Sundarbans Travel Packages

Are you a wildlife lover who wants thrilling experiences in the wild? You may consider a trip to the Sundarbans, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest mangrove forest in the world. Of course, it’s also home to the famous Royal Bengal Tiger and offers the right combination of adventure and tranquillity that you seek.

Why Visit Sundarbans?

Visiting the Sundarbans will be a great decision for the following reasons:

1. Tigers and Other Wildlife: The Sundarbans is home to the elusive and highly feared Royal Bengal Tiger. At the same time, you can also spot rare wildlife, including dolphins and saltwater crocodiles as you take boat safaris through tidal waterways here. A chance to view unique wildlife is what draws many visitors to the Sundarbans.
   
   
2. Biggest Mangrove Ecosystem in the World: You will be fascinated by the geographical layout of the Sundarbans, offering a stunning glimpse into the complex tidal ecosystem which works as a crucial natural buffer.
   
   
3. Exciting Boat Safaris: When in the Sundarbans, wildlife safaris are done via boat rides. This makes for a more thrilling experience. You can spot tigers if you’re lucky, along with crocodiles, wild boars, spotted deer, and diverse reptiles on these deep jungle safaris. Then you’ll get down at watchtowers and view the stunning mangrove roots as well.
   
   
4. Birdwatching & Biodiversity: The Sundarbans is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, being home to diverse species like white-bellied sea eagles, herons, and kingfishers. The rich biodiversity on offer is itself a major draw for any nature lover.
   
   
5. Local Cultural Experiences: You can enjoy several unique cultural experiences, from learning about the legends of Bon Bibi and visiting her temple to viewing cultural performances and gaining insights into the dangerous lifestyles of the local communities on the edge of the forest. And of course, you’ll taste some of the finest seafood in the region as well!

Top Places to Visit in Sundarbans

Some of the best places to visit in Sundarbans include:

1. Sudhanyakhali Watch Tower: This is a prime location to spot tigers, overlooking a freshwater pond that often attracts wildlife.
   
   
2. Sajnekhali Bird Sanctuary: It is famous for its diverse bird species, including white-bellied sea eagles, kingfishers, and its unique mangrove interpretation center.
   
   
3. Dobanki Watchtower and Canopy Walk: Enjoy a thrilling 20-foot-high and 50-meter-long canopy walk through the forest with fabulous top-down views of local wildlife.
   
   
4. Netidhopani: This is where you’ll explore the ancient ruins of a 400-year-old temple and fascinating local legends, along with a watchtower.
   
   
5. Bhagabatpur Crocodile Project: West Bengal’s only crocodile project, it functions as a hatchery for estuarine crocodiles and also Batagur baska turtles.
   
   
6. Bonnie Camp: It is the Sundarbans’ highest watchtower, offering glorious views of the forest.
   
   
7. Burir Dabri: Nestled on the border with Bangladesh, it is known for its mangrove cage trail and mud walks.
   
   
8. Kanak Island: This is a nesting site for the endangered Olive Ridley turtles that often visit between December and March.
   
   
9. Hiron Point: You can explore this popular spot where monkeys and deer are often visible amidst the tranquil environment.

Things to Do in Sundarbans

Here are some of the best things to do in the Sundarbans:

1. Boat Safaris/Cruises: You will have the time of your life navigating the narrow rivers and creeks as you look for local wildlife, ranging from Royal Bengal Tigers to Gangetic dolphins, deer, and saltwater crocodiles.
   
   
2. Watchtower Visits: There are several famous watchtowers in the Sundarbans, which are the best locations to spot tigers, wild boars, and spotted deer. Some options include the Dobanki, Sajnekhali, and Sudhanyakhali watchtowers.
   
   
3. Birdwatching: Home to 250+ species of birds, the Sundarbans is the ideal location to go Birdwatching, especially in areas like Sajnekhali and along the riverbanks (in the early evenings or mornings).
   
   
4. Village Walks: Take an engaging village walk and interact with the residents to learn more about their lifestyles, cultures, traditions, and fascinating stories of the wild.
   
   
5. Mangrove Eco Garden Trip: You can explore this unique park that focuses on conserving and showcasing diverse mangrove species.
   
   
6. Tiger Reserve Tour: Guided tours are available to the Core Area, thereby maximising your chances of viewing the famously elusive Royal Bengal Tiger in the wild.
   
   
7. Cultural Experiences: From tribal dances and community performances to theatrical productions, there’s a lot on offer here.

Best Time to Visit Sundarbans

The best time to visit the Sundarbans is between the months of October and March (winter season). The peak rush of tourists is usually observed from November to February due to the comfortable temperatures, higher visibility (making it easier to spot wildlife), and lower humidity levels.

However, you should book early if you’re visiting in this period, since there’s huge tourist inflows in these months. The months of October and March are usually quieter with pleasant weather and fewer tourists. The monsoon (June to September) has negligible tourist volumes due to the risks of heavy rainfall and storms. Summers (April to June) are hot and humid.

How to Reach Sundarbans

Here are some of the ways to reach the Sundarbans:

1. Train: You can take a local train to Canning from the Sealdah Railway Station (about 64 km). Private vehicles and shared taxis are readily available to reach the Godkhali Ferry as well.
   
   
2. Road: You can book a private taxi or take a bus from Kolkata to Godkhali. This will take you 3-4 hours on average.
   
   
3. Final Stretch (Boat): The only way to get around in the Sundarbans is by water. Motorboats/launches and ferries regularly operate from Godkhali, Raidighi, and Sonakhali, among other places.

What’s Included in Sundarbans Tour Packages

Sundarbans tour packages usually include the following:

1. Round-trip flights
   
   
2. Airport transfers
   
   
3. Selected Meals
   
   
4. 4-Star Hotel

*Check the tour package inclusions and exclusions carefully before booking.

Why Book a Sundarbans Holiday Package Instead of Planning on Your Own?

While planning things on your own may sound more flexible, it will only lead to more stress, since you’ll have to arrange everything yourself at the last minute. It will eat into your relaxation and fun on the trip. You will gain more convenience and comfort by leaving everything to the professionals at MakeMyTrip who will chalk out the best itinerary for your Sundarbans tour.

At the same time, everything from accommodation to transport and sightseeing will be arranged neatly for your convenience. What’s more, you will save more with a Sundarbans holiday package from MakeMyTrip as opposed to multiple separate bookings. So, enjoy your trip to the fullest without worrying about the logistics at all.

Essential Packing Guide for Your Sundarbans Trip

Here is a packing guide that you can use for your Sundarbans trip:

1. Comfortable cotton clothing for the humid and sunny weather.
   
   
2. Light jacket and layers for the winter (October-February) since temperatures may sometimes drop to as low as 10∘C at night.
   
   
3. Umbrella/raincoat, particularly if you’re traveling in or near the monsoon season.
   
   
4. Comfortable and long-lasting walking shoes for land-based exploration and robust floaters/sandals for boat trips.
   
   
5. Mosquito repellent, first-aid kit (with antiseptic wipes, anti-diarrheal medication, and pain relievers), and high-SPF sunscreen.
   
   
6. Wide-brimmed hat and hand sanitizer.
   
   
7. Binoculars for spotting wildlife during boat safaris.
   
   
8. Power bank since electricity may be limited in remote jungle areas.
   
   
9. Camera with extra batteries and memory cards.
   
   
10. Torch for after-dark navigation.
    
    
11. Identity proof and photocopies along with forest permits, if necessary.
    
    
12. Sufficient cash, since ATMs are hard to find in the forest region.
    
    
13. Reusable water bottle.
    
    
14. Dry snacks like energy bars and nuts.
    
    
15. Eco-friendly bags for combating plastic usage in the sensitive region.