Rest of Odisha · Mangroves, saltwater crocodiles & Olive Ridleys
Bhitarkanika National Park
India's second-largest mangrove forest — creeks patrolled by giant saltwater crocodiles, a heronry of 100,000 birds and the Gahirmatha beach where Olive Ridley turtles nest en masse.
History & legend
The mangroves were the private hunting reserve of the Kanika royal family until 1952; hunting records show saltwater crocodiles over 7 m long. A 1975 crocodile conservation project with the UNDP/FAO rescued the species from near-extinction, and the park was notified in 1998 and became a Ramsar site in 2002. Gahirmatha, discovered by scientists in 1974, is the world's largest Olive Ridley rookery. Ruins of Kanika kings' hunting towers and a 9th-century Shiva temple still stand inside the forest.
Timings
Boats 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM · closed May–July
Best time to visit
November–March · turtle arribada Feb–Mar
Entry fee
₹40 Indians · ₹1,000 foreigners · boat ₹3,000–5,000
Approx. cab from Puri (one way)
₹5,250 · 210 km × ₹25/km
Don't miss
- Crocodile boat safari
- Bagagahana heronry
- Dangmal crocodile hatchery
- Gahirmatha turtle beach
Local tip: Book the boat and forest permits at Khola or Gupti gate a day ahead. Mosquito repellent is essential.
On the map
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