The Quiet Wild: A Season Inside Bhitarkanika National Park
Explore Bhitarkanika National Park in Odisha — India's second-largest mangrove ecosystem, home to saltwater crocodiles, 200+ bird species, and scenic boat safaris.
Xavier Hill 
Wildlife experiences in India are usually a jeep ride and a hurried search for tigers before the sun sets. A chance to experience an offbeat wildlife holiday amidst tranquil waters, where the wilderness comes looking for you, is what Bhitarkanika National Park in Odisha has to offer
A land of rivers and deltas
Bhitarkanika National Park is located in the confluence region of rivers Brahmani, Baitarani, Dhamra and the Bay of Bengal. The delta formed by these rivers has mangroves as its rich ecosystem and is one of the two mangrove forests in the country (the other being the Sunderbans). These mangroves are as diverse, if not more, than the Sunderbans and have more than 60 species of mangroves. A network of waterways flowing through the forest is the main mode of transport to experience the park.
Boats are the only means of transportation to reach deepest heart of this national park
The mangrove forest has a unique charm that attracts wildlife enthusiasts from far and wide. Unlike typical wilderness experiences in India, there are no roads in Bhitarkanika. The boat rides through narrow channels, sometimes with just enough room for two boats to pass each other, under a tunnel of mangroves.
Salt water crocodiles - the star attraction
Salt water crocodiles are the star attractions of Bhitarkanika. This park hosts the maximum number of salt water crocodiles in the country and there is a high chance of spotting them on a boat ride. There are crocodiles of all sizes from those as long as 15 feet to tiny ones barely a few inches. Local guides have an almost sixth sense for spotting them.
A wetland of mangroves, crocodiles and birds
Apart from crocodiles, Bhitarkanika is also famous for its avian residents. More than 200 species of birds have been spotted in and around the park. It is also one of the few places in the country which has all the 8 species of kingfishers. The Bagagahana heronry in Surajpore creek is also a major attraction as thousands of birds nest in this area during breeding season.
The coastal Gahirmatha beach, located at a distance of around 15 kms from the park, is one of the world's largest nesting grounds for olive ridley turtles. Thousands of these endangered turtles come on these beaches to lay eggs and this natural phenomenon attracts wildlife photographers and conservationists from across the world.
When to go and other practical details
The best time to visit Bhitarkanika is between October to March. The climate is pleasant and the water is calm allowing for comfortable boat rides. A permit is required to enter the core area of the park which can be obtained from the state forest department or the local boat guides. Accommodation is limited within the park and it is advisable to make prior reservations, if possible. There are some government-run rest houses and a few private guest houses set up near the park.
Bhitarkanika offers a unique wilderness experience to discerning wildlife travellers who are willing to spend time to discover the park. It is not recommended for families with young kids or people looking for a short vacation as it needs a commitment of time and patience to truly appreciate the beauty of the place.
