Some tips to travel Sundarbans

The exigent and most attractive Mangrove forest of the world, Shundarbans always allure the travelers both who love challenge and excitement and both for nature lovers by means of its natural habitat and beauty. My previous post may make you people enthusiastic to visit the largest Mangrove of the world. So here are some tips to travel Shundarbans.I hope you will enjoy it.

The best time to visit the Sundarbans is from November to March. Water transport is the only means of communication for visiting the Sundarbans from Khulna or Mongla Port. The visitors of Dhaka may travel to Khulna by

• Air (The quickest mode is by air from Dhaka to Jessore and then drive to Khulna by road.)
• Road (Different travel bus service both AC and non-AC are available )or
• Rocket Steamer

Then private motor launch, speed boats, country boats as well as mechanised vessel of Mongla Port Authority might be from Khulna to Shundarbans. The journey time varies depending on whether the tides are against or in favour in the river. Usually 6 to 10 hours journey by motor vessel from Mongla to Hiron Point or Katka.

Below is a list of accomodations inside the forest :

• Hiron Point: Comfortable three-storied Rest House of the Mongla Port Authority. Prior booking is to be made.
• Katka : Forest Department Rest House located here. Prior booking essential.

Permission to visit the forest:

Permission from the Divisional Forest Officer, Khulna is required to visit to the forest. Prior permission must be obtained through written application from the Divisional Forest Office, Circuit House Rd., Khulna (tel 20665 or 21173). Required entrance fees for visitors, vessel or boat are payable at the relevant forest station/range office.

Precautions:

Drinking water is to be carried as the water available is saline. Cholera vaccine is to be taken well in advance. Anti-malarial anti-diarrhoeal, insectrepellent cream, drinking water, medical kit, light tropical dress, thick rubber soled boots etc. are to be carried with the tourist. It will be wise to take the help of an experienced guide to make the journey fruitful.