Where is Sundarban and Why is It Special?

Sundarbans, a World Heritage Site under UNESCO, spreads in the southern region of West Bengal, India, and in Bangladesh. It is the globe’s largest mangrove forest and the tiger’s den, that untamed Royal Bengal Tiger, as well as the home to crocodiles, mudskippers, spotted deer, snakes, and hundreds of rare birds.

What’s special about Sundarban is not so much its wildlife—but its mysticism, culture, local lore, and sheer, unspoiled beauty.


How to Reach Sundarban in 2025

The most accessible entry point for Sundarban is Canning, roughly 45–60 km from Kolkata.


🚗 Kolkata to Sundarban Route (via Godkhali or Canning):

By Train:

  • Take local train from Sealdah to Canning (1.5 hours).
  • From Canning, catch a local rickshaw/van to Godkhali Jetty (45–60 mins).

By Car:

  • Rent a taxi or take a tour direct from Kolkata to Godkhali (around 3.5–4 hours).

From Godkhali, your exploration resumes via motorboat/cruise into the mangrove forest.


Best Time to Visit Sundarbans

Best time is October to March when the weather is nice and the chances of spotting wildlife are greater.

SeasonWeatherTravel Tip
Oct–MarchCool, dryBest time for safaris & photography
April–JuneHot, humidAvoid due to heat; spotting of tigers scarce
July–SeptMonsoon, unsafeBoat rides could be prohibited

Top Attractions in Sundarban

Below are the most sought-after locations to include on your travel agenda:


🐅 Sajnekhali Watch Tower

Best opportunity to see Royal Bengal Tigers, crocodiles, and rare birds. It also has a Mangrove Interpretation Centre.

🐊 Sudhanyakhali Watch Tower

Most popular for deer, wild boars, and crocodiles. One of the best watchtowers in the core zone.

🌉 Dobanki Canopy Walk

An innovative canopy walkway over the forest floor that provides a hair-raising view of the jungle.

🛶 Pirkhali, Panchmukhani, and Burirdabri Creeks

Popular creeks for boat safaris and serene birdwatching.


Tour Packages & Price in 2025

There are tour packages for all categories of travelers:

Package TypeDurationApprox. Cost (Per Head)
Budget Group Tour1N/2D₹1,500 – ₹2,500
Standard Family Tour2N/3D₹3,000 – ₹5,500
Luxury Cruise Tour2N/3D+₹7,000 – ₹15,000
Two-Day Sundarban Tour  Same day₹3,500 – ₹4,800

Pro Tip: Always book with a registered local operator to ensure safety and authentic experience.


What to Pack for Sundarban Trip

  • Photo ID (compulsory for forest permits)
  • Lightweight clothes (preferably cotton)
  • Torchlight and power bank
  • Sunscreen and insect repellent
  • Binoculars for birdwatching
  • Basic medicine and first aid
  • Water bottle and dry snacks
  • Raincoat (if visiting during monsoon)

Essential Tips for First-Time Visitors

Stay in a  Lodge
Always ensure the tour operator is registered. Steer clear of cheap unregistered ones—they might be unsafe and won’t get proper forest permits.

🐯 Don’t Expect to See a Tiger
Tigers here are shy and seldom spotted. Appreciate the overall wilderness rather than pursuing one elusive moment.

📵 No Mobile Network in Core Areas
Inform your family in advance. Mobile Network is very week—nature is better than Wi-Fi!

🚫 Do Not Litter or Play Loud Music
You’re entering a sensitive mangrove forest sundarban. Respect the forest and its rules.

📸 Photography Tip
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best lighting. Carry a zoom lens if possible.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Is Sundarban safe for solo or family travel?
A: Extremely safe if you go with a local operator who knows what they are doing. The night stays are on guarded islands or boats.

Q: Are there ATMs or stores within the forest territory?
A: No. Get cash and purchase necessaries at Canning or Gosaba.

Q: Do we need a forest permit?
A: Yes, but it will be organized by your tour operator.


Conclusion: A Journey You’ll Never Forget

A journey to the Sundarbans is not merely a tour—just a spiritual journey through one of the few natural wonders still remaining in this world. You could be a bird enthusiast, nature lover, or simply searching for serenity; Sundarban will leave you speechless.

So set off with your backpack, take an authentic local tour operator, and let Sundarban creeks, canopies, and tranquility engulf you.

🌿 Get ready to discover the untamed splendor of Sundarban! Book your 2025 Sundarban Tour today and witness the enchantment yourself!