The best time to visit the Sundarbans is November to February. The weather is cool and dry, the rivers are calm, and long days on deck are comfortable. The forest is open to tourists from 1 September to 31 May, and closed every year from 1 June to 31 August while fish and wildlife breed.
If you are wondering about the Sundarban tour best time for your group, here is what each part of the season is like.
The annual closure: 1 June to 31 August
Every year the Forest Department closes the Sundarbans to tourists, fishermen and forest workers for three months, from 1 June to 31 August. It is the peak breeding season for fish, crabs and wildlife, and boats are kept out of the rivers so the forest can rest. No tourist ships run during these months.
The Sundarbans tourism reopening date is 1 September, and the first weeks after reopening are popular, so book early if you want to go then. Dates are set by the Forest Department and can change, so we always confirm before taking a booking.
Sundarban tour best season, month by month
September and October: green and fresh
The forest has just reopened after the monsoon. Everything is a deep green, the rivers are full, and there are fewer visitors than in winter. Expect some rain and humidity, and the occasional rough day on the wider rivers.
November to February: the best season
This is peak season, and for good reason. Days are sunny and dry, mornings on the creeks are misty and quiet, and evenings on deck can be chilly, so bring a warm layer. Wildlife is often easier to spot along the banks in the morning. Winter is also when the fishing community gathers at Dublar Char, and the Rash Mela festival takes place there, usually in November.
A Sundarban trip in December is the most popular of all. Because everyone wants these months, ships fill up early, especially in the December school holidays and over long weekends.
March to May: hot, quiet and cheaper to book
It gets hot and humid, and pre-monsoon storms are possible in April and May. On the other hand, ships are quieter, there is more choice of cabins, and the forest is just as beautiful. Choose an air-conditioned ship if you travel in these months.
Tips for choosing your dates
- For comfort: November to February.
- For quiet: September, October or March.
- For families with children: December to February, when the weather is mild and schools are off. Book well ahead. Read our tips for a Sundarbans trip with family.
- Check the weather forecast a few days before sailing. If a cyclone warning is issued, sailings can be delayed or rescheduled for safety.
Plan your trip
When you have your dates, send a request from the Sundarban Tour Package page. We will tell you which ships have space and arrange the forest permission for you.
