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Satkosia Tiger Reserve: A Hidden Gem of Odisha’s Wildlife and Natural Beauty

Nestled in the heart of Odisha, Satkosia Tiger Reserve stands as one of the most scenic and ecologically rich sanctuaries in India. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, lush forests and abundant wildlife Satkosia offers a unique experience for wildlife enthusiasts, adventure seekers and nature lovers. Located on the banks of the Mahanadi River, this reserve is a true hidden gem offering an unforgettable journey into the wilderness.

The forests surrounding the Satkosia Ghats of the Mahanadi are a mosaic of richly diverse habitats and a landscape with fascinating flora and fauna along the riverbeds flowing through the gorge and were notified as the Satkosia Ghats Sanctuary in May, 1976.The southern part of this sanctuary in Nayagarh district was notified as Baisipali Sanctuary in 1981.

Together, these two sanctuaries cover an area of ​​963.87 sq. km.It has been notified as Satkosia Tiger Reserve vide Notification No. 8F(S)-32/20807/F&E dated 31 December 2007, Bhubaneswar.It has a core area of ​​523.61 sq km and a buffer area of ​​440.26 km. .

The geographical coordinates of the boundary points of the tiger reserve are 20 23′ 40″ N and 20 45′ 36″ N latitude and 84º 32′ 35″ E and 85º 05′ 24″ E longitude.Gadjat Hills subdivisions 6B and 6C under Lahnnagpur Plateau Biotic Province Eastern Ghats Biotic Province 6 – Deccan Peninsula Biogeographic Region.Literally, the Satkosia Tiger Reserve represents the endemic fauna of both bioregions in the transitional zone.After change in boundary of Satkosia Ghat Sanctuary and change of forest area, the area of ​​Satkosia Tiger Reserve is notified as No.8F(WL)15/2018-26865 dated 1136.70 sq km. 14/12/18.The area of ​​the reserve is 1136.70 sq km with a core area of ​​523.61 sq km. The area is also a part of the Mahanadi Elephant Sanctuary.Satkosia is the junction of two biogeographical regions of India;The Deccan Peninsula and the Eastern Ghats contribute enormously to biodiversity.

A Brief Overview of Satkosia Tiger Reserve

Satkosia Tiger Reserve is located in the Angul district of Odisha, covering an area of 986 square kilometers. The reserve was established in 2007, and it is a combination of Satkosia Gorge Sanctuary and Baisipalli Sanctuary. The reserve derives its name from the Satkosia Gorge, which refers to the “seven mouths” of the river that cut through the hills, creating a spectacular and unique landscape. This geographical feature is one of the many natural wonders that make Satkosia a must-visit for nature lovers.

Rich Biodiversity of Satkosia

Satkosia Tiger Reserve is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, which makes it a significant part of India’s ecological heritage. The reserve is particularly famous for its tigers, which have been the focus of several conservation efforts under the Project Tiger initiative.

  • Tigers: The reserve is an important habitat for the Bengal tiger, and while tiger sightings can be rare due to the dense forest and hilly terrain, the reserve plays a vital role in the conservation of the species.
  • Other Wildlife: Besides tigers, the reserve is home to a range of other wildlife, including Indian leopards, sloth bears, sambhar deer, spotted deer, wild boar, nilgai, and langurs. The Indian bison (gaur) is also found here, along with a variety of smaller mammals and reptiles.
  • Birdlife: Satkosia is a paradise for bird watchers, with over 200 species of birds. Some of the notable species include the Indian eagle-owl, grey-headed fishing eagle, serpent eagle, and painted storks. The Mahanadi River, which flows through the reserve, is an important wetland area for migratory birds.
  • Flora: The reserve features a mix of tropical dry deciduous forests, sal forests, and bamboo groves, creating a diverse habitat for the wildlife. Medicinal plants and a variety of wildflowers also grow abundantly in the reserve, adding to the ecological richness.

The Mahanadi River and Satkosia Gorge

One of the most iconic features of Satkosia Tiger Reserve is the Mahanadi River, which flows through a gorge that stretches for about 22 kilometers within the reserve. The river plays a central role in the ecosystem, providing water and supporting the diverse species that inhabit the area. The Satkosia Gorge, surrounded by dense forests and steep cliffs, is an impressive natural landmark and a place of immense beauty.

The Mahanadi River also offers opportunities for water-based activities, such as boating and fishing, giving visitors a chance to explore the reserve from a different perspective.

Safari and Eco-Tourism in Satkosia

Satkosia Tiger Reserve is an ideal destination for those looking for an adventurous safari experience in a relatively untouched corner of Odisha. The park offers jeep safaris and boat safaris for exploring its diverse landscapes and observing wildlife in its natural habitat.

  • Jeep Safaris: A safari through the dense forests of Satkosia provides a chance to see tigers, leopards, and other wildlife. The jeep safaris are guided by experienced naturalists who share insights about the park’s ecology, flora, and fauna.
  • Boat Safaris: The Mahanadi River is a central feature of the reserve, and boat safaris allow visitors to explore the river and surrounding areas. These safaris provide a unique opportunity to spot aquatic life, including crocodiles, and to see animals and birds along the riverbanks.

In addition to safaris, the reserve offers trekking and birdwatching tours for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Best Time to Visit Satkosia Tiger Reserve

The ideal time to visit Satkosia Tiger Reserve is during the winter months, from November to March. The weather is cool and comfortable, and wildlife sightings are relatively easier during this period. The monsoon season (June to September) is not recommended due to heavy rainfall, which makes the trails slippery and inaccessible. However, the monsoon season also adds to the lush green landscape, making it a beautiful sight for those interested in nature photography.

How to Reach Satkosia Tiger Reserve

Satkosia Tiger Reserve is accessible from various parts of Odisha, and the nearest major city is Bhubaneswar.

  • By Air: The nearest airport is in Bhubaneswar, which is around 150 kilometers away from the reserve. Bhubaneswar is well-connected to major cities in India.
  • By Train: Angul is the nearest railway station, about 50 kilometers from the reserve. It is connected to major cities like Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, and other parts of Odisha.
  • By Road: Satkosia is well-connected by road, and visitors can take taxis or buses from Bhubaneswar or Angul to reach the reserve.

Accommodation in Satkosia

There are a few eco-lodges and guesthouses around the reserve that offer basic amenities for visitors. For a more comfortable stay, there are accommodations in nearby towns such as Angul and Bhubaneswar, where visitors can find luxury resorts, hotels, and other facilities.

Some of the eco-tourism camps inside the reserve offer an immersive experience, allowing guests to stay closer to nature and enjoy the serenity of the forest.

Booking at Satkosia

⇒ For booking at Satkosia Sands Resort, Badmul, Nayagarh please log on to

www.ecotourodisha.com (Satkosia South – Badmul).
⇒ 9 Deluxe Swiss Cottage Tents on the glittering
sands of the Mahanadi and 3 AC Deluxe Cottages on the hill
slopes in the lush green forest on the banks of the Mahanadi.

Activities:

  • bird
  • Boating in Satkosia River Cruise
  • Campfire on the sandbar
  • Dance festival
  • Trekking
  • Sand games.

Contact details:

To know more about the programmes

Please contact:

Eco-tourism Cell, Satkosia Wildlife Division
( Near Circuit House), Angul – 759143
Tel. :- 06764 – 236218,
Mob. :- 8763102681
&
OFFICE OF THE DIVISIONAL FOREST OFFICER , MAHANADI WILDLIFE DIVISION
AT/ PO/ DIST:- NAYAGARH, ODISHA.
PIN :- 752069,
Phone No. :- (06753) 254015
FAX :- ( 06753) 253971
Email :- mahanadiwl.dfo@gmail.com
Website :- www.satkosia.org

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