The Sundarbans is a beautiful forest that gets its name from the local Bengali language, meaning “beautiful forest.” It is renowned for housing the world’s largest mangrove forest. The park is located where the Ganges and Brahmaputra Rivers converge and form a delta, a large expanse measuring 10,000 square kilometres (3,861 square miles).
This alluring location, nestled among the alluring landscapes of India and Bangladesh, invites you to go out on an extraordinary trip into the domain of unspoiled wilderness. Prepare to be amazed as you enter this UNESCO World Heritage Site with its diverse wildlife, extensive mangrove forests, and the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger that roams its grounds.
In this guide, we will help you plan your ideal Sundarban tour package, providing you with essential information, tips, and insights to ensure a seamless and immersive experience.
History of Sundarban
The Sundarbans area has a long history of human settlement, dating back to the Mauryan era around the 4th to 2nd century BCE. There are ruins of an abandoned city in the Baghmara Forest Block, believed to be associated with Chand Sadagar, a semi-historical figure in Bengali folklore.
During the Mughal period, local rulers leased out forest lands for settlements. In 1757, the British East India Company acquired rights to the Sundarbans from the Mughal Emperor Alamgir II and completed mapping the area in 1764. However, systematic forest management didn’t begin until a century later.
The first Forest Management Division for the Sundarbans was established in 1869. In 1875, a significant part of the mangrove forests was declared reserved forests under the Indian Forest Act of 1865. The remaining forest areas were declared a reserve forest the following year. The administration of the Sundarbans, which was previously under the district administration, was placed under the control of the Forest Department.
How to Reach Sundarban
To reach Sundarbans National Park, you need to take a boat as the main entrance is on Sajnekhali Island. It’s located about 100 kilometers (62 miles) southeast of Kolkata in West Bengal, near the Netaji Subhash International Airport at Dumdum.
The easiest way to get there is by boat, car or bus. Trains can be crowded and don’t offer reservations. You can drive from Kolkata to Godkhali, Sonakhali, Namkhana, Canning, Raidighi or Najat. Once you reach these places, take a ferry or hire a boat to Sajnekhali.
There are public buses departing hourly from Kolkata to Sonakhali, taking around three hours. From Sonakhali, you can take an auto-rickshaw to Godhkali, the gateway village to Sundarbans, and then another boat to Sajnekhali.
Why Travel Sundarban
There are several compelling reasons to travel to the Sundarbans:
Breathtaking Natural Beauty
The Sundarbans are among the most stunning and biodiverse locations on earth. It is a nature lover’s paradise, offering awe-inspiring vistas and stunning landscapes. The interaction of extensive swamps, flowing rivers, and dense mangrove trees results in a spectacular scenery that is unmatched. The serene waterways and abundant wildlife create a mesmerizing and captivating atmosphere.
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Unique Mangrove Ecosystem
Sundarbans is home to the largest mangrove forest in the world, making it a remarkable ecological treasure. Exploring this diverse ecosystem allows you to witness the intricate balance between land and water.
The region is home to a complex network of mangrove forests that can withstand saltwater, including mudflats, islands, and tidal rivers. It is a powerful example of ongoing ecological processes.
Exceptional Biodiversity
This site offers all the components required for the long-term preservation of the Sundarbans and its distinctive biodiversity since it encompasses the whole range of mangrove habitats in addition to the adjacent aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems.
Numerous small and large-scale microbes animals and plants can be found in the terrestrial, marine or aquatic habitats of the area.
Wildlife Encounters
Sundarbans is renowned for its population of the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger. Other amazing wildlife species that you can come across include crocodiles, deer, snakes, and a huge variety of birds.
The region is home to 260 different bird species, the beautiful Bengal tiger, as well as endangered animals like the Indian python or estuarine crocodile.
Adventure and Thrills
Travelers can experience an element of adventure in Sundarbans. The experience is made more thrilling by the necessity of steering boats through constrained creeks and channels while exploring the area. You have the option to go on jungle safaris, take boat excursions, and even set up camp in designated places, giving you an exciting opportunity to get in touch with nature.
You can explore the wonders of bird watching and be captivated by the diverse avian species, creating cherished memories.
Furthermore, you can engage in a peaceful nature walk, immersing yourself in the calming embrace of the natural surroundings, experiencing pure bliss.
And as night falls, gather around a campfire, sharing stories, songs, and joy, creating lasting memories in this adventurous paradise.
Cultural Richness
The Sundarbans region has a rich cultural heritage deeply rooted in the lives of the local communities. Interacting with the warm and welcoming people of Sundarbans gives you insights into their traditions, folklore and way of life.
You can immerse yourself in the local folk dance, embracing the vibrant culture of Sundarbans, creating unforgettable moments.
Moreover, you may also witness the captivating Banabibi drama show, capturing its essence through your lens to share with others.
How Many Days Are Enough For Sundarban?
The Sundarbans National Park should be visited for at least 2-4 days if you want to properly appreciate it. Although a 1-night, 2-day tour package is sometimes thought of as the bare minimum for first-time tourists, it is recommended that you prolong your stay if you can. If you want to explore the Sundarban well, then definitely choose the Sundarban 2-night, 3-day tour package.
During this season, you can experience the Sundarbans’ alluring beauty and see its fascinating animals. With additional days available, you may go on longer boat trips around the canals, explore more of the mangrove woods, and increase your chances of seeing elusive animals like the Bengal tiger and estuarine crocodile.
Additionally, a longer stay gives you the opportunity to partake in activities like birdwatching, nature hikes, village visits, and cultural encounters, giving you a more thorough appreciation of the area.
You may thoroughly appreciate the natural beauty and make lasting memories of this distinctive and alluring location by allocating enough time to your Sundarbans vacation.
Travel Cost for Sundarban Package
When choosing a trip to Sundarban national park, it’s important to consider your group’s needs and budget. The package prices typically range from 4000 to 13000 INR, depending on factors like accommodation and boat type.
Here are some factors to consider when deciding what to include in your package:
Duration: Decide how many days and nights you want to spend in the Sundarbans.
Meals: Choose whether you want all meals included or just breakfast and dinner.
Accommodation: Decide between a simple lodge or a resort-style accommodation.
Transportation: Determine if you need an air-conditioned vehicle or if local transport is sufficient.
Activities: Consider what activities you are interested in, such as safari tours, village walks, boat rides or mangrove forest visits.
Guides: Decide if you need a guide for the entire duration or only for specific activities.
Once you have determined your priorities, you can request quotes from your travel agency. To ensure their reliability, you can also check the reviews before making your final decision.
Essential Tips for Your Sundarban Visit
To ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience, it’s crucial to keep a few key recommendations in mind when organising your trip to the Sundarbans. By using the following suggestions, you may maximise your time and generate priceless memories in this breathtaking natural setting.
- Foreigners need a permit and valid passport to enter. Arrange permits through the forest department or tour company.
- Pack warm clothes for November to February and prepare for hot and humid weather from March to June and monsoon rains from July to September.
- Boat entry fee and hiring a guide per boat is mandatory.
- Carry enough cash as there are no ATMs in the park.
- Plastic is banned in the region. Avoid bringing plastic bottles and bags.
- Watchtowers may be crowded and noisy.
- When going on boat tours or taking jungle hikes, pay attention to your guide’s advice and follow the safety precautions.
- Consider staying longer to explore more areas, engage in activities like bird watching, village walks, and cultural performances.
- Choose a reputable, knowledgeable travel company that specialises in Sundarbans trips. They can plan transportation, offer professional tour guides, and guarantee your safety at all times.
The Takeaway
Sundarban National Park offers a unique and captivating experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers. With its magnificent mangrove forests, diverse wildlife, and serene beauty, it is a must-visit destination. By considering the history, logistics and tips provided, you can plan a memorable and fulfilling trip to this extraordinary natural wonder. Ensure you have the necessary permits, arrange transportation, and embrace the opportunity to explore the remarkable Sundarbans. Get ready to immerse yourself in the wonders of this enchanting national park. Make sure you’ve prepared well, take in the splendour of the mangrove forests, and get set to make lifelong memories in this alluring location.
