The Sundarbans Wetland, designated as a Ramsar site in 2019, is the largest Ramsar site in India covering 423,000 hectares (4,230 km²). It lies within the world’s largest mangrove forest, spread across the delta of the Ganges and Brahmaputra rivers. This maze of rivers, creeks, and islands is home to the famous Royal Bengal Tiger, estuarine crocodiles (Saltwater crocodiles), and countless migratory birds.
In December 2017, I set out on an unforgettable journey to the Sundarbans with childhood friends Samrat and Soureen along with his family. What began as a simple trip soon became a treasure of quiet boat rides, vast mangrove wilderness, and awe at the raw beauty of this unique landscape. Special thanks to Soureen’s better half Tripti whose thoughtful arrangements made this journey possible. These images capture fragments of that day—moments of wonder woven with the mystery and richness of the Sundarbans.
Wilderness—woven into the tides of the Sundarbans. Glimpses from an amazing trip to the Sundarbans in December 2017
Mangrove Nursery
Mangroves, memories, and the quiet joy of discovery.
Bonnie Camp
A night at Bonnie Camp—where mangroves, silence, and wilderness meet under the Sundarbans sky.
Beyond biodiversity, the Sundarbans act as a natural shield against cyclones and tidal surges, protecting millions of people in coastal West Bengal. Its mangroves store carbon, regulate salinity, and sustain local livelihoods through fishing, honey collection, and eco-tourism. The site is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it globally significant for both ecology and culture.
Traveler’s Note: Sundarbans Wetland
- Best Season to Visit: November to March (cooler weather, peak bird migration).
- Access Points: Reach via Kolkata → drive to Godkhali (gateway to Sundarbans) → boat safari.
- Highlights:
- Mangrove boat safaris through winding creeks.
- Spotting Royal Bengal Tigers, estuarine crocodiles, and Irrawaddy dolphins.
- Birdwatching for species like kingfishers, herons, and migratory ducks.
- Tips: Always take guided tours for safety, and explore eco-tourism lodges that support local communities.