Tikarpada Wildlife Sanctuary Odisha Hidden Gem for Nature and Adventure Lovers

Tikarpada Wildlife Sanctuary Odisha Hidden Gem for Nature and Adventure Lovers

Nestled along the banks of the mighty Mahanadi River, Tikarpada Wildlife Sanctuary is one of Odisha's most scenic and ecologically diverse protected areas. Spanning over 795 square kilometers, this sanctuary is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts, nature lovers, and adventure seekers. Its stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and thrilling activities make Tikarpada an ideal destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty and tranquility of Odisha’s wilderness.

The Beauty of Tikarpada: Nature at Its Best

Tikarpada Wildlife Sanctuary is known for its breathtaking natural beauty. With dense forests, rugged hills, and the majestic Mahanadi River cutting through the sanctuary, Tikarpada offers stunning views at every turn. The sanctuary is located in the Angul district, about 160 kilometers from Bhubaneswar, making it a popular weekend getaway for city dwellers as well as tourists seeking a peaceful retreat into nature. The sanctuary is home to a wide variety of flora, including teak, sal, eucalyptus, and bamboo forests. The scenic landscape is further enhanced by the lush greenery that surrounds the sanctuary, making it a perfect destination for photography, nature walks, and birdwatching.

Wildlife of Tikarpada: A Biodiversity Hotspot

Tikarpada is a treasure trove of wildlife and one of the richest habitats in the region. The sanctuary is home to a variety of species, including tigers, leopards, spotted deer, sambars, and langurs. One of the highlights of Tikarpada is the Gharial Crocodile Sanctuary, established to protect and conserve the endangered gharial (long-snouted crocodile). Visitors can often spot these fascinating reptiles basking along the riverbanks or swimming in the waters of the Mahanadi. The sanctuary also supports a vibrant birdlife, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise. Bird species like kingfishers, hornbills, Indian rollers, and parakeets can be spotted flitting through the trees, while migratory birds visit the area during the winter months, adding to the rich avian diversity. For wildlife enthusiasts, the thrill of spotting large mammals like the elusive Royal Bengal Tiger or leopards is a real draw, although these sightings are rare. However, the sanctuary’s diverse population of smaller animals like wild boars, porcupines, and otters makes every visit exciting and full of surprises.