Welcome to Banalata Travels, your trusted travel companion for unforgettable journeys to the mystical Sundarbans — the world’s largest mangrove forest and home to the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or a peace explorer, Sundarban offers something magical for everyone.
At Banalata Travels, we don’t just plan tours — we craft experiences. Our team provides complete Sundarban trip information, custom tour packages, and on-ground support — all at smart, budget-friendly prices. From travel booking to hotel stays, river cruises, and local sightseeing, we ensure your Sundarban trip is smooth, safe, and memorable.
In this guide, we’ll help you explore how to reach Sundarban from Kolkata, the best transportation options, fare details, safety tips, premium packages, and travel essentials you must carry. Let’s begin your journey to the land where rivers whisper stories and nature breathes magic.
About the Sundarban
The Sundarbans is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the delta formed by the Ganga, Brahmaputra, and Meghna rivers. Spanning across India and Bangladesh, the Indian part of Sundarban lies mainly in West Bengal, around 110 km from Kolkata.
It’s famous for its dense mangrove forests, wildlife sanctuary, and eco-tourism zones — making it a must-visit for anyone who wants to experience raw, untouched nature.
How to Reach Sundarban from Kolkata
You can reach Sundarban from Kolkata by road, rail, or waterways. Let’s break down the available options one by one so you can choose the most convenient and affordable route.
1. How to reach Sundarban from Kolkata by Bus?
The easiest and most budget-friendly option is to take a bus from Esplanade Bus Terminus / Science City / Garia / Baruipur Kolkata to Godkhali (Godkhali Ferry Ghat), the gateway to Sundarban. From Godkhali, you can take a boat ride to reach the islands and start your jungle adventure.
Popular Bus Operators:
- WBTC (West Bengal Transport Corporation)
- South Bengal State Transport
- Private travel operators (like SBSTC and Banalata Travels itself)
Bus Timetable (Approximate):
| Departure Point | First Bus | Last Bus | Duration | Fare (INR) |
| Esplanade | 6:00 AM | 8:00 PM | 3.5 – 4 hrs | ₹200 – ₹400 |
| Science City | 6:30 AM | 7:30 PM | 3 hrs | ₹200 – ₹400 |
| Baruipur | 7:00 AM | 6:00 PM | 2.5 hrs | ₹150 – ₹350 |
Banalata Travels also provides door-to-door pick-up and drop services for its Sundarban tour guests at very smart prices, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free experience.
2. How to Reach Sundarban From Kolkata by Train?
If you prefer trains, this is another convenient and affordable option.
From Sealdah Station, take a local train to Canning. Trains are frequent, every 30–45 minutes, and the journey takes around 1 hour 30 minutes. From Canning, you can take a bus or private car to reach Godkhali Ferry Ghat (approx. 29 km, 1 hour drive).
Train Timetable (Approximate):
Banalata Tip: For the best experience, take the early morning train (around 6:30 AM) so you can reach Godkhali by 9 AM and start your boat journey early.
3. By Waterways – Boat & Launch Services
After reaching Godkhali, the rest of the journey happens by boat.
This is where the real beauty of Sundarban begins — cruising through narrow creeks, spotting birds, and feeling the serenity of the mangrove ecosystem.
Banalata Travels operates private boats and luxury houseboats for its guests.
Options include:
- Shared Boats (Budget-friendly) – For small groups
- Private Cruise Boats (Comfort class) – For families or couples
- Luxury Houseboats (Premium experience) – With onboard dining and night stay
Approximate Boat Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours from Godkhali to the main Sundarban island areas like Pakhiralay or Dayapur.
Affordable Travel Options from Kolkata
If you’re traveling on a budget, here’s the most cost-effective route:
Step 1: Take a local train from Sealdah to Canning (₹20)
Step 2: Hire a shared car from Canning to Godkhali (₹80–₹100 per person)
Step 3: Join a group Sundarban boat tour with Banalata Travels (starting ₹2,800/person including food, stay, and guide)
✅ Total Approximate Cost: ₹2,800 – ₹3,000 per person (for 1-night, 2-day tour)
Banalata Tip: This is perfect for college students, families on budget, or solo travelers who want the full Sundarban experience without overspending.
Premium Sundarban Tour Packages by Banalata Travels
If you prefer a more comfortable and luxurious trip, Banalata Travels offers premium Sundarban packages that include:
- Private car pickup from Kolkata
- Deluxe AC cottage accommodation
- Private motorboat / luxury cruise
- All meals (buffet style)
- Jungle safari & village tour
- Trained local guide
- Evening cultural show
- Travel insurance coverage
Popular Premium Packages:
| Package Type | Duration | Price (per person) | Highlights |
| Luxury Cruise Package | 2 Nights / 3 Days | ₹8,999 | Premium boat, AC cottage, wildlife safari |
| Honeymoon Package | 2 Nights / 3 Days | ₹9,499 | Romantic stay, private tour, candlelight dinner |
| Family Deluxe Package | 1 Night / 2 Days | ₹5,499 | Comfortable stay, local guide, village walk |
For customized itineraries, call Banalata Travels Helpline: +91- 9830549149.
Safety Tips for Sundarban Tour
Your safety and comfort are Banalata Travels’ top priorities.
Here are a few important travel safety guidelines to remember:
- Always travel with a licensed tour operator like Banalata Travels.
- Wear life jackets during boat rides.
- Avoid leaning over boat railings or entering restricted forest zones.
- Carry mosquito repellent and light cotton clothes.
- Follow your guide’s instructions during forest visits.
- Keep emergency contact numbers handy (local police, forest officials, your travel agent).
- Avoid night travel in unknown forest areas.
- Keep your travel documents safe in a waterproof bag.
Banalata Promise: All our tour boats are equipped with life jackets, first aid kits, GPS trackers, and trained staff for 24/7 guest safety.
Documents Required for Sundarban Tour
Before starting your journey, make sure you carry the following documents:
- Valid Photo ID (Aadhar Card / Passport / Voter ID)
- Photocopy of ID for forest entry permit
- Booking confirmation slip (provided by Banalata Travels)
- Emergency contact details
- Medical card (if applicable)
Foreign tourists must carry their passport and visa photocopy for the forest department’s verification.
Best Time to Visit Sundarban
The best time to visit Sundarban is between October to March, when the weather is pleasant and perfect for jungle safaris.
Avoid visiting during heavy monsoon (July–September) as river tides can affect boating schedules.
Banalata Tip: Book your Sundarban trip at least 2 weeks in advance during winter months to get the best deals and guaranteed seat availability.
Special Travel Tips for Sundarban Tour
Here are some pro tips from the experienced travel team of Banalata Travels:
- Always carry binoculars — you may spot crocodiles, deer, or tigers.
- Don’t expect strong mobile networks — enjoy digital detox!
- Carry a power bank and flashlight.
- Keep extra water bottles and light snacks handy.
- Respect local culture and wildlife — no littering or loud noise.
- Enjoy local Bengali cuisine — fresh fish curry, prawns, and rice are must-tries!
- If you’re a photographer, sunrise and sunset boat rides are magical.
Why Choose Banalata Travels for Your Sundarban Trip
- ✅ Experienced & government-approved operator
- ✅ Smart and transparent pricing
- ✅ Comfortable transport & guided tours
- ✅ Safe and hygienic accommodations
- ✅ 24×7 travel support and assistance
- ✅ Options for both budget and luxury travelers
With Banalata Travels, every Sundarban tour becomes more than a trip — it becomes a story of nature, culture, and unforgettable memories.
Conclusion
Reaching Sundarban from Kolkata is easy and when you plan it with Banalata Travels, it becomes effortless. Whether you’re travelling on a budget or seeking luxury, this land of rivers and tigers welcomes you with open arms.
So pack your bags, charge your camera, and get ready to explore India’s most thrilling eco-destination the Sundarbans with Banalata Travels, your expert travel guide for the wild side of Bengal.
