The Sundarbans is a UNESCO World Heritage mangrove forest shared by Bangladesh and India, home to the Bengal tiger, spotted deer, crocodiles, river dolphins and countless birds. It is also home to fishing, honey-collecting and crab-catching communities whose lives are tied to the tide.
How a Sundarbans shoot works
- Access is by boat. Most crews live on a vessel for several days, sailing from Khulna or Mongla.
- Permission is required. The forest is protected; Forest Department permission is needed in addition to your general filming permission.
- Armed forest guards usually accompany groups inside the forest.
- Tides rule the schedule. Small creeks are only reachable at certain tide levels.
- Wildlife is unpredictable. Tigers are rarely seen; build the story around landscape, people and patience.
Story ideas
Climate change and salinity, cyclones and recovery, honey collectors (mawals), crab and fish livelihoods, mangrove conservation, and life in villages on the forest edge.
Best season
November to March offers calmer water and dry weather. The monsoon brings rough rivers and limited access.
Frequently asked questions
Can we fly a drone in the Sundarbans?
Drone use in a protected forest needs specific approval. I advise on what is possible for your dates and story.
How many days do we need?
Plan at least three to four days on the boat for meaningful footage, plus travel days from Dhaka.