While Odisha is celebrated for its cultural heritage and picturesque coastlines, it also shelters some of India’s most dynamic and biodiverse wildlife sanctuaries. The wildlife sanctuary in Odisha preserves the state’s lush forests, marshes and rolling hills, offering nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts unmatched opportunities to experience biodiversity in its purest form.
From tiger reserves and birdwatching havens to elephant corridors and scenic lakefronts, Odisha’s sanctuaries offer you something unique at every turn. If you are planning a nature-filled itinerary for 2025, this curated list of the top 7 wildlife sanctuary in Odisha should be on your radar.
1. Similipal Wildlife Sanctuary
Similipal Wildlife Sanctuary ranks as one of India’s most extensive and renowned wildlife reserves and it is located in the heart of Mayurbhanj district. Spanning over 2,200 square kilometres, it is part of the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves.
Similipal shelters a diverse range of flora and fauna including the iconic Royal Bengal tiger, majestic Asian elephants and various deer species. The sanctuary’s landscape features dense forests, winding rivers, and stunning waterfalls such as Barehipani and Joranda.
Also Read: Top 10 Wildlife Sanctuaries in India for Nature and Wildlife Lovers
2. Chilika (Nalaban) Wildlife Sanctuary
Chilika (Nalaban) Wildlife Sanctuary is a paradise for birdwatchers and it lies around Chilika Lake, the heart of Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon. This sanctuary becomes a winter home to millions of migratory birds from as far as Siberia, Iran and the Himalayas.
Flamingos, herons, egrets and cranes dominate the skyline, especially at Nalaban Island which has been declared a bird sanctuary. As one of the most accessible wildlife sanctuary, it perfectly blends aquatic charm with avian spectacle for the people who are thinking of traveling to Odisha.
3. Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary
Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary is a lesser-known but incredibly beautiful destination for wildlife lovers. Set beside the serene Hirakud reservoir near Sambalpur, this sanctuary features a mosaic of dry deciduous forests and grasslands.
Leopards, Indian bison, sloth bears, hyenas and a colourful variety of bird and reptile species thrive within Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary. The proximity to water sources makes animal sightings more frequent, especially in the early morning or evening hours. This makes it one of the top wildlife sanctuary in Odisha for quiet and offbeat wildlife experiences.
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4. Karlapat Wildlife Sanctuary
Tucked away in the Kalahandi district, Karlapat Wildlife Sanctuary offers you a pristine habitat and tranquil setting. With its hilly terrain and perennial streams, it supports leopards, gaurs, sambars and many rare bird species.
Rich in both scenic beauty and biodiversity, Karlapat holds a key place among the wildlife sanctuary in Odisha for its untouched natural charm.
5. Kotagarh Wildlife Sanctuary
Located in the Phulbani district, Kotagarh Wildlife Sanctuary is famed for its lush forests and tribal communities living in harmony with nature.
A diverse range of wildlife including leopards, elephants, barking deer and numerous bird species thrive in Kotagarh. Few wildlife sanctuaries in Odisha offer such a seamless fusion of cultural heritage and natural wilderness as this one.
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6. Badrama Wildlife Sanctuary
Badrama Wildlife Sanctuary is also known as Ushakothi covers over 304 square kilometres of forested terrain. It is an essential corridor for elephants and also hosts panthers, wild boars and numerous reptiles and amphibians.
The area is ecologically significant and it contributes to elephant migration routes between Odisha and Chhattisgarh. Badrama’s tranquillity and relative seclusion make it a top wildlife sanctuary in Odisha for those seeking quiet communion with nature.
7. Nandankanan Wildlife Sanctuary
Located close to Bhubaneswar, Nandankanan Wildlife Sanctuary forms an integral part of the renowned Nandankanan Zoological Park. This wildlife sanctuary is unique because it houses India’s first captive breeding centre for white tigers and has a successful gharial and Indian Pangolin conservation programmes.
It also offers you a safari experience through its protected enclosures where you can spot tigers, lions and bears. Given its accessibility and conservation success, it is one of the most popular wildlife sanctuary in Odisha and it is also the best location for families and school groups.
31 Jungle Tours: Your Trusted Guide to the Best Wildlife Sanctuary in Odisha
Whether you are after big cat sightings, peaceful birdwatching sessions or an immersive trek through dense forests in Odisha, 31 Jungle Tours offers guided experiences tailored to suit every adventurer. With a deep understanding of the region’s flora and fauna, our local expertise ensures you make the most of your visit to each wildlife sanctuary in Odisha.
Our professional guides not only prioritise your safety but also enrich your journey with fascinating insights into animal behaviour, local culture and hidden gems within each reserve. From spotting elusive species to capturing breathtaking landscapes, we help you experience Odisha’s wild heart like never before.
At 31 Jungle Tours, we believe in sustainable and responsible tourism. By supporting local communities and preserving natural habitats, your adventure contributes to the protection of Odisha’s incredible biodiversity for generations to come.
Conclusion
Odisha’s wildlife sanctuaries reflect the state’s deep connection to nature and conservation. From the tiger-rich forests of Similipal to the bird-covered shores of Chilika, each sanctuary promises you a unique and unforgettable experience. These destinations are not just tourist spots, they are vital ecosystems that protect some of India’s most endangered species.
Let 31 Jungle Tours be your go-to travel partner for planning an enriching and seamless journey through every wildlife sanctuary in Odisha. Book your adventure today and explore the wild heart of Eastern India like never before.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wildlife Sanctuary in Odisha
1. Which is the best wildlife sanctuary in Odisha to see tigers?
Similipal Wildlife Sanctuary is the top choice for tiger sightings in Odisha. This tiger reserve in Mayurbhanj district is home to the iconic Royal Bengal tiger and offers dense forests and natural habitats for wildlife enthusiasts seeking an authentic experience.
2. Can I visit wildlife sanctuaries in Odisha for birdwatching?
Yes! Chilika (Nalaban) Wildlife Sanctuary is perfect for birdwatching in Odisha. Millions of migratory birds visit this sanctuary every winter, including flamingos, herons, and cranes, making it a must-visit for ornithologists and nature lovers.
3. Which Odisha wildlife sanctuary is ideal for offbeat travel?
Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary near Sambalpur is ideal for offbeat wildlife experiences in Odisha. Its serene forests, grasslands, and proximity to Hirakud reservoir make it perfect for travelers seeking quiet nature retreats and frequent animal sightings.
4. Are there wildlife sanctuaries in Odisha suitable for family trips?
Nandankanan Wildlife Sanctuary, near Bhubaneswar, is highly suitable for family visits. It offers safari experiences, conservation programs for white tigers and gharials, and accessible trails, making it one of the most popular wildlife sanctuaries in Odisha.
5. Which wildlife sanctuary in Odisha is known for elephants?
Badrama Wildlife Sanctuary is an important elephant corridor in Odisha. It hosts elephants, panthers, and wild boars, providing a peaceful environment for visitors to experience wildlife in its natural habitat.
6. What is unique about Kotagarh Wildlife Sanctuary in Odisha?
Kotagarh Wildlife Sanctuary combines rich biodiversity with cultural heritage. Located in Phulbani, it shelters elephants, leopards, and various bird species while allowing visitors to experience the local tribal communities in harmony with nature.
7. Which wildlife sanctuary in Odisha offers scenic waterfalls?
Similipal Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for its scenic waterfalls like Barehipani and Joranda. Besides tiger and elephant sightings, visitors can enjoy trekking and nature photography amidst Odisha’s lush forest landscapes.
8. Are Odisha wildlife sanctuaries accessible for nature tours?
Yes! Many Odisha wildlife sanctuaries, including Chilika and Nandankanan, are easily accessible by road and provide guided tours, safari options, and birdwatching activities, making them perfect for both casual tourists and wildlife enthusiasts.
9. Can I spot leopards in Odisha’s wildlife sanctuaries?
Absolutely! Leopards can be spotted in Karlapat, Kotagarh, and Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuaries. These reserves feature hilly terrains, dense forests, and diverse fauna, providing excellent opportunities for wildlife photography and nature exploration in Odisha.
10. What is the best time to visit wildlife sanctuaries in Odisha?
The ideal time to explore Odisha’s wildlife sanctuaries is from October to March. During these months, the weather is pleasant, animal sightings are frequent, and migratory birds flock to sanctuaries like Chilika, offering a complete Odisha wildlife experience.