Bhitarkanika National Park

The Bhitarkanika National Park offers wonderful biodiversity coupled with beautiful terrain and a mangrove-dominated ecosystem. The national park is a part of the Bhitarkanika mangrove forest—India’s second largest mangrove jungle. Located on the estuary where the rivers Brahmani and Baitiarini meet the Bay of Bengal, the park is one of the most sought after tourist destinations in Odisha and surrounding areas. The three-hour boat ride that one has to undertake across the river amidst dense mangrove forests to reach Bhitarkanika is a thrilling experience in itself.
The national park is home to a large variety of wildlife—right from salt water crocodiles to king cobra and deer, the plethora of fauna is fascinating. The list of migratory birds in the region includes white bellied sea eagle, woodpecker, sea gull, brahminy ducks hornbill, bar-headed geese, and waders. Right opposite the forest, there is a sanctuary that breeds salt water crocodiles and the partially-white crocodile. Admire the salt water crocodiles basking in the sun as your boat sails through the creeks, catch a glimpse of migratory birds as they fly past or simply marvel at the herd of deer that appears right in front of you as you are relaxing in your jungle lodge—the myriad experiences at Bhitarkanika National Park will leave you absolutely speechless. Do remember to make a prior booking for accommodation before visiting Bhitarkanika. The nearest railhead is Bhadrak and the nearest airport is in Bhubaneshwar.