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The Sundarbans: A Realm of Mangrove Majesty

Explore the Sundarbans: A biodiverse mangrove forest, home to the Royal Bengal tiger and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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The Sundarbans, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the world's largest mangrove forest, straddling Bangladesh and India. A unique ecosystem teeming with wildlife, it's best known as the home of the Royal Bengal tiger and offers an unparalleled nature experience.

A brief summary to The Sundarbans (Bangladesh)

Local tips

  • The best time to visit the Sundarbans is during the dry season (November to March) for pleasant weather and optimal wildlife viewing.
  • Boat safaris are the primary way to explore the Sundarbans; early morning and late afternoon safaris offer the best chances for spotting wildlife.
  • Obtain necessary permits from the Office of the Field Director, Sundarban Tiger Reserve, or, for international tourists, from the Joint Secretary of Forest Department in Kolkata.
  • Respect the local wildlife and maintain a safe distance, especially from tigers and crocodiles.
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Getting There

  • Boat

    The primary access to the Sundarbans is via boat from various points including Mongla, Khulna, or Godkhali. From Dhaka, a common route involves road transport to Mongla Port (approximately 3-4 hours), followed by a boat journey into the forest. Numerous tour operators offer comprehensive packages, including transportation, accommodation, and guided tours. Boat rentals vary depending on size and duration, ranging from approximately Tk 5,500-15,000 for a day trip. Forest entry fees are additional, costing Tk 40 for local tourists and Tk 500 for international tourists.

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Discover more about The Sundarbans (Bangladesh)

The Sundarbans, meaning 'beautiful forest,' is a sprawling mangrove ecosystem at the delta of the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Meghna rivers, stretching across Bangladesh and India. This UNESCO World Heritage Site presents a unique and dynamic environment where saltwater meets freshwater, creating a haven for biodiversity. Covering approximately 10,000 square kilometers, the Sundarbans is composed of intricate tidal waterways, mudflats, and small islands, offering an unparalleled adventure into one of Earth's most biodiverse regions. The forest derives its name from the Sundari tree (Heritiera fomes), the dominant plant species, but it also supports over 334 plant species, adapted to the ever-changing tides that can fluctuate up to seven meters twice daily. The Sundarbans is not just a mangrove swamp; it includes some of the last remaining stands of the mighty jungles that once covered the Gangetic plain. The Sundarbans is renowned for its diverse fauna, most notably the Royal Bengal tiger, uniquely adapted to the mangrove environment, being excellent swimmers and tolerant of saltwater. Besides tigers, the area is home to approximately 30,000 spotted deer, as well as numerous bird species, including the Masked Finfoot and Oriental Darter. The waterways are inhabited by Irrawaddy dolphins, Ganges river dolphins, and saltwater crocodiles. Historically, the Sundarbans have been a vital part of the region's economy, providing resources such as timber, fish, and honey. Today, it faces threats from deforestation, climate change, and overexploitation of resources. Despite these challenges, the Sundarbans remains a crucial ecological zone and a captivating destination for those seeking to immerse themselves in nature's wonders.

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