Sundarbans National Park, West Bengal, (East India)
Sundarbans National Park is a unique mangrove forest located in the Indian state of West Bengal and Bangladesh. It is the largest mangrove forest in the world and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park is renowned for its population of Bengal tigers, as well as other wildlife species like estuarine crocodiles, Gangetic dolphins, and various bird species. Visitors can explore the dense mangrove forests through boat safaris and witness the incredible biodiversity of the region. Sundarbans National Park is a haven for nature lovers and offers a chance to experience the beauty of a unique ecosystem.
Unlock the beauty of Sundarbans National Park with our comprehensive guide to the best things to do and places to visit in this mesmerizing region. From nature's marvels to cultural gems, Sundarbans National Park has it all
Experiences
Take guided jungle walks to experience the raw wilderness of Sundarbans up close. Explore the mangrove trails, learn about the ecosystem, and spot smaller creatures like monkeys, reptiles, and insects.
Best Time to Visit: January - March, November - December
Timings: 08:00-11:00,15:00-18:00
Closing Days: Closed on Thursday
Price: 120.0 (Price is for 1 people)
Wear comfortable shoes
Wildlife
Take a thrilling wildlife safari to explore the diverse flora and fauna of Sundarbans. Spot Bengal tigers, saltwater crocodiles, spotted deer, wild boars, and a variety of bird species.
Best Time to Visit: January - March, October - December
Timings: 07:00-10:00,14:00-17:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: 500.0 (Price is for 1 people)
Beware of wild animals
Wildlife
Sundarbans is a haven for bird enthusiasts. Observe and identify numerous resident and migratory bird species, including kingfishers, herons, egrets, and the endangered masked finfoot.
Best Time to Visit: January - March, November - December
Timings: 06:00-09:00,16:00-19:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: 500.0 (Price is for 1 people)
Bring binoculars
Photography
Capture the breathtaking landscapes, wildlife, and unique flora of Sundarbans through nature photography. The park offers incredible opportunities for shutterbugs.
Best Time to Visit: All Season
Timings: 09:00-17:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: Free
Additional Charges ₹300 for Camera
Sightseeing
Explore the Mangrove Interpretation Center in Sajnekhali, where you can learn about the importance of mangroves, their role in the ecosystem, and their conservation.
Best Time to Visit: All Season
Timings: 09:00-17:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: Free
Museum
Visit the Sundarbans Museum in Sajnekhali to learn about the park's biodiversity, history, and conservation efforts. The museum showcases informative exhibits and displays.
Best Time to Visit: All Season
Timings: 09:00-17:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: 150.0 (Price is for 1 people)
Sightseeing
Embark on boat cruises through the dense mangrove forests and along the rivers of Sundarbans. Enjoy the serene beauty of the surroundings and keep an eye out for wildlife sightings.
Best Time to Visit: January - March, October - December
Timings: 09:00-12:00,14:00-17:00
Closing Days: Closed on Monday
Price: Free
Experiences
Get a glimpse of the local way of life by visiting nearby villages. Interact with the friendly residents, learn about their culture and livelihoods, and explore their unique traditions.
Best Time to Visit: January - March, October - December
Timings: 10:00-13:00,15:00-18:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: Free
Respect local customs
Experiences
If you venture further into the nearby rivers, you might be lucky enough to spot the endangered Ganges River Dolphin. Keep a lookout for these fascinating aquatic mammals.
Best Time to Visit: All Season
Timings: 09:00-17:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: Free
Tidal movements may affect sightings
Sightseeing
Visit the Bhagabatpur Crocodile Breeding Center near Sundarbans to witness the conservation efforts for saltwater crocodiles. See hatchlings and adult crocodiles in a protected environment.
Best Time to Visit: All Season
Timings: 09:00-17:00
Closing Days: Open all days
Price: Free
Travel Guidelines for Sundarbans National Park, West Bengal (East India) For Indian Travellers Only
1. Place Information
Sundarbans National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the largest mangrove forest in the world, spreading across India and Bangladesh. Located in the delta region of the Padma, Meghna, and Brahmaputra river basins, this unique forest area is interspersed with numerous tidal waterways, mudflats, and small islands. It's renowned for its wide variety of flora and fauna, particularly the Royal Bengal Tiger. More details can be found on the Official West Bengal Tourism Website.
2. Travel Related Information
By Road: The nearest town is Canning, about 48 km away from Kolkata. From Canning, one can hire a boat to reach the interiors of Sundarbans.
By Air: The nearest airport is Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata. From Kolkata, one can take a road or rail route to Canning and then proceed by boat.
By Railway: The nearest railway station is Canning. Regular local trains operate between Canning and Kolkata.
3. Visa Related Information
Indian citizens don't require a visa to travel within India. For any ID or other travel-related concerns, consult local administrative offices or the Ministry of Home Affairs website.
4. SIM Card/Network Related Information
Major telecom providers in the Sundarbans area include BSNL, Jio, and Airtel. Given the remote nature of the region, it's advisable to check with your service provider about network coverage in specific areas.
5. Govt Safety Guidelines
It's essential to adhere to the guidelines set by the Forest Department. Unauthorized entry into the deeper parts of the forest is prohibited. Only certain areas of the Sundarbans are open to tourists. Disturbing wildlife or venturing off designated paths can lead to severe penalties. Health advisories can be checked on the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare website.
6. Internal Transport Related Information
The unique terrain of the Sundarbans means that boat travel is the primary means of transportation. There are various boat tours, ranging from day trips to longer tours, that one can take to explore the region.
7. Special Mentions
Sundarbans is home to the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger. However, sightings are rare given the dense forest cover.
The region boasts a rich biodiversity, including saltwater crocodiles, spotted deer, various species of birds, and more.
It's advisable to hire a local guide when touring the Sundarbans, as they have in-depth knowledge of the region, ensuring a richer and safer experience.
If visiting during the winter, try to experience the local festivals and fairs, which showcase the rich cultural and traditional heritage of the area.