In the local Bengali language, the Sundarbans perfectly stand for “beautiful forest.” The name of this mystic forest is based on the “Sundari” trees. Sudarbans is known worldwide as the world’s largest delta. Because of its unique eco-system and diverse range of flora and fauna, it is the heaven for any wildlife lover.
From catching the magnificent sight of the Royal Bengal Tiger to experiencing the thrill of capturing saltwater crocodiles, it will be an unforgettable experience. Let’s explore a bit more!
This massive mangrove forest is situated in the Ganga-Brahmaputra Delta, and the Sundarbans extend over 10,000 square kilometers. There is absolutely no doubt why this forest is known as the largest delta in the world.
The Sundarbans is a bunch of low-lying islands and is the homeland for a variety of flora and fauna. In an endeavor to keep the ecosystem in existence, UNESCO declared this place a World Heritage Site in 1987.
The major tourist attraction here is, without any doubt, the Royal Bengal Tiger. And then, other appreciable attractions are saltwater crocodiles, barking deer, and Chital deer. Apart from that, here in this tropical heaven, you will find more than 200 species of birds singing and chirping happily.
How to reach the Sunderbans?
The easiest way to reach Sundarbans is by rail or road. The nearest airport is Netaji Subhash International Airport. After reaching Kolkata, you have to take the road or train route. The nearest railway station is Canning. Various local trains are available from Sealdah Railway Station (Kolkata) to Canning.
What is the best time to visit the Sunderbans?
Although you can discover the wildlife of Sunderbans throughout the year, October to March is known as the best time to visit the national park.
5 things to do in the Sunderbans:
1. Go on a Boat Safari
If you are going to visit the Sundarbans, we highly recommend getting on a boat safari. This is the best way to discover the forests of gorgeous greenery. What could possibly be better than a boat safari while observing various species of birds? You can spot bird species like mangrove whistlers, crested serpent eagles, herons, kingfishers, and others.
2. Spot the rare view of the Royal Bengal Tiger
The Sundarbans is the motherland of the Royal Bengal Tiger. Tourists across the globe visit sunderbans to catch sight of this elusive species. However, you need to have a little luck to spot them. The best time to spot the tiger is between early morning and late afternoon. You can also opt for a local guide who can help you see the tiger and give you more information.
3. Explore Crocodile Breeding Center
Apart from the tiger, the Sundarbans is also the home of thousands of crocodiles. You can find saltwater crocodiles here as well, which are known as the largest reptiles on the globe. The forest department is in charge of running the crocodile breeding center. So, if you are visiting the Sundarbans, do not miss out on visiting the crocodile breeding center.
4. Go bird watching
If you are a bird lover, or especially a photographer, then the Sundarbans is probably paradise for you. In this charming green land, you can observe more than 260 species of birds. You can spot the view of some rare bird species, for example, the black-necked stork, the masked finfoot, the Pallas’s Fish Eagle, and others.
5. See the Olive Ridley Turtle Nesting
While you are all excited to spot the tiger, do not miss out on watching the endangered Olive Ridley Turtle. These turtles lay their eggs on the beaches of the Sundarbans during the time span of October to February.
Apart from all the things mentioned, you can undoubtedly find more adventurous activities here. Most importantly, you need to have a well experienced guide who can help you identify different species of animals and birds.
In the end, we can assure you that if you are going to the Sundarbans, you will have the best adventure here. If you are a nature lover as well as an animal lover, you will surely have an unforgettable memory.
