Odisha’s pristine landscapes would entice adventurers in 2024 with its magnificent national parks. Discover the captivating appeal of National Forest, where lush woods and beautiful waterfalls await. Immerse yourself in the unique ecosystem of National parks, which includes also mangrove forests and uncommon species. Tiger Reserve, where the Mahanadi River flows through beautiful trees, offers a serene respite. Explore the unexplored environment of Odisha with The Style.World while encountering unusual flora and creatures. Whether it’s viewing animals or taking peaceful nature walks, these national parks provide an unforgettable journey into the heart of nature.
Simlipal National Park
Simlipal National Park is a well-known sanctuary located in Odisha’s Mayurbhanj district. Recognised as a tiger reserve in 2007, it covers 2750 square kilometres and is India’s seventh largest park. Its attractiveness stems from flowing waterfalls, particularly Joranda and Barehipani, that decorate its environment. Bengal tigers, gaurs, elephants, leopards, and a variety of other animals live within its boundaries. Avian lovers enjoy spotting jungle fowl, partridges, grey hornbills, mynas, and crested serpent eagles. this national park, holds its rich biodiversity and picturesque landscapes, continues to be a natural splendour sanctuary, attracting travellers seeking a taste of wildness.
Location: Dist., Mayurbhanj, Baripada, Odisha 757002
Opening Hours: The tiger reserve is open from 6 am to 9 am and the national park is open round the clock.
Entrance Fee: INR 30/person
How To Reach: The nearest airport is at Bhubaneswar, 270 km away and the closest railhead is at Balasore, 60 km away.
Bhitarkanika National Park
Bhitarkanika National Park covers 145 square kilometres, is a freshwater paradise separated into three sanctuaries: Bhitarkanika National Park, Wildlife Sanctuary, and Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary. It becomes a marshy haven when the rivers Brahmani, Dhamra, Baitarani, and Pathsala often flood it. It is surrounded by mangroves and home to saltwater crocodiles, estuary turtles, and a variety of bird species. The wilderness is home to king cobras, Indian pythons, black ibises, spotted deer, wild boars, and water monitor lizards. Bhitarkanika, India’s second-largest ecological reserve after the Sundarbans, is a must-see location for nature lovers looking to explore Odisha’s rich biodiversity.
Location: Paramanandpur, Odisha, 754248
Opening Hours: 7 am to 5 pm
Entrance Fee: INR 20/person
How To Reach: Cuttack is the nearest railhead, 140 km away. One can take a private cab from Cuttack and reach the national park.
Tikarpada Wildlife Sanctuary
Tikarpada Wildlife Sanctuary, nestled in the stunning perspective of Satkosia Reserve, with the majestic River Mahanadi trickling through, captivates visitors with its natural splendour. It covers 795.52 square kilometres and is a well-known Odisha National Park. It is a photographer’s dream, home to spotted deer, tigers, leopards, and four-horned zebras, as well as the quiet sloth bear. Notably, it is known for its growing population of gharials, gaining the title of Gharial Sanctuary. This Wildlife Sanctuary provides a captivating blend of wildness and peacefulness, making it a must-see location for those interested in wildlife.
Location: Odisha 759132
Opening Hours: 9 am to 6 pm
Entrance Fee: Free
How To Reach: The nearest railhead is at Angul, 42 km from the sanctuary.
Chilika Wildlife Sanctuary
Chilika Wildlife Sanctuary is India’s largest saltwater lagoon in Odisha, It is a home for a variety of native and migratory birds. It is one of Odisha’s most popular sanctuaries, covering an area of 1100 square kilometres. It is a birder’s and ornithologist’s heaven, with sightings of White Bellied Sea Eagles, Flamingos, Open-billed Storks, Brahminy Kites, Kingfishers, Egrets, Pintails, Bareheaded Geese, and more. Witnessing the sunset over the lake, followed by the beautiful flight of migratory birds, is a breathtaking sight that should not be missed. Chilika Wildlife Sanctuary is a place of natural beauty and migratory wonder.
Location: Puri, Khurda and Ganjam districts of Odisha
Opening Hours: 6 am to 7 pm
Entrance Fee: Free
How To Reach: Bulugaon is the nearest railway station, 19 km away, while Bhubaneswar is the nearest airport, 120 km away.
Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary
Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary, which spans 500 square kilometres, features a magnificent canyon, 11 cascading waterfalls, and lush woods, adding to Odisha’s national park repertory. It is a proposed tiger reserve that will protect major tiger and leopard populations. Its rich biodiversity includes swamp deer, elephants, barking deer, chital, sambar, sloth bears, monkeys, and langurs. The sanctuary is well-known for its avian diversity, which includes birds such as partridges, hill mynahs, and peafowl. Wildlife Sanctuary provides a captivating blend of natural beauties and biodiversity, beckoning tourists to discover its scenic beauty and wildlife heritage.
Location: Nuapada District, Odisha
Opening Hours: Round the clock.
Entrance Fee: Free
How To Reach: Nuapada Road, 30 km away, is the nearest railhead to this sanctuary.
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Kotagarh Wildlife Sanctuary
Kotagarh wildlife Sanctuary, set in Odisha’s scenic Eastern Ghats, is a paradise for environmental and animal lovers. This sanctuary is spread amid lush vegetation and rolling hills and has a high biodiversity, including various flora and fauna. Trek through its dark forests to see secretive animals such as leopards, wild boars, sambar deer, and different bird species. The sanctuary’s peaceful setting provides a great retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, as well as relaxing hikes and birdwatching opportunities. Kotagarh Wildlife Sanctuary offers a complete immersion amidst nature’s peacefulness, making it a must-see location for eco-tourists and adventurers alike.
Location: Baliguda, Kandhamal, Odisha
Opening Hours: 9 am to 6 pm
Entrance Fee: INR 15/person
How To Reach: Berhampur is the nearest railway station.
Hadagarh Wildlife Sanctuary
Hadagarh Wildlife Sanctuary, created in 1978, features a beautiful landscape of dense sal woods and lush grasslands. The meandering Salandi River adds to the scenic beauty of the 191-square-kilometer area. It is well-known for its migratory richness and also houses tigers, leopards, deer, jungle cats, porcupines, wolves, and langurs. This refuge provides a tranquil retreat into nature, attracting both wildlife researchers and environmental lovers. Hadagarh Wildlife Sanctuary is one of Odisha’s most scenic national parks, offering tourists the opportunity to immerse themselves in its natural beauties.
Location: Keonjhar, Odisha, 758023
Opening Hours: Round the clock
Entrance Fee: Free
How To Reach: Bhadrak is the closest railhead at a distance of 20 km.
Karlapat Wildlife Sanctuary
Karlapat Wildlife Sanctuary, located 15 km from Bhawanipatna, is home to luxuriant deciduous forests and the beautiful Phurlijharan waterfall. People come here to observe the beautiful cascade and have day picnics. There are also barking deer, Nilgai, leopard, gaur, sambar, and soft-clawed Ottawa, as well as a variety of reptiles and birds to observe.
Location: Kalahandi, Odisha
Opening Hours: Throughout the day
Entrance Fee: Free
How To Reach: The closest railhead is at Kesinga Railway Station
Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary
Debrigarh wildlife Sanctuary, which had housed the legendary freedom fighter Surender Sai under British rule, is now home to some of the most unique fauna. This sanctuary is home to a variety of animals, including tigers, leopards, hyenas, monitor lizards, and more. This may be a dry forest, but the experience it provides is equally rewarding. you can also utilise the sanctuary’s housing facilities, you must first obtain approval from the forest department.
Location: Right Dyke Road, Odisha, 768030
Opening Hours: 6 am to 5 pm
Entrance Fee: INR 1,260 for a 4-seater Gypsy
How To Reach: The nearest rail head is Sambalpur.
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Ushakothi (Badrama) Wildlife Sanctuary
Ushakothi Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the centre of the Wardha and Penganga rivers, is a hidden treasure for the state of Odisha. This sanctuary, located around 40 kilometres from Sambalpur, spans 300 square kilometres and was founded in 1962. The forests that occupy the majority of this area are home to some beautiful species of trees, including Neem, Acacia Sandalwood, Sal, and others. Aside from wild boars, snakes, and hyenas, the Asian elephants that live in this area are highly wanted.
Location: NH 6, Odisha 768107
Opening Hours: 6 am to 5 pm
Entrance Fee: INR 10 for Indians, INR 100 for Foreigners
How To Reach: The nearest railway station is at Sambalpur.
In conclusion, Odisha’s wildlife sanctuaries and parks highlight the state’s diverse natural heritage. Each sanctuary, from the vast Simlipal National Park to the tranquil Tikarpada Wildlife Sanctuary, provides a distinct peek into the wild, with different flora and species. Bhitarkanika’s marshlands and Chilika’s migratory bird havens are especially noteworthy for attracting visitors to their fascinating habitats. The tranquil vistas of Hadagarh and the hidden gems of Ushakothi add to Odisha’s attraction as a wildlife haven. These sanctuaries not only conserve critical ecosystems, but also offer thrilling experiences that inspire admiration and amazement for nature’s grandeur.
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