Sundarbans National Park

Sundarbans National Park in South 24 Parganas, West Bengal, is a vast protected area covering about 1,330 square kilometers and forms the core of the larger Sundarbans Tiger Reserve. It is part of the world's largest mangrove forest, situated in the delta of the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Meghna rivers, sharing its ecosystem with Bangladesh.

The park is famous for its dense mangrove forests dominated by Sundari trees and a complex network of tidal waterways, mudflats, and islands. It is a critical habitat for the endangered Royal Bengal tiger, supporting one of the largest tiger populations globally, along with other wildlife such as saltwater crocodiles, fishing cats, various bird species, and aquatic life.

Declared a national park in 1984, the Sundarbans was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987 and is also recognized as a Ramsar wetland site. The park plays an essential role in protecting biodiversity, maintaining coastal ecology, and supporting the livelihoods of local communities, despite facing threats from natural calamities and human activities. Its unique ecosystem draws tourists for boat safaris and wildlife viewing, especially of the elusive tigers and rich birdlife.