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Sundarban Tiger Reserve
Introduction
Sundarbans Tiger Reserve in West Bengal is the world’s largest mangrove forest and the only tiger reserve in India where Bengal Tigers have adapted to a tidal mangrove ecosystem. Established under Project Tiger in 1973, it is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Biosphere Reserve, renowned for its exceptional biodiversity and intricate network of rivers, creeks and islands.
Quick Facts
| Particular | Details |
| State | West Bengal |
| District | South 24 Parganas |
| Tiger Reserve Notification | 1973 |
| Total Area | 2,584.89 sq km |
| Core Area | 1,699.62 sq km |
| Buffer Area | 885.27 sq km |
| Landscape | Ganges-Brahmaputra Delta Mangrove Ecosystem |
| Forest Types | Tropical Littoral and Mangrove Forests |
| Major Rivers | Matla, Raimangal, Haribhanga, Bidya and numerous tidal creeks |
| Best Time to Visit | November to February |
Location
The reserve is situated in South 24 Parganas district of West Bengal, forming the Indian part of the Sundarbans delta along the Bay of Bengal.
History
Included among the original Project Tiger reserves in 1973, Sundarbans National Park was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987 and later became part of the Sundarbans Biosphere Reserve.
Landscape, Geography & Habitat
The reserve covers 2,584.89 sq km, including a core area of 1,699.62 sq km and a buffer area of 885.27 sq km. It consists of tidal waterways, mudflats, estuaries, mangrove forests and numerous islands shaped by daily tidal cycles.
Flora
Mangrove species such as sundari, gewa, goran, keora, dhundul, nipa palm and other salt-tolerant vegetation dominate the landscape.
Fauna
The reserve supports the Royal Bengal Tiger, Estuarine Crocodile, Fishing Cat, Leopard Cat, Smooth-coated Otter, Spotted Deer, Wild Boar, Gangetic and Irrawaddy Dolphins (in adjoining waters), Water Monitor Lizard and more than 300 bird species.
Rivers & Water Bodies
The Matla, Raimangal, Haribhanga, Bidya and countless tidal creeks sustain the unique estuarine ecosystem.
Other Attractions
Boat safaris, mangrove interpretation centres, watchtowers, birdwatching and the unique tidal landscape attract visitors from around the world.
Weather & Climate
The climate is tropical and humid with hot summers, heavy monsoon rainfall and mild winters.
How to Reach
Nearest airport: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata. Nearest railheads: Canning and Sealdah (via Kolkata). Access to the reserve is primarily by road and boat.
Best Time to Visit
November to February offers pleasant weather and good wildlife viewing opportunities.
Accommodation
Forest Department lodges, forest rest houses and West Bengal Tourism accommodation are available at authorised gateway locations with prior booking.
Conservation Highlights
Sundarbans protects the world’s only mangrove tiger habitat and plays a critical role in conserving coastal biodiversity, mitigating cyclones and safeguarding globally important wetlands.
Visitor Tips
Travel only with authorised operators, carry essential supplies, respect tidal conditions and strictly follow Forest Department safety guidelines.
Did You Know?
• Sundarbans is the world’s largest mangrove forest.
• It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Bengal Tigers here are adapted to swimming between islands in tidal waters.
Last Updated
July 2026