Offbeat Escapes: Wildlife Safari in Odisha
Odisha, a treasure trove of biodiversity on India’s eastern coast, offers a captivating wildlife safari experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The state boasts an astounding diversity of flora and fauna, ranging from expansive mangroves and serene lakes to dense forests and picturesque river gorges. Whether spotting the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger in Similipal, cruising through crocodile-infested waters in Bhitarkanika, or watching migratory birds at Chilika Lake, Odisha promises unforgettable encounters with nature. Its lesser-known wildlife destinations offer serenity, thrill, and a deep connection with India’s wild heart, making every safari a unique journey.
Why Choose Odisha for a Wildlife Safari?
Odisha has 18 wildlife sanctuaries and two national parks, offering a diverse range of ecosystems — from coastal mangroves and riverine habitats to dense sal forests and sprawling grasslands. Unlike the more commercialized safari destinations, Odisha provides a more serene and intimate experience with nature.
Here’s a closer look at some of Odisha’s top wildlife safari destinations and what makes each one special.
1) Similipal National Park – The Crown Jewel
Located in the picturesque Mayurbhanj district, Similipal National Park is a UNESCO-designated biosphere reserve and Odisha’s most iconic tiger habitat. Sprawled across 2,750 square kilometers, Similipal is a haven for large mammals, rare plants, and birdlife.
Location: Mayurbhanj District, Northern Odisha
Highlights:
- Home to the Royal Bengal Tiger, Indian elephants, leopards, and wild boars.
- Over 230 species of birds, including hornbills, eagles, and peafowls.
- The stunning Barehipani and Joranda waterfalls add a scenic dimension to your safari.
- Unique flora, including medicinal plants and rare orchids.
Best Time to Visit:
- November to mid-June is ideal for safaris, with peak visibility during the dry season.
2) Bhitarkanika National Park – The Crocodile Kingdom
A true wilderness unlike any other, Bhitarkanika in the Kendrapara district is famed for its dense mangrove forests and labyrinthine waterways. Accessible only by boat, this park delivers an unforgettable wildlife safari on water.
Location: Kendrapara District, Eastern Odisha
Highlights:
- Home to India’s largest population of saltwater crocodiles, including the record-breaking 23-foot crocodile.
- Spot water monitor lizards, pythons, and king cobras.
- It’s a birdwatcher’s heaven, with species like brahminy kites, egrets, and open-billed storks.
- Dense mangrove forests and estuarine ecosystems create a Jurassic Park-like feel.
Best Time to Visit:
- Winter months from November to February offer cool weather and peak bird activity.
3) Satkosia Tiger Reserve – The Gorge of Legends
Satkosia Tiger Reserve, nestled where the Eastern Ghats meet the Mahanadi River, boasts breathtaking landscapes and a rare harmony of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, offering a genuinely diverse wildlife experience.
Location: Angul, Boudh, Nayagarh & Cuttack Districts, Central Odisha
Highlights:
- One of India’s best spots to see the mugger crocodile and gharial.
- Tigers, leopards, spotted deer, and langurs roam the dense sal forests.
- The Satkosia Gorge offers stunning river views and a chance to spot wildlife from boats.
- Great opportunities for camping and eco-tourism.
Best Time to Visit:
- October to April is ideal for safaris, treks, and boat rides.
4) Chilika Lake – A Birdwatcher’s Delight
Though not a traditional safari in the jeep-and-jungle sense, Chilika Lake offers one of India’s most extraordinary wildlife experiences. Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon attracts over a million migratory birds yearly and is a sanctuary for birds and aquatic life.
Location: Spans Puri, Khordha & Ganjam Districts, South-Central Odisha
Highlights:
- It hosts over a million migratory birds in winter, including flamingos, pelicans, and herons.
- Watch dolphins play in the waters near Satapada.
- Explore Nalabana Bird Sanctuary, a key site within the lake.
Best Time to Visit:
- November to February during the migratory bird season.
Safari Experiences in Odisha
Safari modes in Odisha vary depending on the terrain. While jeep safaris are standard in Similipal and Satkosia, boat and canoe safaris dominate the experiences in Bhitarkanika and Chilika. All safaris are conducted under the forest department’s and eco-development committees’ supervision, ensuring safety and sustainability.
Tips for a Great Safari:
- Book in advance, especially for Bhitarkanika and Similipal, as daily permits are limited.
- Hire a local guide to identify animal calls, behavior, and hidden trails.
- Bring a camera and binoculars so you may record those brief animal moments.
- Practice eco-friendly behavior, not litter or feed animals, and minimize noise.
Final Thoughts
A wildlife safari in Odisha is unlike any other. It’s a journey into an ancient land where nature thrives quietly, away from the chaos of tourist crowds. It’s where rivers whisper through forests, crocodiles bask under the sun, birds perform aerial ballets, and every rustle of leaves hints at a lurking tiger or a shy deer.
If you’re craving an offbeat adventure that connects you deeply with India’s wild heart, let Odisha surprise you — it’s wild, wondrous, and waiting.
