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 closureThis 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.