The tourist's delight; Sunderbans in West Bengal

The confluence of the largest rivers Ganga, Brahmaputra and Meghna in India form a part of the largest delta of the world. This part of the delta is called Sunderbans, situated in West Bengal. Sprawled over an area of about 10,000sq.km, Sunderbans is a natural spot covered by saline mud flat and thick mangroves. Consisting of a vast number of islands separated by the tributaries of the Ganga, Sunderbans lies to the South of Kolkotta, West Bengal. This natural spot is classic, but adventurous for nature lovers to explore. What makes this bestowed place adventurous is the reserve of ferocious tigers in the forests and the crocodiles in the river. The river itself is deceptive on account of its depth.

Boating in Sunderbans is adventurous as tigers can be spotted in waters!

Smaller wooden boats of fishermen have been attacked by these tigers because of their strong swimming abilities.

The Sunderbans National Park is a world heritage site with Tiger Project. The thick mangrove forests are the dwelling place of the Royal Bengal Tigers. Tigers’ population is coming down according to the census. These tigers are man-eaters and it is said that they can swim in waters. So many fishermen living in the coastal areas are being attacked by these tigers while on fishing.

Bengal tourism provides boats furnished with rooms for cruising in waters. Staying in boats, cruise in waters for a day or two gives an enthralling experience. These boats will have a driver, cabin assistant, and a chef on-board. The spectacular view of the entire Sunderbans covered with mangroves on either side of the bank is something inexplicable. Rustic homes and fishermen will be seen on some banks while cruising.

The horizon presents a wonderful vista of sunrise and sunset. Crocodiles and alligators, the dangerous species of water animals are the inhabitants of this river.

The Sajnekhali bird sanctuary in Sunderbans consists of wide variety of flocks of birds from different species. Common kingfisher sitting in branches of tree is spotted always.

Billed pelican, Caspian tern, grey heron, stork, white ibis, kite and paradise flycatcher are well adapted to this habitat. A rare species, Asian dowitcher migrates here during winter. Birds that catch prey are osprey, white-bellied sea eagle, grey-headed fishing eagle, falcon, northern eagle owl (Bubo bubo) and brown fish owl.

Sunderbans is famous for its flora and fauna. Thick mangroves have dominated this place of tropical climate. Wildlife finds this habitat suitable for its existence. Deer, tigers and monkeys are some of the common wild animals spotted. Unknown wildlife also survives here most such as fishing cats, axis deer, wild boars and mongooses. Bhagatpur Crocodile Project is a farm for breeding crocodiles. Aquatic and reptile forms such as turtles, hard-shelled terrapins, snakes including pythons and cobras are also found in Sunderbans.

Making the most of nature, Sunderbans is an ideal natural spot swamped with wildlife attractions. Two or three day cruise in waters would take everyone to the serene environment close to nature, especially, city-dwellers. This part of the largest delta, Sunderbans, extents up-to Bangladesh, India’s border before joining the sea.