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Sundarban National Park: Realm of the Royal Bengal Tiger

Explore the Sundarban National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world's largest mangrove forest, home to the Royal Bengal tiger and a unique ecosystem.

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Sundarban National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a mesmerizing maze of mangrove forests, tidal waterways, and small islands in the Ganges River delta. Shared between Bangladesh and India, this unique ecosystem is renowned for its rich biodiversity, including the elusive Royal Bengal tiger, saltwater crocodiles, and diverse bird species. Explore the park by boat, visit watchtowers for wildlife spotting, and immerse yourself in the local culture. The Sundarbans offer an unparalleled experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers, providing a glimpse into a world where land and water intertwine in a delicate balance. Remember to obtain necessary permits and follow safety guidelines to ensure a memorable and secure journey through this natural wonder. The best time to visit is during the winter months (October to March) for pleasant weather and optimal wildlife viewing opportunities.

A brief summary to Sundarban National Park - Bangladesh

Local tips

  • Obtain necessary permits in advance from the Forest Department at Sajnekhali or the West Bengal Tourism Office in Kolkata to avoid last-minute hassles.
  • Hire a local guide for your boat safari to enhance your wildlife spotting opportunities and gain insights into the park's ecosystem.
  • Pack insect repellent, sunscreen, and appropriate clothing for the weather, as the Sundarbans can be hot, humid, and mosquito-prone.
  • Respect the park's guidelines by staying on the boat, avoiding loud noises, and refraining from littering to minimize disturbance to the wildlife.
  • Visit during the winter months (October to March) for pleasant weather and optimal chances of spotting the elusive Royal Bengal tiger and other wildlife.
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Getting There

  • Train & Boat

    From Kolkata, take a suburban train from Sealdah Railway Station to Canning (approx. 1.5-2 hours, ₹20-₹30). From Canning, hire a local shared van or auto-rickshaw to Godkhali Jetty (approx. 1 hour, ₹50-₹70 per person). At Godkhali, arrange for a boat to Sajnekhali, the entry point for Sundarban National Park. Boat rentals vary depending on size and duration (₹2500-₹6000 per day). Entry fees to the park are ₹180 for Indians and ₹1000 for foreigners per day. A guide is mandatory (₹500-₹1000 per day).

  • Road & Boat

    Alternatively, hire a taxi or take a bus from Kolkata to Godkhali (approx. 3-4 hours, ₹200-₹400 by bus, ₹2500-₹3500 by taxi). From Godkhali, follow the same boat arrangement as above to reach Sajnekhali. Remember to factor in potential waiting times for ferries at various points. Entry fees to the park are ₹180 for Indians and ₹1000 for foreigners per day. A guide is mandatory (₹500-₹1000 per day).

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Discover more about Sundarban National Park - Bangladesh

Sundarban National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987, is a captivating realm of mangrove forests and tidal waterways, a unique ecosystem teeming with life and mystery. Straddling the border between India and Bangladesh, this vast delta formed by the confluence of the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Meghna rivers is the largest mangrove forest in the world, a sprawling wilderness covering approximately 10,000 square kilometers. The name 'Sundarban' is believed to be derived from the 'sundari' tree (Heritiera fomes), a dominant mangrove species in the area, or possibly from 'Samudra Ban' meaning 'Sea Forest'. The park's history is intertwined with the natural forces that shaped it. The area's history can be traced back to 200-300 AD. A ruin of a city built by Chand Sadagar has been found in the Baghmara Forest Block. During the Mughal period, the Mughal Kings leased the forests of the Sundarbans to nearby residents. Many criminals took refuge in the Sundarbans from the advancing armies of Emperor Akbar. Many have been known to be attacked by Tigers Many of the buildings which were built by them later fell to hands of Portuguese pirates, salt smugglers and dacoits in the 17th century. The British East India Company obtained proprietary rights in 1757, and systematic management of the forest began in the 1860s. The first Forest Management Division was established in 1869, marking the beginning of organized conservation efforts. The Sundarbans' landscape is a labyrinth of interconnected waterways, mudflats, and islands, creating a haven for a diverse array of flora and fauna. The dominant vegetation is, of course, the mangrove forest, adapted to the saline conditions and tidal fluctuations. The most abundant tree species are sundri (Heritiera fomes) and gewa (Excoecaria agallocha). These mangrove forests play a crucial role in protecting the coastline from erosion, buffering against cyclones, and providing a nursery for marine organisms. The park is renowned for its incredible biodiversity. The most famous resident is the Royal Bengal tiger, adapted to the unique amphibious lifestyle of the Sundarbans. These tigers are skilled swimmers and have been known to prey on fish, crabs, and water monitor lizards. Other notable mammals include the fishing cat, leopard cat, spotted deer, rhesus macaque, wild boar, and the Gangetic dolphin. The Sundarbans also provide habitat for small wild cats such as the jungle cat (Felis chaus), fishing cat (Prionailurus viverrinus), and leopard cat (P. bengalensis). The Sundarbans are a birdwatcher's paradise, with over 300 species recorded. These include migratory birds from higher altitudes that visit the area especially in the winter months. The waders include: Sandpipers, Spoonbills, Whimbrels, Stilts, Thick knees, Curlew, Green shanks etc. are found in the mudflats and sandy shoreline. Some important raptors include: White bellied sea eagle, Osprey, Brahminy kite, Shikra, Crested serpent eagle, oriental honey buzzard (occasionally), short toed eagle etc. Reptiles are also well-represented, with saltwater crocodiles, monitor lizards, pythons, and various snakes inhabiting the park. The endangered river terrapin, once believed to be extinct, also finds refuge here. Visiting Sundarban National Park is an immersive experience that requires careful planning. The park is accessible only by boat, with several entry points including Canning, Sonakhali, and Godkhali. Permits are required to enter the park and can be obtained from the Forest Department at Sajnekhali or the West Bengal Tourism Office in Kolkata. It is compulsory to hire a guide per boat. Once inside the park, boat safaris are the primary mode of exploration. Popular routes include visits to Sajnekhali Watch Tower, Sudhanyakhali Watch Tower, and Dobanki Canopy Walk, each offering unique perspectives on the mangrove ecosystem and opportunities for wildlife spotting. There are no jeep safaris and boats cannot touch down anywhere along the river banks inside the national park. Instead, take time to wander through enchanted villages, discover the local way of life, and take part in cultural performances. You can even sample honey collected by local villagers in the Sundarbans region. While tiger sightings are a highlight, it's important to manage expectations. The tigers are elusive and often remain hidden within the park's core zone. However, the journey through the mangrove forests, the chance encounters with other wildlife, and the sheer beauty of the landscape make the trip worthwhile. To ensure a safe and enjoyable visit, it's crucial to follow certain guidelines. Visitors must stay on the boat and avoid wandering alone. Wearing dull-colored clothes and refraining from loud noises helps minimize disturbance to the wildlife. It's also essential to carry insect repellent, sunscreen, and appropriate clothing for the weather conditions. The best time to visit Sundarban National Park is during the winter months (October to March) when the weather is pleasant and the chances of spotting wildlife are higher. The summer months (April to June) can be hot and humid, while the monsoon season (July to September) brings heavy rains and the park remains closed during the peak monsoon. Sundarban National Park is more than just a wildlife sanctuary; it's a vital ecosystem that supports a rich tapestry of life and provides livelihoods for millions of people. A visit to this unique destination is an opportunity to witness the power and beauty of nature, to learn about the importance of conservation, and to connect with a world that is both fragile and resilient.

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