The Sundarbans lie in the eastern Indian state of West Bengal. This vast swampy delta is to the south east of Kolka ta in the 24-Paraganas district. World famous for the Royal Bengal Tiger, Sundarbans National Park covers an area of approximately 1330.10 square kilometres and have the largest mangrove forest in the world. But it is interesting to note that Sundarbans got its name from Sundari trees once found in abundance in the place.
The Ganges and Brahmaputra form the Sundarban delta having 54 islands. The islands of Goasaba, Sandeshkali and Basanti constitute the northern boundary of Sundarbans. To the south of Sundarbans is Bay Of Bengal, to the west are the rivers Matla and Bidya and to the east is the international boundary with Bangladesh. Sundarbans was declared a national park on May 4, 1984.
Sightseeing at Sundarbans -
Flora : Sundarbans is endowed with a rich variety of flora. The area is full of Mangrove trees. Though the number of Sundari trees has dwindled, many of them may still be seen. In the months of April-May, Sundarbans become full of Genwa plants. Kankara and Khalsi flower plants also grow during this period. Deep inside the delta, many other trees and plant species also grow.
Fauna : On last count , there were close to 400 tigers in The Sundarbans. The Royal Bengal Tigers have adapted well to the saline and aqua environment. Other animal varieties are chital deer and rhesus monkey. The aqua fauna consists of fishes, red fiddler crabs and hermit crabs. An incredible variety of reptiles are also found including king cobra, rock python and water monitor.
Crocodiles could also be seen along the mud banks. The endangered riddley sea turtle is also found in the Sundarbans.
Other Attractions : The Sajnakhali Sanctuary famous for its rich avian population is regarded as a part of the Sundarbans National Park. Kanak and Haliday islands in the Sundarbans area are famous for turtles and barking deer.
Park Trips : Sundarbans can be explored only through the river route. Boats, both country made and motor fitted are used to watch this tiger habitat.
Best Season to Visit : September to May
Reaching Sundarbans -
Air : The nearest airport is Kolkata at a distance of 112 kms.
Rail : The nearest railhead is Canning at a distance of 48 kms.
Road : Buses are available from Kolkata to places like Namkhana, Sonakhali, Raidighi, Canning and Najat which are all located in close proximity to Sundarbans and have access to the waterways of Sundarbans.
Basic Guidelines -
- Respect the wild animals and maintain a safe distance from them. Remember, you are in their home and they get first priority.
- The quieter you are, the more the chances of your seeing wildlife.
- Wear dull-coloured clothes. Bright colours alarm most wild animals and they flee.
- Don’t carry guns or other weapons. Feel free to shoot with a camera instead.
- Do not smoke or light campfires in the forest. Accidental fires can destroy this wonderful jungle in no time.
- Don’t get off your boat at any point in the Park except where it’s allowed. This is for your own safety and the safety of wildlife.
- Help keep the park pollution-free. While inside the park, please put your entire non-biodegradable litter (tin cans, plastic, glass bottles, metal foils etc.) into the bag provided and dispose of it on your way out.
|
Click here to Book
this Tour