Encompassing a broad area of 672 kilometers, Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary in Orissa stands as India’s second-largest Mangrove ecosystem. Its location near the Bay of Bengal infuses the soil with salts, nurturing vegetation and species predominantly found in the tropical and subtropical intertidal zones.
Renowned for being a breeding haven for endangered saltwater crocodiles, it’s a significant part of the region’s allure. Additionally, the eastern boundary is formed by Gahirmatha Beach, which hosts the largest colony of Olive Ridley Sea Turtles.
History of Bhitarkanika National Park
Historically, the grounds once served as a hunting field for the royal Raj Kanika family, but today it is recognized for its rich concentration of Mangrove trees. Blanketing both forests and wetlands, these trees define the region’s ecosystem. Bhitarkanika National Park, a 145 square kilometer section within the sanctuary, offers a unique environment for various biodiversities.
Situated in the estuarial region of Brahmani-Baitrani and adjacent to the Bay of Bengal, the sanctuary also encompasses an extensive network of rivers, streams, creeks, backwaters, and mud flats, making it a vital hub for distinctive flora and fauna.
Fauna and Flora in Bhitarkanika National Park Safari
With 215 bird species, including eight kingfisher varieties and migratory birds from Europe and Central Asia, the sanctuary is a bird lover’s paradise. It’s also home to a wide array of reptiles, mammals, and vertebrates. Venomous cobras, Indian pythons, endangered water monitor lizards, Chitals, jungle cats, wild pigs, otters, Rhesus monkeys, Sambar, spotted deer, wild boar, and fishing cats are just some of the inhabitants. Commonly spotted birds include the Asian Open Bill, cormorants, darters, Black Ibis, egrets, open-billed storks, sandpipers, sea eagles, whistling teals, kites, and seagulls.
To provide an immersive experience, Bhitarkanika National Park Orissa tours are arranged for visitors. Accommodations are available at forest rest houses in Ekakula, Dangmal, and Gupti. The ideal time to visit is winter, specifically from November to February.
Connections to the sanctuary are available through air, water, and rail. The closest airports are in Bhubaneshwar and Kolkata, while waterways run through Chandabali, Ragnagar, and Gupti. Rail connections are available from Bhadrak, Balasore, Cuttack, and Bhubaneshwar.
How much does Bhitarkanika National Park Safari cost?
Bhitarkanika National Park Safari Details :
- Boat safari: The exclusive method to explore Bhitarkanika is via a boat safari (lasting 2.5-3 hours), at a cost of Rs 3,000 for a boat accommodating up to 10; guide charges are between Rs 1,500-2,000.
- Hours: Accessible from 7 am to 5 pm.
- Night safari: For a night adventure, chartering a government boat and obtaining necessary permissions is mandatory (Rs 6,000 for the boat; Rs 2,000 for the guide). This is remarkably suggested for those eager to glimpse the fishing cat or stargazing.
How to Reach Bhitarkanika
Air Travel: Bhubaneswar is the nearest airport, located 170 km or roughly 4 hours away from Bhitarkanika. You can arrange a private vehicle from the airport for approximately Rs 7,500-10,000. The journey offers views of charming small towns and villages, providing a glimpse into rural Odisha life.
Train Travel: The closest railway station is Bhadrak, situated 103 km or about 2.5 hours from the park.
In the Kendrapara district of Orissa (Odisha), India, Bhitarkanika can be reached through these accessible routes:
- Bhubaneswar: From Biju Patnaik Airport or Bhubaneswar Airport to Bhitarkanika – by road (152 km, roughly 2 hours and 58 minutes).
- Cuttack: From Cuttack Railway Station to Bhitarkanika – by road (123 km, roughly 2 hours and 22 minutes).
- Jajapur Road: From Jajapur Keonjhar Railway Station (JJKR) to Bhitarkanika – by road (131 km, roughly 2 hours and 38 minutes).
What is the best time to visit Bhitarkanika National Park?
Summer: Early March is an ideal time to explore Bhitarkanika National Park, coinciding with the breeding season when birds are more visible. The weather is moderate with temperatures around 23 degrees Celsius.
Winter: The winter months from October to February are also favourable, with mild temperatures reaching lows of only 16 degrees Celsius.
Monsoon: It’s advisable to avoid the monsoon season from May to September. While rains bring vibrancy to most national parks, Bhitarkanika and its surroundings are susceptible to heavy rainfall and cyclones. The mangroves in Odisha serve as barriers to storms and cyclones, playing an essential role in the ecosystem. Note that the park remains closed from mid-May to the end of July.
Bhitarkanika attracts tourists year-round, mesmerized by its beauty and biodiversity. There are three main seasons observed in the region: summer, rainy, and winter.
- Summer (March to June): The days are hot, limiting wildlife sightings to mornings and evenings.
- Rainy Season (June to October): Travel can be challenging as heavy rainfall often obstructs the waterways, the primary means of reaching Bhitarkanika.
- Winter (October to March): This is a delightful time to experience the full splendour of the National Park. Bird enthusiasts will particularly enjoy the influx of migratory birds from Europe and Central Asia. Winter also witnesses the Olive Ridley turtles coming ashore to lay their eggs, with young turtles eventually emerging.
Visiting Bhitarkanika National Park during summer and winter allows you to experience its peak beauty. While the rainy season may pose challenges, both summer and winter are well-suited to cater to your desire to explore this fascinating environment.
Where to stay in Bhitarkanika National Park?
Bhitarkanika Forest Guest House: Managed by the Odisha Forest Department Cooperation, this guest house offers clean and comfortable lodging. It provides cottages suitable for two guests and larger rooms that can house up to five people, with rates ranging from Rs 3,000-4,000 per night per room.
Sand Pebbles Jungle Resort: Located within the forest area, this unique resort offers cozy tents with views overlooking a pond, giving you the chance to completely disconnect from urban life. The tents are available in various sizes, accommodating two for more intimate stays or family-sized units for four or five people. Prices for a double start from Rs 5,000.
PRACTICAL TIPS
- Keep personal ID handy for safari bookings and lodging arrangements.
- Pack mosquito repellent, toiletries, medicines, or other essentials, as the local store carries only basic items.
- The night safaris require patience, necessitating quiet and lengthy hours on the boat as you await exciting wildlife encounters in the forest.
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