South 24 Parganas: Beaches, Islands and Wildlife

A white sand beach about 8 kilometers long defines Bakkhali and stretches as far as Frasergunj. Bakkhali is located on one of the delta islands of southern Bengal. In South 24 Parganas, reasons to visit range from coastal landscapes and wildlife habitats to a distinctive temple and a lighthouse.

Sundarban and Wildlife

The Sundarban is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest estuarine forest in the world. It is home to Bengal tigers. Organized boat trips into the Sundarban are operated by the West Bengal Tourism Development Corporation as well as private providers; departures are available from Canning, Basanti or Gosaba. Confirm the availability of your preferred trip before travelling.

Another natural attraction is the Bhagabatpur Crocodile Project, the only crocodile project in West Bengal and a major attraction. The breeding station there is intended for saltwater crocodiles and Batagur baska turtles. The project is located on the bank of the Saptamukhi Estuary and borders Lothian Island. This brings different aspects of nature into focus: the extensive estuarine forest and a specific project with a breeding station for two groups of animals.

Coast, Mangroves and Islands

The road to Bakkhali passes through Diamond Harbour and Kakdwip to Namkhana. There, cars or buses are transported across Hatania-Doania Creek by a special ferry. Check the ferry’s operating conditions and times before travelling. Frasergunj is also a white sand beach on an island in the Ganges Delta.

On Henry Island, a walking path leads through a mangrove area; a small bamboo bridge provides access. Henry Island can be reached from Bakkhali by Toto in about 20 minutes. Travel time may vary. This means coastal landscapes and mangroves can be considered as distinct travel highlights, without having to plan the same trip for both.

Jambudwip is a remote island in the Bay of Bengal, about 8 kilometers southwest of Frasergunj and Bakkhali. The journey first goes through Frazergunj and then by motorboat; local boat availability may vary. The fishing season lasts from October to February. The island is uninhabited outside this season. Its season and route of access give the island a different character from the coastal towns and walking paths.

Other Notable Places

Chintamoni Kar Bird Sanctuary provides a habitat for birds such as the red-breasted flycatcher, oriole, paradise flycatcher and drongo. The sanctuary is also known for smaller animals such as fishing cats, jackals and Bengal monitors. Private buses, auto-rickshaws and Totos serve the sanctuary; services may change, so it is advisable to check in advance.

On Sagardwip, a lighthouse offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. Jatar Deul adds an architectural destination to the nature and coastal highlights: the tower-like temple is nearly 30 meters high.

Discover more destinations: Baruipur, Bijaybati, Durganagar, Lakshmipur Abad; Jalpaiguri, West Medinipur, Birbhum, Bardhaman.

For the broader travel overview: West Bengal.