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The Ilish Utsav is another term for the Sundarban Hilsa Festival, is celebrated every year in July to September in the Sundarbans, West Bengal. It held to honor Asian hilsa (ilish) fish, the festival provides guests with various tasty foods, shows Bengali culture and lets them appreciate natural settings.
The main aspects of Hilsa
People often call the Hilsa the “Queen of Fish” due to the tenderness and special taste of its meat. There are many typical dishes prepared during the festival, proving how well hilsa can be used. Moving from the traditional Ilish Bhapa (steamed hilsa) to newer recipes such as Ilish Paturi (hilsa in banana leaves) and Doi Ilish (hilsa in yogurt), the festival presents seafood dishes that anyone who loves seafood can enjoy.
Experiencing the Sundarbans as Part of my Life
The Sundarbans which is recognized by UNESCO and is the largest mangrove forest, is home to a wide variety of wildlife. During the festival, people join boats and discover the various plants, animals and birds, including the rare tiger. The peaceful environment created by surrounding greenery and different types of wildlife sets a calming mood for everything happening during the festival.
Cultural Celebrations
As well as delicious food, the festival highlights many aspects of Bengali tradition. Performers in traditional folk costumes sing Baul songs and do Gombhira dances which make the nights joyful and lively. The programs give travelers new insights into the area’s history and traditions.
Information about tour packages such as their destinations and schedules, is important.
A trip from Kolkata to the Sundarbans lasts for 3 days and tour operators provide full coverage of the area. Usually, the itinerary consists of the following:
- On the first day, guests travel from Kolkata to Godkhali Ferry Ghat, transfer to the resort by boat, receive welcome drinks and be entertained by cultural performances.
- On the second day, in the Morning boat safari through the Sundarbans, visits to watchtowers like Sajnekhali and Sudhanyakhali, and tasting sessions of various hilsa dishes.
- On the third day, the village exploration, interaction with local communities, and return journey to Kolkata.
Accommodations range from eco-friendly resorts to houseboats, offering a comfortable stay amidst nature. Meals are predominantly centered around hilsa preparations, complemented by other local delicacies.
Sustainable Tourism and Conservation
The Sundarban Hilsa Festival emphasizes sustainable tourism practices, promoting eco-friendly initiatives and responsible fishing methods. By participating in the festival, visitors contribute to the conservation efforts of the Sundarbans' delicate ecosystem and support the livelihoods of local communities.
Plan Your Visit
The Sundarban Hilsa Festival 2025 (Call: 9051344478) is scheduled for select weekends in July, August, and September. Booking in advance is recommended, as the festival attracts numerous visitors each year. For more information and to reserve your spot.
Board on this unique journey to the Sundarbans, where the flavors of hilsa, the rhythms of Bengali culture, and the tranquility of nature await you. Contact https://www.sundarbantravels.com/ or Call Us: 9051344478 to reserve your seat as it is already filling up fast.