Sunderbans

Editor's Note

Sunderbans is easily the world's biggest and most unique water national parks. And so spectacular it is that for those who've never been there, it is tough to imagine that so close to the city of Kolkata with its teeming population, is a land where the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger reigns supreme. And really, till you're there, nothing can prepare you for the sudden serenity that engulfs as the motorboat cruises through the green waters. Remember, Sunderbans Tiger Reserve is not a zoo and no tiger would make an appearance for your camera's benefit, and the netting keeps them away from suddenly making an appearance in the waters as your boat bobs past. Also, appreciate the diverse fauna that is possibly more visible, even if the Big Cat isn't. The water-edge is lined with kingfishers, herons, egrets and crocodiles and you might even watch a shoal of dolphins or an occasional Olive Ridley Turtle. And watch the unique mangroves, which stand in clumps of small trees with quaint names like sundari and hetal. Unlike most national parks, there is much more than meets the eye. So go on, this is a chance of a lifetime… discover...