Haliday Wildlife Sanctuary

Overview of Haliday Island

Haliday Wildlife Sanctuary—often called Haliday Island—is one of India’s smallest sanctuaries and part of the Sundarbans Biosphere Reserve alongside Sajnekhali and Lothian. Roughly 6 sq. km in size, it sits near the Bay of Bengal where the Matla and Bidyadhari rivers meet. The island is dominated by mangroves, with pockets of Casuarina and Karanja planted for afforestation.

Location: South 24 Parganas Division, at Matla–Bidyadhari confluence

Access: Boat only (routes from Namkhana/Ramganga; also via Jharkhali/Canning)

Permits: Forest permissions needed; Tripishq arranges with licensed guides

Highlights: Tiny sanctuary, river confluence vistas, mangroves & coastal birding

Best Time: October–March (calmer rivers & pleasant weather)

Note: Landing on the sanctuary is generally not permitted; viewed from boat

Permit & Access Info

The sanctuary is typically cruised past on circuits starting from Namkhana or Ramganga, and also reachable via Jharkhali or Canning. Landing is not allowed. Tripishq arranges forest permissions, licensed guides, and AC/Non-AC boats to integrate Haliday with Kalash Island, Bonnie Camp, and Bhagabatpur.

Frequently Asked Questions About Haliday Wildlife Sanctuary

1. Where is Haliday Wildlife Sanctuary?

In the South 24 Parganas Division of Sundarbans, near the Bay of Bengal at the confluence of Matla & Bidyadhari rivers. Boat-only access.

2. How can it be reached?

Approach from Namkhana or Ramganga (common), and also via Jharkhali/Canning. Tours pass by the sanctuary en route to Kalash Island.

3. Can we land on Haliday Island?

No—landing is generally not permitted. The sanctuary is viewed from the boat while cruising past.

4. What’s the best time to visit?

October–March. Rivers can be rough Apr–Sep—only sturdy boats/launches should operate then.

5. Where are the starting jetties?

Namkhana, Ramganga, Canning, Sonakhali, Godhkhali, and Jharkhali (advance boat booking required).

6. How far is it from Godhkhali?

Usually routed via permits at Jharkhali/Kaikhali, then ~3.5–4 hrs by boat from Jharkhali depending on tides.

7. What can I combine with Haliday?

Kalash Island (view from boat), Bonnie Camp, Bhagabatpur Crocodile Project, and Lothian Wildlife Sanctuary.

8. How many days do I need?

Plan 2–3 days to include Haliday with Kalash/Bonnie circuits; 3N/4D offers a relaxed pace.

Overview of Haliday Island

Wildlife & Nature

Things to Do around Haliday

Nearby Attractions

Travel Tips

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