The Dampara Elephant Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Chandaka forest range near Bhubaneswar, Odisha. Established in 1980 with over 185 sq km of protected forest area, it is home to a significant Asian elephant population along with other wildlife. As part of Odisha tours and tourism, Dampara offers a unique elephant conservation experience.
History Dampara Elephant Wildlife Sanctuary
Dampara was designated a wildlife sanctuary in 1980 specifically for the conservation and protection of local elephants. Historically, elephants moved between Chandaka and Kapilas forests using the Dampara corridor. Growing human habitation and activities disrupted this movement, leading to more elephant deaths and conflicts. The sanctuary aimed to provide a safe space connecting these critical habitats.
Over the years, Dampara has continued to make efforts to reduce man-animal conflict while protecting the elephants. Various trenches, solar-powered electric fences, and barricades have been established on the boundaries to prevent elephants from straying into human settlements.
Wildlife
Asian elephants are the primary inhabitants of Dampara and over 150 have been recorded here. The forest department takes regular initiatives to study and monitor their population and movement patterns.
In addition to elephants, Dampara also hosts leopards, hyenas, deer, wild boars, snakes, and various bird species. Though small in area compared to other national parks in Odisha, it is rich in biodiversity.
Activities
Safari rides are organized for visitors to spot elephants and other wildlife. Trained mahouts accompany the rides into specific areas of the forest. Various conservation efforts and awareness camps are also conducted engaging local villagers and children. Researchers frequently visit to study elephant behavior and ecology as well.
Visiting Information
The best time to visit Dampara is between October to March. Summers are very hot. Entry permits need to be obtained from the forest department office in Bhubaneswar or Cuttack. Dampara is only about 40 km from Bhubaneswar. It is recommended to hire government-approved jeeps or safari vehicles to explore the sanctuary.
Significance for Odisha Tourism
The Dampara Elephant Sanctuary provides a unique opportunity to see Asian elephants up close in their natural habitat as part of Odisha tourism. Since elephants often stray close to adjoining villages, visitors also gain insight into the coexistence of wildlife and humans. While smaller than some iconic national parks, Dampara is integral from a conservation perspective and also offers tourists an offbeat wildlife experience.
As Odisha continues to attract tourists for its scenic beaches, temples, and monuments, rich wildlife sanctuaries like Dampara further showcase the incredible natural heritage of the state. Whether solo travelers, families, or wildlife enthusiasts, the elephant sanctuary makes for an informative and memorable destination. The forest department aims to develop its tourism potential while adhering to eco-tourism principles that do not threaten the delicate human-animal balance.
Destination Attractions, Destination Facilities, Transportation, Accessibility, How to Reach
Open Timings
Chandaka Dampada Sanctuary’s opening time is Monday to Sunday 10:00 am to Evening 5:00 pm and Daytime Safari Hours: are 7 AM to 11 AM and 3 PM to 5 PM.
Best Time to visit
The best time to visit Dampara Elephant Wildlife Sanctuary is generally considered to be from October to March.
Nearest Bus Stop
The nearest Bus stop is Baramunda, which is located around 5 KM distance from Dampara Elephant Wildlife Sanctuary
Nearest Railway Station
The Nearest Railway Station is Bhubaneswar, which is located around 17 KM distance from Dampara Elephant Wildlife Sanctuary
Nearest Airport
The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar, which is located around 17 KM distance from Dampara Elephant Wildlife Sanctuary
