Sundarbans National Park, located in the delta region of West Bengal, India, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its vast mangrove forests and rich biodiversity, including the iconic Royal Bengal Tiger. This intricate network of tidal waterways, mudflats, and small islands provides a unique ecosystem supporting a variety of wildlife and aquatic species.
1,330 km2
Mangrove Forest
Bengal Tiger, Fishing Cat, Gangetic Dolphin, Rhesus Macaque, Grey Mongoose
Grey Heron, Black-Capped Kingfisher, White Ibis, Mangrove Whistler
Sundarbans National Park, located in the southern part of West Bengal, India, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its unique mangrove forests and rich biodiversity. Spanning approximately 1,330 square kilometers, the park forms part of the world’s largest delta, created by the confluence of the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Meghna rivers. The Sundarbans is named after the Sundari trees that dominate its landscape.
The park is home to the famous Royal Bengal Tiger, adapted to the saline and aquatic environment of the mangroves. It supports a diverse array of wildlife, including spotted deer, saltwater crocodiles, Indian python, and numerous bird species. The Sundarbans is also a critical habitat for several endangered species, such as the estuarine crocodile and the river terrapin.
The unique ecosystem of the Sundarbans, characterized by its tidal waterways, mudflats, and small islands, provides a vital buffer against coastal erosion and storm surges. The region experiences a tropical climate with a heavy monsoon season, contributing to its lush, green environment. As an ecotourism destination, Sundarbans National Park offers a fascinating glimpse into the intricate interplay between land and water, making it a vital conservation area and a haven for nature enthusiasts.
When you book with Into The Wild, our packages usually include the following (can vary based on individual client requirements):
Our packages do not include the following, unless separately requested for:
The nearest airport is Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata, approximately 100 km away. From the airport, guests can hire a taxi or take a pre-arranged vehicle to reach Godkhali, the gateway to the Sundarbans. The journey from Kolkata to Godkhali typically takes around three hours by road, followed by a boat ride to the park.
The closest railway station is Canning, about 48 km from Godkhali. Trains from Kolkata to Canning are frequent and take around 1.5 hours. Upon reaching Canning, an air-conditioned vehicle will be arranged by us to transfer our guests to Godkhali, which is an hour’s drive. From Godkhali, boats are available to ferry visitors into the Sundarbans National Park.
This is an indicative itinerary of your wildlife adventure and can be personalized as per your requirements. Reach out to us for a customized tour package.
Sundarbans National Park is part of the largest mangrove forest in the world. This vast and dense network of mangrove trees provides a unique and critical habitat for a wide range of species, both terrestrial and aquatic.
The Bengal tigers of the Sundarbans have developed unique adaptations to their mangrove environment. They are known to drink saline water, climb trees to escape rising tides, and have a diet that includes fish and crabs, in addition to their usual prey.
At Into The Wild, we believe in providing our guests with only the finest luxury accommodations. To ensure this, our dedicated team personally visits each property, staying there to experience every detail firsthand. This commitment to quality guarantees that the accommodations we recommend meet our stringent standards for comfort, luxury, and service.
Our founder, Akshay Gurnani, alongside a robust network of seasoned professionals, meticulously evaluates each location, from its amenities to the surrounding natural beauty. This hands-on approach reassures our customers that they will enjoy an unparalleled stay, immersing themselves in the tranquility and splendor of nature without sacrificing any comfort.
We take pride in offering a curated selection of properties that promise not only a luxurious retreat but also an unforgettable journey into the wild.
We are also constantly seeking to expand our list of accommodation partners, ensuring that our customers have a diverse array of options to choose from. By continually adding new hotels & resorts, we can offer fresh and unique experiences tailored to the preferences and desires of our guests.
The best time to visit Sundarbans National Park is from November to February. During these months, the weather is cool and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the park and enjoying wildlife sightings. Here’s a breakdown of the seasonal conditions:
Winter (November to February): This is the most favorable time to visit Sundarbans. Temperatures range from 10°C to 30°C (50°F to 86°F), providing comfortable weather for boat safaris and exploration. The dry conditions also make wildlife spotting easier, with better visibility of animals like the Royal Bengal tiger, crocodiles, and various bird species.
Summer (March to June): The summer months can be quite hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 40°C (77°F to 104°F). While it is possible to visit during this time, the heat can be intense, and the overall experience might be less comfortable.
Monsoon (July to September): The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall and high humidity to the Sundarbans. The park’s dense mangrove forests and waterways become more challenging to navigate, and certain areas may be inaccessible due to flooding. However, the lush greenery and rejuvenated landscape can be a sight to behold.
Overall, visiting Sundarbans National Park during the winter months from November to February ensures the most enjoyable and comfortable experience, with optimal conditions for wildlife viewing and exploration.
Sundarbans National Park is divided into several zones, each accessible through specific gates. The main zones and their respective gates are:
1. Sajnekhali Zone:
Sajnekhali Gate: This is the primary entry point for most visitors, providing access to the Sajnekhali Watchtower and Visitor Centre. It is a popular area for spotting wildlife, including the Bengal tiger and various bird species.
2. Dobanki Zone:
Dobanki Gate: Accessible via boat, this gate leads to the Dobanki Watchtower, which offers a canopy walk and excellent views of the surrounding mangrove forests and wildlife.
3. Sudhanyakhali Zone:
Sudhanyakhali Gate: Known for the Sudhanyakhali Watchtower, this zone is a prime location for tiger sightings and observing other wildlife in their natural habitat.
4. Netidhopani Zone:
Netidhopani Gate: This gate provides access to the Netidhopani Watchtower and the ruins of a 400-year-old temple, offering a blend of wildlife viewing and historical exploration.
5. Burirdabri Zone:
Burirdabri Gate: Known for the Burirdabri Watchtower and a mudwalk leading to a viewpoint overlooking Bangladesh, this zone offers a unique and adventurous experience.
6. Jhingekhali Zone:
Jhingekhali Gate: This less frequented zone provides a tranquil experience and good opportunities for spotting a variety of wildlife, including tigers, deer, and birds.
Each zone in Sundarbans National Park offers a distinct experience and visitors typically explore the park via guided boat tours that navigate through the intricate waterways and mangrove forests. It is advisable to arrange your visit through authorized tour operators who can provide the necessary permits and guidance for a memorable trip.
For Indian citizens, any of the following identity proofs is acceptable:
i. Voter Photo identity card issued by Election Commission of India
ii. Passport PAN Card issued by Income Tax Department
iii. Driving License issued by RTO
iv. Photo identity card having serial number issued by Central/State Government
v. Aadhaar Card
For foreigners, only passport is accepted as ID Proof.
When preparing for a trip to Sundarbans National Park, it’s essential to pack the following items for a comfortable and enjoyable experience:
Clothing:
Summer Months:
– Lightweight, long-sleeved t-shirts/shirts and pants for protection against insects, sunburn and thorny vegetation
– Cap/Floppy Hat with a brim to shield your face from the sun
Winter Months:
– Warm, layered clothing (thermal innerwear, fleece jackets, sweaters) to combat chilly mornings and evenings
– Thermal socks
– Gloves, scarf and beanie to protect against cold winds
– Face buff for protection from dust during all months
Shop our exclusive Into The Wild dust buffs crafted from breathable bamboo fibre → Shop Now
Personal Gear:
– Sunscreen with a high SPF
– Sunglasses with UV protection
– Neutral-coloured clothing (grey, brown, green). Avoid bright colours such as red, orange, blue, white, etc.
– Sports shoes or any comfortable, closed footwear for safaris
– Insect repellent
– Personal medications and a basic first-aid kit
– A lightweight, comfortable backpack to carry essentials during safaris
– Binoculars for wildlife viewing
– DSLR Camera, a telephoto lens along with extra batteries
– Flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries (incase of night safari)
Additionally for winter months:
– Hand warmers for added comfort during early morning safaris.
– Lip balm and moisturiser to prevent dryness due to cold weather
Documents and Essentials:
– Valid identification such as PAN, Aadhar or Driver’s licence
– Cash (Rs. 100/200/500 denominations) for souvenirs, tips, and contingencies
Snacks and Water:
– The hotel will provide water bottles in insulated boxes. Consider carrying effervescent tablets such as Fast&Up for additional hydration.
– Energy bars, nuts, dried fruits or other non-perishable snacks for quick energy during safaris
Personal Hygiene Items:
– Hand sanitizer or wet wipes for cleaning hands
– Tissues or toilet paper
– Biodegradable soap
Optional Items:
– Portable charger or power bank for recharging electronics
– Travel pillow for comfort during long drives
– Travel umbrella for sun or rain protection
– Portable or collapsible water bottle
Sundarbans National Park is famous for being the largest mangrove forest in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is renowned for its unique ecosystem and diverse wildlife, most notably the Bengal tigers that have adapted to an aquatic lifestyle. The park is also home to a variety of other wildlife, including saltwater crocodiles, spotted deer, fishing cats and numerous bird species. The intricate network of tidal waterways, mudflats, and small islands makes Sundarbans a critical habitat for both terrestrial and aquatic species, attracting nature enthusiasts and researchers from around the globe.
As of the latest estimates, the Sundarbans Tiger Reserve is home to approximately 96 tigers. This unique habitat, characterized by its mangrove forests and deltaic ecosystem, supports a distinctive population of Royal Bengal tigers known for their swimming abilities and adaptation to the challenging environment. The population figures are subject to change with ongoing conservation efforts and regular monitoring by wildlife authorities.
Sundarbans National Park is renowned for its diverse and unique wildlife. The most famous animals found in Sundarbans National Park include:
Bengal Tigers: Sundarbans is home to the largest population of Bengal tigers, known for their unique adaptation to the mangrove habitat, including swimming in the saline waters.
Saltwater Crocodiles: The park is known for its significant population of saltwater crocodiles, which thrive in the brackish water of the mangrove swamps.
Fishing Cats: This small wild cat is well adapted to the wetland environment and is often seen in the Sundarbans.
Leopard Cats: Another small wild cat species found in the mangroves.
Water Monitor Lizards: These large lizards are commonly seen in the water bodies of the Sundarbans.
Ganges River Dolphins: These freshwater dolphins can be spotted in the riverine areas of the Sundarbans.
Spotted Deer (Chital): These deer are commonly seen grazing in the grasslands of the park.
Rhesus Macaques: These monkeys are prevalent in the forested areas of the Sundarbans.
In addition to these, Sundarbans National Park is also home to a variety of bird species, including kingfishers, herons, and eagles, making it a haven for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts alike.
