Photo: Jerin Sultana, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Katka Wildlife Sanctuary
About Katka Wildlife Sanctuary
Katka lies near the mouth of the Sundarbans on the Bay of Bengal, within one of the forest’s wildlife sanctuaries protected as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Boats usually anchor in the river here overnight, and groups go ashore at the forest station early in the morning.
The appeal is the mix of habitats in a small area: tidal creeks, mangrove forest, grassy meadows where herds of spotted deer graze, and a beach a walk away at Jamtola. There is a watchtower for views over the meadows, and the birdlife is rich, from kingfishers to waders. Tiger tracks are sometimes found on the paths, though the animals themselves are rarely seen.
As everywhere in the Sundarbans, you need a permit and walk with an armed forest guard, and the forest is closed for three months in the monsoon, usually June to August. Evergreen Bangladesh Tours visits Katka on private boat journeys with a local guide, often together with Kochikhali and Harbaria.
Things to do
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Dawn walk to the meadows
Walk out from the forest station at first light, when deer are grazing in the open.
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Watchtower views
Climb the tower for a view across grassland and forest edge.
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Creek cruise by country boat
Glide through the small channels around Katka, the best way to see birds and crocodiles.
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Wildlife photography
Deer, monkeys and wild boar are common here; a long lens helps.
Getting there
From Khulna or Mongla: Katka is reached only by boat, usually on a two or three night trip. The journey takes most of a day each way.
From Dhaka: travel to Khulna or Mongla first, by road via the Padma Bridge or by train.
Where to stay
You sleep on your tour boat, anchored in the river near the forest station. There are no hotels at Katka.
Tours that visit Katka Wildlife Sanctuary
Short Tours
Sundarbans Mangrove & Wildlife Expedition
from $500 per person
Questions
Can I visit Katka on a day trip?
No. It is too far from Khulna and Mongla, so visits are part of overnight boat trips.
Is it safe to walk there?
Groups always walk with an armed forest guard and stay on set paths. Follow the guard’s instructions.
What wildlife will I see?
Spotted deer, monkeys, wild boar and many birds are usual. Tigers are present but rarely seen.
When is Katka open?
Outside the monsoon closure, which usually runs from June to August.