In the Sundarbans National Park of West Bengal, the tiger gracefully maneuvers through its territory, displaying unmatched stealth. The air carries a damp sensation, and the stillness is occasionally broken by the harmonious melodies of birds and the hum of motor boats. Within the expansive mangrove forests, a complex network of creeks and tributaries weaves its way, occasionally intersecting or diverting. Tourists on boat rides are treated to a worthwhile experience as they navigate these waterways. Unbeknownst to them, the watchful eyes of the big cat and saltwater crocodile track their every move. Look up, and you’ll witness a different kind of activity in the trees. Various bird species, from the brahminy kite to whistling teals, make these mangroves their home, announcing their presence with loud cries, songs, or chirps.
The Sundarbans National Park serves multiple roles simultaneously – it’s a biosphere reserve, a national park, and a tiger reserve, showcasing the incredible richness of the mangrove ecosystem. What is commonly referred to as the Sundarbans is, in fact, a vast delta spanning 40,000 sq. km between India and Bangladesh. From the River Hooghly in West Bengal, India, to the River Baleswar in Bangladesh, this UNESCO World Heritage Site, designated as such in 1987, is a marvel of nature.
In this expansive area, mangrove trees lazily populate mudflats visible during low tides and submerge during high tides. The name “Sundarbans,” meaning “beautiful forests” in the local language, aptly captures the allure of this region. Contributing to this beauty are the Sundari trees, prominent in the mangrove landscape. Their distinctive feature lies in their roots, which rise above the ground for respiration, especially during waterlogging in the monsoons.
The optimal season to explore Sundarbans National Park is during the winter months from December to February, although the park remains open for visitation from September to March. This timeframe coincides with the peak presence of migratory birds in the region.
In terms of accessibility, reaching Sundarbans National Park can be a bit challenging. The closest airport is located in Calcutta, the nearest railway station is Canning, and the nearest town is Gosaba. To reach the park from the headquarters in Canning, visitors can embark on a country motor launch journey, which takes approximately 5 hours, leading to Sajnekhali.