Sundarbans

Sundarbans

About Sundarbans

The Sundarbans, also called the “Land of the Royal Bengal Tiger”, is one of the most interesting natural places in India, renowned for its immense mangrove forests, meandering river banks, abundant wildlife, serene river stretches and distinctive environment. The Sundarbans mangrove forests are the world's largest mangrove forest, part of the Sundarbans delta formed by the confluence of the river systems of the Ganga, Brahmaputra, and Meghna, in the south of West Bengal; it is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This unique place is especially famous for the Royal Bengal Tiger, which has acclimatised to the unique mangrove environment. It is also renowned for its wide variety of flora and fauna, including the saltwater crocodile, spotted deer, fishing cats, monitor lizard, dolphin and many species of migratory and resident birds. The landscape is a natural wonder with dense mangroves, interconnected rivers, tidal creeks, mudflats and small islands, all of which are perfect for nature lovers, wildlife lovers, photographers and adventure travellers. Sajnekhali Wildlife Sanctuary, Sudhanyakhali Watch Tower, Dobanki Watch Tower, Netidhopani, Bhagabatpur Crocodile Project and Henry Island are popular tourist attractions. Other highlights are Gosaba, Pakhiralay, Jharkhali and the historic Hamilton Bungalow. It is also home to some traditional fishing villages, honey gatherers, Bengali folk culture and mouth-watering seafood from the Sundarbans. The Sundarbans provide an unmissable nature and wildlife journey; whether it is an exciting boat safari through the mangrove waters, sighting exotic wildlife, a serene island or exploring traditional village life, one can enjoy the beauty of the world's largest mangrove ecosystem.

Best Time to Visit Sundarbans

October to March is the best time to visit the Sundarbans, as the weather is pleasant, suitable for boat safaris, wildlife spotting, birdwatching, mangrove forest exploration and beautiful island discovery. It is a very pleasant time of year for exploring wildlife sanctuaries, visiting watchtowers and having peaceful boat rides among the interconnected rivers and creeks from November to February. It's also a great time to view birds, as several migratory bird species visit the area during this time. Exploring the mangrove landscapes and enjoying outdoor activities is also suitable during the months of October and March. During the monsoon (June – September) months, the mountains are wet and humid, and the rivers are high, making boat safaris and wildlife viewing difficult. Summers (April-June) may be hot and humid, but can be used to explore the natural beauty of the area early in the morning before boats are in use. Please note: Weather and forest department permissions may vary, so please check local conditions before visiting.

Sundarbans: Places, Experiences & Food
Places to Visit in Sundarbans

• Sundarbans National Park
• Sajnekhali Wildlife Sanctuary
• Sajnekhali Watch Tower
• Sudhanyakhali Watch Tower
• Dobanki Watch Tower
• Netidhopani Watch Tower
• Bhagabatpur Crocodile Project
• Burirdabri Watch Tower
• Bonnie Camp
• Jharkhali Tiger Rescue Centre
• Gosaba
• Pakhiralay
• Hamilton Bungalow
• Rabindranath Tagore Bungalow
• Dayapur Island
• Bali Island
• Satjelia Island
• Sudhanyakhali
• Lothian Island Wildlife Sanctuary
• Henry Island
• Bakkhali
• Fraserganj
• Jambu Dwip
• Kalash Island
• Sagar Island
• Gangasagar
• Namkhana
• Basanti
• Canning
• Jharkhali
• Matla River
• Bidyadhari River
• Raimangal River
• Thakuran River
• Muriganga River
• Panchmukhani River
• Halliday Island Wildlife Sanctuary
• Kartikpur
• Burirdabri
• Chotomollakhali Island

Things to Do in Sundarbans

• Boat safari through the beautiful mangrove forests
• Winding rivers, tidal creeks and narrow waterways of the Sundarbans
• Sajnekhali Wildlife Sanctuary and discover its rich biodiversity
• Sudhanyakhali Watch Tower and enjoy views of the surrounding forest
• Dobanki Watch Tower and experience its elevated canopy walkway
• Wildlife spotting and look for the famous Royal Bengal Tiger
• Saltwater crocodiles, spotted deer, wild boars and monitor lizards
• Birdwatching and photograph beautiful migratory and resident birds
• Bhagabatpur Crocodile Project and learn about crocodile conservation
• Peaceful islands and traditional fishing villages
• Historic Hamilton Bungalow and explore its colonial heritage
• Photography of mangrove forests, rivers and beautiful landscapes
• Experience the peaceful atmosphere of sunrise and sunset boat rides
• Waterways surrounding Dayapur Island
• Mangrove ecosystem and its importance in coastal protection
• Traditional honey collection and fishing practices
• Local cultural performances and traditional folk music
• Bonbibi worship and local forest folklore
• Jharkhali and explore its natural surroundings
• Eco-resort stay surrounded by mangrove landscapes
• Village walks and discover traditional Bengali culture
• Nearby coastal destinations of Bakkhali and Fraserganj
• Gangasagar and experience its religious and cultural significance
• Conservation efforts protecting the wildlife and mangrove forests of the Sundarbans

What to Eat in Sundarbans

• Ilish Mach Bhaja
• Shorshe Ilish
• Macher Jhol
• Chingri Malai Curry
• Daab Chingri
• Kakra Jhol
• Bhetki Paturi
• Pomfret Fry
• Pabda Machher Jhol
• Parshe Macher Jhal
• Rui Machher Kalia
• Katla Kalia
• Chitol Machher Muitha
• Fish Curry with Steamed Rice
• Prawn Bhapa
• Shorshe Bata Mach
• Doi Maach
• Muri Ghonto
• Chingri Bhorta
• Shutki Machher Bhorta
• Aloo Posto
• Shukto
• Cholar Dal
• Luchi and Aloor Dum
• Bengali Vegetable Thali
• Beguni
• Telebhaja
• Mochar Chop
• Vegetable Chop
• Crab Masala
• Lobster Curry
• Freshwater Fish Curry
• Coconut Prawn Curry
• Coconut Rice
• Panta Bhat
• Mishti Doi
• Rasgulla
• Sandesh
• Nolen Gur Sandesh
• Patishapta
• Pithe Puli
• Payesh
• Malpua
• Pantua
• Chhanar Jilipi
• Coconut Naru
• Kheer Kadam