Planning a trip to the Sundarbans? Before you board a boat or step into the mangrove forest, every visitor needs a valid Sundarban permit and entry fee clearance from the West Bengal Forest Department. Rates were revised in early 2026, and this detailed guide covers the exact amounts for Indian and foreign tourists, all permit types, camera charges, and the fastest ways to get your entry pass — so nothing delays your Sundarban adventure.
Why Do You Need a Sundarban Entry Permit?
The Sundarbans is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a designated Tiger Reserve managed by the West Bengal Forest Department. Entry is strictly regulated to protect the fragile mangrove ecosystem and its iconic Royal Bengal Tigers. Every tourist — Indian or foreign — must obtain a permit before entering the core or buffer zones. Tour operators usually handle the paperwork, but independent travellers can apply on their own at the Sajnekhali, Gosaba, or Godkhali checkpoints.
If you are still figuring out logistics, our guide on how to reach Sundarban explains every route from Kolkata step by step.
Updated 2026 Sundarban Permit and Entry Fee Table
Below are the official 2026 rates charged by the Sundarban Tiger Reserve authority. Fees are collected per person per entry and are non-refundable.
| Fee Component | Indian Tourist (₹) | Foreign Tourist (₹) |
|---|---|---|
| Tiger Reserve Entry Fee | ₹ 150 / day | ₹ 1,500 / day |
| Boat Permit (mechanised vessel) | ₹ 500 / trip | ₹ 500 / trip |
| Still Camera Fee | ₹ 40 | ₹ 200 |
| Video Camera Fee | ₹ 200 | ₹ 1,000 |
| Watchtower / Trail Fee (Sajnekhali, Sudhanyakhali, Dobanki) | ₹ 50 | ₹ 250 |
| Guide Charge (compulsory) | ₹ 400 – ₹ 600 / day (shared by group) | |
| Student Concession (Indian, with ID) | ₹ 30 / day | N/A |
Note: GST at 5 % applies on the boat permit component for commercially operated vessels. Children below 5 years are exempt from the entry fee.
Types of Sundarban Permits Explained
1. Forest Entry Permit — The primary permit that grants access to the Sundarban Tiger Reserve. Issued for a fixed number of days based on your itinerary. Required for every individual regardless of nationality.
2. Boat Permit — Separate from the personal entry fee, this covers the vessel entering protected waterways. Your tour operator’s boat must display a valid permit sticker issued at the Gosaba or Sajnekhali check-post.
3. Camera / Videography Permit — Smartphone photography is generally unrestricted, but DSLR cameras and video equipment require a separate fee as listed in the table above. Drone flying is strictly prohibited.
Looking for an all-inclusive trip where permits are pre-arranged? Check our latest Sundarban tour package price list for 2026 with transparent pricing.
How to Apply for a Sundarban Permit
Online Application: The West Bengal Forest Department accepts permit requests through its official portal. You need to submit scanned copies of a government-issued photo ID (Aadhaar, Passport, or Voter ID), travel dates, and the number of visitors. Approval is typically emailed within 24 – 48 hours during non-peak season.
On-the-Spot at Sajnekhali / Godkhali: Walk-in permits are available at the Forest Range Office. Carry two passport-size photographs and original photo ID. During peak months (October – March) expect queues of 30 – 60 minutes, so arrive early.
Through a Tour Operator: Most reputed operators — including Sundarban Ecofriends — handle the entire permit process on your behalf. You simply share ID details at the time of booking, and permits are ready before departure. Browse our curated Sundarban tour packages that include permits, meals, and accommodation.
Tips to Save Time and Money
- Book a package tour — permit fees, guide charges, and boat permits are bundled at a lower effective cost.
- Travel in a group of 6 – 10 to split the compulsory guide fee and boat permit.
- Carry printed ID copies; poor mobile signal at checkpoints makes digital documents unreliable.
- Avoid weekends and public holidays during October – January to skip long queues.
- Indian students should carry a valid college ID for the discounted ₹ 30 entry rate.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is the Sundarban entry fee for Indian tourists in 2026?
The Sundarban Tiger Reserve entry fee for Indian tourists is ₹ 150 per person per day as of 2026. Additional charges apply for boat permits (₹ 500), camera fees, and compulsory guide charges.
Can I get a Sundarban permit online?
Yes. The West Bengal Forest Department allows online permit applications through its official portal. You need to upload a photo ID, specify travel dates, and pay the fee digitally. Approval usually arrives within 24 – 48 hours.
Is there a separate fee for foreign tourists visiting Sundarban?
Foreign tourists pay ₹ 1,500 per day for the Tiger Reserve entry — ten times the Indian tourist rate. Boat permit fees remain the same at ₹ 500 per trip, but camera and watchtower fees are higher for foreign nationals.
Do children need a Sundarban entry permit?
Children below 5 years of age are exempt from the entry fee and do not need a separate permit. Children aged 5 and above are charged the full applicable rate and must have a valid ID or birth certificate.
Are drones allowed inside the Sundarban Tiger Reserve?
No. Drone flying is strictly prohibited inside the Sundarban Tiger Reserve. Violators may face fines and confiscation of equipment. Only handheld cameras and smartphones are permitted with the appropriate camera fee.
Ready to Visit Sundarban? Let Us Handle the Permits
Skip the paperwork and long queues at the forest office. Sundarban Ecofriends arranges all entry permits, boat clearances, transport from Kolkata, comfortable accommodation, delicious Bengali meals, and experienced local guides — so you can focus entirely on spotting Royal Bengal Tigers, kingfishers, and crocodiles along the river. Get in touch today to lock in the best 2026 rates before the peak season rush begins.