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Sundarbans: Realm of the Royal Bengal Tiger

Explore the Sundarbans, the world's largest mangrove forest and home to the Royal Bengal Tiger, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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The Sundarbans, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the world's largest mangrove forest and delta, a realm of unique biodiversity where the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger roams free. Explore this natural wonder by boat, and witness a landscape where land and water intertwine in a mesmerizing dance of nature.

A brief summary to Sundarbans

Local tips

  • The best time to visit is between November and March for pleasant weather and optimal wildlife viewing opportunities.
  • Book your Sundarban tour package in advance, especially during peak season, to secure accommodations and preferred boat safaris.
  • Respect local customs and traditions when visiting villages and interacting with residents.
  • Carry insect repellent, wear appropriate clothing, and follow safety guidelines during boat safaris and jungle visits.
  • Try local Bengali cuisine, especially fresh seafood delicacies, for a flavorful culinary experience.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach the Sundarbans, a common starting point is Kolkata. Take a local train from Sealdah Railway Station to Canning. This journey typically takes around 2 hours. From Canning, shared vans or auto-rickshaws are available to Godkhali Jetty, which is approximately 1.5 hours away. From Godkhali, boats are available to access various parts of the Sundarbans. Train fare from Sealdah to Canning is approximately INR 20-30. Shared van/auto fare from Canning to Godkhali is around INR 50-70. Boat charges vary based on the destination and duration of the trip, typically ranging from INR 1500-3000 per day.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Alternatively, a taxi or ride-sharing service can be hired directly from Kolkata to Godkhali, taking approximately 3-4 hours. This is a more convenient but expensive option. From Godkhali, boats are available to access the Sundarbans. Taxi/ride-share costs from Kolkata to Godkhali range from INR 2500-4000. Boat charges are additional, as mentioned above.

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Discover more about Sundarbans

The Sundarbans, meaning 'beautiful forest' in Bengali, is a sprawling natural wonder straddling India and Bangladesh, renowned as the world's largest mangrove forest. This vast delta, formed by the confluence of the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Meghna rivers, presents a unique ecosystem where freshwater and saltwater meet. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Sundarbans is a biosphere reserve, national park, and tiger reserve, holding immense ecological significance. Its history is intertwined with the ebb and flow of empires, from Mughal leases to British mapping, ultimately leading to its recognition as a managed forest. Home to the iconic Royal Bengal Tiger, the Sundarbans offers a chance to glimpse this apex predator in its natural mangrove habitat. The intricate network of waterways teems with diverse flora and fauna, including estuarine crocodiles, spotted deer, and a dazzling array of bird species. The dominant Sundari tree lends its name to the forest, its salt-resistant roots creating a captivating landscape. Beyond its natural beauty, the Sundarbans plays a crucial role in protecting the coastal population from cyclones and storm surges. The mangroves act as a natural buffer, stabilizing the shoreline and mitigating the impact of natural disasters. Visitors can explore the Sundarbans through boat safaris, watchtower visits, and interactions with local communities, gaining insights into their unique lifestyle and culture.

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