The Essential Do’s and Don’ts for a Jungle Safari in Sundarbans

Sundarbans—the home of the Royal Bengal Tiger, a land of exotic birds and rare species of sea animals. The mangroves of Sundarbans occupy a wide region of 10,000 square kilometers. This makes it the world’s largest mangrove and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

These are the primary reasons the place attracts tourists from all over the world. These forests are interconnected with streams and water bodies that make it perfect for a boat jungle safari. 

The best time to visit these mangroves is during the winter. It is the best time to spot the Royal Bengal Tiger and catch a glimpse of exotic birds. The waterways are also calm, making boat safaris safer and smoother.  

In this blog, we will be counting the dos and don’ts that you should follow on a jungle safari in Sundarbans. 

Let’s begin! 

List of Do’s

• Avoid drinking tap water- Instead, opt for filtered or coconut water.  

• Do carry water in metal water bottles- Sundarbans is a “No Plastic Zone.”  

• Carry snacks-Take some light snacks and fruits with you to nibble on.  

• Carry skincare products, sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen.  

• Carry cash- The likelihood of using an ATM is remote. Mostly, SBI ATMs are accessible in Gosaba. 

• Carry medications for coughs, colds, stomach problems, etc, because the likelihood of finding a pharmacy is remote.  

• Most importantly, carry a torch and spare batteries. 

• Carry spare batteries-  For your camera, as it is a remote area, and you might not get batteries to buy.  

List of Don’ts 

• Do not bring any plastic bags-  Sunderbans National Park is a “No Plastic Zone.”  

• Don’t harm the habitat- Don’t throw anything out of the boat or launch.  

• Avoid playing any sound system- Avoid playing loudspeakers or shouting, since it disturbs wildlife and co-visitors.  

• No one should get out of the boat- That’s the rule of thumb.  

• You should not enter Sunderbans National Park- The Tiger Reserve is off limits.  

• Timings- Staying in the Sunderbans National Park/Tiger Reserve area is only permitted between sunrise and sunset. 

• Avoid major offenses– Hunting, fishing, flora and habitat damage, entering the core region, and moving into non-permitted forest places are all considered major offenses. 

• Respect locals- Don’t insult the local customs and traditions.  

• Maintain a safe distance– Always maintain a safe distance from wild animals and avoid provoking them.  

• Do not start fires- Or smoke within the premises of protected areas.  

• Avoid driving at night- Nighttime driving is completely prohibited in the Protected Area. 

• Don’t enter restricted zones- Entry within the Protected Area’s sanctum sanctorum (core area) is restricted, as is movement outside the tourist zone.  

• Avoid making noise- Shouting, loud singing, making noise, tormenting, or chasing animals is strictly prohibited. 

• Maintain the law- Carrying guns, firearms, weapons, bows, arrows, and firecrackers is not allowed. It is against the Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972.  

• Don’t carry food items- Carrying and eating packed food is absolutely prohibited within the Protected Area.  

• Don’t litter- or throw fruit peels, and so forth.  

• Don’t harm plants or animals. 

• Don’t feed animals.-Tourists are not permitted to feed wild animals or captive elephants.  

• Don’t rash drive- Rash driving (greater than 20 km/h) is severely prohibited inside the Protected Area.  

• Don’t leave the lodge-Tourists are not allowed to leave the lodge compound on foot or without a guide.  

• Avoid- The use of flashlights or photographing wild animals is not permitted. 

• Don’t smoke- Smoking on an elephant’s back is not allowed.  

• Don’t bathe in the river- Bathing in the river water is prohibited.  

• Don’t misbehave- Disorderly conduct, misconduct, and drunk behavior are not allowed in the Forest Lodge. 

A Jungle Boat Safari with the Best: Solitary Nook 

We at Solitary Nook provide the best boat safaris in the Sundarbans. Our 2-day, 1-night tour plan includes pickup from Godkhali. Then we will embark on our Sundarban exploration. Our itinerary includes a boat safari to the Sajnekhali Watch Tower (WT), Sudhanyakhali (WT), and Dobanki. 

• Locations: Godkhali, Hamilton Bangalow, Beacon Bungalow, Sajnekhali Watch Tower (WT), Sudhanyakhali WT, Dobanki. 

• Accommodation: Stay at your comfortable, eco-friendly, and state-of-the-art cottages.   

• All-Inclusive Packages: Enjoy a worry-free experience with our all-inclusive package, which features a guided boat safari, necessary forest permits, comfortable lodging, authentic homemade Bengali meals, and captivating local cultural performances. 

Read More:

Sundarban Weekend Getaway:10 Fun Activities

100+ Tips for Making Your Sundarbans Tour Amazing

 

The Final Word 

To summarize, a jungle safari in Sundarbans offers a unique opportunity to witness incredible biodiversity in a fragile ecosystem. 

By adhering to the guidelines provided, you contribute to the preservation of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. While also ensuring a safe and respectful experience for both you and the wildlife. 

Remember the “No Plastic Zone” policy. Avoid disturbing the animals. Always prioritize safety and conservation.  

Following these dos and don’ts will help you have a memorable and responsible adventure in the Sundarbans.