Sundarbans (West Bengal) FAQs In 2024

What is Sundarbans known for?

The Sundarbans is known for its unique mangrove forests and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is the largest mangrove forest in the world and is renowned for its wide variety of flora and fauna, including the famous Royal Bengal Tigers. The region is intersected by a complex network of tidal waterways, mudflats, and small islands, providing a rich biodiversity and an important natural habitat for many species.

The Sundarbans can be reached from Kolkata, the capital city of West Bengal, by road or train. Tourists typically travel to Canning by train or car, and from there, they take a boat to reach the various points within Sundarbans. Boat services are available from places like Godhkhali, Sonakhali, Namkhana, and Canning. These places are accessible by road and there are tour packages that include transportation to and from these departure points.

The best time to visit the Sundarbans is from November to February when the weather is cooler and more pleasant. The winter season also increases the possibility of spotting wildlife as animals, including the Bengal Tigers, are more likely to emerge from the dense forests to bask in the sun.

Sundarbans is home to the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger, and it also hosts a variety of other wildlife including spotted deer, wild boars, crocodiles, dolphins, and numerous species of birds. It is a significant region for conservation of the Bengal tiger and other threatened species like the estuarine crocodile and the Indian python.

There are multiple accommodation options in the Sundarbans ranging from eco-friendly resorts to government and private lodges. These facilities offer basic to comfortable amenities for tourists. It is recommended to book in advance, especially during the high tourist season.

Yes, guided tours are available in Sundarbans and are recommended for a comprehensive experience of the area. Professional local guides can provide informative tours that maximize wildlife sighting opportunities, ensure visitor safety, and offer insights into the local ecosystem and communities.

Visitors require entry permits to visit the Sundarbans Tiger Reserve and the protected areas within. These permits can be obtained from the Forest Department offices located at the entry points such as Sajnekhali, Canning, or from the West Bengal Tourism offices in Kolkata.

Traveling in Sundarbans is generally safe, but it is important to follow guidelines and instructions provided by the local authorities for the safety of tourists and protection of wildlife. Tourists should always be accompanied by licensed guides and should not venture into restricted areas.

Visitors to Sundarbans can engage in various activities such as boat safaris to watch wildlife, bird watching, visiting watchtowers for panoramic views of the forest, exploring the mangrove ecosystem, experiencing the local culture of the villages, and photography tours.

While there is no strict dress code, it is advisable to wear light cotton clothing in neutral colors that blend with the natural surroundings to avoid disturbing wildlife. It is also recommended to wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and carry hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen for protection against the sun.