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Time of India
10 hours ago
- Time of India
Sundarbans (Bangladesh side) shut to tourists till August; know the unique reason
Wildlife lovers planning a trip to the Sundarbans should know that the Forest Department has announced a complete ban on tourists from June 1 to August 31, 2025. This seasonal restriction applies to tourism, fishing, and among other forms of entry into the forest area, particularly within the Sundarbans Tiger Reserve. Reason behind the closure This is basically part of an annual conservation effort. The main reason behind this is the breeding cycle of the region's wildlife. The months of June, July and August three months mark the peak mating and nesting period for many species, both on land and in water. With no tourist activities, the forest is expected to experience a quiet period that is important for ecological recovery. 'This seasonal closure aligns with the peak breeding period of both aquatic and terrestrial species,' said Md Rezaul Karim Chowdhury, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of the Sundarbans East Forest Division. 'A disturbance-free environment significantly boosts reproductive success, particularly among aquatic life.' Iconic residents of the park The Sundarbans, spread over more than 10,000 sq km, is a unique natural gem shared by India and Bangladesh. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the whole region is noted not only for its vast network of tidal rivers and mangrove forests. Some of the Iconic residents of the park include the Royal Bengal Tiger, estuarine crocodiles, spotted deer, and over 290 species of birds. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Buy Brass Idols - Handmade Brass Statues for Home & Gifting Luxeartisanship Buy Now Undo The park is also home to 219 aquatic species and 344 different kinds of plants. Monsoon ban This year also marks the third consecutive year of this monsoon-season ban, but with a notable update: the restriction now begins a month earlier than before. This adjustment is designed to better align with the natural rhythms of the forest's wildlife. The initiative is part of the larger Integrated Resources Management Plan (IRMP), which promotes sustainable and long-term conservation strategies for the area. What this means for travellers If you're planning a trip to the Sundarbans, you'll need to reschedule for after August 31, when the ban is lifted and tourism resumes. This quiet period during the monsoon helps rejuvenate the ecosystem, ensuring that the forest remains a thriving, living sanctuary for years to come. Though it is a temporary closure, some travellers might find it inconvenient. But we should support such conservation measures as these are necessary for future generations. One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
Time of India
a day ago
- Time of India
Sundarbans Tiger Reserve in West Bengal shut to tourists till August; know the unique reason
Wildlife lovers planning a trip to the Sundarbans should know that the West Bengal Forest Department has announced a complete ban on tourists from June 1 to August 31, 2025. This seasonal restriction applies to tourism, fishing, and among other forms of entry into the forest area, particularly within the Sundarbans Tiger Reserve. Reason behind the closure This is basically part of an annual conservation effort. The main reason behind this is the breeding cycle of the region's wildlife. The months of June, July and August three months mark the peak mating and nesting period for many species, both on land and in water. With no tourist activities, the forest is expected to experience a quiet period that is important for ecological recovery. 'This seasonal closure aligns with the peak breeding period of both aquatic and terrestrial species,' said Md Rezaul Karim Chowdhury, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of the Sundarbans East Forest Division. 'A disturbance-free environment significantly boosts reproductive success, particularly among aquatic life.' Iconic residents of the park The Sundarbans, spread over more than 10,000 sq km, is a unique natural gem shared by India and Bangladesh. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the whole region is noted not only for its vast network of tidal rivers and mangrove forests. Some of the Iconic residents of the park include the Royal Bengal Tiger, estuarine crocodiles, spotted deer, and over 290 species of birds. The park is also home to 219 aquatic species and 344 different kinds of plants. Monsoon ban This year also marks the third consecutive year of this monsoon-season ban, but with a notable update: the restriction now begins a month earlier than before. This adjustment is designed to better align with the natural rhythms of the forest's wildlife. The initiative is part of the larger Integrated Resources Management Plan (IRMP), which promotes sustainable and long-term conservation strategies for the area. What this means for travellers If you're planning a trip to the Sundarbans, you'll need to reschedule for after August 31, when the ban is lifted and tourism resumes. This quiet period during the monsoon helps rejuvenate the ecosystem, ensuring that the forest remains a thriving, living sanctuary for years to come. For updates and travel advisories, it's best to check with the official West Bengal Forest Department or local tourism offices closer to your planned visit. Though it is a temporary closure, some travellers might find it inconvenient. But we should support such conservation measures as these are necessary for future generations. One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
News18
4 days ago
- News18
Here's Why West Bengal's Sundarbans Have Been Shut To Tourists For Three Months
Last Updated: The Forest Department has imposed a restriction on all human activity in the Sundarbans for three months in a bid to revitalise the ecosystem. Home to the largest mangrove system in the world and the Royal Bengal Tiger, West Bengal's Sundarbans has been closed for tourists for three months. The Forest Department has imposed a restriction on all human activity in a bid to revitalise the ecosystem of the forest. From June 1 to August 31, all human activities – including tourism and fishing – are strictly prohibited across the Sundarbans as part of an annual closure aimed at conservation. Now in its third consecutive year, the ban begins in June instead of July to better align with the breeding season of both aquatic and terrestrial species. This strategic timing provides a safe, undisturbed environment for wildlife and follows the conservation guidelines outlined in the Integrated Resources Management Plan (IRMP). Md Rezaul Karim Chowdhury, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of the Sundarbans East Forest Division, said, 'If we can keep the forest quiet during this period, it will significantly enhance breeding activities, especially for aquatic species. If the ban is effectively implemented, the fish population and overall wildlife in the forest will thrive." The official also noted that patrolling activities will be intensified during this period to prevent any form of intrusion, poaching, or illegal activities in the protected areas. The Sundarbans, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the world's largest mangrove forest, spanning parts of the eastern Indian state of West Bengal and southern Bangladesh. Covering over 10,000 square kilometres, this unique ecosystem is home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna, including the iconic Royal Bengal Tiger, estuarine crocodiles, spotted deer, and a wide variety of bird species. Crisscrossed by tidal rivers, creeks, and mudflats, the Sundarbans plays a vital role in coastal protection, carbon storage, and sustaining the livelihoods of local communities through fishing and honey collection. Home to 219 known aquatic species and a wide variety of terrestrial wildlife, many species that depend on the June-July period for breeding and reproduction. The seasonal closure of the forest during these months is seen as vital for allowing natural regeneration to take place without human disturbance. First Published: June 03, 2025, 13:13 IST
