Hidden Gem of Kendrapada

Nestled in the coastal district of Kendrapada in Odisha, Bhitarkanika National Park is one of India’s most stunning and lesser-explored wildlife sanctuaries. Often called the “Mini Amazon of India,” this lush green paradise is crisscrossed by rivers, creeks, and mangrove forests that host an incredible variety of flora and fauna.

A Paradise of Biodiversity

Spread across nearly 145 square kilometers, Bhitarkanika is home to India’s second-largest mangrove ecosystem after the Sundarbans. The dense mangrove cover, intersected by rivers like the Brahmani, Baitarani, and Dhamra, forms an intricate network of waterways that supports a vibrant ecosystem.

The park is famous for the saltwater crocodile (Crocodylus porosus)—the largest living reptile on earth. Bhitarkanika’s crocodile conservation program has been a remarkable success story, with the sanctuary now housing one of the highest populations of saltwater crocodiles in India. The sight of these majestic reptiles basking along muddy riverbanks is both thrilling and humbling.

Home to Exotic Wildlife

Beyond crocodiles, Bhitarkanika teems with wildlife. It shelters spotted deer, wild boars, fishing cats, otters, and a rich variety of snakes and monitor lizards. The sanctuary is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with more than 300 species of resident and migratory birds, including kingfishers, herons, darters, and whistling teals. During the winter months, flocks of migratory birds from Central Asia and Europe arrive here, turning the skies into a colorful canvas.

The Enchanting Mangrove Forests

What makes Bhitarkanika truly unique is its diverse mangrove vegetation—over 60 species of mangroves and associated plants thrive here. These trees, with their tangled roots, act as natural barriers against coastal erosion and cyclones, while also serving as a breeding ground for marine life.

Eco-Tourism and Boat Safaris

Exploring Bhitarkanika is an experience like no other. Visitors can embark on boat safaris along the creeks of Khola, Dangmal, and Gupti to witness crocodiles gliding through the water and birds nesting in mangrove canopies. The Dangmal Crocodile Research and Breeding Centre is another major attraction, offering visitors a closer look at crocodile hatchlings and conservation efforts.

The Bhitarkanika Forest Guest Houses at Dangmal and Habelikhati provide eco-friendly accommodation options for tourists seeking a tranquil retreat amid nature.

How to Reach Bhitarkanika

Nearest Town: Kendrapada (around 50 km)

Nearest Railway Station: Bhadrak (77 km) or Cuttack (100 km)

Nearest Airport: Bhubaneswar (130 km)
From these points, travelers can reach Bhitarkanika via Gupti, Khola, or Chandbali by road and then take a boat ride into the sanctuary.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit Bhitarkanika is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant, and migratory birds flock to the park. The monsoon season (June–September) enhances the beauty of the mangroves but may limit accessibility due to heavy rains.