Wildlife & Bird Sanctuatries > Sunderbans - by Anil Benipuri

This park is located in the vast swampy delta of two great Indian rivers, the Brahmaputra and the Ganga, in West Bengal. It extends over a vast area. Mangrove forests, swamps and forested islands, covering over 1,300 sqkm.

Sunderbans is home to nearly 200 Royal Bengal tigers. Part of the forest lies in Bangladesh and it is estimated that the combined population of tigers in the region could be about 400. Adapting themselves to the saline and watery environment, the tigers at the park are good swimmers.

Traversing the mangroves by motor launch is quite an experience, for the area is completely unspoilt and very different from the more conventional wildlife park.

The estuarine crocodile is often seen along the mud banks but owing to the dense undergrowth the tiger is a sight to behold.

GENERAL INFORMATION:

Best time to visit: October to March.

Nearest Town: Basanti.

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