When you think of the Sunderbans, a dense mangrove forest, tigers, crocodiles, and snakes come to mind. However, there is much more to this national park than swamps and dangerous wildlife. Sunderbans are home to many hidden wonders.

Dense mangrove forests block out sunlight in all seasons, which makes for some spectacular sights.Sunderbans experience three distinct seasons, monsoon (June-September), winter (October- March) and summer (April - May).

Although, visitors have permission to visit all year long, visiting during monsoon is risky. Rising water levels become a great threat for travelling by boats.Similarly, during summer months travelling by non-AC boatsis unbearable due to increased heat and humidity.

Make your visit interesting and enjoyable by planningin advance and visiting when overall conditions are ideal. Keep reading for all relevant information.

Monsoon

Sunderbans National Park is at its greenest during this period of time, as, mangrove forests are at their most dense due to ample rain. After scorching hot summers, rains relieve land, which also gets covered in foliage. It also draws out animals from their shady hiding spots.Dense foliage and low sunlight make for amazing scenic and wildlife photography.

Additionally, dense canopies become even denser providingextra cover from direct sunlight and heat. It also makes it easier for animals to find foodbecause land is now covered in a blanket of green, which houses smaller animals.

Monsoon isalso a great time to spot rare species of birds. Since temperatures drop to bearable levels,(25 – 30 °C) birdwatching becomes possible.Despite these favourable conditions, visiting during this season is not advised as overflowing rivers are highly dangerous.

Winter

Sunderbans National Park dries up gradually as winter arrives. During this time mangrove forests lose their lush green colour, as their leaves start to wither and fall. Trekking on land is now possible as lots of light is able to filter throughsparse canopies.

Winter makes spotting all animals much easier, as there are little to no hindrances to vision. Also, animals that prefer staying hidden, no longer havethick forest covers surrounding them.Apart from being a great time to spot some rare species of birds such as Bengal Floricans, winters create a perfect ambiance to watch the sun setting behind mangrove trees.This makes for a fascinating scenery, both for viewing and photography. Winters are also ideal for spotting endangered Irrawaddy River dolphins.

Summer

Summers are less than ideal for visiting the Sunderbans as humidity and increasing temperatures encourage animals to stay hidden in shady spots. Visitors are also less inclined to venture out of their cool rooms into hot and humid forests.Even though several species of birds can be spottednow, very few visitors are able to endure waiting in shady spots to watch them.

Conclusion

The Sunderbans National Park is an astounding natural wonder thatexists in India. Each season has its own set of advantages and disadvantages for visitors and tourists, with winters offering most advantages.