Planning a trip into the world’s largest mangrove forest? Before you board a boat or walk through the reserve gate, you need a valid Sundarban entry permit. This permit is mandatory for every visitor — Indian or foreign — entering the Sundarban Tiger Reserve. Without it, forest authorities will turn you away at the check post.
Whether you are booking a Sundarban tour package or planning independently, understanding the permit process saves time and last-minute stress. This guide covers who issues the permit, required documents, current fees, online booking and rules inside the reserve.
Who Issues the Sundarban Entry Permit?
The Sundarban Tiger Reserve (STR) falls under the West Bengal Forest Department. Entry permits are issued by the Field Director’s office at Canning and range offices at Sajnekhali, Gosaba and Basanti. Registered tour operators can apply on behalf of their guests, which is the most convenient route for travellers.
Independent travellers can apply directly at the range office or use the online portal. Group permits cover all listed members, so one permit suffices for an entire boat. Every permit specifies the entry date, permitted zones and duration of stay.
Sundarban Entry Permit Fees (2026 Updated)
Fees vary based on nationality, zone and camera equipment. Here is the current fee structure for 2026:
| Fee Component | Indian (₹) | Foreign (₹) |
|---|---|---|
| Tiger Reserve Entry Fee | ₹100 / person / day | ₹400 / person / day |
| Boat License Fee | ₹500 / day | ₹500 / day |
| Still Camera Fee | ₹50 | ₹200 |
| Video Camera Fee | ₹200 | ₹1,000 |
| Guide / Forest Guard | ₹400 / day | ₹400 / day |
| Watchtower Visit | ₹25 | ₹100 |
Most Sundarban tour packages include these fees in the total cost. Independent travellers should carry exact change or use UPI at the range office counter.
Documents Required for the Permit
- Government photo ID — Aadhaar, voter ID, driving licence or passport (mandatory for foreigners)
- Passport-size photograph — one per person
- Boat registration certificate — if hiring a private vessel
- Tour operator licence number — when booking through a registered operator
- Group member list — names, ages and ID numbers of all travellers
Foreign nationals must additionally carry their Indian visa copy and relevant passport pages. Keep digital copies on your phone since connectivity inside the Sundarbans is unreliable. Check our guide on how to reach Sundarban to plan your arrival at the permit office with enough time.
How to Book the Sundarban Entry Permit Online
- Visit the official West Bengal Forest Department tourism portal.
- Register with your email and mobile number.
- Select “Sundarban Tiger Reserve” as your destination.
- Choose entry date, zone (Sajnekhali, Sudhanyakhali, Dobanki, Netidhopani) and visitor count.
- Upload scanned photo ID for every group member.
- Pay fees via net banking, card or UPI.
- Download and print the e-permit — present it at the check post on entry day.
Online permits are typically approved within 24–48 hours on working days. During peak season (October–March), slots fill fast, so apply at least a week in advance. If the portal is down, a registered tour operator can secure the permit offline.
Rules Inside the Sundarban Tiger Reserve
- Stay on the boat or designated walkways — never wander into the forest.
- Carry the printed permit and original photo ID at all times.
- No loud music, honking or firecrackers — noise disturbs wildlife.
- Plastic bags and single-use plastics are banned inside the reserve.
- Fishing, hunting and collecting forest produce are criminal offences.
- A Forest Department guide must accompany every tourist group.
- Follow designated routes on your permit; straying into restricted zones is illegal.
Violations attract heavy fines under the Wildlife Protection Act. For a complete safety checklist, read our Sundarban tour safety tips guide before you travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Sundarban entry permit required for children?
Children below five years are exempt from the entry fee but must be listed on the group permit. Children aged 5–12 pay a reduced fee.
Can I get a Sundarban entry permit on the spot?
Yes, permits are available at the Sajnekhali range office on the day of travel, subject to availability. During peak season (October–March), on-the-spot permits may not be available due to daily visitor caps. Advance booking is recommended.
How long is the Sundarban entry permit valid?
A standard permit is valid for the dates mentioned on it, typically one to three days. You must exit before it expires. Extensions are not granted inside the reserve.
What happens if I lose my permit inside the reserve?
Contact the nearest forest guard or watchtower station immediately. A digital copy on your phone helps verification. You may need to repay the fee and a penalty may apply.
Do tour operators handle the entry permit process?
Yes, most registered operators handle everything — collecting documents, filing the application, paying fees and handing you the printed permit before entry.
Book Your Sundarban Trip Today
Skip the permit paperwork — let our team handle permits, boats, guides, meals and accommodation while you focus on spotting tigers and soaking in the mangroves.