Sundarban National Park is one of the most popular heritage sites in the land of the Mangroves, Sundarban. It is a region of impenetrable mangrove forests of vast extent and biodiversity. The island is located where the land meets the sea at the southern point of West Bengal. The Sundarbans, a large region of 4264 square kilometers located in India, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site as it treasures rare species of flora and fauna. This natural beauty is the largest national park in India with a tiger reserve.
The Sunderbans are a vital part of the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Meghna Deltas, the largest deltas in the world. Hundreds of creeks and tributaries crisscross the Sundarbans. It is one of the most beautiful locations, a true paradise that everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime.
The Sundarban National Park is a rare haven for birdwatchers, with species like the Masked Finfoot, Mangrove Pitta, and Mangrove Whistler among its highlights. From the serene beauty of Gosaba to the majestic Jharkhali Watch Tower, each destination within the park has its own unique charm. In this blog, we’ll take you on a thrilling journey in Sundarban National Park, enticing you with the allure of exotic wildlife, lush greenery, and unforgettable memories. Book a Sundarban tour package and embark on an extraordinary escapade to the mysterious mangroves of Bengal!
How do I reach Sundarban from Kolkata?
If you want to visit one of the largest forests in the world, you need to start from Kolkata. To be more precise, your first destination should be Kolkata if you are coming from other Indian states (except some places in West Bengal) or abroad. You can fly from your nearest airport located in India or abroad to land at Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata. Indian tourists can get down at Howrah or Sealdah railway stations in Kolkata and start their journey to Sundarban from there.
From Kolkata, you need to reach Sonakhali, covering a distance of approximately 109 km approx.You can go to Sonakhali from Kolkata by car, bus, or local train, as per your choice. This is the end or final land point from where you need to start your boat journey to reach your desired destination, the Sundarbans National Park.
Have a look at the most important place of attractions in the Sundarbans given below:
1. Gosaba
Your adventure begins on a serene and tranquil island in the heart of the Sundarbans National Park. The Malta and Zilli rivers and creeks around one of the major deltaic islands in the Sundarban area called Gosaba. It is the last place of human habitation before the deep woodlands begin. The area shares a boundary with the Sundarbans National Park, and most of it is occupied by Sundarbans villages. The South Bidyadhari plains contain a level, low-lying terrain, which is a prominent part of this island. There are a lot of streams and waterways, including the well-known Matla River. The security of the coastal areas with a dedicated coastal force is a relatively new development on a national scale.
2. Bird Forest
This forest is a paradise for avian lovers seeking a glimpse of the fascinating flying creatures rarely noticed in cities. The Bird Forest boasts a mesmerizing array of colorful feathered creatures, ready to enchant you with their absolute beauty. As you explore the forest, you’ll be amazed by the vibrant plumage of various bird species, from the resplendent kingfishers to the elegant Remember to pack your binoculars and camera to capture these delightful moments forever!
3. Pakhiralay
A well-liked attraction in the Sundarbans National Park is Pakhiralay, situated in the eastern portion of India and the southern part of Bangladesh. As its name implies, it is a haven for birdwatchers, ornithologists, and nature lovers alike. The region is a fantastic location for birding and wildlife photography because it is home to various avian species. Many different kinds of birds may be seen in Pakhiralay, including migratory species that come in the winter. Herons, egrets, kingfishers, storks, eagles, and the renowned masked finfoot are some of the notable bird species that may be found in the Sundarbans and the vicinity of Pakhiralay. There are places for tourists to stay the night so they may enjoy the beauty of the park at different times of day and even at night. The majority of the lodging options in this area are eco-friendly and mix seamlessly with the surroundings, ensuring little impact on the delicate ecosystem.
4. Sajhnekhai Watch Tower
In the Sunderbans Tower, Sajhnekhai Watch Tower is the second-most significant watch tower. It offers much more in addition to the mojo that other towers offer. From this vantage point, you can witness the untamed beauty of the region, where the dense mangroves meet the meandering rivers. Please keep your eyes peeled, for you might spot elusive Bengal tigers, graceful spotted deer, and playful dolphins in their natural habitat. You may see the fabled tiger species there, and you can also see some fairly horrifying crocodiles in action. A museum and crocodile park on the property displays various beautiful features. They are also available to satisfy animals with abundant wildlife offerings. A Bonbibi temple on the property is also built in the traditional style to add a distinct touch to the blissful place.
5. Sudhannyakhali Watch Tower
The Sudhannyakhali Watch Tower, one of Sundarban’s most well-known tourist destinations, may provide you with the experience you have always imagined. The best location to view tigers, the Sunderbans’ main attraction, is from here. If you are lucky, you may even spot axis deer and similar animals from this watch tower. The picturesque view of miles and miles of trees and greenery you enjoy when high up on this vacation must-see is an added benefit. A total of 25 people can be housed in the Watch Tower at once. The area is next to a freshwater pond where animals congregate to receive water. The tower is ideal for viewing wildlife due to its feature. You can go to great lengths to get a fantastic view of the forest and the numerous plants and creatures.
6. Dobanki Watch Tower
This watch tower is your gateway to adrenaline-pumping experiences in the Sundarban wilderness. The long canopy walk at the Do Banki watchtower, which stands 20 feet above the ground, is well known. To protect visitors from wildlife, it has a thick net shaped like a canopy and a grill fence 12 feet high. Excellent views of the Sundarbans Tiger Reserve jungle can be had from this trail. In the neighborhood, there is also a pond with lovely water. Typically, tourists will travel from Do Banki watchtower to Jharkhali and Bonnie Camp.
7. Burirdabri Watch Tower
The watchtower at Burirdabri Camp is a well-known feature. It is also popular for the mudwalk scope it offers to every traveler. Surrounded by the serenity of the mangroves, you can immerse yourself in the tranquility of this secluded spot. It’s the perfect place to reflect, meditate, and appreciate the untouched beauty of Sundarban National Park. You can see snails, crabs, and other mollusks up close while walking through the mud. This watchtower’s design is quite impressive; after passing over wooden bridges and through a mud enclosure, one arrives at a wooden tower, only to find that it overlooks Bangladesh, with the river Raimongal defining the country’s international border with India. Views of Bangladesh’s Sundarbans can be seen in the distance from this point. Ten individuals can simultaneously fit in this watch tower to get mesmerized by nature’s bounty.
8. Netidhopani Watch Tower
Netidhopani Watch Tower not only treats you to panoramic views of the Sundarban landscape but also unveils the mysteries of the past. This watchtower is home to ancient relics and ruins, including a 400-year-old temple. This area features a lake that is well-known for being picturesque. It also has the remains of old structures that were formerly a distinct part of the Sundarbans. More specifically, there are remnants of a century-old temple that is heavily frequented by worshippers and homage seekers that it has almost become a pilgrimage site. There are hotels and other common tourist attractions here. So if you thought the Sunderbans were about tigers, you should reconsider.
9. Gajikhali
Waterways, tidal rivers, and beautiful mangrove forests make Gajikhali unique. It’s a top destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers since these different habitats provide the perfect environment for diverse creatures. You have a high chance of encountering wildlife in Gajikhali. In addition to the elusive Bengal tiger, this area is home to a lot of other wildlife, including spotted deer, wild boars, saltwater crocodiles, different species of monkeys, and a wide variety of birds. Taking boat safaris around the waterways is one of the most anticipated tourist attractions in Gajikhali.
10. Jharkhali Watch Tower
Visitors to Jharkhali can enjoy birdwatching from its watch tower. It presents you with a peaceful escape from busy city life. The area also houses the Mangrove Forest Research and Conservation Center, adding to its significance. Situated close to the Matla and Bidyadhari Rivers, Jharkhali offers a chance to explore the magnificent mangrove forests. Crossing the Bidyadhari River leads to the Great Sundarban, home to the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger.
The main attractions of Jharkhali include the Ifad area, which features the Jharkhali Mangrove Ecological Garden, a place to appreciate the beauty of dense mangrove forests. This watchtower plays a crucial role in tiger conservation efforts as part of the tiger project. Glimpsing the tigers in their natural habitat will be an experience that will forever remain close to your heart.
End Note
Sundarban National Park in West Bengal offers an unforgettable journey through its top 10 destinations. From the tranquility of Gosaba to the tiger sightings at Jharkhali, each place leaves a lasting impression on your mind. So, pack your bags, lead your way to Sundarban National Park, and prepare for the adventure of a lifetime! Explore the wonders of the Sundarbans and immerse yourself in the magic of nature like never before. Let Sundarban captivate your soul and awaken the wanderer within you!
