The Bhagabatpur Crocodile Project (two and half hours from Namkhana) has the largest gharials. In 1997, a Mangrove Interpretation Centre was initiated at Sajnekhali, and provides a perspective of the Sunderbans as a protection against cyclones, wind and water erosion. Deep in the heart of the

Sunderbans is Goshaba, a thriving township where you can catch a glimpse of local Bengali lifestyles. 'Bidhaba Gram' is an island village that has widows, whose husbands have fallen prey to the tiger. Many of them have been rehabilitated at Canning where they run a readymade garment unit. The Forest Department compensates victims' families for death and disability.

Piyali is a beautiful resting spot.

The Field Director,
Sunderbans Tiger Reserve,
Goshaba District,
24 Parganas (South),
West Bengal,
India. Chief Wildlife Warden,
West Bengal
Bikash Bhaban (North Block),
3rd Floor,
Salt Lake City, Calcutta 700 091.
India.
Tel: 091-033 334 6900, 091-033 358 3208
Fax: 091-033 334 5946.
E-mail: wildlife@cal.vsnl.net.in

• Being largely swampy, there are plenty of mosquitoes.
• Carry adequate woollens in winter.
• The WBTDC tours are a good option if you want to be spared the hassle of making your own arrangements throughout the journey. The flipside is that it may involve a compromise on your sense of adventure.