Are you a nature lover? Do you want to discover the wild beauty of the forests? If the answer is yes then you are going to have a virtual tour to wildlife sanctuaries in Odisha. In a diverse country like India, Odisha is one of the southeastern states full of flora and fauna. There are many wildlife sanctuaries in Odisha to mark the evidence of diversified version of wildlife. Odisha has many distinct uniquely identified features; it is a single state that has a turtle sanctuary along with the only Bird sanctuary for Lagoon. Today we will be discussing some of the exotic wildlife sanctuaries in Odisha. We have tried to enlist six wildlife sanctuaries that can make your wildlife tour an exemplary one.
Top 12 Wildlife Sanctuaries In Odisha
Odisha is a state that is widely famous for its diversity of wildlife as well as depth. This state is a shelter to numerous exotic and rarest species in the wildlife. Let us start our virtual wildlife tour in Odisha that welcomes wholeheartedly every type of adventurous traveler. We are going to enlist brief details about the bewildering wildlife sanctuaries in Odisha.
- Debrigarh Wildlife sanctuary – Encounter The Diverse Species Of Animals
- Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary – Witness The Amazing Tiger Reserve
- Nandankanan Wildlife Sanctuary –Enjoy The Exotic Safari Ride & Wildlife
- Karlapat Sanctuary – Eyewitness The Remarkable Flora And Fauna
- Hadagarh Wildlife Sanctuary – Experience The Spectacular Beauty Of Nature
- Kotagarh Wildlife Sanctuary – Get Magnificent View Of Colourful Birds
- Ushakothi Wildlife Sanctuary – Watch The Beauty Of Tigers
- Chilika Wildlife Sanctuary – Capture A Spectacular View Of Amazing Birds
- Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary – Get A Close Look At The Largest Turtles
- Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary – View The Endangered Bird Species
- Tikarpada Wildlife Sanctuary – Witness The Amazing Wildlife
- Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary, Kendrapara District – Watching Crocodiles Can Be Fun
1. Debrigarh Wildlife sanctuary – Encounter The Diverse Species Of Animals
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Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only.
Located in Sambalpur district and spread across an area of 353 square kilometers, Debrigarh Wildlife sanctuary is one of the most famous wildlife sanctuaries in Odisha. Home to around 234 bird species, 40 mammal species, 12 amphibian species, 41 reptiles species, 42 fishes species, 39 odonates species, 8 spiders species, and 85 butterflies species, this wildlife sanctuary is the perfect spot for all wildlife lovers. This fascinating also has 250 plant species that you must witness to know more about them. All in all this wildlife sanctuary is an amazing spot for an enticing weekend getaway.
Ideal For: Friends, family and solo trip
Ideal Trip Duration: 2-3 hours
Location: Right Dyke Road, Odisha
Best Time To Visit: November and June
How To Reach: The nearest railway station is Sambalpur and you can hire a cab till this wildlife sanctuary.
Stay Options: Luxurious hotels and government guest houses in Sambalpur district
Must Read: 7 Places To Visit In Odisha In June For A Fun And Exciting Trip
2. Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary – Witness The Amazing Tiger Reserve
Sunabeda wildlife sanctuary is expanded over an area of 500 square km, also known as the Tiger reserve. The Sunabeda wildlife sanctuary is a shelter to diversified flora and fauna, filled with a wide plateau, waterfalls, and canyon. The wildlife at this sanctuary is far better than the other sanctuaries. It consists of an area of watershed attaching Jonk river and it has a dam to facilitate irrigation.
It is diversified with rich animals such as tiger, deer, sloth bear, gaurs and many more. You can witness some of the common Langur (a species of monkey) and rhesus monkey. This sanctuary is enriched with migratory birds as well as other birds such as Patridge, vultures, hill mynah, and peafowls. This sanctuary also has an interesting species of wild buffaloes from the neighbouring forest of Chhattisgarh. Sunabeda Wildlife sanctuary is a great choice for the adventurous traveller who wants some distinct wildlife experience.
Ideal For: Friends and family
Ideal Trip Duration: 2-3 hrs
Location: Nuapada District, Sunabeda, India
Best Time To Visit: October to February
How To Reach: The nearby railway station is at Nuapada Road on Raipur-Vizianagaram line of East Coast railway. You can travel by road also as it is 30 KM away from District Headquarters, Nuapada.
Stay Options: Lighthouses, forest rest house, hotel Hello Jeypore, Ushasree Residency, Hotel Sai International and many more staying places.
Suggested Read: 9 Romantic Places In Odisha To Explore With Your Partner
3. Nandankanan Wildlife Sanctuary – Enjoy The Exotic Safari Ride & Wildlife
A place offering lion safari as well as the white tiger safari, this is going to be one of the great wildlife destinations for your trip. In the year of 1979 Nadankanan was turned out to be a wildlife sanctuary. The magnificent beauty of Nandankanan is unique and exotic for adventurers.
Nandankanan flourishes with care, love, and friendship. It is the pioneer in the preservation of Gharials. This sanctuary has been globally acclaimed for its most elevated assortment of white tigers on the planet. This place is enriched with creatures like gharials(gladiators) and white tigers, panthers, pangolin, mouse deer, lions, rat and vultures. Along with its rich biodiversity and vital wildlife, the Nandankanan serves an astounding site for the nature training.
Ideal For: Family and friends
Ideal Trip Duration: 3 hrs
Location: Nandankanan Road, Near Police Station, Barang, Bhubaneswar, Odisha 754005
Best Time To Visit: Throughout the year
How To Reach: This place is located 15 km from the capital of Odisha, Bhubaneswar. Buses are available from Bhubaneswar to Nandankanan.
Stay Options: Forest Rest Houses and cottages are available
Suggested Read: 10 Scenic Lakes In Odisha To Visit On A Vacation
4. Karlapat Sanctuary – Eyewitness The Remarkable Flora And Fauna
Located in the south division of Kalahandi, Karlapat is a sanctuary full of diverse species of flora and fauna. This sanctuary has dense greenery in a deciduous forest which will be soothing for you. It is often treated as a great picnic spot as it has a magnificent waterfall named Phurliijharan. It attracts local people along with the adventurers from far off places.
Karlapat Wildlife Sanctuary is popularly known for the existence of multiple wildlife animals like gaur, sambhar, leopard, nilgai, barking deer, mouse deer, Ottawa and plethora of migratory as well as birds and reptiles. With the hills, valleys, water pools and perennial streams, this sanctuary shows a unique charm for its visitors.
Ideal For: Family and Friends
Ideal Trip Duration: 1-2 hrs
Location: Kalahandi, Odisha
Best Time To Visit: October to April
How To Reach: Regular bus facility from Bhubaneswar to Bhawanipatna
Stay Options: Luxurious hotels and government guest houses in Bhawanipatna.
Suggested Read: 5 Water Parks In Odisha For Those Looking For A Fun-Filled Trip
5. Hadagarh Wildlife Sanctuary – Experience The Spectacular Beauty Of Nature
Thick Sal woods with patches of tremendously big green fields in the middle of the place, Hadagarh Wildlife Sanctuary offers a picturesque view with its stunning nature’s beauty. This wildlife sanctuary is home to a few types of avifauna along with tigers, panthers, fishing and jungle cats, pangolin, hyena, wolf, porcupine, and langur(a species of monkey). Established in 1978, the Hadagarh Wildlife Sanctuary ranges over a zone of 191.6 square kilometers. The Salandi River, going through the dense forest is its source of life having a dam named Salandi dam. This river is a perfect residence for Mugger Crocodiles.
Ideal For: Friends, family as well as for solo trips
Ideal Trip Duration: 2-3 hours
Location: Keonjhar, Odisha 758023
Best Time To Visit: October to February
How To Reach: Anandapur is the nearby town which is linked with many nearby towns and cities.
Stay Options: Forest rest house, lighthouses, rooms and hotels at Anandapur.
Suggested Read: 27 Places To Visit In Bhubaneswar For A Fascinating Journey To Odisha
6. Kotagarh Wildlife Sanctuary – Get Magnificent View Of Colourful Birds
This wildlife sanctuary is situated in the Baliguda subdivisions of the Kandhamal region and is rich in biodiversity. There is a natural life landmass with a broad territory of 399.5 Square Kms. Kotagarh wildlife sanctuary is enriched with a variety of vegetation on the spot. It comprises thick deciduous woodlands with grasslands.
It is home to countless animals and reptiles. Significant species found here are elephant, gaur, sambar, spotted deer, peafowl, red fowl and many types of reptiles. The thick rich green woodlands with harmony in the lap of nature and peaceful magnificent beauty of nature are the significant fascination for the visitors.
Ideal For: Friends, family and solo trip
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 hrs
Location: Baliguda, Kandhamal, Odisha
Best Time To Visit: October to April
How To Reach: Public transport services in Baliguda that is associated with Bhubaneswar, Berhampur.
Stay Options: Accommodation services in Baliguda, rest houses in Belgarath.
Suggested Read: 15 Spectacular Hill Stations In Odisha
7. Ushakothi Wildlife Sanctuary – Watch The Beauty Of Tigers
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Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only.
Ushakothi Wildlife Sanctuary is famous as Badrama Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the prime tourist attractions in Odisha. The Badrama Reserve Forests, Binjipali Reserve Forests, Ushakothi Reserve Forests, and Kansar Reserve Forests comes under the area of Badrama Wildlife Sanctuary. This spectacular sanctuary is located at a distance of 22 km from Sambalpur and is a habitat for all kinds of flora and fauna. The fauna at this sanctuary includes flying squirrel, tigers, elephants, and sambar leopards. You can also witness the rich flora at this wildlife sanctuary which includes species of sandalwood, casuarinas, Arjun, neem, and acacia. Do carry your cameras to capture the incredible wildlife.
Ideal For: Friends, family and solo trip
Ideal Trip Duration: 2-3 hours
Location: NH 6, Odisha
Best Time To Visit: October- April
How To Reach: The nearest railway station is Sambalpur and you can hire a cab till this wildlife sanctuary.
Stay Options: Luxurious hotels and government guest houses in Sambalpur district
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8. Chilika Wildlife Sanctuary – Capture A Spectacular View Of Amazing Birds
Image Credit: Dhaval Vargiya for Wikimedia Commons
Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only.
A spectacular spot for all birdwatching enthusiasts, Chilika Wildlife Sanctuary is another popular wildlife sanctuary in Odisha that you must visit on your vacation. This wildlife sanctuary is an abode to a plethora of species of birds like Flamingo, Openbilled Stork, White Bellied Sea Eagle, Brahminy Kite, Spoonbill, Spot-billed Pelican, and Bar-headed Goose. This sanctuary provides all the nature lovers the chance to witness animals like Blackbuck, Golden Jackals Spotted Deer and Hyenas. Not only the Chilika Wildlife Sanctuary is a habitat of various bird species and animal species but it also has around 225 species of fish. This wildlife sanctuary is also famous for the picturesque view of sunset and sunrise and you should not miss out on them.
Ideal For: Friends, family and solo trip
Ideal Trip Duration: 1-2 hours
Location: Puri, Odisha
Best Time To Visit: November to February
How To Reach: Bhubaneswar is the nearest airport and you can hire a cab till the sanctuary
Stay Options: Hotels and government guest houses of Odisha Tourism Development Corporation
Suggested Read: 10 Beaches In Odisha
9. Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary – Get A Close Look At The Largest Turtles
Image Credit: Brad Flickinger for Wikimedia Commons
Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only.
In 1979, Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary was declared as a wildlife sanctuary of Odisha. Known for as the largest nesting beach of Olive Ridley Turtles in the world, this sanctuary attracts a lot of marine lovers every year. Located in the Kendrapara distinct, Orissa, this marine sanctuary is home to various species of fishes. The Olive Ridley Turtles mate in November and January and in these months they come out of the coastal waters and can be easily spotted. This sanctuary is a turtle paradise and you can easily relax at the beaches while looking at these adorable creatures.
Ideal For: Family and Friends
Ideal Trip Duration: 1-2 hours
Location: Kendrapara, Odisha
Best Time To Visit: November and January
How To Reach: Bhubaneswar is the nearest airport and you can hire a cab till the sanctuary
Stay Options: Forest guest house and hotels are available
Suggested Read: 8 Best Resorts In Odisha Which Will Let You Set Back And Relax In A Homely Vibe!
10. Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary – View The Endangered Bird Species
Image Credit: Yathin S Krishnappa for Wikimedia Commons
Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only.
Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary is an outstanding shelter of threatened wild animal species and endangered bird species. Odisha is brimming with flora and fauna and Kuldiha Wildlife sanctuary is an eminent part of the sanctuaries in the state. With such an important task of saving the endangered and threatened species, this wildlife sanctuary is managed by the forest authorities and government of Odisha. The endangered bird and animal species that you can spot in this sanctuary are Woodpecker, Hill myna, Hornbill, Leopard, Asiatic Elephant, Pangolin, Gaur, and Mouse deer. This sanctuary plays a great role in benefitting the endangered species as well as the tourism of Odisha.
Ideal For: Family and Friends
Ideal Trip Duration: 2-3 hours
Location: Wildlife Sanctuary, Kuldiha, Balasore`, Odisha
Best Time To Visit: October to May
How To Reach: Bhubaneswar is the nearest airport and you can hire a cab till the sanctuary
Stay Options: Tented accommodation, Forest guest house, and hotels are available
11. Tikarpada Wildlife Sanctuary – Witness The Amazing Wildlife
Image Credit: T. R. Shankar Raman for Wikimedia Commons
Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only.
One of the popular wildlife sanctuaries in Odisha which you must surely add in your itinerary is Tikarpada Wildlife Sanctuary. Tikarpada Wildlife Sanctuary is situated on the banks of River Mahanadi and is spread around an area of 795.52 sq km. This terrific wildlife sanctuary was opened with the aim of preserving species of crocodiles. The famous Gharial crocodiles can be spotted at this sanctuary. From snakes to turtles, you can find a lot of reptiles at Tikarpada Wildlife Sanctuary. Animals like tigers, elephants, pangolins, leopards, and spotted deer also exist in this sanctuary. You can indulge in several adventurous activities like river rafting, boating trekking, hiking, and fish angling on your day spent at this astounding wildlife sanctuary.
Ideal For: Family and Friends
Ideal Trip Duration: 2-3 hours
Location: Odisha
Best Time To Visit: October to May
How To Reach: Bhubaneswar is the nearest airport and you can hire a cab till the Tikarpada Wildlife Sanctuary
Stay Options: Forest guest house and hotels are available
12. Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary, Kendrapara District – Watching Crocodiles Can Be Fun
Image Credits: Wikimedia commons
If you want to view the largest living reptile then you must visit Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary located in the Kendrapara District in Odisha. Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the famous wildlife sanctuaries in Odisha providing shelter to largest saltwater crocodiles, King Cobra, Indian python and you will also get to witness the second largest mangrove ecosystem in India. Isn’t it exciting? An interesting fact is that Mangroves and wildlife are having the largest populations of endangered saltwater crocodiles across India.
Ideal For: Family and Friends
Ideal Trip Duration: 1-2 hours
Location: Odisha
Best Time To Visit: March to June
How To Reach: People can reach there from Bhadrak and a train from Kolkata’s Howrah station will reach Bhadrak at dawn.
Stay Options: Toshali Sands Resorts, Puri, Toshali Ratnagiri Resort, Hotel Toshali Pushpagiri.
Further Read: 8 Beautiful National Parks In Odisha To Spend Time In The Wilderness
Odisha is a state known for its rich biodiversity and these wildlife sanctuaries in Odisha are the proof of that. We have tried to enlist all the details of the top five wildlife sanctuaries in Odisha. It is a place that is highly honoured by Mother Nature, and it is one of the greenest states of India. It is the perfect destination for the explorers of nature, while the untamed life of Odisha clears a path for probably the best perspectives and fascinating travel diaries. Now plan your adventurous trip to Odisha and treat the adventurer within like never before.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Wildlife Sanctuaries In Odisha
How many National Parks are there in Odisha?
Two of the national parks exist in Odisha one of the oldest is Simlipal National Park located in the Mayurbhanj District of the state.
How many biosphere reserves are there in Odisha?
There are a total 18 biosphere reserves in Odisha out of which Simlipal is in Odisha.
How many wildlife sanctuaries are there in Odisha?
Odisha is known for its abundant biodiversity. By the way, there are 21 wildlife sanctuaries in Odisha. You cannot visit all of them in a single day.
Which wildlife sanctuary in Odisha is perfect for a family trip?
Chilika wildlife sanctuary is the best one for a family adventure trip. This sanctuary has an assorted list of migratory birds that make it a family attraction.
Is there any minimum age requirement for entry in the wildlife sanctuary?
No, there is no such a hard and fast rule for the age constraint. Although, you need to be extra -careful while bringing a kid or senior citizen on the trip to wildlife sanctuaries. Most people don’t prefer coming with an infant to the trip. The kid or senior citizen should be capable enough to handle themselves.
How is wildlife sanctuary different?
A region that facilitates safety with the protection of the wild creatures is often known as wildlife sanctuaries. Then again, the national park gives the security of the whole arrangement of the environment, for example, greenery, fauna, pollution level and so on of that particular area.
What about the transportation facility to reach these wildlife sanctuaries?
The transportation facility is completely dependent upon the area in which the sanctuary is located. We have enlisted the nearby transport facility of each one of the wildlife sanctuary.
How can I do a pre-booking?
You can do the booking on the official site of the Odisha government or on the particular firm who is handling the governance power.
What are the minimum entry fees for wildlife sanctuaries?
Well, the answer to this question is dynamic as the governance power decides the entry fees. Although, just for the sake of information, maybe INR 500 will be the base amount as entry fees. It is also dependent on the services you are choosing for the trip.
Is the trip to the wildlife sanctuary dangerous?
No, not at all. When you will be adhering to all the rules and regulations of the particular sanctuaries, then you won’t face any kind of danger or risk. The moment you break any of the rules, the risk factor will increase.
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