The Sundarbans is a maze of tidal rivers and islands where the Ganga meets the Bay of Bengal. Trips are by boat, with stops at watchtowers such as Sajnekhali and Dobanki. Sightings of tigers are rare, but crocodiles, monitor lizards, spotted deer and birds are common, and the boat days are peaceful.
Highlights
- Boat safaris through the creeks
- Sajnekhali and Dobanki watchtowers
- Sudhanyakhali tiger watchtower
- Village life on Gosaba and Pakhiralay
- Birdwatching for kingfishers and storks
What to eat
- Bengali fish curries on the boat
- Crab and prawns
- Mishti doi
Where to stay
Eco-resorts and lodges on the islands near Sajnekhali, or a houseboat package from Kolkata.
Getting there
Drive from Kolkata to Godkhali jetty (about 3 hours), then boat into the forest.
Tips
- Book through a registered operator; entry permits are arranged with the forest department.
- You cannot walk in the forest: tigers here are dangerous.
- Cyclone season runs from April to June and October to November: watch the forecast.
Best time to visit
Oct-Mar. See what else is good in October and our best time to visit India guide.
Places to see in and around Sundarbans
3 places within 40 km. Tap I’ve been to add them to your India passport.
- Sundarbans National Park World Heritage Site, 27 km
- Sajnekhali Wildlife Sanctuary Wildlife sanctuary, 25 km
- Marichjhanpi Island Island, 18 km
Food to try in and around Sundarbans
Named after Sundarbans: Sundarban Honey. The rest are West Bengal favourites.
- Sundarban Honey GI: speciality
- Rosogolla
- Sandesh
- Luchi
- Chutney
- Ambal
- Joynagar Moa GI: sweet
- Bardhaman Sitabhog GI: sweet
- Bardhaman Mihidana GI: sweet
- Banglar Rasogolla GI: sweet
- Darjeeling Tea GI: tea or coffee
- Malda Laxman Bhog Mango GI: fruit
The full food passport, state by state.
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