sundarbans famous for?
Whenever the name Sundarbans comes to mind the first thing that pops into anyone’s head is the Royal Bengal Tiger. Yes, the Sundarbans is known as the home to the highest population of Bengal Tigers in the world but other than that Sundarbans is famous for a few more reasons:- Sundarbans is the largest Mangrove Forest in the world.
- It is the World’s Largest Delta, formed by two of the holiest rivers to flow through India - the Ganga and the Brahmaputra.
- It has been awarded as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- The Delta is a cluster of Islands, totaling up to 102. Out of which 54 are inhabited.
- Honey Collection is considered one of the riskiest professions in India as not only is there the chance of getting bitten by bees, there is also the risk of getting eaten by a tiger.
- Mass nesting on the beaches of the Sundarbans by the Olive Ridley turtles is something else to see.
- Crocodiles basking in the lazy afternoon sun is a sight for sore eyes.
The most obvious choice, go looking for a Royal Bengal Tiger:
This does not mean stray from the tour group or jump off a boat to see an island up close. One can always ask the locals around that where are the watering holes where tigers are frequently seen and can request the tour guides to take them to that spot if it is accessible by boat. e highest population of Bengal Tigers in the world but other than that Sundarbans is famous for a few more reasons:
Dance to the tune of the River Dolphins:
Nothing can be more ecstatic than seeing a pod of dolphins jumping out of the river with the setting sun behind them. A boat cruise gives you the opportunity to follow these magnificent creatures and see their playful antics up close which is not possible when staying in a lodge or guest house.
Visit the Mangrove Interpretation Centre to gain more knowledge
No matter how much we read about the Sundarbans in the papers or on the internet, it is something else to read about the history of the Sundarbans while standing in the only museum in that area. Not only does it contain the history of the region but also gives updates of every single tiger sighting.
Touring local villages
The most intriguing part of the Sundarbans is not the mangroves or the tigers but the people to choose to reside in this region. They are fearless and fearful as well. They not only respect the land and all the magnificent beasts that roam the region but also have learned to adapt to the ever-changing needs and demands. In these local villages, you can taste the flavours of local cuisines, communicate with the people about their experiences and fears, go crab gathering or fishing or even just sit and listen to stories of the ghosts of the past that still haunt the Sundarbans.
Bring back memories of the people and the culture:
Souvenirs are available in every city in the world and the Sundarban villages are no different. One can bring back honey or organic brown rice from the local villages or can buy handicraft products such as wicker baskets or bags. Not only does this help bring back memories of a beautiful holiday but also helps remind us of the simplicity of our existence.
Things To Do While Planning A Trip To Sundarbans
Planning a family trip is a daunting task. Planning a Sundarban tour is even more intimidating, as there are no stores, no ATM’s and no Malls. So, in order to plan a successful trip to Sundarbans all the necessities have to be carried with you – no use pretending you’ll be able to buy sunscreen at the local mall.
When touring the Sundarbans it is best to plan ahead. Book all rooms, all park visits, all tours before even getting into the car to reach Godkhali. Since there is a dearth of hotels and rooms in Sundarbans, it is best to book in advance. Book the best rooms before someone else does!
To enjoy a planned trip, it is best to be on time – try not to be late. As Sundarban tours are done in groups, your tardiness may make someone else lose their boat or worse their temper! Be there on time and the rest of the trip will go smoothly.
Touring the Sundarbans, in all its glory means accepting it for its good and bad sides. When you accept it’s rustic beauty and it’s extensive fauna, then you must accept the rules to protect this ecosystem. Please do not throw plastics or garbage into the water or on the beaches, it affects the habitat of the animals and the animals themselves.
The Sundarbans Tourism Department is also doing their best to ensure the protection of the fragile ecosystem. ‘No Plastic Zones’ have been set up in most parts of the forest and it is best to follow the rules.
Considering that all animals residing in the Sundarbans are wild animals, it is better not to tempt them. Please do not tease, tempt or infuriate the local wildlife. A picture may speak a thousand words, but when it’s in regard to your life – it isn’t worth it!
When visiting the Sundarbans, you will come in contact with the local community. They have their own set of customs and norms, which they believe is the reason they are alive. They trust their traditions as much as they trust their instincts. Thus, it is very important to respect their customs and traditions as we are guests in their backyards.
How To Plan A Sundarban Tour?
Planning a trip to the Sundarbans can, in its entirety, be planned by you, or it can be left in the hands of capable tour companies.
When planning the trip by oneself, the first thing to realise is the time period. The Tourism Department is very strict in not allowing tourists during the monsoon periods, thus, it is better to check the exact dates on the tourism website or visit the office at New Secretariat Building 1, 3rd Floor, K. S. Roy Road, Kolkata, West Bengal 700001 and get the details directly.
When visiting the Tourism Department, you can also get information in regard to the lodges and government guest houses available in the area, their prices and their menus. They will also provide proper information in regard to permits. The Tourism Department will also offer to make you a list of place to visit and the significance of the area.
When making plans by oneself the main issue is transportation. Since most areas are covered by boat, you must either travel by local ferry or by government boats. These boats travel throughout the day but not after sunset, so you must plan your day accordingly to travel back to your accommodations.
Touring the Sundarbans, in all its glory means accepting it for its good and bad sides. When you accept it’s rustic beauty and it’s extensive fauna, then you must accept the rules to protect this ecosystem. Please do not throw plastics or garbage into the water or on the beaches, it affects the habitat of the animals and the animals themselves.
The Sundarbans Tourism Department is also doing their best to ensure the protection of the fragile ecosystem. ‘No Plastic Zones’ have been set up in most parts of the forest and it is best to follow the rules.
Considering that all animals residing in the Sundarbans are wild animals, it is better not to tempt them. Please do not tease, tempt or infuriate the local wildlife. A picture may speak a thousand words, but when it’s in regard to your life – it isn’t worth it!
When visiting the Sundarbans, you will come in contact with the local community. They have their own set of customs and norms, which they believe is the reason they are alive. They trust their traditions as much as they trust their instincts. Thus, it is very important to respect their customs and traditions as we are guests in their backyards.
There are other ways of planning with a tour company, then please remember to ask them about the locations they will be taking you too and the method of travel.
There is also another way to plan a trip to the Sundarbans. That is by houseboat. Renting a houseboat or a room on a houseboat will ensure that not only are your meals, transportation, and permits are taken care of but also it will offer you the added bonus of seeing the beauty of the jungle at night.
Where To Stay In Sundarbans?
The Sundarbans offer a variety of accommodations, albeit modest. There are many lodges and guest houses where one can stay for a tour. In the case of government lodgings, they are a bit more economical but do not provide as many amenities as private hotels.
The private hotels have their own restaurants, local entertainment, car services, and many more activities.
The Sundarbans also have another accommodation for tourists, Houseboats! You can now enjoy the beauty and thrill of Nature up close by staying on a houseboat for the whole vacation. With amenities of a private hotel and with a view of a serene river, enjoy the pleasure cruise as you sail away from all your worries and problems!
What are the chances of getting attacked by a tiger?
The chance of getting attacked by a tiger is always present in the Sundarbans. It is better to be alert and attentive than to fall prey to these beautiful beasts. Always stay with the tour and try not to wander off on your own. Listen to the tour guides instructions in case of visiting the different islands. Do not venture out of the boundaries of the hotel or lodge at night.
What Are The Top Places To Visit In Sundarbans?
Going on a Sundarban trip to see the Royal Bengal Tiger is more like a blind date – you’re not very sure if they are going to show and if they do show up you don’t really know how to act. So, better than going in blind it’s best to plan in advance – at least ask for a picture! Look at a few Sundarban tourist spots, book a tour package or maybe even just talk to a tourism website to see what they are offering.
Listed below are a few locations you can check out when thinking about planning a Kolkata to Sundarban tour:
Sundarbans National Park
The Sundarbans National Park is a Tiger Reserve and a National Park all rolled into one. It was declared as the core area of Sundarban Tiger Reserve in 1973 and became a National Park in 1984. The main attractions of this Park are not only the Bengal Tiger but also monitor lizards, estuarine crocodiles, the olive ridley turtle, and chital deer. Entry to the park is available only by local boats or tourism vessels that have prior permission from the Forest Department.
Bhagabatpur Crocodile Project
This project was mainly started to ensure that the saltwater crocodiles do not become extinct as they are already on the endangered species list. In this crocodile-breeding farm, tourist can have a glimpse of saltwater crocodiles from eggs to full-grown reptiles. Motorised launches are available for a visit to this sanctuary.
Sudhanyakhali Watch Tower
Located in Sudhanyakhali River Camp, the water tower is positioned near a watering hole where animals come to drink. The only way to reach the watchtower is by boat as it is located in the heart of the Sundarbans. The tower has a capacity of 25 persons and is high enough to provide visibility up to a large distance.
Sajnekhali Bird Sanctuary
Situated in the northern part of the Sundarban delta, it is a safe haven for a large variety of birds. A variety of wildlife can be found here such as Water Fowl, Pelican, White Backed Vulture, Imperial Green Pigeon, Great Egret, Common Iora, etc. Animals such as water monitor lizards, rhesus macaques, wild boars, olive ridley turtles, and otters can be found in this sanctuary as well.
Sagar Island
An inhabited island with over 43 villages, Sagar Island or how we better know it as ‘Ganga Sagar’ is a place of pilgrimage for Hindus. Thought to be the birthplace of Lord Vishnu as Kapil Muni, this Island is considered as not only a holy site for Vaishnavites but also for worshippers of Goddess Parvati as this is the place where she came reincarnated as Ma Ganga to perform the Tarpan or Last Ritual for King Sagar’s sons. Connectivity to this island is better as it is not a part of the Tiger Reserve. From Kolkata, Diamond Harbour Road runs up to Kakdwip from where a ferry runs to the north end of the Island, Kachuberia.
Kanak
Kanak is another island which is dedicated to the preservation of an endangered species - the Olive Ridley Turtles. During breeding season, these turtles come up onto the shallow beaches to lay their eggs. The uniqueness of these turtles is that thousands of female turtles come together in a mass nesting or Arribada to lay eggs on a beach. The only way to reach this island is by boat.
The Sundarbans is a majestic and mysterious area – a place where everything seems shrouded in a veil of uncertainty – wherein every nook and corner something is waiting behind the bushes – looking at you with piercing yellow eyes, stiffening its body, retracting its claws and waiting to pounce!
