Sunderbans National Park – Kolkata (West Bengal)

The name Sunderbans is derived from the Sundari trees, once present here in plenty. Wildlife lovers arrive here to watch the world-famous Royal Bengal Tiger. Due to its rich biodiversity, the forests of Sunderbans are often compared to the Amazon basin. Sunderbans has the privilege of being the world's largest delta. The word 'sundar' in Bengali means beautiful. And when you make a trip here and penetrate into the lush wilderness, you are sure to be mesmerised. Three islands namely Goasaba, Sandeshkhali and Basanti comprise Sunderbans. The delta, which is the largest in the world, is formed by the confluence of three powerful rivers – Brahmaputra, Ganges and Meghna. The forests at Sunderbans National Park are swamp and mangroves and cover an area of 1,330 sq km.

Mode of Travel at Sunderbans
The finest option to approach the Sunderbans National Park is via the river. It will rid you of the road hassles and make your journey a unique experience. You can set out on a cruise from the city of Kolkata, the capital of the state of West Bengal. Another option is to reach Canning, the closest town from the park, and hire a motor launch from there. From inside the boat, you can easily watch the wildlife species at close quarters. The slower pace of the boat also makes it easy for you to soak up the natural beauty of the place.

Wildlife Species to Watch at Sunderbans
Though the Royal Bengal Tiger is the biggest attraction for wildlife lovers here, there are a number of other endangered and rarely seen species that you would love to watch. Major animal inmates of the national park include Fishing Cat, Macaque, Wild Boar, Common Grey Mongoose, Fox, Jungle Cat, Flying Fox, Pangolin and Chital among others. A good population of deer and monkeys can be watched around the pond. Birdwatchers also can have a great time responding to the cacophony of a variety of bird species. These include kingfisher, plover, lap wing, white-bellied sea eagle, curfew, whimbrel, sandpiper, pelican etc. Aquatic creatures include colourful species of fish, red fiddler crab, hermit crab, humongous crocodile, Olive Ridley Sea Turtle etc. On the Mechua Beach, you can watch the River Terrapin, also known as Royal Turtle. Both Olive Ridley Sea Turtle and River Terrapin are highly endangered aquatic species.

Stay Options at Sunderbans
Staying at the wildlife resorts of Sunderbans National Park is truly a unique experience, particularly at nighttime. Because you are very well aware that the tiger is as close to you as your nextdoor neighbour. During your wildlife tour to Sunderbans, you can choose to stay at any of the following wildlife resorts and lodges.

Sundar Chital Tourist Lodge
Sunderban Tiger Camp
Vivada Cruises
Bali Island

Best Time to Go to Sunderbans National Park : September to May
Closest Airport : Dum Dum Airport (Kolkata)

[Note : Foreign nationals would require permits from the Secretary, West Bengal Forest Department, to visit the Sunderbans National Park.]