Odisha is a treasure trove of history and culture, attracting tourists from all over the world. However, what many don't realize is that the state also offers an incredible wildlife experience. Blessed with abundant flora and fauna, Odisha boasts numerous national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, and bird sanctuaries. For nature enthusiasts, it's a must-visit destination for wildlife holidays and sightseeing. Even for those who may not consider themselves nature enthusiasts, a trip to Odisha is incomplete without experiencing the wildlife.
With nineteen wildlife sanctuaries, one national park, and two tiger reserves, the state offers a diverse range of experiences, including trekking, birdwatching, jungle safaris, and camping under the starlit skies. From lush forests to pristine beaches and rich marine life, the state offers a stunning variety of sights and experiences. Wildlife tourism is an integral part of this experience, with a range of wildlife destinations to explore. Whether you're a nature lover, adventure seeker, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, visiting one or more of Odisha's wildlife sanctuaries is a must. Don't miss out on the chance to discover India's best-kept secret. Plan your trip to Odisha today and immerse yourself in the beauty of its natural wonders. Below are some of the well-known national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in Odisha.
Chilika Lake Bird Sanctuary:
Chilika Lake is a picturesque brackish water lake located in the coastal state of Odisha in India. It is the largest saltwater lagoon in Asia and is home to several small islands, including Honeymoon Island and Breakfast Island. The Chilika Lake is the largest Ramsar site in India, which attracts a large number of migratory birds during the winter months, making it a haven for bird lovers and ornithologists.
Nalabana and Mangalajodi are two popular birdwatching destinations in Odisha. Nalabana, a designated bird sanctuary under the Wildlife Protection Act, is a large island in the center of a lake. During winters, it attracts a large number of resident and migratory birds, making it a treat for birdwatchers. However, the island is completely submerged during monsoons. On the other hand, Mangalajodi was once known for poaching activities, but today it is a community owned by wildlife ventures and supported by Mangalajodi Ecotourism. Visitors can witness a variety of species such as White Bellied Sea Eagles, Graylag Geese, Purple Moorhen, Flamingo Jacana, and Herons, making it an excellent destination for birdwatching.
The sanctuary is also renowned for its dynamic sunrises and sunsets. While the region has a moderate climate throughout the year, the best time to visit Chilika Lake is from October to March when the lake is teeming with migrating birds, usually hosting around more than a million migratory birds across 50-70 different species. Enjoy a luxurious houseboat experience or stay at nature camps near Chilka Lake.
Bhitarkanika National Park:
Bhitarkanika National Park in Odisha is a mesmerizing natural wonderland with dense mangroves, enchanting waterways and thriving wildlife. Spread across 672 square kilometers, Bhitarkanika is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The park is one of the few in India where visitors can explore the wildlife through boat safari. The park is famous for its saltwater crocodiles, which are the star attraction, but it is also home to other animals such as Indian python, rhesus monkey, cobra, spotted deer, dolphin, hyena, and many others. Bhitarkanika is also a popular destination for birdwatchers, with migratory birds like kingfishers, hornbills, and herons being spotted here. The park's thick mangrove forests and indigo bushes make up its lush flora. The ideal season to explore Bhitarkanika National Park is during winter, which lasts from October to February. The moderate temperature during this period makes it perfect for tourism, attracting a larger number of visitors to the park. Various accommodation options are available for visitors, including nature camps, and OTDC owned hotels. For a unique experience, visitors can also stay at the Eco Retreat on the Pentha Beach.
Similipal Tiger Reserve:
Similipal Tiger Reserve, located in Northern Odisha's Mayurbhanj district, is a mesmerizing place where nature's beauty, grace, and power captivate visitors. Covering an area of 2750 sq km, it is Odisha's premier wildlife sanctuary and home to a vast variety of wild orchids that lend a romantic charm to the forest. The reserve's stunning waterfalls, such as Joranda and Barehipani , leave visitors spellbound, while the majestic Royal Bengal Tiger embodies the reserve's character perfectly. Similipal is one of the first nine designated tiger reserves established in 1973 and, recently, is getting famous for housing the rare Melanistic Tiger or Black Tiger. The forest is primarily a moist deciduous forest (Monsoon forest), with twelve rivers feeding the jungles of Similipal. The meandering rivers cascade down the hills of the forest, creating the magnificent Baheripani waterfall, where water drops from a height of 400 meters making it the second highest waterfall of India, and Joranda waterfall, where water drops from a height of 150 meters. Similipal offers a complete package for nature enthusiasts, and the best time to visit is from November to March. There are several accommodation options available for visitors from luxury hotels like Aranya Niwas and the Royal Heritage Palace of Belgadia, to nature camps run by local community members and other facilities
Satkosia Tiger Reserve and Gorge Sanctuary:
The Satkosia Tiger Reserve is located in the heart of Odisha, spanning four districts: Nayagarh, Cuttack, Angul, and Boudh. Comprising of two adjoining sanctuaries - Baisipalli Sanctuary and Satkosia Gorge Sanctuary, the reserve is approximately 162 km from Bhubaneswar. The Satkosia Tiger Reserve is a haven for nature lovers, boasting of picturesque landscapes and a diverse range of flora and fauna. Tourists can enjoy the tranquility of the nature camps while observing wildlife in their natural habitat. The reserve has been divided into two parts - the northern side with Tikarpada, Purunakote, and Chhotkei, and the southern side with Badamul, Kuanria, and Sapapathar. Spending a night in these camps can be a thrilling experience for wildlife and adventure enthusiasts. Prior permission must be obtained from the tourist counters at Pampasar, Kusanga, and Chhamundia before entering the Satkosia Tiger Reserve. Also, experience the bliss of the great outdoors in luxurious tented suites at Eco Retreat Satkosia, offering a perfect glamping staycation with all the modern comforts
Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary:
Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary, located near the Hirakud dam in Sambalpur, is a renowned tourist destination in western Odisha. Spanning over an area of 347 sq km, it serves as a vital water source for the wildlife and aquatic fauna of the sanctuary. What sets Debrigarh apart from other sanctuaries in the state is its unique natural habitat that provides an exceptional sightseeing experience of the animals. The sanctuary is home to a diverse range of wildlife such as Indian Gaur, tigers, leopards, nilgais, sambars, peacocks and chitals. Additionally, the sanctuary is a haven for various migratory birds, including the endangered crested serpent eagle and Chousingha, as well as freshwater turtles. The lush jungle covering the sanctuary is a testament to its vibrancy, making it one of the country's most vivid wildlife sanctuaries. The best time to visit the sanctuary is during the winter and pre-summer months where you can stay at the community run Debrigarh Nature Camp or with luxury at the Eco Retreat swiss tents.
The Best of Odisha Wildlife
Odisha, known for its natural beauty, is home to some of the most exquisite beaches, forests and wildlife sanctuaries in India. The state boasts of numerous wildlife sanctuaries and national parks that protect the rich flora and fauna of the region. The wildlife sanctuaries and national parks in Odisha are havens for exotic animal species, some of which are on the brink of extinction. To plan a wildlife expedition in Odisha, visit the official website of Odisha Tourism https://odishatourism.gov.in/ for booking and travel details. Alternatively, you can visit bookodisha.com and ecotourodisha.com to plan your trip, book your stay and explore the breath-taking wildlife experience in Odisha. For package tours and hotel bookings, visit www.bookodisha.com
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