The Sundarbans is the largest mangrove forest in the world, located in Bangladesh and West Bengal, India. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is also known for its Royal Bengal Tigers, which are a major tourist attraction. The name Sundarbans is derived from the words “Sundari” and “Ban,” which means “beautiful forest” in Bengali.
The name Sundarbans has an interesting history. It is believed that the name was first coined by the famous Bengali poet and writer, Rabindranath Tagore, who visited the region in the early 20th century. Tagore was impressed by the beauty of the region and wrote extensively about it in his works. He popularized the name Sundarbans, which has since become synonymous with the region.
Another theory suggests that the name Sundarbans is derived from the Sundari tree, which is found in abundance in the region. The Sundari tree is an important species in the Sundarbans’ ecosystem, providing a habitat for a variety of animals and insects.
The Sundarbans cover an area of about 10,000 square kilometres. The region is characterized by a unique ecosystem that is formed by the interaction of freshwater and saltwater, making it an ideal habitat for a diverse range of species. The area is also known for its high tidal amplitude, which can reach up to 6 meters during spring tides.
The Sundarbans is an important ecological region, and its mangrove forests serve as a natural barrier against natural disasters like cyclones and tidal waves. The forests also help in soil conservation and regulate the local climate. Additionally, the Sundarbans play a significant role in the local economy, providing livelihoods to millions of people in the form of fishing, honey collection, and timber harvesting.
About Sundarban Tourism:
Sundarbans tourism offers a unique experience to its visitors, allowing them to explore the wildlife and natural beauty of the coalition of blue tides and vivid greeneries.
Getting there:
To reach Sundarbans, one can take a flight to Kolkata, which is well-connected to major cities in India and abroad. From Kolkata, one can take a train or a car to reach the Sundarbans. The nearest railway station is Canning, which is about 50 km from Sundarbans. From Canning, one can take a car or a bus to reach the Sundarbans.
Things to do:
Explore the wildlife: Sundarbans is known for its Royal Bengal Tigers, which can be spotted during a boat ride in the forest. Apart from tigers, the forest is home to other animals like crocodiles, deer, wild boars, and various species of birds. One can also explore the marine life of the region by taking a boat ride in the river.
Visit the Sajnekhali Wildlife Sanctuary: This sanctuary is located in the heart of the Sundarbans and is a popular tourist spot. It has a crocodile park, a watchtower, and a museum that showcases the wildlife of the region.
Take a village tour: Sundarbans is home to several small villages that are inhabited by the local fishermen. One can take a village tour and learn about the lifestyle and culture of the local people.
Visit the Sunderban National Park: This national park is located in the Indian part of the Sundarbans and is home to several species of animals and birds. It is also known for its dense mangrove forests and is a popular spot for nature lovers.
Take a boat ride: A boat ride in the Sundarbans is a must-do activity for tourists. It offers a unique experience of exploring the forest and spotting the wildlife.
Best time to visit:
The best time to visit Sundarbans is from September to March when the weather is pleasant and the chances of spotting tigers are higher. The monsoon season, from June to August, should be avoided as the region experiences heavy rainfall, and the forest remains closed during this period.
Accommodation:
There are several hotels and resorts in the Sundarbans region that offer comfortable accommodations to tourists. The Sundarbans Tiger Reserve has a forest lodge, which is managed by the West Bengal Forest Development Corporation and provides an excellent opportunity to experience the forest’s wildlife.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Sundarbans tourism offers a unique experience of exploring the world’s largest mangrove forest and spotting the Royal Bengal Tigers. The region is a testament to the importance of preserving our natural resources and the need to protect our environment for future generations. It is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. However, it is essential to follow the rules and regulations set by the forest department to ensure the safety of the visitors and the wildlife.