Tourist Rush Surges in the Sundarbans as Winter Ecotourism Peaks.
Rising visitor numbers boost ecotourism while raising concerns over infrastructure and conservation in the UNESCO World Heritage site.
The Sundarbans, the world’s largest mangrove forest and a UNESCO World Heritage site, is witnessing a sharp rise in tourist arrivals during the peak winter season. Popular ecotourism destinations such as Andharmanik, Kachikhali, Katka, Dimerchar, Jamtala Sea Beach, and Karamjal are experiencing heavy crowds, particularly on weekends, with multiple luxury tourist vessels anchoring daily.
The region’s rich biodiversity continues to be a major attraction, with hundreds of species of wildlife, plants, and aquatic life thriving in its fragile ecosystem. The winter months from November to February offer favorable weather and navigable waterways, making this period the ideal time for visitors to explore the forest’s scenic landscapes and observe wildlife such as crocodiles, birds, and, on rare occasions, the Royal Bengal Tiger.
While increased tourism has supported local businesses and employment, industry stakeholders have raised concerns over inadequate infrastructure, safety measures, and environmental risks. Authorities and tourism operators are now focused on balancing sustainable tourism growth with conservation efforts to protect the Sundarbans’ delicate ecosystem for future generations.
