Halliday Island Wildlife Sanctuary (Sundarbans) FAQs In 2026 - 2027

Halliday Island Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected wildlife sanctuary located in the Sundarbans delta in the state of West Bengal, India. This sanctuary is part of the Sundarbans Reserve Forest, which is the largest mangrove forest in the world. It is famous for its rich biodiversity and is home to a wide range of flora and fauna, including the Royal Bengal Tiger.

Halliday Island Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the Sundarbans region, which lies in the southeastern part of the state of West Bengal, adjacent to the Bay of Bengal.

The best time to visit Halliday Island Wildlife Sanctuary is between November and February when the weather is cooler and more pleasant. This period avoids the heavy monsoon rains and the extreme heat of the summer months.

Visitors to Halliday Island Wildlife Sanctuary can expect to see a variety of wildlife, including the Royal Bengal Tiger, spotted deer, wild boar, several species of birds, and aquatic animals like crocodiles and the Gangetic dolphins. The sanctuary is also home to numerous reptiles and insects unique to the mangrove ecosystem.

Tourists can reach Halliday Island Wildlife Sanctuary by taking a boat journey from nearby locations such as Canning, Gosaba, or Basanti. The sanctuary is not accessible by road, hence a boat ride through the meandering rivers of the Sundarbans is the only way to visit.

No, there are no accommodation facilities available on Halliday Island itself. Visitors typically stay in one of the many eco-friendly lodges, resorts, or forest rest houses located in the surrounding areas of the Sundarbans.

Yes, visitors need to obtain entry permission from the Forest Department to enter Halliday Island Wildlife Sanctuary. It is advisable to arrange the permits in advance, either personally or through a registered tour operator.

Tourists visiting the sanctuary should remember to follow local guidelines for safety and conservation. This includes not disturbing the wildlife, not leaving any litter, and adhering to specific rules set by the forest department to protect the ecosystem. Additionally, as the region is a tidal forest, it is important to follow the instructions of local guides and boatmen concerning tide timings.

Yes, many tour operators provide guided tours to Halliday Island Wildlife Sanctuary. These tours often include boat rides through the mangrove forests, with experienced guides who explain the ecological significance of the region and help spot wildlife.

Halliday Island Wildlife Sanctuary plays a crucial role in the conservation of the Sundarbans ecosystem. It serves as a critical habitat for several endangered species and helps maintain the ecological balance of the region. The sanctuary is also part of the Sundarbans Biosphere Reserve, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, highlighting its global environmental importance.