The Sundarbans, the world’s largest mangrove forest and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, spans across Bangladesh and India. This article is your ultimate guide to the Sundarbans’ biodiversity, its unique plant adaptations, local folklore, and complete travel information. If you’ve ever asked “Why is the Sundarbans famous?” or “What is the best way to visit the Sundarbans?”, you’ve come to the right place.

Where is the Sundarbans located and what are its wildlife sanctuaries?

The Sundarbans is situated on the coast of the Bay of Bengal, covering parts of Bangladesh and West Bengal, India. To protect its biodiversity, the forest is divided into sanctuaries based on water salinity levels.

• Sundarbans East Wildlife Sanctuary: Freshwater zone.
• Sundarbans South Wildlife Sanctuary: Moderately saline zone.
• Sundarbans West Wildlife Sanctuary: High-salinity saltwater zone.

Magical Plant Adaptations of the Sundarbans: Why are its trees so unique?

Many people wonder, “How do Sundarbans plants grow in salty soil?” The answer lies in three extraordinary adaptation strategies that make this forest a natural wonder.

• Pneumatophores: Nature’s Oxygen Masks
  To survive in oxygen-poor mud, the roots of trees like Sundari, Gewa, and Keora grow vertically upwards from the ground. These breathing roots, or pneumatophores, absorb oxygen directly from the air, allowing the trees to thrive.
• Stilt Roots: Nature’s Armor
  To anchor themselves in the soft, unstable mud and withstand strong tidal currents, trees like Goran and Keora develop a network of strong, supportive stilt roots.
• Viviparous Germination: Giving Birth to Live Seedlings
  Since germination in saltwater is difficult, the seeds of many mangrove trees germinate while still attached to the parent tree. These seedlings, or propagules, then fall into the mud and can quickly establish themselves.

Wildlife of the Sundarbans: What to see besides the Royal Bengal Tiger?

“What is the main attraction of the Sundarbans?” The answer isn’t just one thing, but many.

• Royal Bengal Tiger: The king of the forest and the apex predator of this unique ecosystem.
• Saltwater Crocodile: The world’s largest crocodile species finds a safe haven here.
• Mudskipper: A fascinating fish that walks, leaps, and hunts on land.
• Diverse Bird Species: A birdwatcher’s paradise with over 315 species, including the rare Masked Finfoot and Mangrove Whistler.
• Other Animals: The forest is also home to the King Cobra, Spotted Deer, Water Monitor Lizard, and the critically endangered Batagur baska terrapin.

The Legend of Bonbibi: The Cultural Bond Between People and the Forest

“Who is Bonbibi and why is she worshipped?” Bonbibi is the guardian deity of the Sundarbans, worshipped by the local communities. Mawalis (honey collectors) and Bawalis (woodcutters) pray to her for protection before entering the forest. This local folklore fosters a deep respect for nature, which aids in its conservation.

Sundarbans Travel Guide: When to Go and What to See

• What is the best time to visit the Sundarbans?
  The winter season, from November to February, is traditionally considered the best time to visit the Sundarbans. The weather is cool and pleasant, making it ideal for wildlife spotting.
• Can you visit the Sundarbans during the monsoon season?
  Yes, a monsoon tour of the Sundarbans (June to September) offers a completely different and dramatic experience. The forest is lush, green, and washed clean by the rain. While boat trips can be affected by weather, you will witness the forest in its wildest form, with fewer tourists and a mystical, serene atmosphere. It’s a perfect trip for photographers and nature lovers seeking solitude.
• How to get there and where to stay?
  You can travel from Dhaka to Khulna or Mongla by bus or train. From there, tour operators manage multi-day trips on specialized vessels (launches or ships) that take you deep into the forest. Accommodation and meals are typically provided on board.

Protecting the Sundarbans: What can we do?

The role of the Sundarbans in protecting Bangladesh from cyclones is immense. We all have a responsibility to protect this natural shield. During your visit, practice sustainable tourism by avoiding plastic, not disturbing wildlife, and choosing eco-friendly tour operators.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the Sundarbans

1. How did the Sundarbans get its name?
   Answer: It is widely believed to be named after the dominant tree in the forest, the Sundari (Heritiera fomes).
2. How many Royal Bengal Tigers are in the Sundarbans?
   Answer: The total tiger population is spread across two countries. According to the latest official census reports, there are 114 tigers in the Bangladesh Sundarbans and 100 tigers in the Indian Sundarbans. These numbers are subject to change as both countries conduct regular surveys.
3. How much does a Sundarbans tour cost?
   Answer: The cost varies depending on the tour duration and package quality. A standard 3-day, 2-night tour can cost anywhere from $80 to $200 USD per person or more.
4. Is the Sundarbans dangerous to visit?
   Answer: A trip to the Sundarbans is generally safe when undertaken with an experienced guide and a reputable tour operator who follows all safety protocols.