Ever wondered what it would be like to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and retreat into a forest where the biggest problem isn’t traffic, but elephants claiming the right of way? Welcome to Chandaka Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary, where the trees are tall, the air is fresh, and the elephants are definitely not on a diet.
A Bit of Chandaka Forest History
Chandaka Damapara wasn’t just plucked from a fairy tale; it’s a sanctuary born from the need to save forests and all the creatures that call them home. Picture this: Once upon a time, before concrete jungles took over, forests like Chandaka were everywhere. They were like the original Airbnb for animals, birds, and, of course, the odd wandering human. But then humans decided they needed more space for their cities, and forests started to disappear faster than snacks at a party. Enter Chandaka, the hero of our story, which now bravely stands as a green fortress amidst urban chaos.
Where Exactly Is This Paradise?
If you’ve ever tried to escape from Bhubaneswar’s city life, you’ll be thrilled to know that Chandaka is just 20 kilometers away. It’s like the perfect weekend getaway, minus the annoying Wi-Fi. Spanning over 193.39 square kilometers, the sanctuary is split by the old Grand Trunk Road—one side for the elephants and the other for anyone brave enough to drive on an ancient highway.
Plants, Trees, and a Bit of Magic
Chandaka might have started as a humble Sal forest, but today, it’s like a botanical buffet for both humans and animals. You’ll find medicinal plants like Kochila, Kalicha, and a plant called Kangada that’s so exclusive, it refuses to grow anywhere else in Odisha. The elephants? They’re particularly fond of the abundant Kumbhi and Bora trees, probably because they provide the forest version of an all-you-can-eat buffet.
Who’s Roaming Around in Chandaka Wildlife Sanctuary?
Now, let’s talk about the real stars of the sanctuary—its residents. The sanctuary was established for elephants, but these aren’t your average elephants; they’re more like the VIPs of the forest, strutting around like they own the place. They share their luxurious forest abode with spotted deer, peacocks, pangolins (who are always up to something mysterious), and a variety of reptiles that make you thankful you’re not on their menu.
In winter, migratory birds turn the sanctuary into their vacation spot, like retirees flocking to warmer climates. Meanwhile, butterflies of every possible color flutter around like they’re in a Disney movie, adding to the sanctuary’s magical vibe.
Also Visit: Simlipal Tiger Reserve: A Must-Visit for Wildlife Fans
Saving the Day, One Tree at a Time
Conservation efforts in Chandaka are like a superhero movie, with the forest rangers playing the lead roles. They’re planting trees, developing grasslands for deer (because who doesn’t love a good salad?), and even building watchtowers to keep an eye on both the animals and the occasional wandering tourist.
Villagers are kept in the loop about elephant movements, which has reduced man-elephant conflicts—because no one wants to find an elephant in their backyard. Poaching is practically extinct, and with the sanctuary becoming a safe haven, the animal population is thriving like never before.
What to Do Besides Avoiding Elephants?
For the adventurous (or those just looking to escape reality), Chandaka offers eco-friendly battery-operated vehicles for jungle safaris. If you’re lucky, you might spot a peacock showing off its feathers or an elephant giving you a judgmental look as you snap a selfie.
History buffs can explore ancient forts and secret tunnels, because what’s a forest without a bit of Indiana Jones-style adventure? For the full experience, you can even stay overnight in bamboo houses or at the Deras Dam, where the only noise pollution comes from chirping birds and croaking frogs.
Also Visit: Nandankanan, Unique Zoo & Botanical garden, Odisha
Accommodation and How to Reach Chandaka Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary
Chandaka is super accessible—just a short drive from Bhubaneswar. The main entrance at Godibari is about 20 kilometers from the railway station and 16 kilometers from the airport. You can stay in the city’s fancy hotels or opt for a more rustic experience in the forest rest houses at Godibari, Deras, and Dampara. The sanctuary is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., so you have plenty of time to explore without feeling rushed.
Conclusion: Why Chandaka Should Be on Your Bucket List
Chandaka Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary is like that one friend who stayed true to their roots while everyone else changed. It’s a living example of how nature can thrive if we just let it be. As you wander through its lush greenery, remember that we’re all just guests here—guests who should take care of our host, Mother Nature, before she decides to evict us.
So pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure (and maybe a camera), and get ready to experience Chandaka—where the elephants roam, the birds sing, and the trees stand tall as reminders of a world worth preserving.
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