Sundarbans : Tiger empire

Tiger empire
Inhabited by a large variety of flora and fauna, the Sundarbans National Park is everything exciting and enthralling

A step inside the wide expanse of the Sundarbans, the largest mangrove forest and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was just the start to a worthwhile journey. With an aim to get a view of the famed Royal Bengal Tiger and to get acquainted with the several species of flora and fauna that makes the Sundarbans what it is, we kickstarted our journey by taking the Sundarbans Express, which directly took us to Khulna, touted as one of the best cities to experience a busy city-life. All set to bask in as much as we could about the magnificent Sundarbans, our next four days were nothing less than an enlightenment for all!

Bountiful expanse
The experience was even more delightful as we had a boat, which was going to be our abode for the night. By the time we reached Khulna and set out on a sail in the Rupsa River, it was almost dinner time. However, we couldn’t resist the magnificence of the moonlight and gathered around the deck to enjoy the view. The night was filled with interesting conversations and songs. Talk about losing track of time! Dinner was served, following a hearty sleep after a long travel.

There are three wildlife sanctuary areas — ‘Kotka-Kachikhali Tiger point’, ‘Hironpoint’ and ‘Manderbaria’ including numerous unexplored natural beaches, innumerable rivers, canals and creeks in the Sundarbans forest. Abundance of water body makes the waterways as the only means to enter the forest. These ships can be booked on the basis of the budget of the traveller. There are bigger ships, which flaunt a carriage capacity of around 100-150 people and smaller ships that can carry up to 30 people in one go. A tour to the Sundarbans can cost a person 10,000 to 35,000 Taka, depending on the packages they choose.

Treasure trove
Sundarbans National Park is more than just spotting tigers. The most comfortable time to explore the Sundarbans is during winters (November to February), with the temperatures ranging between 15-25 degree celsius. The Sundarbans comprises of a complex network of mudflats, tidal waterways and small islands. It is home to the national animal of Bangladesh, The forest treasures 330 plant species, 35 species of reptiles, 400 types of fishes, 270 species of birds and 42 species of mammals. Apart from tigers, one can spot the clouded leopard, black panthers, fishing cats, saltwater crocodiles among others. Those interested in bird watching can find several species of waterfowl, raptors and forest birds including nine species of kingfisher and the magnificent white-bellied sea eagle.

The lifestyle in the Sundarbans is immensely diverse. Fishing with trained otters, gathering wild honey etc. are few of the oldest professions that are still practiced by the people of this area. Even after being isolated from the civilisation, the forest dwellers have developed a strong culture of their own. Their life is adapted with this unique ecosystem. Before entering the forest, they pay homage to their gods and deities. Banabibi is the most worshipped one.

Precautionary files
Our trip here was nothing less than a learning about the precautionary measures to be taken to walk in the forest. We were told to wear olive green clothes to not attract wild animals. It is advisable to carry light shoes, a hat and handy GPS devices to explore the forest to the fullest. Maintaining a balance in the muddy terrain can be a task. It is best to carry sticks while walking in the forest to cater to emergencies.