Sajnekhali Watch Tower

Sajnekhali Watch Tower | Sundarban Tour Booking Office

Exploring the Enchanting Sajnekhali Wildlife Sanctuary: A Gateway to the Sundarbans

Nestled in the South 24 Parganas district of West Bengal, India, the Sajnekhali Wildlife Sanctuary stands as a captivating introduction to the vast and mesmerizing Sundarbans, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its tidal halophytic mangrove forests. In this blog, we embark on a journey to uncover the allure of Sajnekhali, its diverse ecosystems, and the captivating wildlife that inhabits its realms.

Sajnekhali Wildlife Sanctuary – Gateway to the Sundarbans

Located at the confluence of the Matla and Gumdi rivers, Sajnekhali Wildlife Sanctuary spans 362.8 sq. km and forms part of the Sundarbans Tiger Reserve buffer zone. Established in 1976, it offers a serene introduction to the world’s largest mangrove forest, featuring intricate mangroves, estuaries, and islands.

Flora & Fauna: Dominated by Sundari, Goran, and Dhundul mangroves, the sanctuary provides vital habitats for marine life. Wildlife includes Royal Bengal Tigers, saltwater crocodiles, spotted deer, dolphins, and monitor lizards.

Birdwatching Paradise: Home to over 260 bird species, including the White-bellied Sea Eagle, Asian Openbill Stork, spotted-billed pelican, and rare waders like the Asian dowitcher. Birds of prey such as osprey and grey-headed fishing eagle are commonly sighted.

Activities & Attractions: Visitors can enjoy guided boat safaris, explore the Mangrove Interpretation Centre, and learn about conservation at the museum and interpretation center. The sanctuary also features scenic watchtowers and opportunities for tiger and wildlife spotting.

Best Time & Access: Visit between November and February for optimal weather and wildlife sightings. Accessible from Kolkata (112 km) via Godkhali and nearby towns like Canning, followed by a boat ride into the sanctuary.

Sajnekhali offers a captivating mix of wildlife, mangrove landscapes, and birdwatching, making it an essential stop for any Sundarbans adventure.