Resort vs Hotel in Sundarbans: What’s Better for Tourists?
The Sundarbans, the world’s largest mangrove forest, is one of the most adventurous and popular tourist destinations in India. It’s home to a diverse and unique population of wildlife and plants. It attracts thousands of travelers every year. While the forest and wildlife are the main highlights, choosing the right place to stay is equally important. And a few of the most important questions that people ask when traveling to the Sundarbans are Where to stay? Will staying in a hotel be better or should you choose a resort? What are the perks of staying in a hotel and why choose a resort? In this blog, we’ll help you through this dilemma. We’ll share the most important information about resorts and hotels so that you can make a well-informed decision according to your needs.
How to find the Best Hotel or Resort in Sundarbans
1. Do Online research
Everything is online. It’s the best and most accessible way of finding the most consistent hotels and resorts. Check for GMB reviews and reviews on other platforms like MMT and Goibibo. Choose resorts or hotels that maintain their testimonials to demonstrate their premium quality services.
2. Choose a Hotel or Resort in a Prime Location
When selecting your stay at the Sundarbans, be sure to choose one that is well-connected and close to the ferry or other signature locations like Sudhanyakhali Watchtower, Sajnekhali Watchtower, Bhagabatpur Crocodile Project, Pakhirala Island, or others. A signature location is indeed a privilege for finding the best hotel option. Resorts or hotels near the Sundarbans forest offer the privilege of staying close to the wild.
3. Check their Food Quality & Hygiene
A clean and hygienic hotel or resort is an absolute must. You cannot compromise healthy food and clean rooms. It’s not only a matter of aesthetics but also of health. Some things to keep in mind are that your stay must have an in-house restaurant and should serve both veg and non-veg food. It should also offer the best local cuisine because the Sundarbans is famous for fresh seafood that includes a variety of fish and other sea animals like crabs, shrimps, and lobsters.
4. Try to Choose a Stay that has Eco-Friendly Qualities
Though you’re just a traveler in the Sundarbans, you have some responsibilities as well. You must understand that the Sundarbans is a very unique and delicate ecosystem. Pollution and degradation of the environment can seriously harm the ecosystem and cause danger to the rare plants and animals of these deltas.
The Top Best Qualities of a Good Resort in Sundarbans
1. Scenic Beauty
Make sure that your resort offers a pleasant view of the scenery nearby. So, you can enjoy the natural beauty of the mangroves right from your room’s window. If the resort is positioned in a natural environment, such as amidst gardens or on a riverbank, it is a better option.
2. Availability of AC and non-AC Rooms
You must have the option of choosing between staying in AC or non-AC rooms. This is an added perk and gives you more options and variations. Sometimes fresh natural air is more comfortable for some, while for others the compressed cold air of an air conditioner might be a better option.
3. Tour Packages
This is the biggest USP of staying in a resort in Sundarbans. You can find many resorts in the Sundarbans that offer curated tour packages that include guided jungle safaris and boat rides.
Types of Sundarbans Hotels
1. Affordable Hotels in Sundarbans
Usually, the price of staying in such hotels ranges between Rs 500 and 700 per night, but it varies depending upon the season and demand. They offer basic facilities like normal bedding, a fan, a bathroom, and minimal services. These hotels are best for backpackers, students, and budget-conscious travelers. Some examples are:
- Apanjan Hotel
- Hotel Tara Maa
- Green View Hotel
2. Standard or Mid-Range Hotels
These hotels’ pricing starts at Rs 700 and can go up to Rs 1200 per night depending on the time of the year. Common facilities in these hotels include private rooms, attached bathrooms, and better room service. Hotels like these are ideal for families and small groups looking for comfort at a reasonable price. A few examples are:
- S2 Hotel
- Porijayee Hotel
3. Premium Hotels in Sundarbans
Premium hotels offer AC rooms, professional service, quality food, and cultural programs. The price of a stay is between 1200 and 2000 per night. If you are traveling with corporate groups or couples, or if you’re an international traveler, then choosing to stay in premium hotels is the best option. Some prime examples are the following:
- Hotel Icon
- Hotel Tufan
5-Star Hotels
5-star hotels are the best of the best and the price of a stay starts from Rs 5000 and above per night depending on the time of the season. Common facilities in such hotels include swimming pools, spas, riverside views, private ghats, customized safaris, and professional chefs. They are ideal for honeymooners, high-end tourists, or anyone seeking a premium experience. The best examples include:
- Hotel Sonar Bangla
- Tiger Roar Resort
- Larica Inn
Top 4 Reasons to Stay in a Hotel at Sundarbans
- Mangroves, rivers, and wildlife define the landscape here.
- Clean air and eco-conscious construction run through the whole place, not just parts of it.
- Evenings bring local music and dance, a real window into the culture.
- This is the best option for kids, grandparents, or anyone looking for a private experience.
Conclusion
Choosing between a hotel and a resort in the Sundarbans ultimately depends on your travel style and budget. If you are seeking affordability, structural variety, and a private, family-friendly environment, a traditional hotel offers excellent options ranging from budget-friendly stays to 5-star luxury.
On the other hand, if you want an immersive nature experience complete with scenic mangrove views, flexible room options, and all-inclusive tour packages, a resort is the ideal choice.
Regardless of your decision, ensure your accommodation prioritizes prime location, excellent hygiene, and eco-friendly practices to make your adventure in this delicate delta safe, comfortable, and unforgettable.