Sundarban National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the South 24 Parganas district of West Bengal, near Kolkata. It is one of the largest and most unique mangrove ecosystems in the world and is home to the famous Royal Bengal Tiger. The park spans over 1,330 square kilometers and includes a vast network of tidal waterways, mudflats, and small islands covered with salt-tolerant mangrove forests.
This area is not only rich in biodiversity but also serves as a protective barrier against coastal erosion and cyclones. It is a critical habitat for many endangered species including estuarine crocodiles, fishing cats, spotted deer, wild boars, and a variety of migratory birds. The name "Sundarban" is derived from the "Sundari" trees which dominate the region.
Sundarban National Park is accessible from Kolkata, which is the nearest major city. Here are the common ways to reach the park:
By Air: The nearest airport is Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata, which is about 120 km away. From the airport, visitors can hire a taxi or take public transport to reach the park.
By Train: Canning is the nearest railway station to Sundarbans, located about 48 km from the park. Regular local trains run from Sealdah station in Kolkata to Canning. From Canning, one can take road transport to reach Godkhali, the entry point to the Sundarbans.
By Road: Buses and private vehicles can take you from Kolkata to Godkhali via Canning. From Godkhali, you need to board a motorboat to enter the national park area.
By Water: Sundarbans is best explored by boat. Several tour operators offer packages from Kolkata including boat rides, accommodation, and guided tours.
The climate in Sundarbans is tropical and humid. Summers (March to June) are hot and humid, with temperatures ranging between 30°C and 42°C. The monsoon season (July to September) brings heavy rainfall and is not ideal for travel due to flooding and strong currents.
The best time to visit Sundarbans is during the winter months (October to February), when the weather is cool and pleasant, making it easier to explore the forest and spot wildlife.
Sundarban National Park is generally open to tourists from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Boat safaris usually start in the morning and last for several hours depending on the tour package. It is recommended to start early in the day to make the most of your visit.
Sundarbans is world-famous for being home to the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger, which is known for its ability to swim between the islands. It is also renowned for its dense mangrove forests, unique biodiversity, and ecological importance.
The park is one of the few places where you can see tigers in their natural habitat, along with crocodiles, snakes, rare birds, and river dolphins. It is also significant for researchers and ecologists due to its role in coastal protection and carbon sequestration.
To visit Sundarban National Park, one must obtain permission from the Forest Department. Entry fees vary depending on the nationality of visitors, the number of people, and whether a guide is included.
It's advisable to book through a government-approved tour operator or an ecotourism agency to ensure permits, safety, and guided information.
The Sundarbans has a long and storied history that dates back thousands of years. The region has been referenced in ancient Indian texts and was a vital part of maritime trade routes. During British colonial rule, the area was surveyed and forest management practices were introduced.
Although the region is not known for man-made architecture, the natural architecture of the mangroves is itself a marvel. The dense network of roots and waterways forms a living fortress against natural disasters. Watchtowers such as Sajnekhali, Dobanki, and Sudhanyakhali offer panoramic views of the forest and are key points of interest for visitors.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities in Sundarbans:
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