The Best Time to Visit the Sundarban Ilish Utsav and How to Plan Your Trip
We Bengalis, as a part of our extensive and exquisite culture, have a soft spot for the illish (Hilsa fish or the Queen of Fish). Truth be told, whenever there is a context of hilsa fish, there could be nothing more exquisite than that of a Sundarban Ilish Utsav. Yes, the Sundarbans has been one of the biggest hosts of Ilish Utsav, displaying the rich emotion, a cultural phenomenon, and a monsoon ritual for every Bengali soul. For the following article, we shall explore all the ins and outs of the Illish Utsave and all the preparation you need for the same.
What is Sundarban Illish Utsav?
Sundarban Ilish Utsav is the annual Bengali festival celebrating the arrival of the hilsa fish in Bengal in the rivers of the Sundarbans Delta. It is a total retreat for enjoying delicious hilsa-based dishes and cultural events.
- The primary focus is on celebrating the Hilsa fish and its culinary significance in Bengali cuisine.
- A series of cultural events, such as folk music and dance performances.
- Various food stalls offer delectable and mouth-watering hilsa dishes.
- The event lasts for a month.
- Sundarban Explore includes this event in their Sundarban tour package price. So all you have to do is connect with them and get your slots booked.
How to plan your trip? What are the things to keep in mind while planning for the trip?
In this section of the article, we shall explore all the ins and outs of Sundarban Ilish Utsav and things that you need to keep in mind while you plan for your trip.
Time
- The Illish Utsave is nothing like your daily business; it is something special, and one needs to visit this place during a specific time of the year.
- July to September is the best time for you to visit the place.
- This event flourishes during the monsoon when hilsa fish are found in abundance.
The fish that is served during this festival is freshly sourced from the local fisheries and fishermen, and it is prepared according to the local delicacies, taste, flavor, and preferences and served to the tourists who visit Sundarban Ilish Utsav.
Lastly, if you are confused about where to visit and plan your trip, the Sundarbans tour guide is there to help you out.
The ultimate itinerary of the Utsav
During July to September, all eyes of Bengalis are on the Sundarban trip. It is needless to mention that the variety of hilsa fish dishes, with options like hilsa curry, hilsa paturi, and other delicacies, are found here. At Sundarban Explore, we take pride in planning for the entire trip. Here is what you can expect at your visit:
- You will not have to break a sweat, as you will be accompanied by a Sundarban tour guide. The former will guide you through and might as well give you a short introduction to the Sundarban National Park.
- Once that is done, you will be taken on a boat safari. Here you can roam around in the boat and can roam through the narrow creeks and enjoy the delightful atmosphere of the suburbs of the area.
Things to explore at the Sundarban Ilish Utsav
This can be a preconceived notion that if it's illish, Utsav, all attention would be garnered by the Queen of fishes. Well, that is partially correct; you can get along with all the delicacies, but you can also enjoy
- Traditional music
- Drance performs
- Explore the rich heritage and culture of the festive atmosphere
- Have a glance at the vibrant and local culture of Sundarbans.
Art, culture, and more
Crafts and artisanal products are always in the limelight. Sundarbans, since the time of its inception, has borne artisans and craftsmen who have starstruck the urban population. So when you visit the Sundarbans Illish Utsav for the first time, never miss the chance to
- Purchase unique Souvenirs and gifts
- Get your hands on the handmade jewelry and intricately woven textiles
- Never forget to attend cultural workshops that are organized, giving visitors the chance to learn traditional crafts, cooking techniques, and also the fishing methods from the local experts.
- With the help of these workshops, you can get hands-on experience of the region's recent culture and regional heritage.
Delicacies that you can explore at the Sundarban Ilish Utsav
Ilish Mach or Hilsa fish is an emotional corner for the Bengalis. On certain days when we feel low and nothing falls in place, a plate full of rice with a side of Ilish fish fried in mustard oil is exactly what you need. Here is a list of dishes that you need to try.
- Illish bhapa—the ultimate illish dish that is steamed in a mustard and green chili paste wrapped and steamed in banana leaves.
- Ilish tel—this is liquid gold as a Bengali household staple; it is the oil that the fish releases when cooked. Often it is cooked with spices and onions.
- Doi Illish- Doi in Bengali translates back to curd, so the illish is cooked in a thick gravy of creamy yogurt base.
- Illish paturi—a layered dish with Hilsa that is wrapped and coated with a thick layer of mustard, covered and cooked in leaves. Has a strong and pungent flavor but is enjoyed and loved by all, hands down.
- Ilish fry—this is plain and simple fish fried in mustard oil. Once cooked, both the oil and the fish are consumed side-by-side.
Conclusion
Illish or hilsa fish, whatever we may call it, is an emotion. It is more than a delicacy, a festival indeed that is celebrated all over the Sundarban region, and the Sundarban Ilish Utsav is the live example of this. Sundarban Explore has taken pride in being a partner of this cultural event and popularizing it to the core. So the next time you feel like visiting the place, you know with whom to connect and where to connect.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Q. What is the best time to visit the Sundarban Ilish Utsav?
The Ilish Utsav is best experienced during the monsoon months of July to September, when the Hilsa fish is at its peak flavor. The lush greenery and vibrant festival atmosphere make it a unique experience, though travelers should prepare for occasional heavy rains.
Q. How can I reach the Sundarban Ilish Utsav?
You can travel to Sundarbans from Kolkata via Canning or Godkhali, the main entry points. From there, boats take visitors deep into the mangrove forests where the festival is celebrated. Many tour operators offer 2-night, 3-day packages that include transport, accommodation, and meals.
Q. What are the highlights of the Sundarban Ilish Utsav?
The festival is a gastronomic delight, featuring a variety of Hilsa dishes like Shorshe Ilish, Ilish Pulao, and Smoked Hilsa. Visitors also enjoy boat safaris, cultural performances, and local village tours that showcase the traditions of the Sundarbans.
Q. What should I pack for the trip?
Since the festival occurs during the monsoon, pack light rain gear, comfortable clothing, insect repellent, and waterproof bags. Also, carry cash, as digital payments may not be widely accepted in remote areas. A camera is a must to capture the stunning landscapes and festivities.
Q. How do I book a tour for the Sundarban Ilish Utsav?
Several tour operators offer customized packages for the festival, ranging from budget-friendly to luxury stays. Booking in advance is recommended, especially for group tours. You can check online travel agencies or contact local operators for the best deals.
