Wildlife Sanctuaries in Odisha
Explore the enchanting wilderness of Odisha at its wildlife sanctuary, where nature’s beauty flourishes in abundance. Nestled amidst lush greenery, this sanctuary offers a sanctuary for numerous endangered species. Venture into the heart of the sanctuary and witness the majestic presence of Royal Bengal Tigers, Asiatic Elephants, and myriad avian species.
Immerse yourself in thrilling safaris, guided by expert naturalists, unraveling the secrets of this biodiverse haven. Indulge in eco-friendly accommodations, embracing the harmony of nature while supporting conservation efforts. Discover Odisha’s rich biodiversity and immerse yourself in unforgettable wildlife encounters at this sanctuary, a haven for both nature enthusiasts and conservationists alike.
1. Nandankanan Wildlife Sanctuary
Nandankanan Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the state of Odisha, India, is a paradise for nature lovers. Spread over an area of 437 hectares, this sanctuary is home to a wide variety of exotic animals, making it a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
One of the main attractions of Nandankanan is its population of white tigers. These majestic creatures, with their striking white fur and piercing blue eyes, are a sight to behold. Nandankanan is one of the few places in the world where you can see these rare and endangered animals up close. The sanctuary has successfully bred and conserved white tigers, contributing to their preservation and ensuring their survival for future generations.
In addition to white tigers, Nandankanan is also home to lions, another iconic species. The sanctuary houses a pride of lions, allowing visitors to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. The sight of a lion roaring or a lioness hunting is an experience that will leave you in awe of the power and beauty of these animals.
2. Hadagarh Wildlife Sanctuary
Nestled amidst the lush Sal woods and vast green fields, Hadagarh Wildlife Sanctuary presents a breathtaking sight of nature’s magnificence. This sanctuary is not only home to various species of birds but also houses majestic creatures like tigers, panthers, fishing and jungle cats, pangolin, hyena, wolf, porcupine, and langur monkeys.
Established in 1978, the sanctuary spans across an expansive area of 191.6 square kilometers. The life-giving Salandi River flows through the dense forest, nourishing it and hosting the Mugger Crocodiles in its tranquil waters.
3. Ushakothi Wildlife Sanctuary
Ushakothi Wildlife Sanctuary, also known as Badrama Wildlife Sanctuary, is a popular tourist destination in Odisha. It encompasses the Badrama Reserve Forests, Binjipali Reserve Forests, Ushakothi Reserve Forests, and Kansar Reserve Forests.
Situated just 22 km away from Sambalpur, this sanctuary is home to a variety of plant and animal species. Visitors can spot flying squirrels, tigers, elephants, and sambar leopards here. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the beauty of the flora and fauna!
4. Chilika Wildlife Sanctuary
Chilika Wildlife Sanctuary is a paradise for birdwatching enthusiasts. It is a popular wildlife sanctuary in Odisha that you should definitely include in your vacation plans. The sanctuary is home to a wide variety of bird species such as Flamingo, Openbilled Stork, White Bellied Sea Eagle, Brahminy Kite, Spoonbill, Spot-billed Pelican, and Bar-headed Goose.
In addition to birds, you can also spot animals like Blackbuck, Golden Jackals, Spotted Deer, and Hyenas here. With around 225 species of fish, this sanctuary is a must-visit for nature lovers. Don’t forget to catch the breathtaking views of sunset and sunrise while you’re there!
5. Debrigarh Wildlife sanctuary
Debrigarh Wildlife sanctuary, situated in Sambalpur district and covering an expansive area of 353 square kilometers, is renowned as one of the most popular wildlife sanctuaries in Odisha. It is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including 234 bird species, 40 mammal species, 12 amphibian species, 41 reptile species, 42 fish species, 39 odonate species, 8 spider species, and 85 butterfly species.
Additionally, the sanctuary boasts 250 plant species that are worth exploring to gain a deeper understanding of the ecosystem. For wildlife enthusiasts, this sanctuary is an ideal destination for a captivating weekend getaway.
6. Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary
The Sunabeda wildlife sanctuary spans across an impressive 500 square km and is renowned as a Tiger reserve. This sanctuary is a haven for a wide variety of plants and animals, boasting a vast plateau, breathtaking waterfalls, and stunning canyons. The wildlife found here surpasses that of other sanctuaries, making it truly exceptional.
The sanctuary encompasses a watershed area that connects to the Jonk river, and it even features a dam that aids in irrigation. Within its diverse landscape, you can encounter magnificent creatures such as tigers, deer, sloth bears, gaurs, and many others. Additionally, you may come across Langurs, a type of monkey, as well as rhesus monkeys.
Not only is this sanctuary home to an array of fascinating animals, but it also attracts migratory birds and other avian species like Partridges, vultures, hill mynahs, and peafowls. Moreover, it boasts an intriguing population of wild buffaloes from the neighboring forests of Chhattisgarh.
7. Karlapat Sanctuary
Karlapat Wildlife Sanctuary, situated in the southern part of Kalahandi, is a haven for a wide variety of plant and animal species. The lush greenery of the deciduous forest provides a tranquil environment for visitors. It is a favorite spot for picnics, thanks to the stunning Phurliijharan waterfall. This sanctuary is a magnet for both locals and adventurers from distant lands.
Karlapat Wildlife Sanctuary is renowned for its diverse wildlife, including gaur, sambhar, leopard, nilgai, barking deer, mouse deer, Ottawa, and a plethora of migratory birds and reptiles. The sanctuary’s hills, valleys, water pools, and perennial streams add to its allure, making it a unique destination for nature lovers.
8. Kotagarh Wildlife Sanctuary
The wildlife sanctuary in the Baliguda subdivisions of the Kandhamal region is a true haven for biodiversity enthusiasts. Spanning an impressive 399.5 square kilometers, this sanctuary showcases a natural landscape that is nothing short of breathtaking. The sheer variety of vegetation found here is awe-inspiring, with dense forests, sprawling grasslands, and vibrant floral displays.
But it is the diverse range of animals and reptiles that truly make this sanctuary a wildlife lover’s paradise. Majestic elephants can be spotted gracefully roaming through the sanctuary, their presence commanding respect and admiration. Gaurs, the largest species of wild cattle, can also be found here, their imposing figures adding to the sanctuary’s allure.
9. Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary
In 1979, Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary was established as a wildlife sanctuary in Odisha. Renowned as the biggest nesting beach for Olive Ridley Turtles globally, this sanctuary draws numerous marine enthusiasts annually. Situated in the Kendrapara district, Orissa, this marine sanctuary shelters diverse fish species.
The Olive Ridley Turtles breed between November and January, making it easy to catch a glimpse of them as they emerge from the coastal waters. This sanctuary is a haven for turtles, offering a tranquil beach setting where you can unwind while observing these charming creatures.
10. Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary
Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary in Odisha is a crucial refuge for endangered bird and animal species. The state is rich in biodiversity, and this sanctuary is a key player in conservation efforts.
Managed by forest authorities and the Odisha government, Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary is home to species like Woodpeckers, Hill Mynas, Hornbills, Leopards, Asiatic Elephants, Pangolins, Gaurs, and Mouse Deer. Not only does this sanctuary help protect endangered species, but it also boosts tourism in Odisha.
11. Tikarpada Wildlife Sanctuary
Make sure to include Tikarpada Wildlife Sanctuary in your travel plans when visiting Odisha! This sanctuary, located along the River Mahanadi, covers an area of 795.52 sq km and is dedicated to preserving crocodile species, including the famous Gharial crocodiles.
In addition to reptiles like snakes and turtles, you can also spot tigers, elephants, leopards, and more at this sanctuary. Enjoy thrilling activities such as river rafting, boating, trekking, hiking, and fishing during your visit to this incredible wildlife sanctuary.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Odisha’s wildlife sanctuaries offer a captivating journey into the heart of nature’s bounty, promising an unforgettable experience for tourists. From the majestic elephants of Simlipal to the rare bird species of Chilika, these sanctuaries boast diverse ecosystems and rich biodiversity.
Visitors can immerse themselves in thrilling safaris, tranquil nature walks, and insightful conservation programs, all while contributing to the preservation of endangered species and their habitats. With its pristine landscapes and untamed wilderness, Odisha’s wildlife sanctuaries provide a sanctuary for both wildlife and wanderers alike, fostering a deep appreciation for the natural world and its wonders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Some notable wildlife sanctuaries in Odisha include Simlipal National Park, Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary, Nandan Kanan Zoological Park, Satkosia Gorge Wildlife Sanctuary, and Chandaka-Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary.
Odisha’s sanctuaries are home to a diverse range of wildlife species, including Royal Bengal Tigers, Asian Elephants, Saltwater Crocodiles, Olive Ridley Turtles, Indian Bison (Gaur), Indian Leopards, various species of deer such as Spotted Deer and Sambar, as well as numerous species of birds and reptiles.
Yes, many wildlife sanctuaries in Odisha offer accommodations ranging from forest rest houses to eco-tourism cottages. It’s advisable to make prior reservations, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability.
Visitors can engage in various activities such as jungle safaris, bird watching, nature walks, boat rides (where applicable), and eco-tours organized by the forest department. Additionally, some sanctuaries offer opportunities for camping and trekking, providing visitors with immersive experiences in nature.
Yes, most wildlife sanctuaries in Odisha have entry fees for visitors, which vary depending on the sanctuary and the category of visitors (Indian nationals, foreign nationals, students, etc.). Additionally, certain activities like jungle safaris and boat rides may require additional permits or charges. It’s advisable to check with the respective forest departments or sanctuary authorities for the latest fee structure and permit requirements.
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