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West Bengal About West Bengal Places to Visit   Sunderbans   A world heritage site, the mangrove forests of Sunderbans spread across 4264 sq. kms of dense and wild foliage. It is here that the river Ganges forms the world's largest delta to create a unique estuarine forest whose fragile eco-system is supported by numerous rivers and lakes that surround the area. The Sunderbans has varied wildlife and is the largest tiger sanctuary in the country. Part of it is also a crocodile reserve and a heron sanctuary during July and September when the winged visitors drop by. To protect its delicate environment, the core of area of the sanctuary is closed to humans while the buffer area is protected as the reserve. Apart from being home to the Royal Bengal Tiger, other wildlife in the sanctuary includes spotted deer, crocodiles, monkeys, wild pigs, and Olive turtles. Unusual marine life includes the rare estuarine crocodile, the Gangetic dolphin and the water monitor lizard. The plants and trees found in the Sunderbans are also unusual. They have learnt to adapt themselves to the changing environment and maintain the ecological balance. Most plants have respiratory roots which help take in oxygen. The forest is best discovered by boat but it requires prior permission.