Sundarban Tiger Reserve

Experience the thrill of a Sundarban National Park, West Bengal and witness the elusive leopards in their natural habitat!

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Overview

The Sundarbans Tiger Reserve, situated in the Sundarbans delta in West Bengal, India, is a vital wildlife sanctuary. Spanning parts of the South 24 Parganas district, it is part of a larger delta shared with Bangladesh. The reserve is renowned for its critical role in protecting Bengal tigers and preserving a distinctive mangrove ecosystem. It faces various challenges but remains a key example of conservation efforts and sustainable tourism practices. The Sundarbans stands as a testament to the complex interplay of wildlife, habitat, and human impact.

Fast Facts:

Mangrove Wonderland: Largest mangrove forest globally, spanning 10,000 square kilometres across India and Bangladesh.

Rich Biodiversity: Home to Bengal tigers, saltwater crocodiles, Gangetic dolphins, kingfishers, herons, and brackish-water species.

World Heritage Site: Recognized by UNESCO for its exceptional biodiversity and ecological importance.

Unusual Terrain: Characterised by tidal waterways, mudflats, and deltaic islands, creating a dynamic and tidal-influenced environment.

Flora

The flora of Sundarbans Tiger Reserve is uniquely adapted to its mangrove ecosystem, making it a distinct and biodiverse habitat. Dominated by dense mangrove forests, the reserve features vegetation that thrives in saline and tidal conditions. The dominant tree species include Sundri (Heritiera fomes), Gewa (Excoecaria agallocha), Keora (Sonneratia apetala), and Golpata (Nypa fruticans), each adapted with features like stilt roots and pneumatophores to survive waterlogged soils. The reserve also supports various terrestrial and aquatic plants, such as medicinal herbs and salt-tolerant halophytes. This diverse flora provides essential habitats for wildlife, stabilises the delta region, and supports local communities through resources and livelihoods.

Fauna

The Sundarbans Tiger Reserve is a biodiversity hotspot renowned for its unique mangrove ecosystem. The Bengal tiger (Panthera tigris tigris) dominates the food chain, adept at navigating the reserve's intricate waterways. Key predators include the estuarine crocodile (Crocodylus porosus) and the Indian python (Python molurus). Herbivores like spotted deer (Axis axis), wild boar (Sus scrofa), and rhesus macaques (Macaca mulatta) maintain ecological balance. Bird enthusiasts can observe kingfishers, herons, and the endangered masked finfoot (Heliopais personata). The reserve’s rivers support Gangetic dolphins (Platanista gangetica), diverse fish, crabs, and mollusks, highlighting its critical role in global biodiversity and conservation efforts.

Best Time To Visit

Ideal Months: November to February offers the best visiting conditions.
Weather: Cooler temperatures and lower humidity make exploration comfortable.
Visibility: Improved visibility enhances chances of spotting wildlife.
Navigation: Easier travel through mangrove forests during this period.
Rainfall: Reduced rain improves overall experience and accessibility.

How To Reach

By Air: Fly to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata, which is approximately 120 km from Godkhali Port. From the airport, hire a taxi or cab for a 3-hour drive to Godkhali, the starting point for the Sundarbans safari.

By Train: The nearest major railway station is Sealdah Railway Station. Take a local train from Sealdah to Canning Railway Station, which takes about 1.5 hours. From Canning, use a taxi or public transport to reach Godkhali, where you can board the boat for the safari.

By Road: Travellers can drive directly from Kolkata to Godkhali, covering a distance of approximately 120 km. Alternatively, take public transport from Kolkata to Canning and then to Godkhali. Public transport can be crowded, so hiring a private taxi or cab may be more comfortable.

Booking Form

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Date Of Visit:

Nationality:

*Number of People:

*Shift:

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*Select Vehicle:

Add-Ons:

Guide:

Pickup and Drop:

Shikar Audhi Zone:

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Disclaimer :

Indians: Please share your documents (Aadhaar, license, PAN) of each recipient at [email protected] to confirm your booking.

Non-Indians: Please share your documents (Passport & Passport Number) of each recipient at [email protected] to confirm your booking

Know Before you Go

Full fees must be paid in advance to book a safari.
Mandatory for all visitors; carry the same ID used for booking.
Required for non-Indians (foreign tourists) during the reservation process.
No cancellations or refunds are allowed for approved bookings.
Bookings cannot be transferred or exchanged.
Safaris can be booked up to 90 days in advance.
Visitors must pay any fee difference at park entry.
The park may close without prior notice by the forest department.
We are not responsible for any accidents, injuries, thefts, or deaths.
Selection of safari driver or naturalist is determined by an automated system.
Report to the boarding place 30 minutes before safari departure.
Issued on the same day for afternoon safaris and the day prior for morning safaris.
Payment confirmation will include a call for zone availability.
Hotel pick-up and drop-off can be arranged at a nominal cost; or reach the boarding point directly.

FAQ

What is the best time to visit Sundarban Tiger Reserve?

The best time to visit is from November to February. Cooler weather and lower humidity enhance wildlife spotting and exploration.

How do I reach Sundarban Tiger Reserve?

From Kolkata, drive or take a bus to Godkhali (120 km, 3 hours) or train to Canning (48 km) then hire a taxi. Boat rides from Godkhali enter the reserve.

What wildlife can I see at Sundarban?

You can see Bengal tigers, spotted deer, rhesus macaques, estuarine crocodiles, and various bird species including kingfishers and migratory birds.

Are there accommodations available at Sundarban Tiger Reserve?

Yes, options include forest lodges, eco-resorts, houseboats, and local homestays. Book in advance, especially during peak season from November to February.

What should I carry for a safari at Sundarban?

Carry comfortable clothing, binoculars, cameras, sunscreen, insect repellent, and necessary medications. Prepare for varying weather conditions.

Are there restrictions or rules in Sundarban Tiger Reserve?

Yes, permits are required, core areas are off-limits, guided tours are mandatory, and activities like hunting and fishing are prohibited. No littering or plastic use.

Can I visit Sundarban with children?

Yes, children can visit but should be closely supervised, especially during safaris where they must stay inside the vehicle.

Are there local guides available at Sundarban?

Yes, knowledgeable local guides are available and enhance the safari experience with their expertise on wildlife and flora.

What are some nearby attractions to Sundarban Tiger Reserve?

Nearby attractions include Dudhwa National Park, Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary, Sharda Sagar Dam, and the historical town of Nainital.

Are there any items prohibited in the park?

Prohibited items include firearms, cigarettes, and plastic bags.

How many tigers are there in Sundarban Tiger Reserve?

The reserve is home to around 80 to 100 Bengal tigers, though numbers may vary with ongoing conservation efforts and wildlife surveys.

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