Sundarban Winter Tour Package: Discover the Natural Wonders of the Mangrove Forest
The Sundarban, located in the southwestern part of Bangladesh, is a magnificent mangrove forest, which is a part of the world's largest delta formed by the confluence of the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Meghna rivers. It is a unique ecosystem, and home to the Bengal tiger, saltwater crocodile, and other rare species of flora and fauna. The Sundarban Winter Tour Package offers an unforgettable opportunity to explore this natural wonder, and experience the local culture and way of life. In this article, we will guide you through the itinerary, activities, and tips for a perfect Sundarban winter tour.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Getting There: How to Reach Sundarban
- Accommodation Options in Sundarban
- Best Time to Visit Sundarban
- Sundarban Winter Tour Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrival at Sundarban
- Day 2: Exploring the Wildlife and Nature
- Day 3: Visiting the Local Villages and Culture
- Day 4: Departure from Sundarban
- Activities to Do in Sundarban
- Wildlife Safari
- Bird Watching
- Boat Ride
- Forest Trekking
- Visiting Local Markets and Villages
- Tips for a Perfect Sundarban Winter Tour
- Pack Light and Smart
- Respect the Local Culture and Environment
- Follow Safety Guidelines
- Hire a Local Guide
- Conclusion
- FAQs
Getting There: How to Reach Sundarban
The Sundarban is located in the Khulna division of Bangladesh, and can be reached by air, road, and water. The nearest airport is the Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka, from where you can take a domestic flight to Jessore or Barisal. From there, you can hire a car or take a bus to Khulna, which is the gateway to Sundarban. Alternatively, you can take a direct bus or train from Dhaka to Khulna, which takes around 7-8 hours. From Khulna, you can hire a car or take a boat to reach Sundarban.
Accommodation Options in Sundarban
There are several accommodation options in Sundarban, ranging from budget-friendly homestays to luxurious resorts. Some of the popular options are:
- Sundarban Tiger Camp
- Tiger Garden Int'l Hotel & Resort
- Sundarban Gateway Resort
- Green Hill Guest House
- Hotel West Inn
Most of these options offer comfortable rooms, delicious local cuisine, and various amenities like swimming pools, spas, and conference rooms.
Best Time to Visit Sundarban
The best time to visit Sundarban is during the winter months from November to February when the weather is pleasant and dry. The temperature ranges from 15-25 degrees Celsius, making it ideal for outdoor activities and wildlife spotting. During the monsoon season from June to September, the forest is flooded, and the wildlife is not visible. The summer months from March to May are hot and humid, making it uncomfortable for tourists.
Sundarban Winter Tour Itinerary
The Sundarban Winter Tour Package typically lasts for 3-4 days, and covers the major attractions of the forest. Here is a sample itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival at Sundarban
- Arrive at Khulna by car or boat
- Check-in at the hotel/resort
- Enjoy a welcome drink and local snacks
- Relax and freshen up
- Dinner and overnight stay
Day 2: Exploring the Wildlife and Nature
- Early morning breakfast
- Board a boat for a wildlife safari in the core area of the forest
- Spot the Royal Bengal Tiger, saltwater crocodile, spotted deer, and other exotic wildlife
- Visit the watchtowers to get a panoramic view of the forest
- Lunch on the boat or at a local restaurant
- Enjoy a bird-watching tour and spot some rare and migratory birds
- Return to the hotel/resort for dinner and overnight stay
Day 3: Visiting the Local Villages and Culture
- Breakfast at the hotel/resort
- Visit the local villages and interact with the friendly locals
- Learn about their way of life, culture, and traditions
- Visit the honey collection center and see the process of making honey
- Enjoy a forest trekking tour and learn about the flora and fauna of the forest
- Lunch at a local restaurant
- Visit the local markets and shop for some souvenirs and handicrafts
- Return to the hotel/resort for dinner and overnight stay
Day 4: Departure from Sundarban
- Breakfast at the hotel/resort
- Check-out from the hotel/resort
- Board a boat to return to Khulna
- Depart from Khulna by car or bus
- End of the Sundarban Winter Tour Package
Activities to Do in Sundarban
Apart from the itinerary mentioned above, there are several other activities to do in Sundarban, such as:
Wildlife Safari
The wildlife safari is the highlight of the Sundarban tour, and offers a chance to spot the Royal Bengal Tiger, saltwater crocodile, spotted deer, wild boar, and other exotic wildlife. The best time for a safari is early morning or late afternoon, when the animals come out to drink water.
Bird Watching
Sundarban is a bird watcher's paradise, with over 200 species of birds, including some rare and migratory birds like the black-capped kingfisher, brown-winged kingfisher, and peregrine falcon. The best time for bird watching is early morning or late afternoon.
Boat Ride
A boat ride is a must-do activity in Sundarban, as it offers a unique perspective of the forest and its surroundings. You can hire a private boat or join a group tour.
Forest Trekking
The forest trekking tour is a great way to explore the flora and fauna of the forest, and learn about the various medicinal plants and herbs. It is advisable to hire a local guide for the trek.
Visiting Local Markets and Villages
Visiting the local markets and villages is a great way to interact with the friendly locals, and learn about their way of life, culture, and traditions. You can shop for some souvenirs and handicrafts, and taste the delicious local cuisine.
Tips for a Perfect Sundarban Winter Tour
Here are some tips to make your Sundarban Winter Tour perfect:
Pack Light and Smart
Pack light and smart, as you will be on a boat and may have to carry your luggage yourself. Pack comfortable clothes, mosquito repellent, sunscreen, and a hat.
Respect the Local Culture and Environment
Respect the local culture and environment, and avoid littering or disturbing the wildlife. Do not wear revealing clothes or take pictures without permission.
Follow Safety Guidelines
Follow the safety guidelines provided by the tour operator, and do not venture into the forest without a guide. Carry a first-aid kit and emergency contact numbers.
Hire a Local Guide
Hire a local guide for the safari and trekking tours, as they are familiar with the forest and its inhabitants, and can provide valuable insights into the local culture and environment.
Conclusion
The Sundarban Winter Tour Package offers a unique opportunity to explore the natural wonders of the mangrove forest, and experience the local culture and way of life. From wildlife safari to bird watching, from boat ride to forest trekking, there are several activities to do in Sundarban. The best time to visit Sundarban is during the winter months from November to February, when the weather is pleasant and dry. Follow the tips mentioned in this article, and respect the local culture and environment to make your Sundarban Winter Tour perfect.
FAQs
- Is it safe to visit Sundarban during the monsoon season?
- No, it is not safe to visit Sundarban during the monsoon season from June to September, as the forest is flooded, and the wildlife is not visible.
- What is the best time to spot the Royal Bengal Tiger in Sundarban?
- The best time to spot the Royal Bengal Tiger in Sundarban is during the early morning or late afternoon safari.
- Are there any accommodation options inside the forest?
- No, there are no accommodation options inside the forest. You have to stay at the hotels or resorts in Khulna or nearby areas.
- Is it necessary to hire a local guide for the tour?
- Yes, it is necessary to hire a local guide for the safari and trekking tours, as they are familiar with the forest and its inhabitants, and can provide valuable insights into the local culture and environment.
- What is the currency used in Sundarban?
- The currency used in Sundarban is Bangladeshi Taka (BDT).
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