If you’re planning a Sundarbans trip and want to experience something beyond tiger trails, the Bhagabatpur Crocodile Project deserves a spot on your itinerary. This is the only crocodile breeding center in West Bengal, famous for housing and conserving the formidable saltwater crocodile.
What to Expect
Watch crocodiles at every stage of life—from tiny, blinking hatchlings to massive adults basking in the sun.
Learn about the conservation efforts that began in the 1970s and continue to protect the delicate mangrove ecosystem.
Climb up the watchtower for panoramic views of the Matla River estuary, one of the most scenic spots in the region.
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| The surrounding |
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| Matla bridge |
How to Reach
1. By Train (Kolkata → Namkhana)
From Sealdah Station (Kolkata), take a local EMU train to Namkhana.
Distance: ~105 km.
Travel time: ~3.5 hours.
Frequency: Multiple local trains daily (fare around ₹30–₹40).
From Namkhana Railway Station, you need to reach the ferry ghat for onward boat rides.
2. By Bus (Kolkata → Namkhana)
Direct SBSTC/Private buses run from Dharmatala/Esplanade Bus Stand (Kolkata) to Namkhana.
Distance: ~110 km.
Travel time: ~3.5–4 hours.
Fare: ~₹100–₹150.
Get down at Namkhana Bus Terminus and proceed to the Namkhana ferry ghat.
3. Boat Journey (Namkhana → Bhagabatpur)
From Namkhana ghat, hire a motorboat to reach Bhagabatpur Crocodile Project via the Hatania-Doania creek and the Matla estuary.
Travel time: ~2 hours by boat (varies with tides and boat type).
Boats are usually arranged through tour operators or via Forest Department permissions.
Boat rides themselves are a treat, winding through mangrove creeks and open waterways.
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| Crocodiles |
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| Ferry ghat |
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| Directions |
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| From collection to release |
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| Crocodile eggs |
Best Time to Visit
November to March is ideal—pleasant weather, clear skies, and calmer tides.
Monsoons are best avoided as heavy rains and rough waters may restrict boat movement.
Entry & Permissions
Entry permits are required, usually arranged through the West Bengal Forest Department at the entrance gate or via local tour operators.
Always check with your operator beforehand, as timings and access can vary.
Travel Tips
Carry binoculars for spotting birds and estuarine life along the ride.
Keep sunscreen, hats, and light cotton wear handy—summers can be humid.
Respect the rules: this is a conservation zone, so no littering or loud noises.
Why Visit?
Bhagabatpur offers something rare—a chance to see the Sundarbans’ most ancient predator up close, while also soaking in the untouched beauty of the mangrove delta. It’s both an educational stop and a breathtaking experience for travelers seeking a deeper connection with the wild.
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