“Bhitarkanika” is India’s second largest Mangrove Ecosystem.

Bhitarkanika has one of the largest populations of endangered saltwater crocodile in India and is globally unique in that, 10% of the adults exceed 6 m length.

Odisha the land of cathartic spiritual experiences, intricate art and immortal architecture regaling timeless tales, beaches, cuisines, landscapes and wildlife. Journeys and experiences of many travel enthusiasts who have traversed and fallen in love with the land of Odisha!

Spread in a vast are of 672 Kms Bhitarkanika Indian Wildlife Sanctuary Orissa is the 2nd largest Mangrove ecosystems of India. Proximity to Bay of Bengal makes the soil of the area enriched with salts, the vegetation and the species of the sanctuary is comprised of those which are mainly found in the tropical and subtropical inter tidal regions. It is the breeding place for the endangered salt water crocodiles which are the prime attractions of the sanctuary. The Gahirmatha Beach which forms the boundary of the sanctuary in the east is the largest colony of the Olive Ridley Sea Turtles.

Bhitarkanika is home to the largest congregation of the endangered Salt Water Crocodile in the country. Bhitarkanika is India’s second largest mangrove ecosystem after the Sunderbans.

The other unique phenomenon is the Bagagahana or the heronry near Surajpore creek. Thousands of birds colonise the creek for nesting and the aerial acrobatics performed prior to the mating makes for an impressive sight. Bhitarkanika is also home to eight varieties of Kingfisher birds which is also a rarity and a sanctuary for estuarine crocodiles, water monitor lizards and king cobras. Enjoy a full day boat safari through the creeks, watch various species of birds and keep an eye out for estuarine crocodiles basking in the sun. Stay overnight in Jungle Cottage or Tent and experience the adventure of a lifetime.

Bhitarkanika is also home to numerous animals like the deer, hyenas, wild boar etc and migratory birds which make it their home during the winter season lending a vibrant hue to the eco system.

At Bhitarkanika must try the following activities:-

Boating – take the boat ride though the network of creeks and canals and watch the inhabitants of Mini Amazon of India. 

Birding – For bird lovers, Bhitarkanika spoils you for choices. There are eight varieties of Kingfisher birds alone, apart from a host of native and migratory birds.

There’s a variety of options for you to stay at Bhitarkanika. From Star Rated Hotels, Eco Tour Nature Camps equipped with state of the art swiss tents and facilities to OTDC Government Hotels, Bed Breakfasts and Homestays.

Also Read:- Chilika Lake is a hotspot of Biodiversity and largest wintering ground for Birds