National Parks in Odisha
Nestled in the eastern region of India, Odisha boasts a treasure trove of natural wonders, including its renowned National Parks. Offering a rich tapestry of biodiversity and scenic landscapes, these parks are a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife aficionados alike.
From the majestic Simlipal National Park, famed for its Royal Bengal Tigers and lush forests, to the serene Bhitarkanika National Park, home to unique estuarine crocodiles and migratory birds, Odisha’s parks promise an immersive experience in the lap of nature. With diverse ecosystems, captivating flora, and fauna, these parks stand as testament to Odisha’s commitment to preserving its natural heritage while offering unforgettable adventures for tourists.
1. Chilika Wildlife Sanctuary
Chilika, the largest saltwater lagoon in Odisha and India, is surrounded by the Chilika Wildlife Sanctuary, which is a habitat for a variety of native and migratory birds. Covering an area of 1100 sq km, this sanctuary is among the most popular in Odisha.
It’s a paradise for bird enthusiasts and researchers, offering sightings of White Bellied Sea Eagle, Flamingo, Open Billed Stork, Brahminy Kite, KingFisher, Egret, Pintail, Bareheaded Goose, and more. Witnessing the sunset over the lake with migratory birds in flight is a breathtaking experience that should not be missed.
2. Karlapat Wildlife Sanctuary
The sanctuary covers an area of 175 square kilometers and is home to a variety of flora and fauna. The dense forests are filled with teak, bamboo, sal, and other trees, providing a perfect habitat for the wildlife that resides here. The Phurlijharan waterfall is a major attraction in the sanctuary, cascading down from a height of 16 meters and creating a mesmerizing sight for visitors.
Visitors can enjoy trekking, bird watching, and nature walks in the sanctuary, immersing themselves in the serene surroundings and spotting the diverse wildlife that calls Karlapat home. The sanctuary is also a great place for photography enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities to capture the beauty of nature in its raw form.
3. Kotagarh Wildlife Sanctuary
Kotagarh Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Odisha, is known for its vast expanse of five reserve forests, three proposed reserve forests, and a couple of deemed forests. The sanctuary is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, antelopes, barking deer, wild boars, jackals, civet cats, and nilgais, amidst the lush sal, pisal, and sissoo forests. Covering an area of 400 sq km, Kotagarh Wildlife Sanctuary was designated as a World Heritage Site in 1981.
4. Bhitarkanika National Park
Covering an area of 145 sq km, Bhitarkanika wetland is divided into three protected zones – Bhitarkanika National Park, Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary, and Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary. The land is regularly flooded by rivers Brahmani, Dhamra, Baitarani, and Pathsala, creating a swampy environment.
Surrounded by mangrove forests, this park is a habitat for saltwater crocodiles, estuarine turtles, and various other aquatic animals and birds. Visitors may also catch a glimpse of king cobras, Indian pythons, black ibis, spotted deer, wild boar, and water monitor lizards. Bhitarkanika marshland is the second largest mangrove ecosystem in India, following Sundarbans, and is definitely one of the premier national parks in Odisha worth exploring.
5. Simlipal National Park
Simlipal National Park, situated in the Mayurbhanj district, is a highly renowned national park in Odisha. Recognized as a tiger reserve in 2007, it stands out for its abundant tiger population. Covering an extensive area of 2750 sq km, it ranks as the 7th largest national park in India.
The park’s allure lies in its breathtaking natural beauty, highlighted by magnificent waterfalls such as Joranda and Barehipani. Simlipal National Park serves as a habitat for various wildlife species including Bengal tigers, gaurs, elephants, sambals, leopards, jungle cats, wolves, and hyenas. Additionally, it is a haven for avian creatures like jungle fowls, partridges, grey hornbills, mynas, and crested serpent eagles.
6. Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary
Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary is a truly remarkable destination that offers a breathtaking canyon, 11 stunning waterfalls, a vast plateau, and lush forests spanning over 500 sq km. It is undoubtedly one of the must-visit national parks in Odisha. This sanctuary is not only known for its natural beauty but also for its diverse wildlife.
As a proposed tiger reserve, it is home to a significant population of tigers and leopards. Additionally, you can spot other fascinating animals such as swamp deer, elephants, barking deer, chital and sambar, sloth bear, monkeys, and langurs. The sanctuary is also a haven for bird enthusiasts, with a wide variety of species including partridges, hill mynahs, and peafowls.
7. Tikarpada Wildlife Sanctuary
Tikarpada Wildlife Sanctuary offers a breathtaking view of Satkosia Reserve and the flowing River Mahanadi. Covering an area of 795.52 sq km, this sanctuary boasts a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it a top choice among Odisha National Parks.
Wildlife enthusiasts will be delighted to spot animals like spotted deer, tiger, leopard, four-horned antelopes, and sloth bear here. Not to mention, the abundance of gharial in the park has earned it the title of Gharial Sanctuary.
8. Hadagarh Wildlife Sanctuary
Hadagarh Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its breathtaking scenery of lush sal forests and grasslands. It is home to a variety of bird species, as well as tigers, leopards, deer, jungle cats, porcupines, wolves, and langurs. Established in 1978, this sanctuary covers an area of 191 sq km. The picturesque Salandi River flowing through the sanctuary adds to its beauty, making it one of the most picturesque national parks in Odisha.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the National Parks in Odisha offer a captivating blend of biodiversity and natural beauty, making them ideal destinations for tourism. From the dense forests of Simlipal to the coastal wonders of Bhitarkanika, these parks provide a sanctuary for diverse flora and fauna.
Visitors can immerse themselves in thrilling wildlife safaris, bird watching, and eco-trekking experiences, all while contributing to conservation efforts. The cultural richness surrounding these parks adds depth to the visitor experience, with opportunities to explore indigenous communities and their traditions. With their scenic landscapes and abundant wildlife, Odisha’s National Parks promise unforgettable adventures for nature enthusiasts and eco-travelers alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
Odisha boasts several notable national parks, including Simlipal National Park, Bhitarkanika National Park, and Nandankanan Wildlife Sanctuary. These parks are renowned for their diverse ecosystems and rich biodiversity.
The ideal time to visit Odisha’s National Parks is during the winter months, from November to February, when the weather is pleasant and wildlife sightings are more frequent. However, specific timings may vary depending on the park, so it’s advisable to check with park authorities before planning your trip.
Odisha’s National Parks are home to a wide range of wildlife species, including Bengal tigers, Indian elephants, spotted deer, sambar deer, Indian bison, and various species of birds such as hornbills, kingfishers, and peafowl. Additionally, Bhitarkanika National Park is famous for its saltwater crocodiles and Olive Ridley sea turtles.
Yes, there are accommodation options available near most of Odisha’s National Parks, ranging from forest rest houses to eco-resorts and guesthouses. These accommodations provide visitors with a comfortable stay amidst the wilderness while also offering guided safaris and nature walks.
Yes, visitors are required to follow certain guidelines and regulations to ensure the preservation of the parks and safety of both wildlife and visitors. Some common rules include maintaining silence, refraining from littering, and avoiding feeding or disturbing the animals. Additionally, certain areas may have restricted access, and it’s essential to abide by the instructions of park authorities and guides for a memorable and responsible visit.
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