The Sundarbans, one of the largest mangrove forests in the world (about 140,000 hectares), lies in the largest delta of the world: the Ganga -Brahmaputra delta, on the Bay of Bengal. In West Bengal, the forest extends over 3,483 km² across the South 24 Parganas and North 24 Parganas districts. The name ‘Sundarbans’ is derived from 'Sundari’, the name of the large mangrove trees that are most plentiful in this zone. The forestland transitions into a low-lying mangrove swamp approaching the coast, which consists of mud flats. It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.
Places to Visit:
A 2-night 3 3-day tour is ideal if you want a weekend getaway from Kolkata. It is one of the most popular weekend destinations among the Kolkatans. The thrilling boat Safari through various rivers, islands and small creeks covering Pirkhali, Banbibi Varani, Sundarkhali, Khonakhali, Choragaji, Deualvarani, SarakKhali 1 or 2, Gazikhali, Nobanki, Dobanki will mesmerize you. The Sudhanyakhali Watch Tower has been built for the viewing of animals such as spotted deer, crocodiles, wild boars, snakes, lizards, different types of birds, and the mighty Royal Bengal Tiger ( if you are lucky). Wildlife tourism is a major pull factor behind tourists visiting Sunderbans. Nothing makes the tourists more excited than a tiger sighting.
How to Reach:
It is almost a 3-hour journey from Kolkata by car (approximately 105 km). You can also avail the Canning Local from Sealdah Railway Station (at 7:40 am) to reach Canning (by 9:00 am). The nearest railhead is at Canning, which is about km away. You have to hire a car to reach Godkhali launch ghat, from where the actual boat safari starts.
Best time to Visit:
Winter is the best time to visit Sundarbans, precisely, from the end of October to early April. Due to the tropical climate and high temperatures during the summer months, it becomes almost impossible for tour organizers to organize tours during those months. One should avoid the monsoon season due to extra torrential rainfall and gusty winds that blow during this time of the year which hampers life and tourism in this area.












