Smack in the middle of the Kandhamal district, snuggled amidst lush green hills, is the Kotgarh Wildlife Sanctuary-a perfect example of Odisha’s rich biodiversity and natural beauty. This lesser-known sanctuary offers nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers an extraordinary chance to explore the untamed wilderness of eastern India. If you happen to be planning an Odisha tour or are looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination, Kotgarh should be on your radar.
A Pristine Haven in the Heart of Odisha
At Phulbani, Kandhamal, Kotgarh Wildlife Sanctuary is the long list of jewels across the crown of Odisha in its natural grandeur. Consider adding this sanctuary to your itinerary as you plan your Odisha visit for a truly immersive eco-tour experience. Spreading over an area of 399.05 sq km, this sanctuary is rich in diverse flora and fauna, which makes it an important part of Odisha’s ecosystem.
How to Get There
Odisha’s Heartland A trip to the Kotgarh Wildlife Sanctuary is an extravaganza in itself. The nearest major city, which is also considered the capital of Odisha, is Bhubaneswar. A beautiful countryside drive from there onward to Phulbani takes one to the base of the sanctuary. It gives views of rural Odisha-picture-postcard villages and rolling hills-just setting the stage for your wildlife adventure.
A Paradise for Nature Lovers
Kotgarh Wildlife Sanctuary is rich in biodiversity, which can charm any nature lover. It houses various species of animals such as leopards, elephants, sloth bears, and different types of birds. The denser forests, mainly comprising sal and bamboo, offer a perfect habitat for these creatures.
One may even get a glimpse of the rare Indian giant squirrel while exploring this sanctuary, as these forests are their haven. Birdwatchers may have a field day from the glimpses of quite a few rare bird sightings including the Indian pied hornbill, and some eagles.
Best Time to Visit: Understanding Odisha’s Seasons
The best time to see Kotgarh Wildlife Sanctuary is from October to March when the weather stays pleasant and the animals can be spotted more closely. However, each season offers a different view of the national park ecosystem. The landscape is changed to a lush green paradise during monsoon rains from June to September. Winter months from December to February are ideal for bird watching.
Things to Do and Places to See: Nature Immersion
There are a host of activities for tourists to take part in in Kotgarh Wildlife Sanctuary: The nature trips to the sanctuary combine by the following activities such as wildlife safaris, nature walks, and bird watching. Safaris: Take jeep safaris in order to go on nature trips in this sanctuary and try to find the above-mentioned wildlife in their natural surroundings.
Nature Walks:
Nature walks are provided through designated trails for the appreciation of the flora inside the sanctuary and learning about the medicinal plants. Bird watching: A proper haven is given by the sanctuary to the different types of birds; as more than 100 species of birds are present here it is already mentioned.
- Photography: Capture the beauty of the sanctuary, from its majestic landscapes to its elusive wildlife.
Stay Close to Nature
While staying facilities inside the sanctuary itself are limited, Phulbani has a number of options for tourists. Ranging from budget guesthouses to cozy hotels, one would find a place per their choice. If you’re looking for an experience closer to the wilds, one could try booking an eco-lodge on the outskirts of the sanctuary.
Trip to Places Other than Kotgarh
Your Odisha tour is not complete if you do not visit some of these places lying nearby:
- Daringbadi: Also known as the “Kashmir of Odisha,” it is a hill station with extend panoramic beauty and coffee estates.
- Belghar: Amidst charming surroundings, Belghar offers fantastic options in scenic beauty and tribal culture.
- Phulbani: The district headquarters has a number of spots to its credit, including Pillasalunki Dam and local markets.
Kotgarh Wildlife Sanctuary has immense importance in Odisha’s conservation undertaking. The sanctuary provides protection not only to the endangered species but also serves as an important catchment for the gigantic dam in Odisha. Visitors can understand these conservation initiatives and how they help in preserving Odisha’s biodiversity.
Tips for a Memorable Visit
- View the wild animals with respect and maintain your distance from them.
- Follow the guidelines provided by the forest officials.
- Carry all essentials like binoculars, good camera, and proper attire.
- Consider hiring a local guide for an enriching experience and helping the local community as well.
Odisha Tour Packages
It is an unexampled blend of adventure, nature, and tranquility that one can find at Kotgarh Wildlife Sanctuary. When working out a schedule for Odisha tourism, make sure to include this mysterious beauty. This is not just a place to visit in Odisha but an experience for lifetime memory with an enriching appreciation for the natural wonder of the state.
Be it the avid enthusiast of wildlife, nature photographers, or those who just seek to get away from the hustle-bustle of city life, the Kotgarh Wildlife Sanctuary promises a journey that will enable most travelers to enter deep into the heart of Odisha’s wilderness. So, pack your bags with a voyage of adventure and get ready to explore one of the most captivating ecotourism destinations Odisha has to offer.
