Sundarbans National Park

A swath of mangrove swamps and forested islands in the Ganges delta, the Sundarbans is home to the world's largest wild tiger population. The area is also inhabited by a bevy of other wild creatures, such as spotted deer, crocodiles, boars, dolphins, and multiple bird species.

How to Get There
The most hassle-free way of getting to the Sundarbans National Park is by joining a tour from Kolkata. For more information, contact Kolkata's West Bengal Tourist Center (3/2 BBD Bagh, Kolkata; tel. +91 [0]332 248 8271). If you'd rather do the trip independently, make inquiries at this office about the best way to do so.

Attractions
The verdant 998-square-mile (2,585-square-kilometer) Sundarbans Tiger Reserve, located in the delta's maze of forests and waterways is where you can take a boat cruise to try your luck at spotting one of the estimated 265-280 Bengal tigers that live here (by the way, the tigers here are adept swimmers).

Places to Stay
With just a few places to stay in the area, it pays to book ahead. The best places to eat are found in the hotels.

The most appealing accommodation option is the Sunderban Tiger Camp, which offers a combination of luxurious tents, huts, and cottages. The restaurant puts on a super buffet for lunch and dinner. Sajnekhali; tel. +91 (0)332 237 5012; e-mail info@sunderbantigercamp.com.

A cheaper, but far less atmospheric option is the Sajnekhali Tourist Lodge, which has dormitory accommodations (these can't be booked ahead) as well as private rooms. The lodge is not in great condition, but is still one of the most central and economical places for those on a budget. Reservations are made through the West Bengal Tourism Development Corporation (Strand Road, Kolkata; +91 [0]33 2248 7318; e-mail wbtdc@cal.vsnl.net.in).

General Tips
The best time to visit the Sundarbans is between October and March. All foreigners must obtain a permit (free of charge) to access the Sundarbans Tiger Reserve. This can be obtained in Kolkata at the West Bengal Tourist Center (3/2 BBD Bagh, Kolkata; tel. +91 [0]33 2248 8271); take along your passport and set aside an hour or so for the permit-issuing process.

For More Information
West Bengal Tourist Center 3/2 BBD Bagh, Kolkata; tel. +91 (0)33 2248 8271.
UNESCO World Heritage