This atlas is in beta. I am still checking facts, ranges, and species lists, so some of it may be wrong or incomplete. It is here early so these places get seen. If you spot an error, write to me.
Sundarbans Tiger Reserve
BetaAlso known as Sundarbans National Park
The world's largest mangrove forest and the only one with tigers, a tidal maze in the Ganges delta.
Why this place matters
The world's largest mangrove forest and the only mangrove tiger habitat, forming a vital climate buffer and nursery for coastal fisheries while supporting threatened tigers, estuarine crocodiles and river dolphins.
The wildlife
Bengal TigerENEndangeredMangrove-adapted tigers capable of swimming long distances and hunting in tidal creeks and mudflats.
Estuarine CrocodileLCLeast ConcernLarge crocodilian inhabiting tidal rivers and creeks.
Spotted DeerLCLeast ConcernPrimary ungulate prey species on the mangrove islands.
Fishing CatVUVulnerableSemi-aquatic small cat associated with creeks and mangrove edges.
The wider field list, with current IUCN Red List status.
Mammals
- Bengal tigerPanthera tigris tigrisENEndangered
- Fishing catPrionailurus viverrinusVUVulnerable
Ganges river dolphinPlatanista gangeticaENEndangered- Chital (spotted deer)Axis axisLCLeast Concern
Rhesus macaqueMacaca mulattaLCLeast Concern
Wild boarSus scrofaLCLeast Concern
Birds
Grey heronArdea cinereaLCLeast Concern
Kingfisher
Painted storkMycteria leucocephalaLCLeast Concern
Raptor
Reptiles
Olive ridley sea turtleLepidochelys olivaceaVUVulnerable
Bengal monitorVaranus bengalensisNTNear Threatened
Indian rock pythonPython molurusNTNear Threatened- Saltwater crocodileCrocodylus porosusLCLeast Concern
163+ bird species recorded. Notable birds include Lesser Adjutant, Grey Heron, White-bellied Sea Eagle and Brown-winged Kingfisher. Reptiles include Estuarine Crocodile, Olive Ridley Turtle and Monitor Lizard.
Plan your visit
Winter offers clearer skies and safer boat conditions for exploring creeks and watchtowers; early winter may coincide with bird migrations and active fish-based foraging by tigers and dolphins.
- Zones
- Boat-based tourism circuits in Sundarbans Tiger Reserve and National Park
- Safari
- boat safaris on tidal rivers and creeks, with viewing from decks and watchtowers
- Typical sightings
- Spotted deer on mudflats, crocodiles basking on creek banks, raptors over channels and, with luck, tigers on banks or swimming.
- Light and terrain
- Strong glare from water and bright skies requires careful exposure; mist and haze can soften early-morning views; long distances are often involved.
- Hides
- Watchtowers on select forested islands; no ground-walk hides in core mangrove blocks.
- Good to know
- Movement restricted to authorised boats and designated landing points; no walking safaris in the core; tourism subject to tidal schedules and weather advisories.