Into the Wild: A 3-Day Sundarbans Tiger Trail
Complete Journey Overview
Into the Wild: A 3-Day Sundarbans Tiger Trail
Into the Wild: A 3-Day Sundarbans Tiger Trail
Embark on an unforgettable adventure filled with amazing experiences
Day 1: Journey to the Mangrove Kingdom
Road Trip to Godkhali
Start your journey from Kolkata to Godkhali, the gateway to the Sundarbans. The route passes through scenic Bengali countryside and villages. It's best to start early to avoid city traffic.
Check-in to Eco Resort / Houseboat
Upon arrival at Godkhali, board your private boat which will take you to your accommodation. Settle into your eco-resort or houseboat, your base for the next two nights. We recommend Sunderban Tiger Camp or a similar reputable eco-lodge.
Welcome Lunch on the Water
Enjoy your first meal amidst the serene backwaters. The lunch will be a traditional Bengali thali featuring rice, dal, vegetable curries, and fresh river fish like Bhetki or Parshe, prepared by the local crew.
Sajnekhali Watchtower & Interpretation Centre
Begin your exploration with a visit to the Sajnekhali Wildlife Sanctuary. Climb the watchtower for a panoramic view of the forest. Visit the Mangrove Interpretation Centre to learn about the unique ecosystem, and see the crocodile and turtle breeding ponds.
Evening Tea & Snacks
As the sun sets over the river, return to your resort. Enjoy hot tea or coffee with Bengali snacks like 'Muri' (puffed rice) and 'Telebhaja' (fritters) while watching the changing colors of the sky.
Local Folk Performance: Bonbibi Jatra
Experience the local culture through a captivating performance of 'Bonbibi Jatra', a folk theatre form that tells the story of the Forest Goddess, Bonbibi, the protector of the locals from tiger attacks. It's a vibrant and authentic cultural immersion.
Dinner Under the Stars
Enjoy a hearty dinner featuring more local delicacies. The menu might include country chicken curry or a special crab preparation, alongside various vegetarian dishes. The quiet, starlit ambiance of the Sundarbans adds to the experience.
Day 2: Deep Forest Safari & Watchtowers
Full-Day Mangrove Safari
Embark on a full-day boat safari deep into the core area of the Sundarbans Tiger Reserve. Your guide will help you navigate through narrow, winding creeks and channels like Pirkhali and Sarakkhali, prime habitats for wildlife. The main goal is to spot the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger, but also look for saltwater crocodiles, spotted deer, wild boars, and rhesus macaques.
Sudhanyakhali Watchtower
Your safari will include a stop at the Sudhanyakhali Watchtower. This tower is famous for wildlife sightings as it overlooks a sweet water pond where animals come to drink. Spend time here observing the landscape silently.
Lunch Amidst the Wilderness
A unique experience of having a hot, freshly cooked lunch served on the boat, anchored in the middle of a wide river. The menu is similar to the previous day but the setting makes it unforgettable.
Dobanki Watchtower & Canopy Walk
Visit the Dobanki Watchtower, which features a 496-meter-long canopy walk. This netted walkway is suspended about 20 feet above the ground, offering a unique perspective of the mangrove forest and a safe way to experience the dense foliage up close.
Specialty Dinner: Mud Crab Feast
After a long day of exploration, return to the resort for a special dinner. If in season, request a locally sourced mud crab curry ('Kankrar Jhal'). It's a Sundarbans delicacy known for its rich, spicy flavor.
Day 3: Village Life and Farewell to the Forest
Breakfast at the Lodge
Enjoy a final breakfast at the resort. A typical Bengali breakfast includes 'Luchi' (fried flatbread) with 'Aloor Dom' (slow-cooked potato curry) or toast and eggs.
Village Walk & Cultural Exchange
Take a guided walk through a local village like Pakhiralay or Dayapur. This is an opportunity to witness the daily life, resilience, and hospitality of the islanders who live in close proximity to the wild. See their mud houses, local schools, and small markets. You can also learn about local livelihoods like fishing and honey collection.
Farewell Lunch
Have your last meal in the Sundarbans. The crew will prepare another delicious spread as you cruise back towards the Godkhali jetty.
Return Journey to Kolkata
Disembark at Godkhali Jetty and begin your road journey back to Kolkata, filled with memories of the mystical mangrove forest.
