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The Sundarbans is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest tidal halophytic mangrove forests in the world, located in the delta region of the river basins of Padma, Meghna, and Brahmaputra. There are multiple exciting things to do in Sundarbans which promise adventures and enjoyable lifetime experiences. On the Indian side, the Sunderbans stretch over parts of West Bengal, bracing the visitor with sceneries from mangroves to rivers that are so peaceful.
10 Things To Do In Sundarban
Explore the wild beauty with top things to do in Sundarban with thrilling tiger safaris, serene boat rides, and visits to remote villages.
1. National Park Safari In Sundarban
Photo: Hu Chen / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
The primary adventure activity is visiting the Sundarban National Park safari. Sundarban National Park is one of the largest tiger reserves in India. It is one of the few places where visitors can spot the Royal Bengal Tiger in its natural surroundings. A boat safari here would be totally exhilarating as you venture deep into the mangrove forests. Visitors can also spot crocodiles, deer, and even otters along the riverbanks. It is a must-do thing for wildlife enthusiasts as the rich greenery, silent waterways, and the enormous diversity of bird species make the safari a thrilling one.
Major Attractions: Spots the Royal Bengal Tiger, river safaris through the mangrove forests. Local
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2. Sajnekhali Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Pinakpani / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Sajnekhali Wildlife Sanctuary is a perfect destination for a bird watcher and nature lover. The sanctuary has an extensive diversity of birds including the kingfisher, heron, and egrets. There is also a watchtower through which a full view of the dense forest and water channels can be seen. Other animals spotted include grazing deer and crocodiles along the riverbank. It comprises a museum and crocodile breeding centre. It houses the renowned Sajnekhali Bird Sanctuary wherein so many migratory birds take rest and shelter.
Major Attractions: The elevated view of the forest, breeding centres, muddy shores
3. Sudhanyakhali Watch Tower
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Sudhanyakhali Watch Tower is one of the best places to sight the Royal Bengal Tiger in its natural habitat. This watchtower provides an elevated view of the mangrove forests and the water bodies, so it is a great spot for wildlife sightings. The water channels around the watchtower attract tigers, spotted deer, and wild boars regularly. Saltwater crocodiles can also be seen resting near the water channels. This watchtower brings the beauty of Sundarbans unbridled by still waters and mangrove forests around it.
Major Attractions: The elevated view of the forest, the sighting of a tiger.
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4. Dobanki Watchtower And Canopy Walk
Photo: Knowledge and philosophy / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Located deep in the forest, Dobanki watchtower provides an aerial view of the verdant mangroves. The main attraction is the canopy walk: a raised wooden walkway thrust through the treetops that lets visitors walk above the forest floor. It covers a 500-metre-long length and provides the visitor with opportunities to see deer and wild boar. It also allows visitors to occasionally spot sunbathing crocodiles in the water below. Birdwatching activity is performed the most at this place.
Major Attractions: Canopy walk, high-wildlife observation.
5. Netidhopani Watchtower
Photo: Leonhard Lenz / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Netidhopani Watchtower is one of the exciting tourist spots in Sundarbans. Here, panoramic views of the land are admired by visitors. Mangroves all around have provided an excellent platform to sit atop for any wildlife or bird watching enthusiasts. The Netidhopani Watchtower is located close to the Gosaba Region which is a great place to sight the Royal Bengal tiger. This watchtower also offers a view of the 400 year old Shiva Temple in the region.
Major Attractions: 400-year-old temple ruin and wildlife sightings.
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6. Boat Cruise Through The Mangrove Channels
Photo: Maitheli Maitra / Unsplash
The best way of accessing the wild beauty of the region is by exploring the region by boat. The ride offers an opportunity to spot sun-basking crocodiles and deer grazing near riverbanks. Luckily, visitors might also spot tigers swimming across channels. The safari timings are from 8:30 am in the morning to 6:00 pm in the evening. No boats are allowed inside the Sundarbans after 6:30 pm in the evening. The boats will have modern amenities and promise a hassle-free ride.
Major Attractions: Great wildlife encounters, and the soothing experience of a boat tour across mangroves.
7. Pakhiralaya Island
Photo: Ermell / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
When literally translated, Pakhiralaya means “home of birds”. It aptly describes the quiet island is known for its large number of birds. As an abode to local as well as migratory bird species such as herons, kingfishers, and pelicans, the place is an ideal paradise for any bird watcher to explore. The island is very serene, and the surrounding waters normally appear quite calm and reflective. Pakhiralaya Island is a recommended place for birdwatching and photography.
Major Attractions: Bird watching, peaceful island setting.
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8. Bhagabatpur Crocodile Project
Photo: Leigh Bedford / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Bhagabatpur Crocodile Project is a very important wildlife conservation project located in the Sundarbans. It focuses on breeding and protecting estuarine crocodiles, whose presence is important for keeping the ecological balance of the region intact. This centre breeds and provides protection for these 20-foot-long beautiful reptiles. Visitors can observe these creatures in the wild. Bhagabatpur Crocodile Project is an enigmatic setting with the thick mangrove forests outlining the Sundarbans in the backdrop. The green, drenched landscape only adds to the experience and, by keeping the area untouched for the crocodiles, serves to preserve the environment around them.
Major Attractions: Crocodile breeding centre, closer view of crocodiles.
9. Fisher’s Village
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The Fisher’s Village in Sundarbans is a true and live experience of the lives of the local communities that have their survival on the wealth of the river. These villages, nestled deep in the mangrove forests offer people a view of the region’s fisherfolk as living a traditional life. Mud-thatched small houses dot the village; the landscape, therefore, becomes a place for exploration and knowledge. Wandering about the village will also see some fishermen at work weaving their nets or making preparations to go fishing; it’s something that’s been a long tradition passed from generation.
Major Attractions: Learn local fishing culture, iand nteract with the villagers.
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10. Kalash Island
Photo: Davidvraju / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Exploring Kalash Island is an interesting thing to do in the Sundarbans. The island is located on the banks of the Bay of Bengal and is famous for its serene surroundings, a haven for lovers of nature and wildlife enthusiasts alike. There is a watchtower at this place for spotting wildlife in the deep mangrove forest. It is home to the Royal Bengal Tiger and spotted deer. Camps to this place are also offered. Guided tours to this island are also available.
Major Attractions: Awesome Bay of Bengal view and spotting of olive ridley turtles.
Dense mangroves of Sundarbans await adventurous boat safaris in this region and its famous watchtowers have scenes so serene that silence dawns on even. With multiple things to do in Sundarbans, the experience gained over here is outstanding. The activities range from exploring villages nestled inside the forests to climbing the watchtowers to spot wildlife. Plan a trip with TripXL for a hassle-free trip to Sundarbans.
Cover Photo: Ashique Anan Abir / Unsplash
