Some of the greatest wildlife reserves in the nation may be found in Odisha, a state better renowned for its seashores and temple architecture. There are many sites to explore, with over one-third of the state covered in forests and 18 sanctuaries, including two national parks. Thus, these are the top five to introduce you to the state’s diverse fauna.
Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary
In western Odisha, the Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary is a well-known tourist attraction that is situated close to the Hirakud dam in Sambalpur. Covering an area of 347 square kilometres, it provides vital water source for the sanctuary’s aquatic biodiversity and species. Debrigarh is unlike other sanctuaries in the state because of its extraordinary natural setting, which offers a remarkable opportunity to witness the creatures up close. A wide variety of species, including Indian Gaur, tigers, leopards, nilgais, sambars, peacocks, and chitals, may be found in the sanctuary. In addition, freshwater turtles and a variety of migratory birds, such as the endangered crested serpent eagle and Chousingha, find refuge in the sanctuary. Its vibrant fauna is attested to by the thick vegetation that covers the sanctuary, which makes it one of the most vivid wildlife sanctuaries in the nation. Winter and early summer are the ideal times to visit the sanctuary. During this time, you may stay in the luxurious Eco Retreat Swiss tents or at the Debrigarh Nature Camp.
Hadagarh Sanctuary
The Hadahgarh Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a variety of exotic flora and animals, including tigers, pangolins, hyenas, wolves, fishing cats, and jungle cats. It is situated in the Keonjhar region of Odisha, approximately 20 km from Bhadrak. Its lifeline, the Salandi River, flows through the forest, which covers an area of 191.6 square kilometres. Winter is the ideal season to visit this well-known tourist destination in the state.
Bhitarkanika
Since the majority of Bhitarkanika, a national park and sanctuary, is made up of mangrove ecosystems, boat tours through the winding waterways are the most enjoyable way to see it. The primary feature of the forest is its population of crocodiles, who may be observed swimming in the streams or lounging on the mudflats. Spotted deer, sambar, snakes, and a variety of birds are among the other creatures that one could encounter. To enter, one must go through Chandbali (190 km from the closest airport in Bhubaneswar), Rajnagar (130 km), and Gupti (25 km from Rajnagar). Forest rest cottages on Dangmal Island, which is accessible to Chandbali, Rajnagar, and Gupti by boat, offer lodging. Twice a year, in January and March, Olive Ridleys arrive at Gahirmatha, a portion of Bhitarkanika, to lay eggs.
Similipal
Replete with towering hills, dense woods, rivers, grasslands, meadows, and waterfalls, Simlipal is among India’s most magnificent tiger reserves. Because of the waterfalls that cut through the lush hills, Barehipani and Joranda are two of the park’s most visited locations. Home to tigers, elephants, leopards, deer, and other wildlife, Simlipal is a biosphere reserve. The salt lick at Chahala is recommended by frequent forest visitors as an excellent spot to seek for the wilds. There are a few forest rest homes scattered around the tiger reserve that provide basic lodging. OTDC maintains a vacation lodge in Lulung. Nearest airport: Bhubaneswar, approximately 270 kilometres away from Baripada via road. Simlipal remains open from November 1 to June 15.
Chandaka
Home to large groups of elephants, Chandaka Widlife Sanctuary is about 20km by road from Bhubaneswar, the state capital. The nearly 193 sq.km large sanctuary is all that what remains of the rolling woods that once covered the region. Apart from elephants, Chandaka is also home to leopards, deer, wild boar, Indian mongoose and many species of birds. A visit to the Kochilaberana, Pitagadia or Charichhak watch towers may be a rewarding experience. The popular Nandankanan Zoo (with its tiger and lion safaris) and Botanical Garden has been carved out along the Kanjia Lake, once part of the Chandaka forest.
