Kolkata, with its rich history, art, and vibrant life, is renowned as India’s cultural capital. However, just a few hours away from the buzzing metropolis, in the lap of nature, is one of the most enchanting travel destinations- the Sundarbans.
A paradise for nature lovers, this nature wonder has unique ecological diversity and regional cultural heritage. The spectacular expanse of mangrove forests and ravelled waterways, diverse bird species, and the sparkling marine life of the Sundarbans entice travellers across the world. So, let’s dig in more and find out why this mangrove forest is a premium travel destination.
The Best Tourist Places in Kolkata That You Must Visit
If you want to visit the city of Kolkata, you must visit these places. Like Victoria Memorial, Botanical Garden, Kali Ghat temple of Kali mata [one of the 51 satipiths], Dakshineshwar temple of Kalimata, Eden Gardens, Ecopark, and Nikopark, you will find all these travel destinations within 100 km of the Kolkata city. Now we will talk about another travel destination, which is Sundarban National Park, which is the largest mangrove forest in India, located at a distance of 130 km from Kolkata. Sundarbans is Kolkata’s biggest tourist attraction. Let’s see why below.
Why Sundarban is the Best Travel Destination Near Kolkata City
There is more than one reason to call Sundarban the favourite destination near Kolkata. Discover them here.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Lying on the delta of the most sacred river Ganges, the Sundarbans have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its outstanding universal value, this status reflects its global significance. This mangrove forest is home to over 400+ species of wildlife, including the famous Royal Bengal Tiger, various reptiles, spotted deer, and throngs of birds. Apart from that, these mangroves are habitats for endangered animals. These elements make Sundarbans an extraordinary place for wildlife enthusiasts all over the globe.
Distinctive Ecosystem
With lush mangrove forests, the Sundarbans have a unique ecosystem. These mangroves act as a protection against coastal erosion and storms. Besides preserving the soil, the stretch of dense mangrove trees also provides essential habitats for a variety of wildlife. There are different kinds of activities available to enjoy amidst this vast spread of flora and fauna.
Adventurous Spots
The Sundarbans offers a range of exciting adventures. It is a paradise for adventure seekers. Activities like safaris, trekking, and kayaking allow visitors to get close to nature and enjoy the thrill of catching the sight of wildlife. One can also revel in a boat ride on the serene river. There are even dolphins spotted at some places. Also, if you are lucky enough, you can even find the Royal Bengal Tiger drinking water by the river. One can also enjoy bird-watching in the lap of nature.
Breathtaking Beauty
The Sundarbans offer stunning landscapes that are a treat to the eyes. The beautiful water stream dotted with flourishing mangroves makes a picturesque setup. The striking visuals of verdure mangroves create contrast against the shimmering water. The breathtaking views of sunrise and sunset make it every photographer’s dream. This glamorous landscape is complemented by the sound of rustling leaves and chirping birds, which is a perfect escape from the cacophony of the crowded city.
Rich Culture
Apart from the rich biota, the Sundarbans are also a hub for rich cultural heritage. This region is also home to various indigenous communities with their own languages, traditions, and lifestyles. The visitors can explore the nearby villages, interact with the locals, and also indulge in local authentic and lip smacking Bengali dishes. The locals wholeheartedly showcase their vibrant culture with traditional art forms like folk music and dance. Meeting up with new people and engaging with them can add value to your travel experience. Such a blissful encounter will help you cherish the amiable relationship between the locals and nature.
Eco-tourism
The increasing popularity of the Sundarbans forest has compelled the authorities to start initiatives like eco-tourism. This initiative emphasises the importance of conservation and sustainable practices. Eco-tourism involves local communities, which helps promote their cultural heritage while providing them with an alternative livelihood. This practice also opens the opportunity for visitors to observe wildlife in their natural habitat without disturbing the local environs.
Some eco-friendly homestays and lodges are run by locals, which allows the visitor to engage with locals and experience local Bengali culture and cuisines. The eco-tourism encourages eco-friendly accommodations, waste management systems, renewable energy systems, and reduced carbon footprints.
Educational Opportunities
At the Sundarbans, they also organise workshops, talks, and guided tours that help the visitors learn about the mangrove biosphere and the importance of conserving it. This national park is also a site for scientific research and environmental education. This place serves as a live lab for understanding the complex coastal ecosystem.
Accessibility
The Sundarbans are located around 100 km away from Kolkata. This is also one of the prime reasons it is the best destination for weekend getaways. There are multiple ways to reach Sundarbans from Kolkata. If you choose roadways, then you can take your own vehicle, hire a taxi, or opt for a shared ride. It takes around 3-4 hours, depending on the traffic. If you prefer the train, then numerous trains are available to the nearest railway station, Cannin or Sealdah, and from there, you can catch an auto or a taxi to reach your destination. It might take around 1.5 -2 hours. If you want to have a unique experience, then boats or ferries are also available. They operate from Kolkata and have different entry points in the Sundarbans. With the waterways, you can experience some mesmerising scenic views, which might take around 3-5 hours.
Wrapping Up
Sundarbans stand out as one of the best travel destinations near Kolkata. Declared as a UNESCO World Heritage, the Sundarbans provide an exceptional chance to explore the largest mangrove ecosystem in the world. Whether you want to experience adventurous wildlife safaris and boat rides or are willing to unwind amidst the rich green biome, the Sundarbans forest caters to all types of travellers.
Home to the Royal Bengal Tiger, the magic of this land goes beyond ecological significance by letting travellers immerse in the local culture, enjoy local delicacies, engage with the local communities, and enjoy sustainable tourism. Additionally, they offer a point of scientific research and education. It is easily accessible from Kolkata as there are numerous transport facilities available.
So next time when you think of planning a short getaway from Kolkata, consider Sundarbans for an unforgettable excursion and foster a deeper connection with our planet.