Wildlife, Nature & Eco Tourism

Wildlife & Nature

Odisha is a biodiversity hotspot, offering lush forests, national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, mangroves, waterfalls, rivers, and beaches. From tiger safaris to dolphin spotting, birdwatching to trekking, Odisha is a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Here are the top destinations to experience Odisha’s breathtaking natural beauty:

1. Simlipal National Park – The Land of Tigers & Waterfalls

✅ Why Visit? A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, home to Royal Bengal Tigers, elephants, waterfalls, and dense forests.

Highlights:

• One of India’s largest national parks, spread across 2,750 sq km.
• Spot Bengal Tigers, Asian Elephants, leopards, and deer.
• Barehipani & Joranda Waterfalls – Odisha’s highest waterfalls inside the park.
• Perfect for wildlife safaris, trekking, and nature photography.

 Location: Mayurbhanj District
 Best Time to Visit: October - June (Safari Timings: 7 AM - 5 PM)

 How to Reach: Nearest airport – Bhubaneswar (270 km); Nearest railway station – Balasore

2. Bhitarkanika National Park – The Mangrove & Crocodile Kingdom

✅ Why Visit? India’s second-largest mangrove ecosystem, home to giant saltwater crocodiles and rare bird species.

Highlights:

• Spot giant saltwater crocodiles (up to 20 feet long!).
• Gahirmatha Beach – The world’s largest nesting ground for Olive Ridley turtles.
• Birdwatching paradise – Over 200+ migratory bird species.
• Boat safari through mangroves, spotting deer, kingfishers, and monitor lizards.

 Location: Kendrapara District
 Best Time to Visit: November - March (Avoid monsoons)

 How to Reach: Nearest airport – Bhubaneswar (160 km); Nearest railway station – Cuttack (100 km)

3. Chilika Lake – Asia’s Largest Coastal Lagoon & Dolphin Paradise

✅ Why Visit? A Ramsar Wetland Site, famous for migratory birds and Irrawaddy dolphins.

Highlights:

• Satpada – Best spot for dolphin watching (Irrawaddy dolphins).
• Nalabana Island Bird Sanctuary – Home to flamingos, pelicans, and over 230 species of birds.
• Kalijai Temple – A sacred island temple in the middle of the lake.
• Enjoy boat rides, kayaking, and eco-tourism stays.

 Location: Puri, Ganjam & Khurda Districts
 Best Time to Visit: November - February (Best for birdwatching)

 How to Reach: Nearest airport – Bhubaneswar (120 km); Nearest railway station – Balugaon (15 km)

4. Satkosia Gorge Wildlife Sanctuary – A River Canyon Adventure

✅ Why Visit? A stunning gorge along the Mahanadi River, home to crocodiles, wild animals, and adventure activities.

Highlights:

• Spot Mugger & Gharial Crocodiles, deer, and hornbills.
• Enjoy boating and river safaris in the deep gorges of the Mahanadi River.
• Stay in eco-resorts and nature camps inside the sanctuary.
• A perfect trekking and adventure destination.

 Location: Angul District
 Best Time to Visit: October - March

 How to Reach: Nearest airport – Bhubaneswar (180 km); Nearest railway station – Angul (60 km)

5. Daringbadi – The Kashmir of Odisha

✅ Why Visit? Odisha’s only hill station, known for cool climate, pine forests, and waterfalls.

Highlights:

• Experience cold weather, sometimes even frost & snowfall!
• Pine forests, coffee plantations, and waterfalls.
• Explore tribal villages and eco-tourism stays.
• Perfect for hiking, photography, and nature lovers.

 Location: Kandhamal District
 Best Time to Visit: October - March

 How to Reach: Nearest airport – Bhubaneswar (240 km); Nearest railway station – Berhampur (120 km)

6. Tikarpada Wildlife Sanctuary – The Crocodile Conservation Site

✅ Why Visit? One of India’s best crocodile conservation centers, surrounded by forests and river valleys.

Highlights:

• Home to the Gharial Crocodile Breeding Center.
• Scenic boat rides on the Mahanadi River, spotting crocodiles and turtles.
• Explore caves, waterfalls, and hilly landscapes.

 Location: Angul District
 Best Time to Visit: October - March

 How to Reach: Nearest airport – Bhubaneswar (200 km); Nearest railway station – Angul (90 km)

7. Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary – A Hidden Wildlife Gem

✅ Why Visit? A less crowded wildlife haven, home to elephants, tigers, deer, and migratory birds.

Highlights:

• Spot Indian elephants, leopards, sloth bears, and wild boars.
• Best place for birdwatching, with thousands of migratory birds.
• Perfect for nature walks, photography, and jungle safaris.

 Location: Bargarh District
 Best Time to Visit: November - February

 How to Reach: Nearest airport – Raipur (200 km); Nearest railway station – Sambalpur (40 km)

8. Harishankar & Nrusinghanath Temples – Nature & Spirituality

✅ Why Visit? Located at the foot of Gandhamardan Hills, surrounded by forests and waterfalls.

Highlights:

• Scenic trekking trails through hills, caves, and waterfalls.
• Ancient Hindu temples with mythological connections.
• Rich in Ayurvedic medicinal plants and diverse flora.

 Location: Balangir District
 Best Time to Visit: October - February

 How to Reach: Nearest airport – Bhubaneswar (330 km); Nearest railway station – Balangir (85 km)

Odisha’s Natural Beauty Awaits!

From tiger reserves to dolphin spotting, from mangrove forests to scenic hill stations, Odisha offers a diverse range of wildlife and nature experiences. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or exploration, Odisha’s nature destinations will leave you spellbound!

 Plan your nature & wildlife journey in Odisha and experience the untouched beauty of this incredible state!