Sundarbans National Park

Sundarbans National Park In West Bengal, India

Sundarbans National Park, located in the southern part of West Bengal, India, is one of the most unique and ecologically significant wildlife reserves in the world. Spanning an area of approximately 1,330 square kilometers, it is part of the Sundarbans delta, the largest mangrove forest on Earth, which extends into Bangladesh as well.

Declared a National Park in 1984, a Tiger Reserve in 1973, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, the park is globally renowned for its population of the Royal Bengal Tiger, which has adapted to the challenging mangrove habitat. The landscape is dominated by interconnected rivers, tidal waterways, mudflats, and dense mangrove forests, making it a rich but difficult terrain for both wildlife and humans.

Apart from tigers, the Sundarbans is home to saltwater crocodiles, Indian python, spotted deer, wild boar, Gangetic dolphins, and numerous bird species like kingfishers, herons, and eagles. The mangroves consist of sundari trees, after which the region is named, and other salt-tolerant species that help stabilize the delicate ecosystem.

Unlike traditional safari experiences, the only way to explore the park is through boat safaris, as much of the land remains submerged during high tides. The park plays a crucial role in protecting the coastal regions from cyclones and tidal surges, while also supporting the livelihoods of local communities dependent on fishing and honey collection.