Sundarbans National Park - सुंदरवन राष्ट्रीय उद्यान
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Sundarbans National Park forms a part of the largest delta created by the Ganga and Brahmaputra Rivers. Its core area is made up of the largest mangrove forest in the world. The best time to visit the park comprises of the months of September to May. Spread over an area of approximately 1330 Sq km, Sundarbans Wildlife Sanctuary of India has been named after the Sundari trees that are found here in plenty. The northern boundary of the sanctuary is formed by Goasaba, Sandeshkali and Basanti Islands. To the south, lies the never-ending sea.Come to Sundarbans where adventure awaits you at every corner. Known as the largest estuarine delta in the world, this Tigerland vibrates with countless forms of colourful life.
The park has estuarine mangrove eco-system as it is situated in the deltaic estuaries of the Ganga and Brahmaputra. The entire inter tidal zone has been designated as Biosphere Reserve under the Man and Biosphere program. This littoral forest supports a diversity of trees and shrubs adopted to conditions and inundation by high tides. Straddling the rivers Hooghly in the west and Teulia in the east the park has many small rivers, forested islands besides the vast stretch of mangrove swamps.
Sunderbans is home to the magnificent Royal Bengal Tiger. The park harbours the largest number of tigers among the tiger reserves of the country and is the only Mangrove tiger land in the world. The man eating tigers here are good swimmers and eat fish and crab. The other fauna are fishing cat, water monitor, wild boar, different species of deer, rhesus monkeys, large numbers of crocodiles and Gangetic dolphin(in the Raimgangal river) and a variety of other fish, olive Ridley sea turtles etc. Project tiger has also launched a programme to protect the Olive ridley sea turtles. AnotheBrown Winged Kingfisherr interesting place to visit in the Sunderbans is the Sajnekhali Bird Sanctuary which has a variety of birds such as Brown winged kingfisher, Grey headed lapwing, Golden backed woodpecker, White swans, Swamp patridge, Pallas fish eagle etc. There is a crocodile pool and a mangrove Interpretation centre which houses specimens of snake, fish and other fauna with sound and light shows at Sajnekhali. Other places in the Sunderbans are Bhagatpur Crocodile Project which is a crocodile breeding farm ( access from Namkhana), Sagar Island, Jambudweep, Sudhanyakali watchtower, Buriidabri Tiger Project, Netidhopani Watchtower, Haliday Island.
The best time to visit Sunderbans is between September and March especially during winters to catch a glimpse of the Migratory birds. Foreign tourists require permit, which can be obtained from Writer`s Building, which houses the West Bengal Secretariat in Kolkata. The address is The Joint Secretary (Forest), Govt. of West Bengal, 4th Floor, G-Block, Writers' Building, Calcutta- 700 001, Tel: 225-5601 Extn 411/754.There is a nominal entry fee to the park payable at Sajnekhali.
Outlining the western boundary of Sunderban Tiger Reserve of West Bengal, are Matla and Bidya Rivers. The eastern boundary of the reserve coincides with the international border of Bangladesh. It has been declared as a biosphere reserve, is also one of the World Heritage Sites in India and comes under 'Project Tiger' also. Sunderban National Park of India is made up of a variety of forests, such as the mangrove scrub, littoral forest, salt water mixed forest, brackish water mixed forest, wet forest, wet alluvial grass forest, etc.
A land ruled by 269 Royals. The vast swampy delta of the two great Indian rivers, the Brahmaputra and the Ganga, extends over a vast area. Mangrove forests, swamps and forested islands are interwoven with a network of small rivers and rivulets. The Sundarbans National Park, covering about 1330.10 Sq. km., forms the core of this area. This mostly estuarine mangrove forest is the habitat of nearly 200 Royal Bengal tigers. Bangladesh lies to the east of the Park and it is estimated that the combined population of tigers in the region could well be about 400 in number. Adapting itself to the saline and watery environment, the tigers at the Park are good swimmers and practically amphibious! Traversing the mangroves by motor launch is quite an experience, for the area is completely unspoilt and very different from the more conventional wildlife park. The estuarine crocodile is often seen along the mud banks but owing to the dense undergrowth the tiger is rarely sighted. The Park is also noted for its conservation of the Ridley sea truffle.
Established in 1978 in twenty four Paraganas district, Sunderbans Tiger reserve is spread over an area of 2608 Sq. km. Sixty percent of the demarcated area of the Sunderbans sprawling actually over 9630 Sq.km, is in Bangladesh. The national park with a core area of 1330 Sq.km, has been designated as a World Heritage Site in 1985 and is a part of the Project Tiger. The Sunderbans has three wildlife sanctuaries at Sajnekhali, Lothian Island and Haliday Island.
The vast swampy delta of the two great Indian rivers, Brahmaputra and the Ganges stretches over areas consisting of mangrove forests, swamps and forest island all creating a chain of small rivers and streams. The Sundarbans National Park in West Bengal is home of the Royal Bengal Tiger. The Sundarban region has derived its name from the Sundari trees, once found in large number here.
Ensconced between Rivers Brahmaputra and the Ganges - the two great Indian rivers, and River Meghna in Bangladesh, Sunderbans was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1997 for its great natural wealth. The climate in the Sunderbans is moderate with high humidity. Monsoon starts around June and continues till September. The annual average rainfall is between 65 and 70 inches.
Nature apart, if you want to feel the essence of spirituality then this is the place to be. A place of Ma Bonobibi (the goddess of the forest) to Shiber Kumir (Lord Shiva's Crocodile) or from Dakshinaroy (an ogre, the ancester of all tigers) to Kapil Muni (an incarnation of Vishnu).
Best Time to Visit Sunderbans National Park The ideal time to visit the Sundarbans national park is during the months of September and May. Winter make the time to see the mighty Royal Bengal Tiger sun-bathing on the river banks.
There are regular bus services from Kolkata (Calcutta) to this place. But the main areas of the sanctuary can only be accessed by riverine waterways. The best and the safest way to visit Sunderbans is on conducted tours. One can also avail the services of the private vessels from Canning, Gosaba or Basanti.
The Ganges and the Brahmaputra form this alluvial archipelago of 54 islands watered by the Bay of Bengal. The islands Goasaba, Sandeshkali and Basanti form the northern boundary of the Sundarbans; on the south is the sea; to the west side of the Sunderbans park is the Matla and Bidya Rivers and to the east is the international boundary of Bangladesh.
Some believe that the name Sunderbans is derived from 'Sundri' - a plant found in the local mangroves - and 'bans'meaning forest. Others believe the name means 'beautiful forest' ('sunder' = beautiful, and 'bans' = forest). The Sunderbans, extending over an area of 1,000,000 hectares, is the world's largest delta, formed by the Ganges, Brahmaputra and Meghana rivers. The region has extensive mangrove forests and the contours are in a constant state of flux, caused by the monsoon flooding each year. Roughly a third of the delta is water, consisting of rivers, channels and tidal creeks up to 5 kilometers wide. The Sunderbans falls both within the India and Bangladesh, the latter having the larger share of the delta. On the Indian side there is a national park overlooking the Bay of Bengal.
The Sunderbans West, South and East wildlife sanctuaries in Bangladesh are also at the southern extremities of the delta. The Sunderbans parks are covered in mangrove forests of which there are 3 main zones, depending on the level of salt in the soil and water a freshwater zone, a moderately saline zone, and a saline zone. Fishing, timber extraction and honey collection are the main human activities allowed within the Sunderbans. The four Sunderbans national parks have been lumped together as they all share common features of the estuarine mangrove ecosystem. The main attractions of the Sunderbans are the Tiger, of which the delta harbor large reptiles like the Monitor Lizard, Estuarine Crocodile and the Olive Ridley Turtle, for which there is a conservation programme in the Indian park. The Leopard, Indian Rhinoceros, Javan Rhinoceros, Swamp Deer, Hog Deer and Water Buffalo have all become locally extinct from the delta in recent decades.
As you cruise through the world's largest estuarine mangrove forest in Sundarbans you come across numerous (54) small islets, networked by many tributaries of the mighty rivers Ganga and Brahmaputra, which finally flow out at the southern tip into the Bay of Bengal.
There are crocodiles, which can be often seen along the mud banks. Sundarbans national park is also noted for its conservation of the Ridley Sea Turtle. There's is a incredible variety of reptiles also found in Sundarbans, which includes King Cobra, Rock Python and Water Monitor. The endangered river Terrapin, Batagur Baska is found on the Mechua Beach, while the Barkind Deer is found only in Holiday Island in Sunderbans.
Fascinating life forms await you in this largest estuarine delta in the world, Sunderbans. In April and May the flaming red leaves of the Genwa, edge the emerald islands. The crab like red flowers of the Kankara and the yellow blooms of Khalsi add to the dazzling display. As you penetrate into the forests of Sundarbans, this fairyland unfolds its mysterious beauty.
The entire trip will leave some exceptional memory in your mind as your invade through the swamp, littoral forests, mangrove scrub forest, salt water mixed forest, brackish water mixed forest and alluvial grasslands. The dense and huge forest reserve of Sundarbans has also been classified as a World Biosphere Reserve. Some of the more commonly found plants and trees in the park are Genwa, Dhundal, Passur, Garjan, Kankra and Goran. Royal Bengal Tiger, Sundarbans National Park
The aqua fauna of the Sunderban National Park comprises of Star Fish, Saw Fish, Butter Fish, Silver Carp, Common Carp, Electric Rays, King Crabs, Red Fiddler Crabs, Hermit Crabs, Prawn, Gangetic Dolphins, Shrimp, Skipping Frog, Common Toad, Tree Frog, etc.
Some of the fish and amphibians found in the parks are Saw Fish, Butter Fish, Electric Rays, Silver Carp, Star Fish, Common Carp, Crabs, Prawn, Shrimps, Gangetic dolphins, Skipping Frogs, Common Toads and Tree Frogs. The number of reptiles is excellent here that are found within its complex. Some of the most commonly seen are - Olive Ridley Turtles, Sea Snakes, Dog Faced Water Snakes, Green Turtles, Estuarine Crocodiles, Chameleons, King Cobras, Salvator Lizards, Hard Shelled Batgun Terrapins, Russels Vipers, Mouse Ghekos, Monitor Lizards, Curviers, Hawks Bill Turtles, Pythons, Common Kraits, Chequered Killbacks and rat Snakes
Netidhopani - At Netidhopani, the ruins of a 400 year old temple and legends lend mystery to the atmosphere.
Bhagabatpur - Bhagabatpur is famous for having a hatchery of the largest estuarine crocodiles in the world.
Kanak - Kanak is the nesting place of the Olive Ridley Turtles.
Haliday Island - Haliday island is famous as last retrest of Barking Dear in India.
Piyali - Piyali is the gatway to Sundarbans, 72.km from Kolkatta by road and close to Sajnekhali, Sudhanyakhali, Netidhopani through waterways. A small river Piyali flows through the green paddy fields and mingles with river Matla. Picturesque Piyali delta makes an ideal romantic holiday destination. A beautiful tourist complex with accommodation and recreation facilities is also situated over here.
Kaikhali - On your way to Sundarbans you cannot afford to miss Kaikhali Island, where nature is so alive and so colourful. An ideal picnic spot.
There are bus service from Kolkata to various embarkation points Namkhana, Raidighi, Sonakhali and Najatare from where private as well as WBTDC's Motor launch services are available for Sundarbans. Road transportation is available from Kolkatta for Namkhana (105.km), Sonakhali (100.km), Raidighi (76.km), Canning (64.km), and Najat (92.km), which are all near the Sunderbans and have access to the riverine waterways leading to it.
Sundarbans are accessible only by riverrine waterways. Motor launch facilitiy are available from Namkhana - Bhagabatpur Crocodile Project- Sagar Island -Jambudwip; from Sajnekhali - Sudhanyakhali-Buridabri- Netidhopan-Holiday Island; from Sonakhali - Gosaba; from Raidighi - Kalas.
Sundarbans Wildlife Sanctuary is close to the metropolis of Kolkata in West Bengal in India. You will find numerous categories of accommodation near the Sundarbans. If you are looking for a luxurious accommodation then, stay in Kolkata, as this city has wide range of accommodations for its tourists from all over.
Sundarbans Tiger Reserve,
P.O Canning,
District 24 Parganas (South),
West Bengal.
Mobile: 911855280
Telefax: 03218-55280
E-mail : Contact Us
West Bengal Tourism Development Corporation
3/2 B.B.D. Bag (East),
Calcutta - 1, India
Phone : 91-33-2485917/2488271
Fax: 2485168
E-Mail: Contact Us
For Private Launches
West Bengal Launch Owners' Syndicate,
Kolkata
Location : Piyali, West Bengal
Total Area : 1330 Sq km
Coverage Area : 1330.10 Sq.km
Established : 1973 as a tiger reserve, 1978 as a national park.
World Heritage : 1971
Nearest town: Gosaba (50 km)
Best Time : September to May
Climate : Rainfall is heavy and humidity high (80% on average) due to the proximity of the Bay of Bengal. The monsoon usually lasts from mid-June until mid-September, after which fair weather prevails until mid-March. Mean annual maximum and minimum temperatures recorded are 34 degC and 20 degC, respectively. Storms are very common in May and October-November, sometimes developing into cyclones which are usually accompanied by tidal waves and cause much loss of life and damage to property and the forests
Nearest Access : Gosaba (50.km)
Main Attractions : Tigers, Chital Deer, Oliver Ridley Sea Turtle, King Cobra, etc
Travel Tips : Know about the place well before you start your trip. For Foreigners certain permits are required to visit the Tiger Projects & Sajnekhali. Contact the Secretary, West Bengal Forest Department, Kolkata for the same. Collect the permit for a visit to other areas of the Sundarbans from the Field Director, Sundarbans Tiger Reserve.
The park has estuarine mangrove eco-system as it is situated in the deltaic estuaries of the Ganga and Brahmaputra. The entire inter tidal zone has been designated as Biosphere Reserve under the Man and Biosphere program. This littoral forest supports a diversity of trees and shrubs adopted to conditions and inundation by high tides. Straddling the rivers Hooghly in the west and Teulia in the east the park has many small rivers, forested islands besides the vast stretch of mangrove swamps.
Sunderbans is home to the magnificent Royal Bengal Tiger. The park harbours the largest number of tigers among the tiger reserves of the country and is the only Mangrove tiger land in the world. The man eating tigers here are good swimmers and eat fish and crab. The other fauna are fishing cat, water monitor, wild boar, different species of deer, rhesus monkeys, large numbers of crocodiles and Gangetic dolphin(in the Raimgangal river) and a variety of other fish, olive Ridley sea turtles etc. Project tiger has also launched a programme to protect the Olive ridley sea turtles. AnotheBrown Winged Kingfisherr interesting place to visit in the Sunderbans is the Sajnekhali Bird Sanctuary which has a variety of birds such as Brown winged kingfisher, Grey headed lapwing, Golden backed woodpecker, White swans, Swamp patridge, Pallas fish eagle etc. There is a crocodile pool and a mangrove Interpretation centre which houses specimens of snake, fish and other fauna with sound and light shows at Sajnekhali. Other places in the Sunderbans are Bhagatpur Crocodile Project which is a crocodile breeding farm ( access from Namkhana), Sagar Island, Jambudweep, Sudhanyakali watchtower, Buriidabri Tiger Project, Netidhopani Watchtower, Haliday Island.
The best time to visit Sunderbans is between September and March especially during winters to catch a glimpse of the Migratory birds. Foreign tourists require permit, which can be obtained from Writer`s Building, which houses the West Bengal Secretariat in Kolkata. The address is The Joint Secretary (Forest), Govt. of West Bengal, 4th Floor, G-Block, Writers' Building, Calcutta- 700 001, Tel: 225-5601 Extn 411/754.There is a nominal entry fee to the park payable at Sajnekhali.
Outlining the western boundary of Sunderban Tiger Reserve of West Bengal, are Matla and Bidya Rivers. The eastern boundary of the reserve coincides with the international border of Bangladesh. It has been declared as a biosphere reserve, is also one of the World Heritage Sites in India and comes under 'Project Tiger' also. Sunderban National Park of India is made up of a variety of forests, such as the mangrove scrub, littoral forest, salt water mixed forest, brackish water mixed forest, wet forest, wet alluvial grass forest, etc.
A land ruled by 269 Royals. The vast swampy delta of the two great Indian rivers, the Brahmaputra and the Ganga, extends over a vast area. Mangrove forests, swamps and forested islands are interwoven with a network of small rivers and rivulets. The Sundarbans National Park, covering about 1330.10 Sq. km., forms the core of this area. This mostly estuarine mangrove forest is the habitat of nearly 200 Royal Bengal tigers. Bangladesh lies to the east of the Park and it is estimated that the combined population of tigers in the region could well be about 400 in number. Adapting itself to the saline and watery environment, the tigers at the Park are good swimmers and practically amphibious! Traversing the mangroves by motor launch is quite an experience, for the area is completely unspoilt and very different from the more conventional wildlife park. The estuarine crocodile is often seen along the mud banks but owing to the dense undergrowth the tiger is rarely sighted. The Park is also noted for its conservation of the Ridley sea truffle.
Established in 1978 in twenty four Paraganas district, Sunderbans Tiger reserve is spread over an area of 2608 Sq. km. Sixty percent of the demarcated area of the Sunderbans sprawling actually over 9630 Sq.km, is in Bangladesh. The national park with a core area of 1330 Sq.km, has been designated as a World Heritage Site in 1985 and is a part of the Project Tiger. The Sunderbans has three wildlife sanctuaries at Sajnekhali, Lothian Island and Haliday Island.
Why Sundarbans
The Sundarbans National Park lies in the south-east of Kolkata in the 24-Paraganas District of West Bengal and forms part of the Gangetic Delta, close to the Bay of Bengal. The Sundarbans National Park was given the status of a National Park on 4 May 1984. Before this it was been declared as a wildlife sanctuary in the year 1977. It was been designated as the core area of Sundarbans Tiger Reserve in December 1973. Sunderbans National Park was inscribed on the World Heritage List in year 1985.The vast swampy delta of the two great Indian rivers, Brahmaputra and the Ganges stretches over areas consisting of mangrove forests, swamps and forest island all creating a chain of small rivers and streams. The Sundarbans National Park in West Bengal is home of the Royal Bengal Tiger. The Sundarban region has derived its name from the Sundari trees, once found in large number here.
Sunderbans in a nuttshell
'Sunderbans' – located at the Southern tip of West Bengal, India is an enchanting land of rich bio-diversity, natural flora and fauna and dense mangrove forests. The Sunderbans is the largest delta, the largest Mangrove Swamp and the largest Estuarine National Park in the World. This vast delta covers 4264 Sq. kms. of land area in India (the larger area forming a part of Bangladesh) and has one of the largest Tiger Reserves in the World covering 2585 Sq. km.Ensconced between Rivers Brahmaputra and the Ganges - the two great Indian rivers, and River Meghna in Bangladesh, Sunderbans was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1997 for its great natural wealth. The climate in the Sunderbans is moderate with high humidity. Monsoon starts around June and continues till September. The annual average rainfall is between 65 and 70 inches.
Migratory Birds The undiscovered greenery
Sunderbans, the place that owes its name to Sundari trees, consist of a large flora population like Genwa, Dhundal, Passur, Garjan and Kankra. Apart from these trees, inpenetrable Goran trees between 1.8 mtr and 3.6 mtr high covers almost the entire region. One of the most remarkable feature of this place is the bayonet like roots of mangrove forests that stick out above the water level.Nature apart, if you want to feel the essence of spirituality then this is the place to be. A place of Ma Bonobibi (the goddess of the forest) to Shiber Kumir (Lord Shiva's Crocodile) or from Dakshinaroy (an ogre, the ancester of all tigers) to Kapil Muni (an incarnation of Vishnu).
Best Time to Visit Sunderbans National Park The ideal time to visit the Sundarbans national park is during the months of September and May. Winter make the time to see the mighty Royal Bengal Tiger sun-bathing on the river banks.
Access Sunderban National Park
The Sunderbans are not easily accessible. To get to the Sunderbans national park in India the nearest airport is Calcutta, the nearest railway station is Canning, and the nearest town is Gosaba. From the park headquarters at Canning take the country motor launch (5 hours) to Sajnekhali.There are regular bus services from Kolkata (Calcutta) to this place. But the main areas of the sanctuary can only be accessed by riverine waterways. The best and the safest way to visit Sunderbans is on conducted tours. One can also avail the services of the private vessels from Canning, Gosaba or Basanti.
About Sundarbans National Park
The vast swampy delta of the two great Indian rivers, Brahamaputra and the Ganges extends over areas comprising of mangrove forests, swamps and forest island all interwoven in a network of small rivers and streams. The Sundarbans National Park, home of the Royal Bengal Tiger, covering an area of approximately 1330.10-sq.km and the largest mangrove forest in the world, form the core of this area. The Sundarban region has got its name from Sundari trees, once found in abundance here.The Ganges and the Brahmaputra form this alluvial archipelago of 54 islands watered by the Bay of Bengal. The islands Goasaba, Sandeshkali and Basanti form the northern boundary of the Sundarbans; on the south is the sea; to the west side of the Sunderbans park is the Matla and Bidya Rivers and to the east is the international boundary of Bangladesh.
Some believe that the name Sunderbans is derived from 'Sundri' - a plant found in the local mangroves - and 'bans'meaning forest. Others believe the name means 'beautiful forest' ('sunder' = beautiful, and 'bans' = forest). The Sunderbans, extending over an area of 1,000,000 hectares, is the world's largest delta, formed by the Ganges, Brahmaputra and Meghana rivers. The region has extensive mangrove forests and the contours are in a constant state of flux, caused by the monsoon flooding each year. Roughly a third of the delta is water, consisting of rivers, channels and tidal creeks up to 5 kilometers wide. The Sunderbans falls both within the India and Bangladesh, the latter having the larger share of the delta. On the Indian side there is a national park overlooking the Bay of Bengal.
The Sunderbans West, South and East wildlife sanctuaries in Bangladesh are also at the southern extremities of the delta. The Sunderbans parks are covered in mangrove forests of which there are 3 main zones, depending on the level of salt in the soil and water a freshwater zone, a moderately saline zone, and a saline zone. Fishing, timber extraction and honey collection are the main human activities allowed within the Sunderbans. The four Sunderbans national parks have been lumped together as they all share common features of the estuarine mangrove ecosystem. The main attractions of the Sunderbans are the Tiger, of which the delta harbor large reptiles like the Monitor Lizard, Estuarine Crocodile and the Olive Ridley Turtle, for which there is a conservation programme in the Indian park. The Leopard, Indian Rhinoceros, Javan Rhinoceros, Swamp Deer, Hog Deer and Water Buffalo have all become locally extinct from the delta in recent decades.
Venture Into The Sundarbans
The best and only means of travelling the park is to hire a boat and float down the various lanes formed by the many flowing rivers. You can hire one from the locals in the area or one of the two luxury launches - M.V. Chitrarekha and M.V. Madhukar, operated by the tourism department. If you are in search of a luxury tour, then hire - M.V. Chitrarekha, which offers all the basic facilities required by the tourists, including overnight accommodation. And, if you are looking for the local boats then you will get then at Canning, Gosaba and Basanti. The luxury launches starts their journey only from Canning.As you cruise through the world's largest estuarine mangrove forest in Sundarbans you come across numerous (54) small islets, networked by many tributaries of the mighty rivers Ganga and Brahmaputra, which finally flow out at the southern tip into the Bay of Bengal.
Additional Punch
The nearest attractions are - Sajnakhali Sanctuary (famous for its rich avian population), Netidhopani (ruins of a 400 year old temple), Bhagabatpur, Kanak, Haliday Island, Piyali, Kaikhali Island. Since, Sundarbans is close to Kolkata, it would be a good opportunity for you to visit this city of joy. Visit the amazing Victoria Memorial in Kolkata. The home to several Nobel Prize Winners, Kolkata boasts of a unique culture and cuisine. You can also extend your trip to Darjeeling in the northern part of West Bengal. Darjeeling is one of the most ideal halt for the nature seekers amidst snowy mountains.Extend the Trip
Dwelling in the lap of the Himalaya is Sikkim, the neighbouring state of West Bengal. Sikkimis the most perfect destination for the adventure seekers. You can engage in trekking, hiking, mountaineering, rock climbing, snow mountaineering, river rafting, kayaking and canoeing.Few Difficulties
You might face some language problem while speaking to the local people, as the local people here speaks Bengali. Also, you might not find your choice of food in the remote areas, if you are not used to Indian food.Few Suggestions
Know about your travel routes before starting. Confirm the accommodation facilities. Carry some winter clothes if you are planning to visit Sikkim. Avoid the months of May and October-November, as these months are stormy, which sometimes develop into tidal waves and cyclone.Major Wildlife Attractions of Sundarbans
The Sundarbans forest is home to more than 400 tigers. The Bengal Tigers have adapted themselves very well to the saline and aqua environs and are extremely good swimmers. As you enter the adventurous wild land of the Sundarbans you'll be thrilled to see the Chital Dear and Rhesus Monkey. The aqua fauna of Sundarbans include variety of fishes, red Fiddler Crabs and Hermit Crabs.There are crocodiles, which can be often seen along the mud banks. Sundarbans national park is also noted for its conservation of the Ridley Sea Turtle. There's is a incredible variety of reptiles also found in Sundarbans, which includes King Cobra, Rock Python and Water Monitor. The endangered river Terrapin, Batagur Baska is found on the Mechua Beach, while the Barkind Deer is found only in Holiday Island in Sunderbans.
Flora
Sundarbans Wildlife Sanctuary of West Bengal comprises of 64 species of plants, in toto. Due to tidal effects, these plants can easily endure estuarine conditions and saline barrage. The months of April and May see the emerald islands of the park being covered with red leaves of the Genwa. Adding more color are the red flowers of Kankara and the yellow blooms of Khalsi. The plants and trees commonly found here include Genwa, Dhundal, Passur, Garjan, Kankra, Sundari and Goran.Fascinating life forms await you in this largest estuarine delta in the world, Sunderbans. In April and May the flaming red leaves of the Genwa, edge the emerald islands. The crab like red flowers of the Kankara and the yellow blooms of Khalsi add to the dazzling display. As you penetrate into the forests of Sundarbans, this fairyland unfolds its mysterious beauty.
The entire trip will leave some exceptional memory in your mind as your invade through the swamp, littoral forests, mangrove scrub forest, salt water mixed forest, brackish water mixed forest and alluvial grasslands. The dense and huge forest reserve of Sundarbans has also been classified as a World Biosphere Reserve. Some of the more commonly found plants and trees in the park are Genwa, Dhundal, Passur, Garjan, Kankra and Goran. Royal Bengal Tiger, Sundarbans National Park
The Fauna
The Sundarbans forest inhabits more than 400 tigers. The Royal Bengal Tigers in this saline and aqua surroundings and are extremely good swimmers. The animal stock of the Sundarbans is quite varied. As you thrive to get a single glimpse of the Royal Bengal Tiger you will have a meeting with - Fishing Cats, Macaques, Wild Boar, Common Grey Mongoose, Fox, Jungle Cat, Flying Fox, Pangolin, Chitals, etc. on the way.The Avifauna
The climatic conditions at the park creates an ideal habitat for the resident as well as the foreign birds of numerous variety. You will be enthralled to find some of the popular birds in this region. The inviting - Open Billed Storks, White Ibis, Water Hens, Coots, Pheasant Tailed Jacanas, Pariah Kites, Brahminy Kites, Marsh Harriers, Swamp Partridges, Red Jungle Fowls, Spotted Doves, Common Mynahs, Jungle Crows, Jungle Babblers, Cotton Teals, Herring Gulls, Caspian Terns, Gray Herons, Brahminy Ducks, Spotted Billed Pelicans, Large Egrets, Night Herons, Common Snipes, Wood Sandpipers, Green Pigeons, Rose Ringed Parakeets, Paradise Flycatchers, Cormorants, Fishing Eagles, White Bellied Sea Eagles, Seaguls, Common Kingfishers, Peregrine falcons, Woodpeckers, Whimprels, Black-Tailed Godwits, Little Stints, Eastern Knots, Curlews, Golden Plovers, Pintails, White Eyed Pochards and Whistling Teals will make your trip to Sundarbans extremely delightful.Wildlife
Sunderbans Tiger Reserve of West Bengal serves as the natural habitat of more than 400 tigers. Other wild animals found at the reserve include Chital Deer, Rhesus Macaque, Jungle Cat, Fishing Cat, Wild Boar, Common Grey Mongoose, Fox, Flying Fox, Pangolin, etc.The Aquafauna & The Reptiles
Sundarbans Wildlife Sanctuary of West Bengal is well known for the conservation program carried out in relation to the Oliver Ridley Sea Turtle. The other reptiles found at the park consist of King Cobras, Rock Pythons, Water Monitors, River Terrapins, Sea Snakes, Dog Faced Water Snakes, Green Turtles, Estuarine Crocodiles, Chameleons, Salvator Lizards, Hard Shelled Batgun Terrapins, Russell's Vipers, Mouse Ghekos, Curviers, Hawks Bill Turtles, Common Kraits, Chequered Killbacks, Rat Snakes, etc.The aqua fauna of the Sunderban National Park comprises of Star Fish, Saw Fish, Butter Fish, Silver Carp, Common Carp, Electric Rays, King Crabs, Red Fiddler Crabs, Hermit Crabs, Prawn, Gangetic Dolphins, Shrimp, Skipping Frog, Common Toad, Tree Frog, etc.
Some of the fish and amphibians found in the parks are Saw Fish, Butter Fish, Electric Rays, Silver Carp, Star Fish, Common Carp, Crabs, Prawn, Shrimps, Gangetic dolphins, Skipping Frogs, Common Toads and Tree Frogs. The number of reptiles is excellent here that are found within its complex. Some of the most commonly seen are - Olive Ridley Turtles, Sea Snakes, Dog Faced Water Snakes, Green Turtles, Estuarine Crocodiles, Chameleons, King Cobras, Salvator Lizards, Hard Shelled Batgun Terrapins, Russels Vipers, Mouse Ghekos, Monitor Lizards, Curviers, Hawks Bill Turtles, Pythons, Common Kraits, Chequered Killbacks and rat Snakes
Birds
The popular birds of Sundarbans Wildlife Sanctuary are Pheasant Tailed Jacanas, Red Jungle Fowls, Open Billed Storks, Cotton Teals, Herring Gulls, Spotted Billed Pelicans, Swamp Partridges, Marsh Harriers, White Ibis, White Eyed Pochards, Black-Tailed Godwits, Peregrine Falcons, White Bellied Sea Eagles, Paradise Flycatchers, Night Herons, Gray Herons, Caspian Terns, Golden Plovers, Pintails, Common Snipes, etc.Other Attractions In Sundarbans
The Sajnakhali Sanctuary :The Sajnakhali sanctuary, famous for its rich avian population, is regarded as a part of the Sunderbans National Park. The kingdom of birds at Sajnekhati enchants your eyes. The most sought after sights by a bird watcher are seven colourful species of Kingfisher, white bellied Sea Eagle, Plovers, Lap-Wings, Curfews, Whimbrels, Sandpipers and occasional Pelican.Netidhopani - At Netidhopani, the ruins of a 400 year old temple and legends lend mystery to the atmosphere.
Bhagabatpur - Bhagabatpur is famous for having a hatchery of the largest estuarine crocodiles in the world.
Kanak - Kanak is the nesting place of the Olive Ridley Turtles.
Haliday Island - Haliday island is famous as last retrest of Barking Dear in India.
Piyali - Piyali is the gatway to Sundarbans, 72.km from Kolkatta by road and close to Sajnekhali, Sudhanyakhali, Netidhopani through waterways. A small river Piyali flows through the green paddy fields and mingles with river Matla. Picturesque Piyali delta makes an ideal romantic holiday destination. A beautiful tourist complex with accommodation and recreation facilities is also situated over here.
Kaikhali - On your way to Sundarbans you cannot afford to miss Kaikhali Island, where nature is so alive and so colourful. An ideal picnic spot.
How to Reach
By Air
Nearest airport is Dum Dum airport at Kolkata (166 km). Indian Airlines connect Kolkata with all the major cities in India.By Rail
The nearest railway station is the one situated at Canning 48 km.From Kolkata there are suburban trains to Canning (64 km).By Road
Road transportation is easily available for all the cities falling near Sundarbans.There are bus service from Kolkata to various embarkation points Namkhana, Raidighi, Sonakhali and Najatare from where private as well as WBTDC's Motor launch services are available for Sundarbans. Road transportation is available from Kolkatta for Namkhana (105.km), Sonakhali (100.km), Raidighi (76.km), Canning (64.km), and Najat (92.km), which are all near the Sunderbans and have access to the riverine waterways leading to it.
By Water
Since one can reach the core of Sundarbans only through waterways, motor launch facilities are easily available.Sundarbans are accessible only by riverrine waterways. Motor launch facilitiy are available from Namkhana - Bhagabatpur Crocodile Project- Sagar Island -Jambudwip; from Sajnekhali - Sudhanyakhali-Buridabri- Netidhopan-Holiday Island; from Sonakhali - Gosaba; from Raidighi - Kalas.
Accommodation
Forest lodge and forest rest-houses are available for accommodation at Sajnekhali (Sunder Cheetal forest Lodge 60 beds), Bakkhali and Piyali. For reservation contact Field Director, Mobile: 911855280, Telefax: 03218-55280, E-mail : Contact Us . The cruise launchers MV Chitralekha and MV Sarbajaya has arrangements for stay on board with four meals a day. Contact Tourism centre Kolkata Phone : 91-33-2485917/2488271, E-Mail: Contact Us for reservations.Sundarbans Wildlife Sanctuary is close to the metropolis of Kolkata in West Bengal in India. You will find numerous categories of accommodation near the Sundarbans. If you are looking for a luxurious accommodation then, stay in Kolkata, as this city has wide range of accommodations for its tourists from all over.
Contact
Field Director,Sundarbans Tiger Reserve,
P.O Canning,
District 24 Parganas (South),
West Bengal.
Mobile: 911855280
Telefax: 03218-55280
E-mail : Contact Us
West Bengal Tourism Development Corporation
3/2 B.B.D. Bag (East),
Calcutta - 1, India
Phone : 91-33-2485917/2488271
Fax: 2485168
E-Mail: Contact Us
For Private Launches
West Bengal Launch Owners' Syndicate,
Kolkata
General Information
State : West Bengal in the eastern part of India.Location : Piyali, West Bengal
Total Area : 1330 Sq km
Coverage Area : 1330.10 Sq.km
Established : 1973 as a tiger reserve, 1978 as a national park.
World Heritage : 1971
Nearest town: Gosaba (50 km)
Best Time : September to May
Climate : Rainfall is heavy and humidity high (80% on average) due to the proximity of the Bay of Bengal. The monsoon usually lasts from mid-June until mid-September, after which fair weather prevails until mid-March. Mean annual maximum and minimum temperatures recorded are 34 degC and 20 degC, respectively. Storms are very common in May and October-November, sometimes developing into cyclones which are usually accompanied by tidal waves and cause much loss of life and damage to property and the forests
Nearest Access : Gosaba (50.km)
Main Attractions : Tigers, Chital Deer, Oliver Ridley Sea Turtle, King Cobra, etc
Travel Tips : Know about the place well before you start your trip. For Foreigners certain permits are required to visit the Tiger Projects & Sajnekhali. Contact the Secretary, West Bengal Forest Department, Kolkata for the same. Collect the permit for a visit to other areas of the Sundarbans from the Field Director, Sundarbans Tiger Reserve.
 Photo by : Ehtesham in flickr |
 Photo by : Supreeta's Album in flickr |
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 Photo by : dimidaniels in webshots |
 Photo by : dimidaniels in webshots |
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 Photo by : dimidaniels in webshots |
 Photo by : dimidaniels in webshots |
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