In
the south-western part of Bangladesh, in the district of greater Khulna,
lies the Sundarbans, the beautiful forest. It is a virgin forest which
until recently owed nothing to human endeavour and yet nature has laid
it out with as much care as a planned pleasure ground. For miles and miles,
the lofty treetops form an unbroken canopy, while nearer the ground, works
of high and ebb-tide marked on the soil and tree trunks and the many varieties
of the natural mangrove forest have much to offer to an inquisitive visitor.
The
Sundarbans is a cluster of islands with an approximate area of 6000 sq.
km. forming the largest block of littoral forests. It's beauty lies in
its unique natural surrounding. Thousands of meandering streams, creeks,
rivers and estuaries have enhanced its charm. Sundarbans meaning beautiful
forest is the natural habital of the world famous Royal Bengal Tiger,
spotted deer, crocodiles, jungle fowl, wild boar, lizards, theses monkey
and an innumerable variety of beautiful birds. Migratory flock of Siberian
ducks flying over thousands of sail boats loaded with timber, golpatta
(round-leaf), fuel wood, honey, shell and fish further add to the serene
natural beauty of the Sundarbans.
AREA
Nearly 2400 sq. miles or 6000 sq. km. North-Bagerhat, Khulna and Sathkira districts : South-Bay of Bengal; East-Baleswar (or Haringhata) river, Perojpur, Barisal district, and West-Raimangal and Hariabhanga rivers which partially form Bangladesh boundary with West Bengal in India.Water transport is the only means of communication for visiting the Sundarbans from Khulna or Mongla Port. Private motor launch, speed boats, country boats as well as mechanised vessel of Mongla Port Authority might be hired for the purpose. From Dhaka visitors may travel by air, road or rocket steamer to Khulna - the gateway to the Sundarbans. Most pleasant journey from Dhaka to Khulna is by Paddle Steamer, Rocket presenting a picturesque panorama of rural Bangladesh. Day and night-long coach services by road are also available. The quickest mode is by air from Dhaka to Jessore and then to Khulna by road.
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