10 Facts to Know Before Traveling to the Sundarbans

The Sundarbans offers a unique experience in every season, but for many, the most attractive time to visit is during the monsoon. The forest comes alive with vibrant greenery, and the salinity of the river water decreases. Even the animals rejoice at the touch of fresh monsoon water. To allow the wildlife to enjoy this season without interference, the forest department closes the Sundarbans to tourists from June to August. During this breeding season, fishermen are also restricted from entering the forest, giving the ecosystem time to recover and thrive. The Sundarbans reopened to tourists on September 1, following a three-month closure.

If you’re planning a trip to the Sundarbans, here are 10 important tips to keep in mind:

1. Points of Entry: The Sundarbans can be accessed from Khulna, Mongla in Bagerhat, and Shyamnagar in Satkhira. For day trips, you can go from Mongla to Karamjal or Harbaria, from Khulna to Kalabaghi or Shekhertek, and from Satkhira to Kalagachia or Dobeki. However, visiting Harbaria, Shekhertek, and Dobeki requires special permission from the forest department.
2. Trawler Routes: You can take a trawler from Mongla to Karamjal and Harbaria via the Pasur River, from Khulna to Kalabagi and Shekhertek via the Rupsa-Shibsa River, or from Munshiganj in Satkhira to Kalagachia and Dobeki. Many trawlers operate in these areas, ready to take tourists on a scenic journey through the Sundarbans.
3. Trawler Costs: Renting a trawler to visit Karamjal, Kalabaghi, and Kalagachia will cost between 2,500 and 5,500 BDT per trawler. For trips to Harbaria, Shekhertek, and Dobeki, prices range from 6,000 to 15,000 BDT. Each trawler can accommodate 20 to 30 people.
4. Accommodation: If you’re planning to stay overnight in the Sundarbans, it’s recommended to go through a tour operator. Typically, Sundarbans tours offer three-day, two-night packages that include everything from permits to transportation.
5. Tour Operators: There are hundreds of tour operators based in Khulna and Mongla, as well as some in Dhaka. Popular spots covered in these packages include Karamjal, Harbaria, Katka, Kachikhali, Jamtala Beach, Dublarchar, Hiran Point, Mandarbaria, and Bangabandhu Char.
6. Package Costs: Three-day packages cost between 7,500 and 10,000 BDT per person. If you prefer an air-conditioned launch, the price increases to 14,500 to 20,000 BDT.
7. Wooden Trawler Experience: For a more intimate experience, you can take a wooden trawler from Munshiganj or Satkhira. These smaller trawlers can accommodate 10 to 15 people and come equipped with forest guards and guides for safety. The cost per person for this two-night, three-day trip ranges from 6,000 to 7,000 BDT.
8. Plastic Ban: To protect the Sundarbans’ biodiversity, the forest department has implemented a strict ban on plastic products, including plastic bottles and single-use items.
9. Required Documents: To visit the Sundarbans, you must obtain a permit from the forest department. Make sure to carry your national identity card and apply for the permit at least five days before your trip.
10. Regulations: Flying drones and carrying firearms are strictly prohibited in the Sundarbans. The forest department will take legal action against anyone found with such items. Additionally, tourists are advised not to disturb the wildlife.