Bhitarkanika National Park
Bhitarkanika National Park is a majestic mangrove wetland ecosystem located in the northeastern part of Odisha. Accessible via the historic port town of Chandbali in Bhadrak, this park is a sprawling sanctuary covering roughly 145 Square KM of core area within a larger eco-system of 672 Square KM. It is renowned globally for its rich biodiversity, particularly as a sanctuary for the endangered Saltwater Crocodile (Crocodylus porosus). The park is crisscrossed by a network of creeks and rivers like the Baitarani and Brahmani, which provide a unique estuarine environment. Visitors entering through Chandbali can witness the transition from rural landscapes to dense, emerald-green mangrove forests that look like they belong in a prehistoric era. The park is a Ramsar Site, meaning it is a wetland of international importance, and it serves as a vital barrier against cyclonic storms for the coastal communities. Inside, the air is thick with the sounds of kingfishers and the rustle of monitor lizards moving through the mudflats. It is not just a wildlife park but a testament to the resilience of nature, offering a peaceful yet thrilling escape into the wild. The journey by boat from Chandbali takes you through winding water channels where the mangroves form a natural canopy overhead, creating a serene atmosphere. This destination is perfect for nature lovers, researchers, and photographers who wish to capture the raw beauty of Odisha's coastal wilderness.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
1 to 2 DaysPlace Type:
Wildlife & NatureEntry Fees:
Indian Nationals: Rs.20 per head.
Foreigners: Rs.100 per head. Note that boat hire charges are separate and can range from Rs.2000 to Rs.5000 depending on the size and duration. ...Indian Nationals: Rs.20 per head.
Foreigners: Rs.100 per head. Note that boat hire charges are separate and can range from Rs.2000 to Rs.5000 depending on the size and duration.Timing:
Regular Timings: The park is open from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.
Ideal Visit Time: Early morning is the best time for boat safaris to maximize wildlife sightings. ...Regular Timings: The park is open from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.
Ideal Visit Time: Early morning is the best time for boat safaris to maximize wildlife sightings.Special Events:
Makar Mela: Celebrated in January, this local festival draws crowds from nearby villages.
Wildlife Week: Special awareness programs are held in the first week of October to promote conservation. ...Makar Mela: Celebrated in January, this local festival draws crowds from nearby villages.
Wildlife Week: Special awareness programs are held in the first week of October to promote conservation.Best Photo Spots:
Creek Viewpoints: The best photos are taken from the boat when a crocodile is sighted on the mudbanks.
Mangrove Canopy: The intersection of three rivers near Chandbali offers wide-angle scenic shots.
Wildlife...Creek Viewpoints: The best photos are taken from the boat when a crocodile is sighted on the mudbanks.
Mangrove Canopy: The intersection of three rivers near Chandbali offers wide-angle scenic shots.
Wildlife at Dangmal: Close-up shots of deer and birds near the breeding center are highly popular.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Wildlife Boat Safari: The primary activity is a boat ride through the creeks where you can spot crocodiles basking in the sun.
Crocodile Breeding Center: Visit the Dangmal center to see baby crocodiles and the skeleton of a giant white crocodile.
Bird Watching: Use binoculars to spot white-bellied sea eagles and eight species of kingfishers.
Trekking in the Mangroves: Follow the designated nature trails at Dangmal to see spotted deer and wild boars in their natural habitat.
Visit the Museum: Explore the interpretation center to learn about the ecological significance of the mangroves.
Photography: Capture the unique flora and fauna of the estuarine ecosystem.
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Information
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Why Famous:
Crocodile Capital: It is famous for being the home of the world’s largest Saltwater Crocodiles, including giants over 20 feet long.
Mangrove Diversity: The park holds the second-largest mangrove forest in India after the Sundarbans, boas...Crocodile Capital: It is famous for being the home of the world’s largest Saltwater Crocodiles, including giants over 20 feet long.
Mangrove Diversity: The park holds the second-largest mangrove forest in India after the Sundarbans, boasting an incredible variety of flora. -
Architecture:
The Natural Engineering: The architecture of Bhitarkanika is entirely biological, defined by its complex mangrove root systems.
Dimensions and Layout: The park features a core area of 145 Square KM with over 60 species of mangroves reachin...The Natural Engineering: The architecture of Bhitarkanika is entirely biological, defined by its complex mangrove root systems.
Dimensions and Layout: The park features a core area of 145 Square KM with over 60 species of mangroves reaching heights of 15 to 20 meters. The Dangmal area houses the crocodile breeding center, designed with specialized hatching enclosures that mimic natural estuarine temperatures. Historical structures like the old hunting towers of the Kanika Kings also exist, featuring stone masonry and narrow vantage points overlooking the riverbanks. -
How To Reach:
By Air: Nearest airport is Bhubaneswar, 190 KM away.
By Train: Arrive at Bhadrak Railway Station, then take a bus or taxi.
By Road: Well-connected road from Bhadrak to Chandbali via SH-5. -
Near Tourist Places:
Aradi Temple (30 KM), Dhamra (45 KM), Eram (60 KM), Pentha Beach (70 KM), Aul Palace (40 KM), Chandbali Port (0 KM), Maa Dhamarai (45 KM), Gahiramatha (Boat required), Navagaya (40 KM), Bhadrakali Temple (55 KM).
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: Always wear life jackets during boat rides and never lean out of the boat.
Packing: Carry mosquito repellent, hats, and light cotton clothes.
Accommodation: Stay at OTDC Aranyanivas in Ch...
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Barehipani WaterfallAstaranga BeachBali Harena BeachKakatpur Mangala TempleKuruma Buddhist SitePrachi ValleyRamachandi BeachAkhandalamani TempleBaba Jagannath TempleBaligadi BeachBanta Town MuseumBhairabi TempleBhitarkanika National Park Chudamani Fort RuinsDhamara PortEram - The Second Jallianwala BaghMaa Patana Mangala TempleMaa Bhadrakali TempleMore PlacesNote:-
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