Exploring the mystical Sundarbans is an experience that takes you deep into the heart of the world's largest mangrove forest. Located in the delta region of Padma, Meghna, and Brahmaputra river basins, it stretches across the border between Bangladesh and India. Here, dense mangrove forests, numerous waterways, and tidal islands form a unique habitat for a wide variety of flora and fauna. If you're planning to explore this enchanting region, join us as we venture into the untamed beauty of the Sundarbans to discover the top 5 animals and where to find them.

1. Royal Bengal Tiger

The Sundarbans is renowned for being the last bastion of the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger. With its distinctive orange coat and bold black stripes, this apex predator holds an almost mythical status. The Royal Bengal Tiger is known for its powerful build and its unique adaptation to the aquatic environment of the Sundarbans, often swimming between islands in search of prey. The Sundarbans is one of the few places in the world where tigers have adapted to an aquatic environment, making it a unique destination for tiger enthusiasts.

It is actually quite rare for tourists to see a Bengal tiger while on a river cruise. While spotting a Bengal tiger is challenging due to its solitary behavior and the Sundarbans' dense tree cover, a chance to stumble on the remarkable footprints (called "pugmarks" in Bengali) of the big cat is a thrilling experience. Try your luck while on a boat safari and keep your eyes peeled for a flash of their rich orange coat amidst the green foliage. Though a tiger could be sighted anywhere in the forest, the best chances to catch a glimpse in the Bangladesh Sundarbans are at sites including Kotka, Kochikhali, Hiron Point and Mandarbaria areas. Tiger sightings have been increasing among tourists in Bangladesh in recent years.  The best chance to catch a glimpse of this awe-inspiring predator, is in locations such as the Sajnekhali Wildlife Sanctuary and the Netidhopani watchtower, both on the West Bengal side of the Sundarbans in India, where tiger sightings are not uncommon.

A Lounging Bengal Tiger. Image source: Medium - Shouptikg

The Royal Bengal Tiger's adaptation to the Sundarbans' aquatic environment is a fascinating aspect of its behavior. These tigers have developed the ability to swim long distances, allowing them to traverse the numerous waterways and tidal creeks that crisscross the mangrove forest. This adaptation not only aids in hunting but also helps in avoiding territorial conflicts with other tigers. The sight of a tiger swimming between islands is a testament to the unique and resilient nature of this apex predator.

2. Estuarine Crocodile

Venture along the tangled waterways of the Sundarbans, and you may encounter the formidable estuarine or saltwater crocodile. These ancient reptiles are the largest of all living crocodiles, known for their immense strength and stealth. With their powerful jaws and prehistoric appearance, they thrive in the brackish waters and muddy banks of the Sundarbans. The Bhola River in Bangladesh is known for crocodile sightings, particularly during low tide when they bask on the muddy banks, and Kalagachia Eco-Park offers guided tours to observe these ancient reptiles in their natural habitat. Often seen basking on riverbanks or gliding through the waters, these formidable predators are a testament to the region's rich biodiversity. Keep your eyes peeled while exploring the creeks and estuaries, as the Sundarbans host one of the largest populations of estuarine crocodiles in the world.

An Estuarine Crocodile sunbathing on a muddy bank. Image source: Flickr 

The estuarine crocodile is an apex predator in its own right, commanding respect and awe from those who encounter it. These crocodiles can grow up to seven meters in length and weigh over a ton, making them the largest of all crocodilian species. Their sheer size and power make them formidable hunters, capable of taking down large prey with ease. Despite their fearsome reputation, estuarine crocodiles play a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of the Sundarbans by regulating the populations of other species.

One of the best ways to observe these ancient reptiles is by taking a guided boat tour along the Bhola River. These tours often coincide with low tide, when crocodiles are more likely to be seen basking on the muddy banks. The sight of these massive creatures sunning themselves on the riverbanks is both awe-inspiring and humbling. Additionally, Kalagachia Eco-Park offers a more structured and educational experience, with guided tours that provide insights into the behavior and ecology of estuarine crocodiles.

3. The Spotted Deer (Chital)

The elegant spotted deer, also known as the chital, graces the grassy expanses and forest clearings of the Sundarbans with their striking white spots contrasting beautifully against their reddish-brown coats, making them a mesmerizing sight for wildlife enthusiasts. Often seen in large herds, these graceful deer are commonly found grazing in the open areas of the forest where they roam freely. Their gentle demeanor and frequent presence in open grasslands or near water bodies make the spotted deer a favorite among visitors.

A spotted deer with antlers gracefully walking through a forested area. Image source: Photo by Mamun Srizon on Unsplash

The spotted deer, or chital, is one of the most commonly seen animals in the Sundarbans, and their beautiful, spotted coats make them a visual delight. These deer are highly social animals and are often found in large herds, which can consist of dozens of individuals. Their social structure is typically organized around a dominant male, who leads the herd and protects it from predators.

Hiron Point is one of the best places to observe spotted deer in the Sundarbans. This area is renowned for its large herds of deer, which can often be seen grazing in the open grasslands or near water bodies. The deer at Hiron Point are accustomed to human presence, making them relatively easy to observe and photograph. Kotka, another hotspot for spotted deer sightings, offers a more remote and tranquil experience. Here, you can watch these graceful animals as they move through the forest clearings and open grasslands, providing ample opportunities for wildlife photography.

4. Olive Ridley Turtle

The coastal waters and sandy shores of the Sundarbans provide a vital nesting ground for the endangered Olive Ridley Turtle. During the nesting season, these gentle creatures emerge from the sea to lay their eggs in the soft sands of uninhabited islands within the Sundarbans. Join a guided boat tour with GSETS to witness this remarkable spectacle and contribute to the conservation efforts that protect these magnificent reptiles.

With an average weight between 75-100 pounds and a length between 24-28 inches, the Olive Ridley Turtle is the smallest and most abundant of all sea turtles, yet it faces numerous threats that have led to its endangered status. These turtles are known for their unique mass nesting behavior, called arribada, where thousands of females come ashore simultaneously to lay their eggs. This remarkable event occurs during specific times of the year and is a breathtaking sight to witness.

In the Sundarbans, the uninhabited islands provide a safe haven for Olive Ridley Turtles to nest. These islands are relatively undisturbed by human activity, making them ideal nesting sites. Guided boat tours offer the chance to observe these turtles as they come ashore to lay their eggs, usually under the cover of darkness. The experience of watching a female turtle laboriously dig a nest and deposit her eggs is both moving and inspiring.

Conservation efforts are crucial to the survival of Olive Ridley Turtles. Various organizations and local communities work tirelessly to protect nesting sites, monitor turtle populations, and reduce threats such as poaching and habitat destruction. By joining a guided boat tour, you not only get to witness the incredible nesting process but also contribute to these vital conservation efforts.

An Olive Ridley Turtle resting on a patch of grass and soil. Source: Telegraph India

5. Rhesus Macaque

As you traverse through the dense foliage of the Sundarbans, keep an eye out for the playful antics of the rhesus macaque. These charismatic monkeys are a common sight in the mangrove forests, where they swing from tree to tree and forage for food. To witness these agile primates in their natural habitat, visit areas like the Karamjal Wildlife Breeding Center and other day visitor centers in Sundarbans.

The rhesus macaque is one of the most widely distributed primates in the world, known for its adaptability and intelligence. In the Sundarbans, these monkeys are often seen in the dense mangrove forests, where they move with agility and grace. Their playful behavior and curious nature make them a delight to observe.

A Rhesus Macaque sitting on a tree branch. Image source: Wikimedia Commons

Plan Your Safari in the Sundarbans

Karamjal Wildlife Breeding Center, the closest point to the Sundarbans from Khulna by way of Mongla Port, provides a view of deer and crocodiles within enclosures, with Rhesus Macaques playing freely. A significant walkway allows tourists to explore the forest, and a watchtower offers a better aerial view of the surroundings. Tigers are rarely seen in the open forest here, but there is a fully reconstructed tiger skeleton on display there for educational purposes. Also note that the endangered Olive Ridley Turtle may only be seen seasonally and along the beaches of the Bay of Bengal. When visiting, it's important to remember that all of these animals are best observed from a distance to ensure their safety. 

The Sundarbans is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists alike, offering a glimpse into the captivating world of some of Earth's most extraordinary creatures. From the stealthy tigers to the serene turtles, each animal embodies the untamed spirit of this remarkable wilderness. Whether you are an animal lover, a wildlife photographer, or simply someone seeking adventure, a visit to the Sundarbans is sure to leave you in awe of the natural wonders that this enchanting mangrove forest holds. So, pack your bags, embark on a journey to the Sundarbans, and witness the incredible wildlife that calls this place home.