Located in the delta region of the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Meghna rivers, the Sundarbans National Park is one of the most iconic wildlife destinations in India. Known as the land of the Royal Bengal Tiger, it is also the largest mangrove forest in the world and a natural wonder recognized for its incredible biodiversity and ecosystem resilience.
Overview
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Location: South 24 Parganas District, West Bengal
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Established: 1984 (National Park), 1987 (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
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Area: 1,330 sq km
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Best Known For: Royal Bengal Tigers, mangroves, and estuarine wildlife
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Nearest City: Kolkata (110 km)
Flora & Fauna
The Sundarbans’ landscape is a mesmerizing mosaic of tidal waterways, mudflats, and dense mangrove forests.
Flora
The park features around 64 species of mangroves, including Sundari (Heritiera fomes), Gewa, and Kankra. These mangroves protect coastal regions from cyclones and erosion while serving as breeding grounds for marine life.
Fauna
The Sundarbans are synonymous with the Royal Bengal Tiger, known for its exceptional swimming abilities. Other species include:
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Saltwater Crocodile
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Fishing Cat
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Leopard Cat
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Wild Boar
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Water Monitor Lizard
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Olive Ridley Turtle
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Estuarine Dolphins
Bird enthusiasts can spot kingfishers, herons, storks, and migratory birds that flock to the wetlands during winter.
Tribal Communities & Eco-Conservation
Several indigenous communities, including the Mouliks, Bauleys, and Tigers’ Honey Collectors (Moulayas), coexist with the forest. Their traditional livelihood revolves around honey collection, fishing, and crab catching. Today, they play a key role in eco-tourism and mangrove conservation efforts, ensuring a sustainable balance between humans and nature.
Safari Experience
Exploring the Sundarbans is unlike any other safari — here, the adventure unfolds through the network of rivers and creeks by boat.
Safari Options
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Boat Safari: Conducted through narrow creeks like Sajnekhali, Dobanki, and Sudhanyakhali.
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Watchtowers: Located at Sajnekhali, Dobanki, and Netidhopani offering panoramic wildlife views.
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Sundarban Tiger Camp: Offers guided eco-tours and nature walks.
Safari Timings
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Morning: 7:00 AM – 10:00 AM
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Afternoon: 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Advance booking through authorized tour operators is recommended for safety and convenience.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Sundarbans National Park is between November and March, when the weather is pleasant, and tiger sightings are more frequent.
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Winter (Nov–Feb): Best for birdwatching and boating safaris.
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Summer (Mar–May): Hot but suitable for photography.
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Monsoon (Jun–Oct): Limited accessibility due to flooding and high tides.
How to Reach
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By Air: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (Kolkata, 120 km)
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By Train: Canning Railway Station (48 km)
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By Road: From Kolkata, drive to Godkhali or Sonakhali, the main entry points.
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By Boat: Regular launches operate from Canning and Gosaba to Sajnekhali.
Entry Fees & Permits
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Entry Fee: ₹100 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners)
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Boat Safari Fee: ₹500–₹2,000 depending on duration and vessel type
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Camera Fee: ₹200 (still), ₹500 (video)
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Timings: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Permits can be obtained from the Sajnekhali Forest Office or through authorized tour operators.
Local Culture & Cuisine
Visitors can experience the rustic charm of nearby villages like Gosaba and Pakhiralay, where traditional Bengali hospitality thrives. Enjoy authentic Bengali dishes such as:
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Bhapa Ilish (Steamed Hilsa)
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Chingri Malai Curry (Prawn Curry)
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Pithe & Payesh (Traditional Sweets)
Local performances like Baul songs and folk dances add cultural richness to the eco-tourism experience.
Nearby Attractions
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Sajnekhali Watch Tower: Offers panoramic views of the mangrove canopy.
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Dobanki Canopy Walk: A thrilling elevated walkway through dense forest.
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Netidhopani Ruins: An ancient temple site steeped in folklore.
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Henry Island & Bakkhali Beach: Coastal getaways near the park.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Sundarbans National Park
Q1. Where is Sundarbans National Park located?
It is located in the South 24 Parganas district of West Bengal, forming part of the world’s largest delta.
Q2. What is Sundarbans National Park famous for?
The park is world-famous for its Royal Bengal Tigers, mangrove forests, and unique boat safaris.
Q3. How can I reach Sundarbans from Kolkata?
Travel by road to Godkhali or Sonakhali, then take a boat safari through the creeks to reach the park.
Q4. Is night stay allowed in Sundarbans National Park?
Yes, accommodations are available at Sajnekhali, Gosaba, and eco-resorts within the buffer zones.
Q5. When is the best time for tiger sightings?
Between December and February, when the tide is low, and tigers come near the water channels.
Travel Tips for Visitors
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Book safaris and accommodations in advance.
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Carry insect repellent, light clothing, and binoculars.
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Follow forest guides’ instructions strictly.
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Support local eco-tourism initiatives.
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Avoid littering in water channels or forest areas.
Conclusion
Sundarbans National Park stands as a testament to nature’s power and balance — where land, water, and wildlife coexist in harmony. From its stealthy swimming tigers to its resilient mangrove trees, the Sundarbans embody the untamed beauty of India’s natural heritage. For wildlife lovers, birdwatchers, and explorers, this park offers a once-in-a-lifetime journey through the mystical mangrove kingdom of Bengal.
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