Wildlife Sanctuaries of Odisha, List of Wildlife Sanctuaries of Odisha, Wildlife Sanctuaries in Odisha, Popular Wildlife Sanctuaries of Odisha, All wildlife Sanctuaries of India, Wildlife Sanctuaries State Wise, Badrama Wildlife Sanctuary, Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary, Satkosia Gorge Wildlife Sanctuary, Hadgarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Nandankanan Wildlife Sanctuary, Baisipalli Wildlife Sanctuary, Kotagarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Chandaka Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary, Khalasuni Wildlife Sanctuary, Balukhand Konark Wildlife Sanctuary, Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary, Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Lakhari Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, Chilika (Nalaban) Wildlife Sanctuary, Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary, Gahirmatha (Marine) Wildlife Sanctuary, Karlapat Wildlife Sanctuary, Kapilasha Wildlife Sanctuary
Table of Contents
Wildlife Sanctuaries of Odisha
Badrama Wildlife Sanctuary
Located between the textile hub of Sambalpur and the Hirakud Dam, the Badrama Wildlife Sanctuary, also popular as the Ushakothi Sanctuary, is known for its moist sal, bamboo forests and mixed deciduous forests. The sanctuary is also an important section of the Sambalpur Elephant Reserve.
It is a wildlife lover’s dream, with a huge variety of mammals present within its range, which can be viewed by visitors from watch towers strategically located near water points. Tourists can do trekking to reach Deodhara Falls. Tigers, elephants, sambar, leopards are some of the large mammals that can be seen within the sanctuary. Birds and reptiles are also present in abundance. The area is replete with endemic flora including sandalwood and arjuna trees.
Animals: Tiger, Asian elephant, Sambar, Leopard, Gaur, Sloth bear; Racket-tailed Drongo, Red Junglefowl, Alexandrine Parakeet; Indian python, cobra, monitor lizard.
Plants: Sal, Chandan, Arjun, Neem, Acacia, Casuarina, Amla, Bela, Dhaura, Jamu, Kadamba, Kanchan, Kangara, Karanj, Kasi, Kendu, Kurum, Kusum, Mahul, Mango, Mundi, Phasi, Sidha, Simul, Teak.
Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary
Located in the estuarine region of the Brahmani-Baitarani, the Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary falls in the Kendrapara district of Odisha. Spread over an area of 672 square kilometers, this sanctuary is full of mangrove forests and wetlands. The three rivers form a tidal maze of mangroves and muddy creeks as they flow into the sea at Bhitarkanika.
The sanctuary is home to many species of birds and the elusive and endangered king cobra. The unique ecosystem of the sanctuary makes it possible for giant estuarine crocodiles to thrive in it, in addition to many other rare animal, plant and reptile species. Ecologically, the mangrove ecosystem of Bhitarkanika is extremely rich, with floral diversity in the region being the second largest in the world after Papua New Guinea.
Animals: leopard cat, fishing cat, jungle cat, striped hyena, wild boar, spotted deer, sambar, porcupine; Bar-headed Goose, Brahminy Duck, Pintail, White-bellied Sea Eagle; Python, King Cobra, Saltwater Crocodile, Water Monitor Lizard.
Plants: Mangrove species, Casuarina, Indigo Bush, Teak, Salaiya, Bamboo, Acacia, Zizyphus spp., Cauriculata spp., Grasses like Pallas.
Satkosia Gorge Wildlife Sanctuary
Named after a narrow stretch of the majestic Mahanadi River that is “Satkosh” or seven miles long, the Satkosia Gorge Sanctuary protects an area where the Mahanadi crosses the Eastern Ghats. The area is popular for its population of gharial and crocodile as well as some unique and rare freshwater turtles like Chitra indica and Trionyx (Aspidartes) gangeticus. The crossing of the Mahanadi through the Eastern Ghats creates a beautiful valley which is a unique geomorphological feature of the sanctuary.
The scenic beauty of the gorge is quite popular among the visitors who also enjoy the experience of boating in the Mahanadi. Hills are situated on both the northern and southern sides of the Mahanadi. To address any ecological curiosities regarding the sanctuary, a nature interpretation center has been set up at Tikarpada.
Animals: Alligator, crocodile, Tiger, Leopard, Asian Elephant, Gaur, Sambar, Spotted Deer, Barking Deer; Oriental Pied Hornbill, Indian Skimmer; Indian python, cobra, monitor lizard.
Plants: Sal, Karada, Dhavra Piyasal, Teak, Asan, Bamboo, Amla, Bela, Dhaura, Jamu, Kadamba, Kanchan, Kangara, Kasi, Kendu, Kurum, Kusum, Mahul, Mango, Mundi, Phaasi, Siddha, Simul, Teak.
Hadgarh Wildlife Sanctuary
Located in Keonjhar and Mayurbhanj districts, Hadgarh Wildlife Sanctuary takes its name from the nearby Hadgarh Dam, which was constructed on the Salandi River, which passes through the sanctuary. With a rich habitat of mixed deciduous forest the area is home to a variety of wildlife. Tourists can see leopards, tigers, fishing cats, jungle cats, langurs, pangolins and hyenas in the sanctuary. And it is home to many species of birds and reptiles.
The Salandi River that flows through the forest of the sanctuary is a lifeline for it and also for the rare spotted crocodile. To the east and west of the Salandi River lie the Baula hill range, which is an attractive feature of the sanctuary apart from the valley of the reservoir and its catchment area. The sanctuary is extremely popular among nature lovers who enjoy experiencing relatively pristine areas.
Animals: Leopard, wild dog, spotted deer, wild boar, Asian elephant, bluebull; But, monitor lizard.
Plants: Sal, Amla, Asan, Bela, Bija, Dhaura, Jamu, Kadamba, Kanchan, Kangara, Karanja, Kasi, Kendu, Kurum, Kusum, Mahul, Mango, Mundi, Phasi, Sidha, Simul, Teak.
Nandankanan Wildlife Sanctuary
Nandankanan WLS is unique in that it is built around a zoo. Established in December, 1960, it is spread over an area of 362 hectares. It has led to the establishment of the highest standards of housing, health care and husbandry for captive wild animals and has also served as an important center of knowledge promotion and dissemination about the biology of endangered species. Initially conceived to protect the natural habitat and the wildlife living in it, it was declared a sanctuary by the government in 1979.
Nestled amidst the mystical beauty of lush green forest, this sanctuary comprises the State Botanical Garden, Zoological Garden and. A national wetland by the name of Kanjia Lake. Crocodiles were kept in captivity here in 1980. The world’s only conservation breeding center for the endangered Indian Pangolin is located here. Nandankanan has won international praise for hosting the highest collection of white tigers in the world. Other animals reared here include leopards, mouse deer, lions, rattlesnakes and vultures.
Animals: Spotted deer, barking deer, black deer; Racket-tailed drongo, Indian python, cobra, monitor lizard.
Plants: Sal, Bamboo, Asan, Dharua, Beeja, Haldu, Mundi, Kusum, Sissu, Harida, Bahada, Moi, Teak, Kendu, Sidha, Simul, Jamun, Arjun, Amla, Bandhan, Sunari, Khair, Karla, Kumbhi, Chara, Siris, Bheru, Bana Khajuri, Kurei, Gange Siuli, Gindi, Siyali, Latapalas, Muturi, Atundi, Gaja, Pachurimiya, Satabari.
Baisipalli Wildlife Sanctuary
Baisipalli Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Nayagarh district of Odisha, is spread over 168.35 square kilometers. And Satkosia Gorge is very close to the sanctuary. Baisipalli Sanctuary is a living illustration of the diverse ecological heritage of the state of Odisha. The majestic Mahanadi flows along the Satkosia gorge on one side of the sanctuary. Housing deciduous, dry deciduous and moist peninsular sal forests, the region provides sanctuary to bear, sambar deer and spotted deer, among others. It is blessed with a beautiful, densely forested hilly terrain that is home to charismatic elephants, tigers, leopards, herbivores like the Chowsingha, reptiles like the king cobra and pythons and aquatic birds.
Animals: Asian elephant, tiger, leopard, spotted deer, four-horned antelope; Oriental turtle dove; Indian python, king cobra, monitor lizard.
Plants: Sal, Karada, Piyasal, Kurum, Asan, Bamboo, Amla, Bela, Dhaura, Jamu, Kadamba, Kanchan, Kangara, Karanja, Kasi, Kendu, Kusum, Mahul, Mango, Mundi, Phasi, Sidha, Simul, Teak.
Kotagarh Wildlife Sanctuary
Located in Baliguda subdivision of Kandhamal, Kotagarh Wildlife Sanctuary is blessed with abundant biodiversity. Spread over a vast area of 399.5 square kilometres, the region is a complex network of grasslands and dense deciduous forests. Home to a wide range of mammals, birds and reptiles, tourists can enjoy watching wildlife species like elephant, spotted deer, gaur, red jungle fowl, sambar, peacock and many species of reptiles.
This sanctuary is one of the most important life sanctuaries of Odisha, consisting of 5 reserved forests, 3 planned reserved forests and 2 protected forests. The famous tiger habitat here is near the old elephant corridor from Boudh, Karlapat and Lakhari valley in the Gandahati waterfall area of Gajapati district.
Animals: Tiger, leopard, gaur, elephant, sambar, spotted deer, peacock, red jungle fowl; Monitor lizard, gaur, four bicornuate bovid, civet cat, jackal, rattlesnake, sloth bear, pangolin, porcupine, large squirrel, Herpestes.
Plants: Sal, Beeja, Asan, Sidha, Bamboo, Amla, Bela, Dhaura, Jamu, Kadamba, Kanchan, Kangara, Karanja, Kasi, Kendu, Kurum, Kusum, Mahul, Mango, Mundi, Phasi, Sidha, Simul, Teak.
Chandaka Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary
Representing the northern edge of the Eastern Ghats, this sanctuary is located very close to Bhubaneswar. The declaration of the area as a wildlife sanctuary has helped the endemic wildlife to flourish in the area around the state capital. The declaration of Chandaka Wildlife was primarily aimed at protecting wild Asian elephants and their diminishing habitat. The sanctuary has an abundant population of reptiles and pythons and monitor lizards can be seen in the area.
Animals: Asian elephant, spotted deer, barking deer, mouse deer, wild boar, gray langur, rhesus macaque, small Indian civet, gray mongoose, small Indian mongoose, ruddy mongoose, pangolin, sloth bear, Indian wolf, striped hyena; Peacock, Red Junglefowl, Crested Serpent Eagle, Great Horned Owl, Black-hooded Oriole, Paradise Flycatcher, Cuckoo, Stone Curlew; Indian python, king cobra, monitor lizard.
Plants: Kochila, Kalicha, Belo, Kangra, Giringa, Sunari, Sal, Kumbhi, Jamu, Karanja, Teak, Siddha, Xylia xylocarpa, Bambusa bambus, Eupatorium spp.
Khalasuni Wildlife Sanctuary
With its tranquil landscape, picturesque greenery, cascading waterfalls and immense biodiversity, Khalasuni Wildlife Sanctuary is certainly one of the most fascinating places in Odisha. Located about 50 kilometers north-east of Sambalpur, it is adjacent to the Badrama Wildlife Sanctuary and provides an ideal habitat to host a large number of elephants. This sanctuary is a treasure of endemic flora and fauna. Tourists can enjoy walking on winding trails through dense forests and spot wildlife in them. There is abundance of sal forests in this area.
Animals: Leopard, tiger, elephant, gaur, sambar, spotted deer, barking deer, mouse deer, wild dog; peacock, red jungle fowl; But, monitor lizard.
Plants: Sal, Piyasal, Asan, Bamboo, Amla, Bela, Dhaura, Jamu, Kadamba, Kanchan, Kangara, Karanja, Kasi, Kendu, Kurum, Kusum, Mahul, Mango, Mundi, Phaasi, Sidha, Simul, Teak.
Balukhand Konark Wildlife Sanctuary
Conveniently located on the coastline between Puri and Konark, the Balukhand Konark Wildlife Sanctuary is filled with lush mangrove forests, cashew and casuarina plantations. The pristine sandy beaches have high potential to be developed as an impressive eco-tourism destination. Rivers like Kushbhadra River, Nuanai River, Prachi River and Kadua River flow in the wildlife sanctuary. The rich and nutritious habitat of the sanctuary is an ideal home for a vast biodiversity of flora and fauna.
Animals: Spotted deer, black deer, striped hyena, jungle cat, olive ridley sea turtle, Brahminy kite, Oriental turtle dove, monitor lizard.
Plants: Casuarina, Tamarind, Anacardium, Karanja, Polanga, Neem, Acacia, Cashew, Eucalyptus and many mangrove species.
Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary
A part of the Deccan Peninsula, the Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary includes the Kuldiha, Devagiri and Tenda reserve forests, which have been declared protected areas. Mayurbhanj Forest lies to the west of Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary and can be considered a typical representative of moist mixed deciduous forest and peninsular (coastal) sal forest. The area is of immense genetic importance as it supports the conservation of a wide variety of flora and fauna. Part of the Mayurbhanj Elephant Reserve is connected to the Similipal Biosphere Reserve through Kuldiha and Hadgarh Wildlife Sanctuary.
Thus all these PAs form vast landscapes that help in the conservation of charismatic species such as the Asian elephant and tiger. It is also the largest watershed that maintains the region’s groundwater reserves, and also provides a major river and its tributaries. Tourists who are nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts find it irresistible to visit this destination. Moreover, Panchalingeshwar, a holy temple of Lord Shiva, attracts devotees from everywhere.
Animals: Asian elephant, gaur, sambar, giant squirrel, leopard, mountain myna, peacock, monitor lizard.
Plants: Sal, Beeja, Asan, Bamboo, Amla, Bela, Dhaura, Jamu, Kadamba, Kanchan, Kangara, Karanja, Kasi, Kendu, Kurum, Kusum, Mahul, Mango, Mundi, Phasi, Sidha, Simul, Teak.
Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary
An important site for the in-situ conservation of wildlife as well as their habitat in Odisha, Debrigadh Wildlife Sanctuary is a repository of tremendous biodiversity. Abundant species of mammals, reptiles, birds, amphibians, odonates, fish, spiders and butterflies can be found within the sanctuary.
The lush green beauty of the forests of this region is unmatched in their pristine wilderness. Nature-lovers of Odisha and neighboring states are attracted by the diverse flora and fauna located in the dry deciduous forests. This mix of forest and wildlife, the Hirakud reservoir and the unique topographical features of the area are some of the factors that provide vibrancy and life to this wildlife sanctuary.
Animals: Tiger, four-horned antelope, gaur, Asian elephant, sambar, spotted deer, sloth bear, leopard, porcupine, jackal, fox, wolf, striped hyena, wild dog, yellow-footed green pigeon, Indian python, cobra, monitor Lizard.
Plants: Beeja, Sal, Asan, Amla, Dhaura, Amla, Bela, Dhaura, Jamu, Kadamba, Kanchan, Kangara, Karanja, Kasi, Kendu, Kurum, Kusum, Mahul, Aam, Mundi, Phaasi, Sidha, Simul, Teak.
Lakhari Valley Wildlife Sanctuary
Located in the Gajapati district of Odisha, the Lakhari Valley Wildlife Sanctuary is an epitome of natural abundance. Mixed deciduous forests, perennial water sources, hills and wildlife with immense biodiversity like giant squirrel, civet, leopard, porcupine, pangolin, otter, wolf, peacock, parrot, elephant, deer, sambar and a huge variety of birds. Reptiles, this area represents great ecological wealth.
One can reach the sanctuary from Berhampur, Taptapani (which is widely known for its hot water spring) and Chandragiri. Covering a vast expanse of approximately 175 square kilometres, the region has a tropical climate and receives adequate rainfall every year. This climate creates rich tropical forests, water resources, valleys, hills, etc., which not only support life in the area but also create a mesmerizing view for the visitors.
Animals: Leopard, porcupine, pangolin, giant squirrel, wolf, striped hyena, Asian elephant, sambar, peacock, Indian python, cobra, monitor lizard.
Plants: Asan, Dharua, Beeja, Haldu, Mundi, Kusum, Sissu, Harida, Bahda, Moi, Sagoun, Kendu, Sidha, Simul, Jamun, Arjun, Amla, Bandhan, Sunari, Khair, Karla, Kumbhi, Chara, Siris, Bheru, Bana Khajuri, , Kurei, Gange Siuli, Gindi, Siyali, Latapalas, Muturi, Atundi, Gaja, Pacurimiya, Satabari.
Chilika (Nalaban) Wildlife Sanctuary
Asia’s largest inland saltwater lake, Chilka is adorned with a few small islands. The unique lake with its unique pear shape is different from the Bay of Bengal. The lake supports a highly productive ecosystem which is protected under the name of Chilka Wildlife Sanctuary. Also famous as Nalbana Bird Sanctuary, the huge Nalbana Island spread over an area of 15.53 sq km in the lagoon area was given the status of a bird sanctuary in the year 1987.
More than 4,00,000 water birds of different species are attracted here. Core area of approximately 6 square kilometres. During the monsoon months, the island is completely submerged. About 60% of the migratory birds that visit Chilika Lagoon year after year are supported by this small island.
Animals: Irrawaddy dolphin; Milkfish, Indo-Pacific tarpon, ten-pounder, bream, hilsa, mullet; White-bellied Sea Eagle, Greylag Goose, Purple Moorhen, Gray Heron, Purple Heron, Indian Roller, White Ibis, S Poonbill, Brahminy Duck, Shoveller, Pintail, Black-headed Oriole.
Plants: Cassipauria ceylanica, Aegiceras corniculatus, Exoceraria agallocha, Salvadora persica, Pongamia pinnata, Colubrina asiatica, Capparis roxburghii, Macrotyloma ciliatum.
Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary
Located in Nuapada district, the landscape of Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary is a mostly grass-covered plateau that is connected to the Sitanadi and Udanti sanctuaries in the state of Chhattisgarh. The picturesque waterfalls, archaeological site of Muraguda, Jumlagarh Fort and Giribaman as well as caves add to the long list of unique attractions for tourists visiting the sanctuary. Bird observation points have been established at Jalki and Raital Dam in Maraguda.
The sanctuary is home to 4 tigers and 20 leopards, apart from this it is also home to species like barking deer, spotted deer, hyena, sloth bear, gaur, sambar, mountain myna, pea fowl, partridge etc. and a variety of reptile species. The sanctuary contributes directly to the socio-economic development of the surrounding areas, given that it is the source and catchment area of the Jonk, Sundar and Indra rivers.
Animals: Tiger, leopard, striped hyena, barking deer, spotted deer, gaur, sambar, sloth bear, mountain myna, peacock, python, cobra, monitor lizard.
Plants: Asan, Dharua, Beeja, Haldu, Mundi, Kusum, Sissu, Harida, Bahda, Moi, Sagoun, Kendu, Sidha, Simul, Jamun, Arjun, Amla, Bandhan, Sunari, Khair, Karla, Kumbhi, Chara, Siris, Bheru, Bana Khajuri, Kurei, Gange Siuli, Gindi, Siyali, Latapalas, Muturi, Atundi, Gaj, Pacurimiya, Satabari.
Gahirmatha (Marine) Wildlife Sanctuary
The only large-scale nesting site in the Indian Ocean region, Gahirmatha WLS is also the only turtle sanctuary in Odisha. The coast of Gahirmatha is the famous breeding ground for Olive Ridley turtles which arrive here from across the South Pacific. It is an ecological sight when millions of Olive Ridley turtles visit this beach every year.
Each female turtle lays an average of about 100 to 140 eggs. The sanctuary is an ideal habitat for a vast biodiversity of flora and fauna. Other wildlife that can be seen in the sanctuary include wild boar, barking deer, bear, leopard, crocodile, wild fowl, sambar and wild dogs. With the help of NGOs, the state has successfully developed a safe habitat for Olive Ridleys and completely fenced the area, thereby ensuring complete protection of these amazing animals.
Animals: Wild boar, barking deer, sloth bear, leopard, sambar, wild dog, fishing cat, Irrawaddy dolphin, olive ridley sea turtle.
Plants: Beeja, Sal, Asan, Amla, Dhaura, Amla, Bela, Dhaura, Jamu, Kadamba, Kanchan, Kangara, Karanja, Kasi, Kendu, Kurum, Kusum, Mahul, Aam, Mundi, Phaasi, Sidha, Simul, Teak.
Karlapat Wildlife Sanctuary
Located in Kalahandi South Division, Karlapat Sanctuary, 12 km from Bhawanipatna, covers a thick strip of lush dry deciduous forest. The ‘Phullijharan’ waterfall, in all its glory, attracts large crowds from far and wide. Hosting a plethora of wildlife, Karlapat Wildlife Sanctuary supports charismatic species like gaur, sambar, leopard, bluebull, barking deer, mouse deer, soft-toed ottawa, as well as a huge variety of birds and reptiles. The undulating terrain of the sanctuary with enchanting hills, valleys, deep water pools and perennial waterfalls makes for a mesmerizing effect on the natural beauty of the region. Bhawanipatna is a temple dedicated to Goddess Manikeshwari located in the city.
Animals: Tiger, leopard, elephant, wild boar, gaur, sambar, bluebull, barking deer, mouse deer; Green munia, great-eared nightjar.
Plants: Amla, Bela, Dhaura, Jamu, Kadamba, Kanchan, Kangara, Karanja, Kasi, Kendu, Kurum, Kusum, Mahul, Mango, Mundi, Phaasi, Sidha, Simul, Teak.
Kapilasha Wildlife Sanctuary
Also known as Kapilasa Wildlife Sanctuary, Kapilasa Wildlife Sanctuary located in Dhenkanal district of central Odisha attracts visitors for its geomorphological diversity and variety of rare flora and fauna. It is a major attraction for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts with its dense forests and abundant wildlife. The sanctuary is surrounded by the Eastern Ghats on all borders, making the landscape absolutely picturesque. The area has great religious importance because of the temple of Lord Shiva at Kapilash, which is visited by devotees from all over the state and surrounding areas throughout the year.
Known as the ‘Kailash of Odisha’, the temple dedicated to Lord Vishwanath is situated at an elevated position within the sanctuary. To the delight of wildlife lovers, a science park and a crocodile breeding center have been formed in the sanctuary. A zoo has also been established at the foothills of Kapilash where tourists can enjoy the thrill of sailing in the natural landscape.
Animals: Asian elephant, fox, jackal, gray langur, Indian crested porcupine, Indian giant squirrel, Indian peacock, sambar, striped hyena, wild boar.
Plants: Sal, Amla, Asan, Bela, Bija, Dhaura, Jamu, Kadamba, Kanchan, Kangara, Karanja, Kasi, Kendu, Kurum, Kusum, Mahul, Mango, Mundi, Phasi, Sidha, Simul, Teak.