UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world's largest mangrove delta, home to the Royal Bengal tiger, estuarine crocodile and spotted deer; access is by boat from Godkhali or Sonakhali with permits.
The Sundarbans Tiger Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and part of the world's largest mangrove delta, spread across the Ganges-Brahmaputra delta in South 24 Parganas, West Bengal, India. The reserve's headquarters area at Sajnekhali near Gosaba is the usual base for visitors. The landscape is a maze of tidal rivers, creeks and mangrove islands, and it is home to the Royal Bengal tiger, estuarine crocodiles, spotted deer, wild boar, monitor lizards and many bird species.
Access is by boat. Visitors usually travel by train to Canning, then by road to Godkhali or Sonakhali, where launches carry them into the reserve. Permits are required and are normally arranged through the forest department or a licensed tour operator. A typical trip lasts one to two days, with overnight stays on a boat or at lodges near Gosaba, and the itinerary includes cruising narrow creeks, stopping at watchtowers such as Sajnekhali, Sudhanyakhali and Dobanki, and visiting a mangrove interpretation centre and a crocodile and turtle enclosure at Sajnekhali.
Tiger sightings are rare because the animals are shy and live in dense forest, so visitors should come for the whole experience of the delta rather than expecting a guaranteed sighting. Birdwatching is rewarding, with kingfishers, herons, eagles and migratory waders on the mudflats. Guides stress strict safety rules, as leaving the boat outside designated areas is not allowed.
The best season is November to February, when the weather is cooler and drier and wildlife is more visible near the banks. The monsoon and cyclone season bring rough water and restrictions. Entry fees are about INR 600 for adults, and boat hire and guide charges are additional. Crowds are heaviest on winter weekends, and weekday trips are quieter.
| Admission | Adult INR 600 (USD 6.25) · Child Reduced |
|---|---|
| Hours | Daylight hours; permit and boat required |
| Typical visit | 1-2 days |
| Best time | November to February |
| Getting there | Train to Canning then road to Godkhali, boat onward |
| Address | Sajnekhali, Sundarban Tiger Reserve, South 24 Parganas, West Bengal 743609 |
Good to know
- Best for
- wildlife, boats, mangroves
Location
Sajnekhali, Sundarban Tiger Reserve, South 24 Parganas, West Bengal 743609
22.0833, 88.8000 View on map
Highlights
- UNESCO World Heritage mangrove delta with tidal creeks and islands
- Boat cruises in search of Royal Bengal tigers and estuarine crocodiles
- Watchtowers such as Sajnekhali, Sudhanyakhali and Dobanki
- Rich birdlife including kingfishers, herons and migratory waders
Tips for visiting
- Arrange permits through the forest department or a licensed operator before travelling.
- Travel between November and February for cooler weather and better wildlife viewing.
- Expect few or no tiger sightings and focus on the mangrove ecosystem and birds.
- Follow the guides' rules and stay on the boat or designated watchtower walkways.
- Carry insect repellent, sun protection and drinking water.
When to visit
November to February, when the weather is cool and dry. The monsoon and cyclone season from June to October bring rough water and restrictions.
Accessibility
Access involves road transfers and boarding boats from jetties, which may be difficult for wheelchair users. Watchtower walkways include stairs, so visitors with limited mobility should check arrangements with the operator.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a Sundarbans trip take?
Most trips last one to two days, including travel from Kolkata by train and road to Godkhali or Sonakhali.
Will visitors see a tiger?
Sightings are rare because tigers are shy and live in dense mangroves. Visitors more commonly see crocodiles, deer, monitor lizards and birds.
Do visitors need a permit?
Yes, entry requires a permit and a boat, usually arranged through the forest department or a licensed tour operator.
Is it good for children?
Older children enjoy the boat journeys and wildlife, but the travel is long and tiger sightings are unlikely.