INTRODUCTION TO SUNDERBANS
Sunderbans, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the most enchanting place in the deltaic region of West Bengal, India, and Bangladesh. Famous in the world for its green mangrove forests, rich wildlife, and unique ecosystem, the Sunderbans offer a most thrilling experience for nature lovers. The prime highlights of a Sunderban tour ensure a matchless experience.
Getting There
By Air
Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata is the nearest airport to the Sunderban. From Kolkata, you can hire either a taxi or a bus up to the Sunderban region.
By Train
Sealdah Railway Station in Kolkata is well-connected with most parts of India. From Sealdah, you can catch a train to Canning, the nearest Sunderban.
By Road
Public Buses and Private Taxis run from Kolkata to the entry points of the Sunderban, broadly defined as Godkhali, Namkhana, Sonakhali, and Raidighi.
Most Suitable Time to Visit the SUNDERBAN
The best time to visit the Sunderban is between October and March when the weather is pleasant, and there is a better probability of spotting wildlife, notably the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger. In fact, during the monsoons (June to September), hefty rainfall would creep up the area, making it nearly impossible to navigate the dense mangroves. The average temperature during the peak season is [25-30 °C], and it’s advisable to carry light clothes, a cap, sunglasses, sunscreen, and mosquito-repellent cream.
Stay in SUNDERBAN
Sunderban accommodation is available for every full range of levels, from high-class luxury to budget rooms or homestays. The high-class luxury accommodations offer [5-star facilities, including a spa, swimming pool, and guided tours]. The budget rooms or homestays provide a more local and intimate experience. Some notable Sunderban accommodations include [Sunderban Tiger Camp, a luxury resort with guided tours and spa facilities; Sunderban Mangrove Retreat, a mid-range eco-resort with comfortable rooms and local cuisine; and Sunderban Riverside Resort, a budget-friendly option with basic amenities and a homely atmosphere].
Exploring the SUNDERBAN Mangroves
SUNDERBAN Boat Safari
The best way to go about these dense mangroves spread over 54 islands and get a glimpse of the rich biodiversity of the Sunderban is by boat safari. These safaris guarantee spotting the Royal Bengal Tiger, besides other wildlife species such as saltwater crocodiles, spotted deer, and several birds. The significant attractions originally covered during a boat safari are Sajnekhali Wildlife Sanctuary, Dobanki Watchtower, and Sudhanyakhali Watchtower.
SUNDERBAN Wildlife Photography
Sunderban is an absolute Eldorado for wildlife photographers. The dense mangroves, calm rivers, and rich flora and fauna make this place lucrative for photographic purposes. The best time for photography in Sunderban is during early mornings or late afternoons when light is perfect.
Key Attractions in SUNDERBAN
Sajnekhali Wildlife Sanctuary
Located in the Sunderbans, the Sajnekhali Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most visited places by tourists. Under this, there is a watchtower, museum, and crocodile park. This sanctuary is ideal for viewing different birds like herons, egrets, and kingfishers.
Watch Tower at Sudhanyakhali
As visitors stand on the Sudhanyakhali Watchtower, you may see the panoramic view of the dense mangrove forests and waterways spread out to the horizon. This is one of the best places to view the Royal Bengal Tiger, wild boars, and deer.
Dobanki Watchtower
The Dobanki Watchtower is a standout attraction with a canopy walk that enables tourists to experience wildlife from such a height. Indeed, the walk through the mangrove jungle is exhilarating, offering tourists glimpses of many animals and birds.
Netidhopani
Netidhopani is proud of its ancient ruins, which are as old as 400 years old and comprise a famous temple. In terms of wildlife, it’s an excellent area to go bird-watching.
Pakhiralaya
Pakhiralaya, the land of birds, is a paradise for bird-watchers. The area harbours several species of migratory birds, as well as residents. It is an exciting place for ornithologists.
Cultural Experiences in SUNDERBAN
The local delicacy
A tour of Sunderban without the taste of the local platter is incomplete. The place is dominant for its seafood, especially the cuisine made with fresh fish, prawns, and crabs. These dishes not only reflect the local taste but also the rich biodiversity of the region. Some preparations to try out are Chingri Malai Curry, Ilish Bhapa, and Crab Masala.
Folk Performances
According to the World Heritage Committee, Sunderban is a repository of rich cultural heritage, and watching a folk performance is one of the best ways for visitors to get introduced to the local culture. The traditional dance forms and Bhatiyali music, popularly performed by the local artists in the Sunderban, engage the visitor in the lively cultural life of the place.
Sunderban is a vulnerable ecosystem, and its peculiar biodiversity needs conservation. In this context, the government and non-governmental organizations have initiated several steps regarding wildlife conservation, including the mangrove forests. Your visit can contribute to these efforts.
Tiger Conservation
The Royal Bengal tiger is the flagship species of the Sunderban. Various conservation programs through habitat preservation, antipoaching, and involvement of the people are in situ for the conservation of this endangered species.
Mangrove forests are the ecological balance of Sunderban. The restoration programs aim at replanting mangroves and creating awareness among the local communities to conserve these forests, reducing soil erosion and providing shelter during natural calamities.
Safety Measures for an Unforgettable SUNDERBAN Trip
Plan: Book your resorts and boat safaris in advance, especially if you are travelling during peak tourist seasons.
Being Safe in the Wild: Carry light clothes with a cap, sun glass, sunscreen, and any mosquito-repellent cream, and be sure you have comfortable shoes.
Obey Instructions: Respect all the safety rules from tour guides and forest officials, and never try to enter a restricted area or disturb wildlife.
Stay Hydrated: Ensure you bring in enough water and drink the same at regular intervals of your tour.
Respect at the Local Level: Be respectful to all and sundry, including its local culture, traditions and constituency, and help promote community business.
Conclusion
An experience combining the three elements—adventure, wildlife, and culture—is a trip to the Sunderbans. Sunderbans has something to attract each traveler, be it the dense mangroves, glorious Royal Bengal Tiger, simple local culture, or regional cuisine. Ensure a memorable and enriching visit to this enchanting destination by following this complete guide. So pack your bags and take on this journey deep into the heartlands of the Sunderbans to truly experience what unfolds.
For more information please visit our Blog.
