SUNDARBAN-A WORLD'S NATURAL WONDER

World's Largest Mangrove Forest
Home of the Royal Bengal Tiger
A World Heritage Sight

The Sundarbans, which means "beautiful forest," is the largest contiguous mangrove ecosystem (6000 sq. Km.) on earth: a cluster of islands surrounded by hundreds of meandering streams, creeks, rivers, and estuaries. For miles and miles, the lofty treetops form an unbroken canopy of virgin forest that nature has laid out with as much care as a planned playground. This large block of littoral forest is free of human habitations, yet this natural habitat is home to 235 species of animals. Among them, we find the spotted deer, rhesus monkeys, wild boars, lizards, pythons, and the famous Royal Bengal Tigers, of which there are approximately 300. There are 270 species of birds, 160 species of fish, 50 species of snakes and crocodiles. Plant life flourishes with over 340 species.

The mangrove ecosystem is the main attraction of the Sundarbans, an unspoiled wilderness of peace and tranquility, and free from commercial exploitations. It is a unique place for cruising, boating, animal watching, bird watching, research and study, nature photography and adventure.

A visit to Bangladesh is not complete without visiting the Sundarbans. This world heritage site at the mouth of the Ganges River can be reached overland by a 300-km. countryside journey from Dhaka. Alternatively, a 30-minute domestic flight to Jessore and a 100-km. road journey or a 24 hour paddle steamer journey will take you to Mongla Port, north of the Bay of Bengal and in South Bangladesh where from the forest starts.

No roads, no trails but only the rivers, estuaries, canals, and creeks are the accessible ways in the forest, and watercraft is the only means of transport for an expedition.

Come explore it!