Odisha National Park

Discovering the Wild Heart of Odisha: National Parks You Must Explore

Odisha, nestled on the eastern coast of India, is often celebrated for its ancient temples and vibrant tribal culture. But beyond its architectural marvels and traditional festivals, Odisha also hides a thriving wilderness—home to some of India's most captivating odisha national park and wildlife sanctuaries.

Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a wildlife photographer, or just someone looking to escape into the serene embrace of the forest, Odisha’s national parks offer something magical.

1. Simlipal National Park – A Royal Retreat for Tigers and Elephants

Located in the Mayurbhanj district, Simlipal National Park is a UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves site and arguably Odisha's most renowned wildlife sanctuary. Spanning over 2,750 square kilometers, this park is a haven for Bengal tigers, wild elephants, leopards, and gaurs.

Simlipal is not just about big cats and thick sal forests—it's also home to stunning waterfalls like Barehipani and Joranda, and tribal villages that offer a glimpse into ancient lifestyles harmonized with nature.

Best time to visit: November to mid-June
Highlights: Jungle safaris, birdwatching, nature treks, waterfalls

2. Bhitarkanika National Park – The Mangrove Mystery

If Simlipal is about dense forests and tigers, Bhitarkanika is all about mangroves, estuarine crocodiles, and exotic birds. Situated in the Kendrapara district, this unique national park is India’s second-largest mangrove ecosystem, after the Sundarbans.

It’s especially famous for its saltwater crocodiles—the largest of which have been recorded at over 20 feet! You can explore the area by boat, gliding through emerald waterways surrounded by mangroves, kingfishers, and monitor lizards.

Best time to visit: October to March
Highlights: Boat rides, crocodile sightings, migratory birds, mangrove trails

3. Satkosia Tiger Reserve – Where the Mahanadi Flows Wild

Cradled along the gorge formed by the Mahanadi River, Satkosia Tiger Reserve is a less explored gem. With its stunning combination of dense forests, deep valleys, and riverine ecosystems, Satkosia is perfect for eco-tourism.

Although tiger sightings are rare, the park is rich in biodiversity, including leopards, sloth bears, mugger crocodiles, and many species of deer and birds. It’s also ideal for camping under the stars by the riverbank.

Best time to visit: November to April
Highlights: River cruises, crocodile conservation, nature camps, trekking

4. Chilika Lake and Nalabana Bird Sanctuary – A Birdwatcher’s Paradise

While not a national park in the strictest sense, Chilika Lake—Asia's largest brackish water lagoon—deserves mention for its extraordinary birdlife. Located in Puri, Khurda, and Ganjam districts, the lake hosts over a million migratory birds every winter, including flamingos, pelicans, and rare species like the Asiatic dowitcher.

Within Chilika, Nalabana Island is designated as a bird sanctuary and is a must-visit for ornithologists and photographers alike.

Best time to visit: November to February
Highlights: Birdwatching, boat safaris, dolphin spotting, island hopping

Final Thoughts

Odisha’s national parks are still off the beaten path compared to other Indian wildlife destinations, which makes them perfect for travelers looking for raw, unfiltered nature. Whether it’s cruising through crocodile-infested mangroves, hiking in tiger territory, or watching flamingos paint the skies pink—Odisha invites you to discover its wild side.

So, pack your binoculars and sense of adventure. Odisha’s wild wonders await!