Sajnekhali Watch Tower
Sajnekhali Watch Tower
Basically Sajnekhali is the entry point for other island in Sundarban and Sajnekhali Watch Tower is located within this Sajnekhali Eco Tourism centre. All permission from forest officials to enter other island in Sundarban is issued from here. Adjacent to this watchtower, there is a sweet water point, a mangrove interpretation centre and a crocodile park. One can spot other animals also from this watch tower like spotter deer, wild boar, and crocodile and of course the Royal Bengal Tiger. Most of the tiger is seen from this watch tower. The tower can accommodate 20 to 25 guests at a time and the view from here is breathtaking. It’s a must visit spot rather the heart of Sundarban and mostly visited by the travellers opting for Sundarban Package Tour from Kolkata.Sajnekhali Wildlife Sanctuary is a 362 km2 area in the northern part of the Sundarbans delta in South 24 Parganas district, West Bengal, India. It is located at the confluence of the Matla and Gumdi rivers.[2] The area is mainly mangrove scrub, forest and swamp. It was set up as a sanctuary in 1976. It is home to a rich population of different species of wildlife, such as water fowl, heron, pelican, spotted deer, rhesus macaques, wild boar, tigers, water monitor lizards, fishing cats, otters, Olive ridley turtle, crocodiles, Batagur terrapins, and migratory birds. The ideal place for nature lovers to observe wild animals from a height is the Sajnekhali Watchtower.[3]
Sajnekhali is situated 130 km from Kolkata. Canning is the nearest railway station of it. Ferry service towards Sajnekhali is available from Gosaba. Rented boat or motor launch can be hired for Basanti or Gadkhali.
Sajnekhali Watch Tower | Sundarban Tour Booking Office
Exploring the Enchanting Sajnekhali Wildlife Sanctuary: A Gateway to the Sundarbans
Nestled in the South 24 Parganas district of West Bengal, India, the Sajnekhali Wildlife Sanctuary stands as a captivating introduction to the vast and mesmerizing Sundarbans, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its tidal halophytic mangrove forests. In this blog, we embark on a journey to uncover the allure of Sajnekhali, its diverse ecosystems, and the captivating wildlife that inhabits its realms.
A Gateway to the Sundarbans Sajnekhali Wildlife Sanctuary serves as the gateway to the legendary Sundarbans, offering a glimpse into one of the largest mangrove forests on the planet. Situated amidst the intricate network of waterways, it provides a perfect prelude to the extraordinary biodiversity and breathtaking landscapes that define the Sundarbans. The Unique Landscape: Mangroves and Estuaries The sanctuary mirrors the Sundarbans’ intricate tapestry of mangroves, estuaries, and islands. Mangrove trees, with their labyrinthine roots, create vital nurseries for marine life and offer refuge from tidal currents, painting a picture of unparalleled natural beauty.
Flora: Where Mangroves Reign Dominated by mangrove species such as Sundari, Goran, and Dhundul, the sanctuary showcases nature’s resilience in saline environments. These trees, with their aerial roots providing oxygen and support, exemplify the tenacity of life in challenging habitats.
Birdwatcher’s Paradise: Sajnekhali Bird Sanctuary For avian enthusiasts, Sajnekhali is a haven of birdlife. From resident species like the White-bellied Sea Eagle to migratory visitors such as the Asian Openbill Stork, the sanctuary offers a symphony of bird calls amidst its lush greenery.
Wildlife Wonders: Encounter the Royal Bengal Tiger Famed for its population of Royal Bengal Tigers, Sajnekhali offers thrilling opportunities to spot these elusive cats during boat safaris along the estuaries. Keep your senses sharp as you navigate the waterways, and you may catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
Saltwater Crocodile: Sovereign of the Estuaries Among the apex predators of the region, the Saltwater Crocodile reigns supreme. Sajnekhali’s waters teem with these formidable reptiles, providing visitors with unforgettable encounters during their safaris.
Museum and Interpretation Center: A Journey of Discovery Delve into the sanctuary’s rich tapestry of flora, fauna, and cultural heritage at its museum and interpretation center. Here, visitors can deepen their understanding of the Sundarbans’ ecological significance and ongoing conservation efforts.
Boat Safaris: Navigate the Mangrove Maze Embark on guided boat safaris to explore the sanctuary’s labyrinthine waterways, offering unparalleled views of the mangrove forests and abundant wildlife. Whether it’s tiger sightings or birdwatching, a boat safari promises an immersive experience in the heart of nature.
Tiger Reserve: Protecting the Pride of the Sundarbans As part of the Sunderbans Tiger Reserve, Sajnekhali plays a crucial role in safeguarding the endangered Royal Bengal Tiger. The reserve stands as a testament to conservation efforts aimed at preserving this iconic species and its habitat. Best Time to Visit and How to Reach The winter months, from November to February, offer the best weather and wildlife sightings, although the sanctuary welcomes visitors year-round. Accessible from Kolkata, the sanctuary can be reached via Godkhali, with various tour operators providing transportation and guided safaris.
Nestled at the confluence of the Matla and Gumdi rivers within the Sunderbans ecosystem, lies the picturesque Sajnekhali Wildlife Sanctuary. Established in 1976 and spanning 362.80 sq. km, it forms a vital part of the expansive 885 sq. km buffer zone. Accessible via Kolkata Airport, approximately 112 km away, or the nearby Canning Port, just 44 km away, visitors can embark on a journey to Sajnekhali by road to Namkhana, Raidighi, Sonakhali, or Najat, followed by a serene boat ride through the sanctuary.
Encompassing a rich diversity of avian life, Sajnekhali Sanctuary is a haven for birdwatchers. Among its notable residents are the majestic spotted billed pelican, cotton teal, and herring gull, alongside elegant species like the Caspian tern, grey heron, and open-billed stork. The sanctuary also hosts a plethora of waders, including the rare Asian dowitcher, a cherished sight for bird enthusiasts. Keen observers can spot an array of birds of prey soaring above, including the osprey, Pallass fish eagle, and grey-headed fishing eagle. The sanctuary’s tranquil waters also offer glimpses of vibrant kingfishers, graceful plovers, and the majestic white-bellied sea eagle, creating a spectacle of nature’s splendor. With its enchanting avian inhabitants and serene ambiance, Sajnekhali Wildlife Sanctuary promises a captivating experience for all who venture into its midst.
