Tucked deep in the delta where the Ganges meets the Bay of Bengal, the Sundarbans in West Bengal—home to the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger and the world’s largest mangrove forest—has closed its doors to tourists from June 1 to August 31, 2025. This isn’t just another monsoon shutdown. The state’s Forest Department has imposed a complete ban on human activity, including tourism, fishing, and forest visits, in a conscious effort to allow the region’s fragile ecosystem to regenerate during its crucial breeding season.
Unlike previous years, this annual closure now starts a month earlier. The shift to a June-to-August timeline follows the ecological rhythms of the forest, offering a safe haven for the rich variety of aquatic and terrestrial wildlife that call this UNESCO-listed biosphere home. The move is part of a long-term strategy detailed in the Integrated Resources Management Plan (IRMP), aimed at preserving one of India’s most vital ecological treasures.
A Critical Breeding Period for the Forest
Spanning over 10,000 square kilometres across India and Bangladesh, the Sundarbans is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most ecologically significant regions in the world. Its vast expanse of tidal rivers, estuaries, and creeks supports a rich biodiversity that includes:
- Royal Bengal tigers
- Estuarine crocodiles
- Spotted deer
- 290+ bird species
- 219 aquatic species
- 344 plant species
Among its 289 terrestrial animal species, several are listed as vulnerable or endangered, including 25 birds, 14 reptiles, five mammals, and two amphibians.
Why the Ban Matters
The breeding season for most aquatic and terrestrial species in the Sundarbans falls between June and August. Human activities during this time can disturb natural mating and nesting behaviour, hinder juvenile survival, and damage the delicate mangrove habitat. The three-month ban ensures minimal disturbance, allowing wildlife to breed, move freely, and thrive in their natural environment.
The restriction also applies to fishing, boat tours, honey collection, and any forest-based livelihood activities. By reducing traffic on the waterways and footfall in sensitive zones, the closure supports the ecological restoration of one of India’s most vital natural heritage sites.
What Tourists Should Know
- The ban is effective from June 1 to August 31, 2025, across all areas of the Sundarbans Tiger Reserve.
- All forms of tourism and commercial activities are prohibited during this period.
- Visitors are advised to plan travel after the monsoon season, once the forest reopens for tourism.
- For accurate information, updates from the West Bengal Forest Department should be referred to.
The seasonal closure is a significant step toward balancing tourism with conservation and ensuring that the Sundarbans remains a sanctuary for wildlife for generations to come.
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