Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks, with its incredible biodiversity and natural beauty, offers a plethora of opportunities for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers in India. Among the many states that contribute to this rich tapestry of wilderness, Odisha stands out as a hidden gem. Situated on the eastern coast of India, Odisha is home to a diverse range of ecosystems, and its national parks are a testament to this biodiversity. In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 national parks in Odisha, their locations, what to expect, and how to reach them.
List of Top 10 Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks in Odisha:
1. Bhitarkanika National Park
Bhitarkanika National Park is India’s second-largest mangrove ecosystem, after the Sunderbans. The park was established on September 16, 1998, and became a Ramsar site on August 19, 2002.
Location and Area
Bhitarkanika National Park is a wildlife sanctuary located in the Kendrapada district of Odisha. The park covers an area of 672 square kilometers, including the Brahmani-Baitarani Delta, backwaters, estuaries, and creeks.
What to Expect
Bhitarkanika National Park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including several endangered species. The park is most famous for its population of saltwater crocodiles, which is one of the largest in the world. Other notable wildlife includes the olive ridley sea turtle, the Indian python, the king cobra, and a variety of birds.
Visitors to Bhitarkanika National Park can expect to see a variety of wildlife on their boat rides through the mangroves. They may also have the opportunity to visit nesting sites for olive ridley sea turtles and to spot migratory birds. The park also offers several eco-tourism activities, such as nature walks, camping, and fishing
How to Reach
Bhitarkanika National Park is well-connected by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, which is about 150 kilometers from the park. The nearest railway station is Bhadrak Railway Station, which is about 50 kilometers from the park. Regular buses are available from Bhubaneswar and Bhadrak to the park entrance.
Best Time to visit
The best time to visit the park is during the winter months (October to March), when the weather is pleasant and the wildlife is most active.
2. Simlipal National Park
Simlipal National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including the Bengal tiger, Asian elephant, gaur, chausingha, leopard, sloth bear, and Indian bison. The park is also a haven for birdwatchers, with over 270 species of birds recorded.
Location and Area
Simlipal National Park is a tiger reserve and biosphere reserve located in the Mayurbhanj district in Odisha. It covers an area of 2,750 square kilometers, making it the largest national park in the state. The park is known for its rich biodiversity, scenic landscapes, and waterfalls.
What to Expect
Visitors to Simlipal National Park can enjoy a variety of activities, including:
- Jungle safaris: Jungle safaris are a great way to see the wildlife of the park. Safaris can be done in jeeps or on elephants.
- Nature walks: Nature walks are a great way to explore the park’s diverse flora and fauna. Walks can be guided or self-guided.
- Birdwatching: Simlipal National Park is a great place to go birdwatching. Visitors can spot a variety of birds, including the hornbill, peacock, and kingfisher.
- Waterfall hopping: Simlipal National Park is home to a number of waterfalls, including the Barehipani Falls and the Joranda Falls.
How to Reach
Simlipal National Park is well-connected to major cities in Odisha and neighboring states. The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, which is about 250 kilometers from the park. The nearest railway station is Baripada Railway Station, which is about 60 kilometers from the park.
Visitors can take a taxi or bus from Bhubaneswar or Baripada to the park. There are also a number of tour operators that offer package tours to Simlipal National Park.
Best Time to visit
The best time to visit Simlipal National Park is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant.
3. Nandankanan National Park
Nandankanan National Park is a great place to visit for tourists of all ages. It is home to a wide variety of animals and plants, and it offers a number of activities for visitors to enjoy.
Location and Area
Nandankanan National Park is a zoological park and botanical garden located in Bhubaneswar, the capital of Odisha, India. It is spread over an area of 437 hectares (1,080 acres).
What to Expect
Nandankanan National Park is home to over 1,500 animals from over 130 species, including white tigers, pangolins, elephants, lions, leopards, crocodiles, and snakes. The park also has a botanical garden with over 3,000 species of plants.
Visitors to Nandankanan National Park can expect to see a wide variety of animals in their natural habitats. The park has a number of enclosures that are designed to mimic the animals’ natural habitats. For example, the lion enclosure is a large open space with trees and rocks, and the elephant enclosure has a pond and mud pit.
In addition to seeing animals, visitors to Nandankanan National Park can also enjoy a number of other activities, such as:
- Taking a safari: The park offers a variety of safari options, including lion safari, tiger safari, bear safari, and herbivore safari.
- Boating: Visitors can take a boat ride on the Kanjia Lake, which is located inside the park.
- Visiting the botanical garden: The botanical garden has a variety of plants from all over the world, including orchids, roses, and cacti.
- Visiting the reptile park: The reptile park has a variety of snakes, crocodiles, and lizards.
- Taking a toy train ride: The park has a toy train that takes visitors around the park.
How to Reach
Nandankanan National Park is located about 10 kilometers from the Bhubaneswar airport and railway station. Visitors can take a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or bus to reach the park.
Timings: The park is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, seven days a week. The entry fee for adults is Rs. 50 and for children is Rs. 10.
Best Time to visit
The best time to visit Nandankanan National Park is during the winter months (October to March), when the weather is pleasant.
4. Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary
Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary is a beautiful and diverse sanctuary that offers something for everyone. Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking for a peaceful escape, Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary is the perfect place for you.
Location and Area
Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Nuapada district of Odisha. It is spread over an area of 600 square kilometers and is contiguous to the Udanti and Sitanadi Sanctuaries of Chhattisgarh state.
What to Expect
Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary is a haven for nature lovers. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, sloth bears, elephants, gaurs, sambar deer, chital, and barking deer. The sanctuary is also home to a variety of birds, reptiles, and amphibians.
In addition to its rich wildlife, Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary is also known for its scenic beauty. The sanctuary is home to a variety of landscapes, including forests, grasslands, hills, and waterfalls.
Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary is a vital habitat for tigers. Other animals that live in the sanctuary include: Barasingha (swamp deer, Rare wild buffaloes, Leopards, Hyenas, Barking deer, Chital, Gaur, Sambar, Sloth bear, Hill myna, Common langur, Rhesus monkeys, Vultures, Partridges, Peafowls.
How to Reach
- By Air: The nearest airport to Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary is Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI) in Bhubaneswar, which is about 230 kilometers away. From Bhubaneswar, you can take a taxi or bus to Sunabeda.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station to Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary is Nuapada Railway Station, which is about 22 kilometers away. From Nuapada Railway Station, you can take a taxi or bus to Sunabeda.
- By Road: Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary is well connected by road to major cities in Odisha and Chhattisgarh. You can take a bus or taxi from any major city in Odisha or Chhattisgarh to Sunabeda.
Best Time to visit
The best time to visit Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary is from October to February.
5. Kotagarh Wildlife Sanctuary
Kotagarh Wildlife Sanctuary is a beautiful and diverse sanctuary that offers something for everyone. Whether you are a nature lover, adventure seeker, or birdwatcher, you are sure to have a memorable experience at this unique destination.
Location and Area
Kotagarh Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Kandhamal district of Odisha, India. It is spread over an area of 400 square kilometers, making it one of the important wildlife reserves in the state.
What to Expect
Kotagarh Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, elephants, leopards, gaurs, nilgais, sambar, barking deer, peacocks, and red jungle fowls. It is also a haven for bird lovers, with over 36 species of birds found in the area, including the endangered green munia. The sanctuary is known for its dense lush green forests, blue hills, and many streams. It is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Here are some of the things you can do in Kotagarh Wildlife Sanctuary:
- Jungle safari: Go on a jungle safari to spot the wildlife in their natural habitat. Jungle safaris are organized by the forest department.
- Birdwatching: Kotagarh Wildlife Sanctuary is a paradise for bird lovers. You can spot a variety of birds, including the endangered green munia.
- Hiking and trekking: There are several hiking and trekking trails in the sanctuary. You can go on a hike to explore the dense forests and enjoy the scenic beauty.
- Nature walks: Nature walks are a great way to learn about the flora and fauna of the sanctuary. You can go on a nature walk with a guide or on your own.
- Visit tribal villages: There are several tribal villages located within the sanctuary. You can visit these villages to learn about the culture and traditions of the tribal people.
How to Reach
Kotagarh Wildlife Sanctuary is well connected by road and rail. The nearest airport is Bhubaneswar Airport, which is about 200 kilometers away. The nearest railway station is Baliguda Railway Station, which is about 30 kilometers away.
From Baliguda, you can take a taxi or bus to reach the sanctuary. The journey takes about an hour.
Accommodation:
There are a few forest lodges and guesthouses located within the sanctuary. You can also book a room in a hotel or homestay in the nearby town of Baliguda.
Best Time to visit
The best time to visit the sanctuary is during the winter months (October to March), when the weather is pleasant.
6. Satkosia Tiger Reserve
Satkosia Tiger Reserve is in the middle of Odisha, spread over four districts of Cuttack, Angul, Nayagarh and Boudh. This tiger reserve comprises two adjoining sanctuaries, namely Baisipalli Sanctuary and Satkosia Gorge Sanctuary. Maintained by the Odisha Forest and Environment Department.
Location and Area
The Satkosia Tiger Reserve is spread across two districts, Angul and Nayagarh, covering an area of about 963 square kilometers. It’s known for its rugged landscape and the majestic Satkosia Gorge.
What to Expect
This reserve is a haven for nature lovers, offering opportunities for trekking, birdwatching, and boat safaris along the Mahanadi River. It’s also home to diverse wildlife, including tigers, leopards, and various species of deer. For online booking of different activities and rooms, you may check forest departments website link.
How to Reach
Angul is the nearest railway station, and the reserve is well-connected by road. Bhubaneswar is the nearest major city and has an airport. It’s approximately 200 kilometers away.
7. Chilika Wildlife Sanctuary
Chilika wildlife sanctuary is a bird paradise and one of the best wildlife Sanctuary in Odisha. Chilika is the largest brackish water lake in India with many small islands like Breakfast island, honeymoon Island, Nalabana Island, Mangaljodi Island etc.
Location and Area
Chilika Wildlife Sanctuary is situated along the picturesque Chilika Lake in Khurda and Ganjam districts. It encompasses an area of about 1,100 square kilometers.
What to Expect
Chilika is famous for its vast brackish water lagoon and is a paradise for birdwatchers. You can spot a myriad of avian species, including flamingos, pelicans, and various migratory birds. The sanctuary is also home to the endangered Irrawaddy dolphins.
How to Reach
The sanctuary is accessible by road from cities like Bhubaneswar and Puri. The nearest railway station is Khurda Road, and the nearest airport is Bhubaneswar.
8. Chandaka Elephant Reserve
Chandaka Elephant Reserve reserve was given its status in August 1982. It was originally established to proffer a safe shelter to elephants with an aim to save their population from hunters and poachers. However, at present, the sanctuary is a well-known tourism destination.
Location and Area
Khurda district, Odisha. Area: 579 sq km.
What to Expect
Chandaka Elephant Reserve is home to a large population of Asian elephants. It is also home to a variety of other wildlife, including leopards, sloth bears, and deer. Tourists can go on elephant safaris (you may check here for booking) and jeep safaris to explore the reserve and see the wildlife up close.
How to Reach
The nearest airport to Chandaka Elephant Reserve is Bhubaneswar Airport, which is about 20 km away. The nearest railway station is Khurda Road Junction Railway Station, which is about 15 km away. Taxis and buses are available from both the airport and railway station to the reserve.
9. Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary
The Debrigarh Wildlife sanctuary is also famous for its historic association with the state’s renowned freedom fighter, Surendra Sai. It is believed that he took shelter in this dense jungle while planning his rebellion against the British.
Location and Area
Jharasuguda district, Odisha. Area: 340 sq km.
What to expect
Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, elephants, and sloth bears. It is also home to a number of bird species, including peacocks, hornbills, and kingfishers. Tourists can go on jeep safaris and nature walks to explore the sanctuary and see the wildlife up close.
How to Reach
The nearest airport to Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary is Sambalpur Airport, which is about 100 km away. The nearest railway station is Jharasuguda Railway Station, which is about 20 km away. Taxis and buses are available from both the airport and railway station to the sanctuary.
10. Hadagarh Wildlife Sanctuary
Hadagarh is located in Keonjhar district and the dam that is created on River Salandi. This dam has now become the prime tourist attractions This wild life sanctuary was first announced during the year 1978. It’s the Salandi River that uses to pass through this sanctuary. This is a tributary river for River Baitarani.
Location and Area
Hadagarh Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Keonjhar district of Odisha, India. It covers an area of 191 square kilometers.
What to expect
Hadagarh Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, leopards, elephants, fishing cats, jungle cats, hyenas, langurs, pangolins, and crocodiles. It is also home to a variety of bird species, including peacocks, hornbills, and kingfishers.
Visitors to Hadagarh Wildlife Sanctuary can go on jeep safaris to see the wildlife. There are also a number of trekking trails in the sanctuary, which offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
How to Reach
The nearest airport to Hadagarh Wildlife Sanctuary is Bhubaneswar Airport, which is located about 200 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to the sanctuary.
You can also reach Hadagarh Wildlife Sanctuary by train. The nearest railway station is Keonjhar Railway Station, which is located about 50 kilometers away. From the railway station, you can take a taxi or bus to the sanctuary.
Best Time to visit
The best time to visit Hadagarh Wildlife Sanctuary is during the winter months (October to March), when the weather is pleasant.
Tips for visitors
- Visitors should book their accommodation and safari in advance, especially during the peak season.
- Visitors should carry a valid entry permit, which can be obtained from the park office or online.
- Visitors should follow the instructions of the forest guards and guides at all times.
- Visitors should avoid littering and polluting the park.
Also Read: Top 10 Places in Odisha to travel this year.