The chances of seeing a royal Bengal Tiger are slim, despite the Sundarbans boasting the largest tiger population worldwide. You have the best chance of spotting one as they cross a river or creek. It is not a guarantee, but you might be one of the lucky ones who do manage to catch a glimpse of this magnificent big cat.
The accommodation offers a diverse range of tourist activities, encompassing cooking classes with local residents, forest hikes, artisan workshops, agricultural tours, and traditional activities.
Visitors interested in experiencing the Sundarbans culture can participate in traditional activities like fishing and crab catching, cultural walking tours, observing traditional performances, and engaging in local events.
It is always recommended that you have a guide with you when visiting the Sundarbans Reserve Forest. You can take hikes in nearby villages, however going into the forest alone is not a good idea. A guide is always required on boats as well, so you will want to make sure you have someone experienced with you whenever you are entering the reserve. When going to a watch tower you are allowed to take a stroll, but be sure to stay on the trekking paths made for tourists.
No, it is actually illegal for visitors to hop out of the boat in the forest. For safety reasons, you should not get off as fatalities can occur, any boat allowing visitors to do so will have their license revoked.
You can visit the Sundarbans reserve forest on a day trip as a boat tour from Khulna or Mongla, or take an extended overnight boat trip. You may have the chance to explore on foot accompanied by armed forest guards, or on smaller boats going through narrower river channels. You can even get off the beaten path by trekking into the forest on for following local honey collectors.
Not always, the government of Bangladesh recently implemented a total ban on entry into the Sundarbans for three months out of the year. Every June, July, and August the Sundarbans will be closed to tourists and communities around the reserve in order to ensure undisturbed habitat for wildlife during breeding season. This is also the time of year that receives the heaviest rains throughout the year, monsoons can also affect reserve closings.
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Although both the Sundarbans Reserve Forest and Sundarbans National Park both make up the Sundarbans Mangrove Forest, Sundarbans National Park is located in India, while the Sundarbans Reserve Forest is located in Bangladesh.
The villages are located on the border of the reserve, many of the locals living around the reserve depend on it for their livelihoods.
There are many opportunities for visitors to immerse themselves in the culture of the Sundarbans. Make an effort to get to know locals and be sure to explore many of the historical landmarks and cultural performances that are offered. The best way to find immersive experiences is by visiting an EcoVillage or booking a guided tour.