Sunderbans National Park Boat Safari Travel Itinerary

• By Tushar
• 28/Mar/2024
• Comments (1.5k)

The Sunderbans National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Sundarbans delta region of West Bengal, India, and parts of Bangladesh.The Sunderbans is situated in the Ganges Delta, where the Ganges and Brahmaputra rivers converge with the Bay of Bengal. The Indian portion of the Sunderbans is primarily in the South 24 Parganas district of West Bengal.The Sunderbans is the largest mangrove forest in the world, known for its unique biodiversity and delicate ecosystem. It's home to a variety of plant and animal species, including the iconic Royal Bengal tiger, saltwater crocodiles, Gangetic dolphins, various bird species, and diverse marine life.

The Sunderbans is characterized by its extensive mangrove forests, which thrive in the brackish waters of the delta. The mangroves act as a natural barrier against tidal surges and erosion, playing a crucial role in protecting the coastal areas from natural disasters like cyclones.The Royal Bengal tiger is the most famous inhabitant of the Sunderbans. Other wildlife includes spotted deer, wild boar, monkeys, snakes, and an array of bird species such as herons, egrets and kingfishers.

Here's a sample itinerary for a Sunderbans National Park boat safari:

Day 01: Arrival in Kolkata

Arrive in Kolkata, the capital city of West Bengal, India. Check into your hotel and relax after your journey. If time permits, explore some of Kolkata's iconic landmarks such as Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, or Dakshineswar Kali Temple.

Day 02: Travel to Sunderbans National Park

Early morning departure from Kolkata to Godkhali, the gateway to the Sunderbans. Reach Godkhali and transfer to a motorized boat to embark on your journey into the Sunderbans. Enjoy the scenic boat ride through the mangrove forests, keeping an eye out for wildlife along the riverbanks. Arrive at your eco-resort or forest lodge in the Sunderbans. Evening at leisure to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Day 03: Sunderbans Boat Safari

Wake up early for a thrilling boat safari into the heart of the Sunderbans National Park. Explore various creeks and channels of the mangrove forest, accompanied by experienced local guides. Keep a lookout for the elusive Royal Bengal tiger, as well as other wildlife such as crocodiles, deer, monkeys, and various bird species. Visit watchtowers and observation points for better wildlife viewing opportunities. Enjoy packed breakfast and lunch on the boat. Return to the eco-resort or forest lodge in the evening. Relax and unwind after an adventurous day.

Day 4: Village Visit and Cultural Experience

Visit a nearby Sunderbans village to experience the local way of life and interact with the villagers. Learn about their traditional livelihoods, such as fishing and honey collection. Enjoy a cultural performance showcasing traditional music and dance of the region. Optional activities may include nature walks or birdwatching around the village. Return to the eco-resort or forest lodge for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 5: Departure from Sunderbans National Park

After breakfast, bid farewell to the Sunderbans and travel back to Godkhali by boat.From Godkhali, transfer back to Kolkata.Depending on your flight/train schedule, you may have some free time to explore Kolkata or do some last-minute shopping.

Depart from Kolkata for your onward journey, taking back wonderful memories of your Sunderbans adventure.

This itinerary offers a good balance of wildlife exploration, cultural experiences, and relaxation amidst the natural beauty of the Sunderbans National Park. Adjustments can be made based on your interests, time constraints, and specific tour operator offerings.