Sundarbans Boat Safari: A Journey Through the Largest Mangrove Forest in the World

Every trip has a story and my recent trip to Sundarbans with my friend JP was full of adventure, learning, delicious food and memories that will never be forgotten. We could not catch a glimpse of the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger, but the experience of exploring the world’s largest mangrove forest by boat was unique in its own way.

Starting the Journey from Kolkata

Our journey began from Sealdah Railway Station, Kolkata. There are plenty of local trains connecting Sealdah to Canning throughout the day but I would strongly suggest you to take an early morning train. The journey is only about 1 hour, and you can make the best use of your time in Sundarbans.

We reached Canning and met our tour operator Sundarban Bharaman Sathi near Canning Railway Station. We booked a 2 Nights/3 Days Sundarban Boat Safari package for ₹5,700 for two persons. The package includes accommodation in non-AC room, all meals, boat safari and pick and drop from Canning.

Our tour operator arranged an auto-rickshaw to take us from Canning to Sonakhali Ferry Ghat. The auto ride was included in the package and it was the beginning of our Sundarban adventure

Getting On the Boat

The hospitality began as soon as we boarded the boat. We were received with hot tea and puri-sabji and sweets. We had no idea that food would be one of the highlights of our trip.

The boat edged slowly between the winding channels of the Sundarbans, through dense mangrove forests. The calmness, the soft swaying of the boat, the endless expanses of water, immediately took us away from the city.

First Stop: Gosaba and Rabindranath Tagore’s Bungalow

Our first destination was Gosaba, where we visited the historic Beacon Bungalow associated with Rabindranath Tagore. The bungalow stands as a reminder of Tagore’s connection with the region and offers visitors a glimpse into the area’s colonial history.

After exploring the bungalow, we returned to the boat, where a lavish lunch awaited us.

The lunch menu included:

• Rice
• Dal
• Vegetable curry
• Fish
• Chicken
• Papad
• Pickle
• Sweets

The food was delicious, freshly prepared, and served generously. Throughout the entire trip, one thing became very clear—we were never allowed to stay hungry!

Observing the Unique Mangrove Ecosystem

As the boat moved deeper into the forest, we started observing the fascinating flora of the Sundarbans. One of the most remarkable features was the breathing roots, scientifically known as pneumatophores.

These roots emerge above the muddy soil and allow mangrove trees to absorb oxygen in waterlogged environments where oxygen levels are extremely low. Seeing these unique adaptations firsthand was fascinating.

Exploring Sajnekhali Wildlife Sanctuary

Our next destination was Sajnekhali Wildlife Sanctuary, one of the most visited areas of the Sundarbans.

Here we observed:

• Crocodiles
• Turtles
• Various mangrove species
• Garjan trees
• Keora trees
• Genwa trees
• Khalsi trees

Walking through the sanctuary gave us a deeper understanding of how diverse and fragile the Sundarbans ecosystem truly is.

Evening at Pakhiralay

By evening, we reached our accommodation, Hotel Cottage Abhinandan, located in Pakhiralay.

We had booked a non-AC room, and honestly, it exceeded our expectations. The room was spacious, clean, comfortable, and perfect for a short stay.

For travelers looking for more comfort, AC accommodation is available at approximately ₹3,200 per person.

After freshening up, we were served tea and pakoras. Later, JP and I explored the local market.

The market offered several locally made products including:

• Handmade jute bags
• Traditional baskets
• Handwoven textiles
• Souvenirs crafted by local artisans

Buying these products directly supports the local communities living in and around the Sundarbans.

Traditional Jhumur Dance Performance

One of the most memorable parts of the evening was witnessing a traditional Jhumur dance performance.

Jhumur is a vibrant folk dance deeply rooted in the tribal and indigenous cultures of eastern India. The energetic music, colorful costumes, and lively performances added a cultural dimension to our trip.

Following the performance, dinner was served.

The menu included:

• Mutton curry
• Rice
• Dal

The meal was absolutely fantastic. By this point, we were convinced that food was one of the strongest highlights of this entire tour.

Day Two: Into the Heart of the Sundarbans

The next morning, we woke up early and boarded the boat again.

Breakfast included:

• Puri-sabji
• Sweets
• Tea

A registered Sundarban guide joined us on the boat and explained the biodiversity of the region, tiger habitats, local communities, and the challenges faced by people living near tiger territory.

The stories about villagers coexisting with one of the world’s most powerful predators were both fascinating and humbling.

Dobanki Camp

Our first destination on the second day was Dobanki Camp.

Like many visitors, we secretly hoped for a tiger sighting. Unfortunately, luck wasn’t on our side.

However, we did see:

• Deer
• Beautiful mangrove forests
• Vast river channels
• Incredible natural landscapes

One thing visitors should be prepared for is the humidity.

Even during winter, the Sundarbans can feel quite humid. Carrying water, ORS, or hydration supplements is highly recommended.

The best time to visit is generally from November to January when temperatures are relatively pleasant.

Another Feast on the Boat

Lunch once again was extraordinary.

We were served:

• Two varieties of fish
• Rice
• Dal
• Vegetables
• Chutney
• Papad
• Sweets

Honestly, I have visited many tourist destinations across India, but rarely have I experienced such generous hospitality and consistently excellent food.

Sudhanyakhali Watch Tower

Our final major destination of the safari was Sudhanyakhali.

Here we spotted:

• Crocodiles
• Deer
• Wild boar

Although the tiger remained hidden somewhere deep inside the forest, we enjoyed observing the unique ecosystem and learning about the region’s wildlife.

To be honest, much of the safari experience revolves around appreciating the rivers, mangrove forests, biodiversity, and peaceful environment rather than guaranteed wildlife sightings.

Final Day and Return Journey

After another comfortable night at the hotel, we enjoyed a simple breakfast and began our return journey.

The boat dropped us back at Sonakhali Ferry Ghat. From there, we took an auto to Canning Railway Station.

Local trains from Canning to Sealdah are frequent, and after waiting for about 15 minutes, we boarded one and reached Kolkata in approximately one hour.