Odisha Wildlife Tour

Day 1: Arrival in Bhubaneswar

• Morning: Arrive at Biju Patnaik International Airport/Railway Station. Transfer to the hotel.
• Afternoon: Visit the Nandankanan Zoological Park, a unique zoo set in a natural forest, famous for its white tigers.
• Evening: Relax at the hotel or explore the local markets.
• Overnight: Stay in Bhubaneswar.

Day 2: Bhubaneswar – Similipal National Park

• Morning: Drive to Similipal National Park, one of the largest wildlife sanctuaries in India.
• Afternoon: Check in at the forest lodge and explore nearby attractions like Joranda Falls and Barehipani Falls.
• Evening: Enjoy a nature walk to spot birds and small mammals.
• Overnight: Stay in Similipal.

Day 3: Similipal National Park Exploration

• Morning: Embark on a jeep safari to spot wildlife such as tigers, elephants, and deer. Visit Chahala Zone, a popular spot for wildlife sightings.
• Afternoon: Continue exploring the park's dense forests, rivers, and meadows.
• Evening: Relax at the lodge amidst the serene forest surroundings.
• Overnight: Stay in Similipal.

Day 4: Similipal – Bhitarkanika National Park

• Morning: Drive to Bhitarkanika National Park, known for its mangroves and estuarine crocodiles.
• Afternoon: Check in to an eco-resort and explore the park's surroundings, including riverside trails.
• Evening: Relax and enjoy the tranquil environment.
• Overnight: Stay near Bhitarkanika.

Day 5: Bhitarkanika National Park Safari

• Morning: Take a boat safari through the park's mangrove forests to spot crocodiles, kingfishers, and other wildlife. Visit Dangmal Crocodile Sanctuary and the Bhagabanpur Watchtower.
• Afternoon: Continue exploring the park's rich biodiversity and enjoy birdwatching.
• Evening: Return to the eco-resort and unwind.
• Overnight: Stay near Bhitarkanika.

Day 6: Bhitarkanika – Chilika Lake (Satapada)

• Morning: Drive to Chilika Lake, Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon, at Satapada.
• Afternoon: Take a boat ride to spot the endangered Irrawaddy dolphins and visit Rajhans Island for birdwatching and stunning views.
• Evening: Relax at the resort near the lake.
• Overnight: Stay in Satapada.

Day 7: Satapada – Bhubaneswar Departure

• Morning: Enjoy the serene surroundings of Chilika Lake or take a short walk in nearby villages.
• Afternoon: Drive back to Bhubaneswar and transfer to the airport/railway station for your onward journey.

Highlights of the Tour:

• Wildlife safaris at Similipal and Bhitarkanika National Parks.
• Mangrove boat rides and crocodile sightings in Bhitarkanika.
• Dolphin spotting and birdwatching at Chilika Lake.
• Scenic waterfalls and forest trails in Similipal.

This itinerary is perfect for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers looking to explore Odisha's natural wonders. Let me know if you need adjustments or additional details!

Odisha, located on India’s eastern coast, is a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The state is home to diverse flora and fauna, preserved in its lush forests, national parks, and sanctuaries. An Odisha Wildlife Tour offers an unparalleled experience, combining adventure with serene natural landscapes. Here's a detailed overview of what to expect:

1. Major Destinations on an Odisha Wildlife Tour

a. Simlipal National Park

• Location: Mayurbhanj district
• Highlights:
  Simlipal is one of the largest tiger reserves in India, known for its dense forests, gushing waterfalls, and rich biodiversity. It is home to majestic Bengal tigers, wild elephants, leopards, and hundreds of bird species.
  • Must-Visit Spots: Barehipani Waterfall, Joranda Waterfall, Chahala Zone.
  • Activities: Safari rides, birdwatching, and trekking.

b. Bhitarkanika National Park

• Location: Kendrapara district
• Highlights:
  A unique mangrove ecosystem, Bhitarkanika is famous for its saltwater crocodiles, Olive Ridley turtles, and waterbirds. The park is also a Ramsar Site, emphasizing its ecological importance.
  • Must-Visit Spots: Crocodile breeding centers, Gahirmatha Beach (for turtle nesting).
  • Activities: Boat rides through the mangroves, crocodile spotting, and exploring the dense forest trails.

c. Chilika Lake Wildlife Sanctuary

• Location: Spanning Khurda, Ganjam, and Puri districts
• Highlights:
  Chilika Lake is Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon and a paradise for birdwatchers. It hosts thousands of migratory birds during winter and is home to the endangered Irrawaddy dolphins.
  • Must-Visit Spots: Nalabana Island (bird sanctuary), Satapada (dolphin spotting).
  • Activities: Boating, dolphin watching, and bird photography.

d. Nandankanan Zoological Park

• Location: Bhubaneswar
• Highlights:
  A well-maintained zoo with a botanical garden and a wildlife sanctuary, Nandankanan is famous for its White Tigers and safari experiences.
  • Activities: White tiger safari, nocturnal animal house, and reptile park visits.

e. Satkosia Tiger Reserve

• Location: Spanning Angul, Cuttack, and Nayagarh districts
• Highlights:
  Satkosia is a picturesque sanctuary known for its deep gorges along the Mahanadi River and its rich tiger population. It also provides habitats for gharials and other aquatic species.
  • Must-Visit Spots: Satkosia Gorge, Tikarpada Wildlife Sanctuary.
  • Activities: River cruises, tiger tracking, and eco-camping.

2. Wildlife Activities in Odisha

• Safari Rides: Enjoy thrilling safaris in Simlipal and Satkosia, where you can spot tigers, elephants, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
• Birdwatching: Witness various migratory and resident birds at Chilika Lake, Bhitarkanika, and Nandankanan.
• Boat Cruises: Take serene boat rides in Chilika Lake and Bhitarkanika's mangroves for an up-close encounter with aquatic wildlife.
• Nature Walks and Trekking: Explore Odisha’s diverse ecosystems through guided trails in its national parks and sanctuaries.

3. Best Time to Visit

• Winter (October to February): The best season for wildlife tours, as animals are more active, and migratory birds flock to Odisha’s wetlands.
• Monsoon (June to September): While some parks may remain closed, the lush greenery and flowing waterfalls offer a unique experience.
• Summer (March to May): Ideal for spotting wildlife at water sources, though the heat can be intense.

4. Suggested Odisha Wildlife Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Bhubaneswar to Simlipal National Park

• Drive to Simlipal, check in, and explore the nearby forest area.

Day 2: Simlipal National Park Safari

• Full-day safari to spot tigers, elephants, and waterfalls like Barehipani and Joranda.

Day 3: Simlipal to Bhitarkanika National Park

• Travel to Bhitarkanika, enjoy a boat ride through mangroves and spot crocodiles and birds.

Day 4: Bhitarkanika to Chilika Lake

• Drive to Chilika Lake, visit Nalabana Bird Sanctuary, and enjoy dolphin spotting at Satapada.

Day 5: Return to Bhubaneswar

• Visit Nandankanan Zoological Park and conclude your wildlife tour.

5. Tips for a Memorable Wildlife Tour

• Book in Advance: Permits for safaris and accommodations in eco-resorts can sell out quickly, especially in peak season.
• Carry Essentials: Include binoculars, a good camera, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and insect repellent.
• Respect Nature: Follow the park guidelines, avoid littering, and maintain a safe distance from animals.

Conclusion

An Odisha Wildlife Tour is a perfect blend of adventure, serenity, and ecological exploration. Whether you’re cruising through mangroves, tracking tigers in dense forests, or watching flocks of migratory birds, Odisha offers an unforgettable experience for every nature enthusiast.