Kotagarh Wildlife Sanctuary is a whole new world where you get to see the mountains brush against the skies, experience wading through the clouds as you climb the steep slopes and listen to the wonderful symphony created by the gurgling of a forest stream, the chirping of brilliant birds, and the occasional roar of an animal.
Located in the Kalahandi district in Odisha, this protected environment is home to a rich variety of wildlife species, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers and wildlife conservationists alike. Here, you’ll find information about the sanctuary and the incredible species it has to offer. Let’s dive in and explore the sanctuary together!
Overview Of Kotagarh Wildlife Sanctuary
It is a world where all its inhabitants- trees, animals, birds, and even insects live in perfect harmony. To preserve this harmony, the Kotagarh Wildlife Sanctuary in the Kandhamal district of Orissa was conceived.
With the twin objectives of preserving the pristine beauty of the forest and conservation of the animals living here, the Kotagarh forest was formally declared a sanctuary under the Wildlife Protection Act 1972 in 1981.
Spread over 399.5 square kilometers, Kotagarh sanctuary is home to several bird species. The chorus of the simultaneous chirping creates a beautiful melody.
Also read about: Satkosia Sand Resort
Species Dwelling In Kotagarh Wildlife Sanctuary
- The sanctuary is home to 36 varieties of birds, out of which Hill Myna, Parakeet, Peacock, Bee-eater, Peafowl, Indian Hornbill, Green Pigeons, Spotted Doves, Minivet, Woodpecker, and Koel are found regularly.
- Kotagarh is the only place in Orissa where one can find the endangered bird Green Munia.
- Among the animals’ elephants is the main attraction of the sanctuary. There is the presence of 30 to 40 elephants here.
Since the place shares its borders with Kalahandi and Rayagada districts, a Kotagarh Chandrapur elephant corridor has been created within the forest for the free movement of the elephants.
- One can also find Leopards, Gaur, Sambar, Gaint Squirrel, Spotted Deer, Rabbit, and pangolins.
- Reptiles such as King Cobra, Indian Python, Rattlesnakes, Cobra, and Monitor lizards are also found here.
- The sanctuary situated in the Baliguda forest division is rich in Sal trees. Besides, trees like Bija, Asan, Bamboo, Siali, Ganga Siuli, and Indian Iron are also found abundantly in these forests.
Along with Salt Lake, various man-made ponds have been constructed to fulfill the water requirements of the animals.
Steps Taken To protect The Kotagarh Wildlife Sanctuary
An anti-poaching gate has been built at Pipadi to safeguard the animals. To secure the forest, a nursery has been set up in Kotagarh, and the plantation is carried out from time to time. The saplings are prepared and planted in the forest as per the requirements.
Famous for its altitude, the Kotagarh wildlife sanctuary can be best witnessed during winters. Kotagarh wildlife sanctuary never disappoints nature and animal lovers who throng the century, mainly between November and February.
Waterfalls & Parks In Kotagarh
The melodious chirping of the birds is just a perfect foil for the sound of the cascading waterfall. There are numerous waterfalls in the sanctuary, but the Ludu waterfall in Subarnagiri is the most sought-after.
The butterfly park in Daringbadi is another enticing spot for tourists. Mundasarukuti, about a hundred kilometers from Phulbani in Rikia block, is famous for the mountain gorge.
Kutia Kondh Tribes Of Kotagarh
Besides the sanctuary, around five thousand Kutia Kondh tribals reside in Belaghar, Odisha (762107). Kutia Kondh is one of the most primitive tribes in Odisha that retain that unique traditional lifestyle even now. They largely depend on the forest for livelihood.
Belaghar is also famous for its wooden bungalow nestled in the immense lustrous green forest and a perennial stream built by the forest department. Sightseeing and animal watching can go merrily together here.
Multiple watchtowers have been set up at Pipadi, Dimly, and in the forest to monitor the movement of animals. Forest officials in charge of the security of the sanctuary carry out patrolling at regular intervals and remain vigilant from the clock.
How to reach Kotagarh Wildlife Sanctuary?
The Kotagarh sanctuary is about 330 kilometers from the state capital of Odisha, Bhubaneswar, 250 kilometers from Berhampur, and 60 kilometers from Baliguda. One can easily get a cab or a bus to reach Kotagarh.
- Also read about: Chilika Lake
- Also read about: Maldives
Tourist Accommodation At Kotagarh Wildlife Sanctuary
One can avail of accommodation at Forest guest houses in Phulbani and Baliguda. Apart from that, accommodation is also available at Belaghar and Daringbadi.
The serpentine footpath emits dense forests, and hilly slopes at Kotagarh give the tourists the rare thrill and excitement of adventure. The murmuring streams, the chirping of birds, and the sighting of wine life add to a memorable experience for the visitors.
Kotagarh Forest Natural Beauty
Natural beauty and conservation of animals are primary features of every century. Kotagarh special is in its dense green forests, the vast rows of mountains, and the wild, beautiful village streams.
It is as if this is the birthplace of all creation, where all creations continue to live the way the creator created them. A visit to Kotagarh certainly has the potential to make someone spiritual, even if only temporarily.