Sunderbans the home of Royal Bengal Tigers.

Sunderbans, one of largest delta of world is famous as home to Royal Bengal Tiger. Spread over an area of 1,330 sq. km of swamp and mangrove forests, Sunderbans is nothing less than a paradise for nature lovers. Sunderbans' strategic geographical location provides it one of the most unique ecosystems of the world.

In fact, Sunderbans is often compared to the Amazon basin for its biodiversity. The tiger reserve encompasses both land and water and the delta is formed by the meeting of three rivers – the Brahmaputra and Ganges in India and Meghna in Bangladesh. When sailing through the mangrove forests, you will realise that you have reached the sea and there is no sign of land anywhere.

Sunderbans mainly comprises of three islands namely Sandeshkali, Basanti and Goasaba. These three island constitute the northern boundary of the mangrove forest, while the southern side is flanked by the Bay of Bengal. To the west lies the Malta and Bidya rivers, while Bangladesh lies to the east.

The beauty of the fairytale-ish forests unveil as you penetrate deeper and deeper. Within a short while, most probably you will catch a glimpse of the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger. Sanjekhali Sanctuary situated at the junction of Peechkhali and the Gomti river is home to the King of the jungle.

The Mangrove Interpretation Centre is a must visit spot in the Sanjeckhali region, The centre houses the various facets of the mangrove forests and make people aware of the requirement to conserve them. The temple of Bon Bibi, the goddess of the forest is another place that deserves a visit.

Sudhankhali Watch Tower, located deep within the Reserve Forest Area is the perfect place to view wildlife. Most wild animals visit the nearby sweet water pond to quench their thirst. If you are lucky enough, you may even spot the tiger. In addition to tigers, you can spot other wild animals such as monkeys, deer, Olive Ridley turtle, a wide variety of fish, red fiddler crabs, hermit crabs, humongous crocodiles etc. Sunderbans is also home to avian species such as kingfishers, plovers, lap wings, white bellied sea eagles, sandpipers, whimbrels, pelicans, curfews and many other species.

Getting Sunderbans

Kolkata is the nearest airport from Sunderbans. River cruise is the best way to reach Sunderbans from Kolkata. You can reach the nearest town Canning and hire a motor launch to reserve. The river cruise will allow you to witness rural life of Bengal and also to enjoy the nature at its best. Foreign nationals require permits from the Secretary, West Bengal Forest Department to travel to the tiger reserve.

Where to Stay

Numerous accommodation options are available at Sunderbans, that include Sundar Chital Tourist Lodge, Sunderban Tiger Camp. Bali Island and Vivada cruises.