A Quick Guide to Exploring Sundarban: Travel Tips, Packing Essentials, and More

Nestled in the heart of nature, Sundarban is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world’s largest mangrove forest. Known for its breathtaking biodiversity and the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger, it’s a dream destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re seeking a serene escape from the daily grind or an adventurous getaway, Sundarban has something for everyone.

To make the most of your Sundarban tour, proper planning is essential. From choosing the right time to visit to understanding the best ways to explore its hidden gems, this guide will ensure a memorable and hassle-free experience in this enchanting wilderness.

Why Sundarban Deserves a Spot on Your Travel Bucket List

Enter a world where Royal Bengal tigers roam, birds of all colours fly and monkeys swing through greenery. Sundarban is a nature lover’s paradise!

This delta where Ganges and Brahmaputra meet is a sight to behold. From estuarine forests to water bodies and landscapes, Sundarban has it all.

Sundarban is not just a trip, it’s an experience in unexplored nature. One of West Bengal’s best-kept secrets, it’s perfect for the offbeat traveller. See crocodiles sunbathing, spot the tiger or watch olive ridley turtles in their natural habitat.

Sundarban is a must-visit for those who love the wild!

The Easiest Ways to Reach Sundarban

• Roadways: Esplanade and Howrah have regular buses to Sundarban. You can rent a car or drive in your private vehicle from Kolkata. 

• Railways: Canning is the closest railway station to Sundarban, just 48 km away. You’ll find many trains running between Sealdah and Canning throughout the day. From there, board a private or rental car to Sundarban. 

• Airways: The Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport at Dum Dum is the closest. Once you get down, you can book a private or a rental car to drive you to Sundarban. 

• Waterways: You have several waterways from Kolkata to Sundarban. Godkhali Ferry Ghat, Sonakhali Ferry Ghat, Sonakhali Ferry Spot, and Jharkhali Motorboat spots are ideal waterways for reaching Sundarban from Kolkata.  

Choosing the Right Accommodation

Finding the right accommodation for your Sundarban tour is the next important checkpoint. There is quite a good count of eco-resorts, houseboats, and local stays. 

• Eco-Resorts: Eco-resorts in Sundarban can best accommodate you during your visit. They offer customer-friendly services and all essential amenities. Sundarbans has a good collection of budget-friendly and luxurious resorts to suit every wallet. Additionally, few of them have add-on adventure activities such as traditional fishing, organic farming and hatchery excursions.
• Houseboats: Houseboat stays are ideal for those wishing to stay amidst scenic tranquillity. Surrounded by Sundarban National Park and tucked by the lush greenery of mangroves, the houseboat stay at the Sundarban Delta is a one-of-its-kind experience. You have both AC and non-AC houseboat options here. 
• Local Stays: Homestays are exotic experiences to add to your Sundarban tour. The homestays are warm and welcoming and have basic amenities and services. AC and non-AC options are available here to pick according to your budget.  

To Guide or Not to Guide: Making the Best Choice for Your Trip

You have two choices of exploring Sundarbans – either via a guided tour or independently. 

Independent Exploration 

• One of the biggest reasons solo travellers avoid guided tours is limited flexibility. 
• Self-exploration offers more personalised experiences, be it enjoying the setting sun or the tranquillity of Mother Nature.
• Budget-conscious individuals may prefer exploring Sundarbans independently. 
• You can set out on unplanned discoveries of less explored places at Sundarbans all on your own.

Guided Exploration 

• Sundarban tour guides are highly knowledgeable about the local flora and fauna. So, they can introduce you to some exotic species that are endemic to Sundarbans only 
• Sundarbans can be dangerous, especially for first-time solo travellers. The area is a wild terrain with unpredictable tides. Your professional tour guide will ensure you are safe while exploring the region 
• Guides are well-versed in the times and locations for spotting Royal Bengal Tigers, the most popular species here.
• Some areas can only be accessed by people with special permissions. This is where your professional Sundarban tour guide will be the right companion.

Which One is Better for First-time Visitors? 

All in all, a guided tour is recommended for first-time travellers to the Sundarbans. The key reason is that the region is quite wild. At the same time, a Sundarbans tour guide would be a knowledgeable experience where you’ll learn much about the unique ecosystem. Navigating the intricate waterways will be easier while ensuring safety amidst the sensitive setting. 

Packing Essentials

When planning your Sundarban tour, the first thing that should pop into your mind is the wild terrain, the unexpected weather, and the jungle conditions at Sundarbans. It is, therefore, crucial to pack your bag right with all the essentials for a comfortable and joyous experience. 

 

Here is what you should include in your travel bag:

• Clothing: Grab some lightweight and breathable clothes. The climate in Sundarbans is primarily hot and humid. Lightweight and breathable garments will ensure that you stay cool throughout your stay. 
• Footwear: The terrain at Sundarbans is quite uneven, so your regular footwear won’t work well. You need to pack sturdy and comfortable shoes. 
• Insect Repellant: Sundarban is also popular for its mosquitoes. So, ensure you carry a good quantity of insect repellant. 
• Sun Protection: Days in Sundarbans can turn quite intense. Make sure that you pack your sun protection essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. 
• Medications: Carry all your emergency medications with you on your trip. A basic first-aid kit is a must to have. 
• Cash: You may not find ATMs everywhere at Sundarbans. It is, therefore, ideal to carry some cash with you. 
• Exploration Gear: If you’re planning to document the experience or explore in-depth, pack essentials like binoculars, a good-quality camera, and a sturdy backpack to carry your gear.

Safety Tips 

• Acquire a proper permit for entering the Tiger Reserve and Sundarban National Park. 
• Put on your life jackets and follow all safety measures on boats.
• Maintain social distancing on the ship and put on your mask throughout your boat journey.
• Always keep a person informed regarding your whereabouts.
• Avoid camping, littering, and smoking in protected areas.
• Respect the local ecology and culture.  

Conclusion

A Sundarban tour is not just a trip; it’s an immersive journey into one of nature’s most beautiful creations. From the majestic Royal Bengal Tigers to the serene rivers, Sundarban is an experience like no other.

Whether you are a first-timer or a seasoned traveller, this place will leave a mark on you. Proper planning, the right gear and a bit of curiosity will make your Sundarban trip a memory to cherish. So plan your trip, pack your bags and let Sundarban charm you!