If you’re looking for an unforgettable wildlife experience, Satkosia is the place to go. Home to some of India’s most beautiful wildlife, Satkosia offers visitors a chance to observe stunning species of animals, birds, and reptiles in their natural habitat. From elephant safaris to bird watching, plenty of activities keep you busy. So come and explore the beauty of Satkosia and all it has to offer.
Introduction to Satkosia
Satkosia was established in 1976, covering the Rayagada, Padmatola, and Mahanadi areas. It is said that the total area is over 795 square km. Satkosia is derived from sat (seven) and Kosh (two miles). The total denoting 14 miles of George of the Mahanadi River.
The headquarters of Satkosia Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Angul, Odisha. The entry to the wildlife sanctuary is at Pampasara. That is 30 km. from Angul station.
Tiger Reserve in Satkosia
Satkosia Tiger Reserve is the main attraction and paradise for animals and nature lovers. This area is surrounded by solid and long trees, dense green forests, mighty rivers, & serenading fountains.
In 2007, the beautiful Satkosia Tiger Reserve was established. This special place includes the Satkosia Gorge Wildlife Sanctuary and the neighboring Baisipalli Wildlife Sanctuary. You’ll find it right where the Mahanadi River flows through a 22 km long gorge in the Eastern Ghats mountains. This incredible tiger reserve is situated within the Eastern Highlands moist deciduous forests ecoregion.
Wildlife & Ecology In Satkosia
We almost get very few chances to see wild animals through our naked eyes. But in Satkosia, the close-up view of some wild animals will give you a thrilling experience.
It has a substantial population of tigers, elephants, leopards, spotted deer, sambar, and Indian bison. It is also a natural habitat of two highly endangered freshwater crocodiles, Gharial and Magar. You will also see different species of turtles, amphibians, terrapins, mullahs, crabs, and many more.
You will be surprised to know that Satkosia has 38 species of mammals, 332 birds, four amphibians, and 183 fish species. If you are a plant lover or a researcher, you will be pleased to see 400 species of plants, 126 varieties of trees, 99 shrubs, 125 herbs, and 51 climbers.
Activities In Satkosia Wildlife Sanctuary
For those looking to explore nature, Satkosia is the perfect destination. With its spectacular wildlife, forests, and rivers, this place provides the ideal set-up for your next adventure. Here, you can participate in various activities like wildlife safaris, canoeing, rock climbing, and Rappelling. So, if you’re looking for an unforgettable experience, explore Satkosia and get ready to have fun! The Eco-Development Committee and the ecotourism group of Satkosia Tiger Reserve provide various camping activities.
Also read: Bhitarkanika National Park
Jungle Trekking In Satkosia
Apart from staying comfortable, you can participate in various outdoor activities. You can go trekking guided by trained officials and discover the wilderness through nature trails.
Boating in the Mahanadi River
You can enjoy a boat ride with a view of the majestic Gorge and towering mountains on both sides and witness local and migratory birds chirping beside the river. You can also see crocodile species, such as Ghadials or Magars, basking on either side of the riverbanks.
Being a nature enthusiast, you can explore the local villages to enjoy the pastoral beauty. You can also interact with local communities to know their history, culture, way of living, and traditional wisdom about the forest.
Other Activities
- Canopy walk
- Cycling
- Birding
- Campfire
- Jungle safari
- Folk dance, etc.
Accommodation in Satkosia Nature Camps
You can book nature camps annually at the reserve’s headquarters in Angul or its official website at www.odishaecoturism.com. It is always better to book your stay online for confirmation.
Satkosia Sand Resort
Satkosia Sand Resort is a famous nature camp in Nayagarh, Badmul (Odisha). Satkosia Sand Resort has tents along river Mahanadi’s banks, making it unique from other nature camps.
Spending nights in tents will make you feel the wilderness of the dense and shady forest in your backyard. The sound of the river Mahanadi whispering and birds chirping will greet you in the morning. Satkosia Sand Resort is a paradise and receives positive feedback from its visitors.
The Eco-resort type of tents:
- 3 luxurious AC Cottages and 4 Luxurious AC Swiss Cottages.
- Tented Cottages on mountain slope facing the Satkosia Gorge.
- Eco-campus has 12 luxurious Swiss Cotton Tents pitched on the Sandbar of River Mahanadi.
Accommodation (food is included) | Price/Night (excluding tax) |
Swiss cotton tent (non AC) Double bed | 3000/- approx |
AC Cottages on mountain slopes | 4000/- approx |
AC Tents on mountain slopes | 3500/- approx |
Non AC camping tents | 2500/- approx |
Note* Entry Fee Rs. 40.00 /- Per Day, Per Person Will Be Charged Extra.
Policy for Children: Children aged 1 to 3 years old are eligible for free. For food and lodging, the charge for children over 4 years old would be INR 1000 (Pay at the destination).
Driver Accommodation: Maximum Rs. 750 for food and lodging (Pay at the destination).
Tikarpada Nature Camp
Tikarpada nature camp on the bank of river Mahanadi has tent accommodation with luxurious twin beds and toilet facilities. Three-time food is also included in the package. An overnight stay at the camp near the riverbank is fascinating and unforgettable.
- Accommodation type: Tent with AC and non AC
- Capacity per room: 2 Adults
- Price/day with tax: 3700/- to 4900/-
- Extra entry ticket price: 40/- per person
- Check In & Check Out: 12 p.m. & 10 a.m.
Chhotkei Nature Camp
Chhotkei Nature Camp can be one of the best accommodations for nature lovers. Mountains and valleys surround it. There are various options to stay, like cozy cottages or luxury tents. In addition to staying there, you can enjoy outdoor activities like boating, trekking, and bird watching.
- Accommodation type: Eco cottage & Swiss cotton tent cottage (non AC)
- Capacity per room: 2 Adults/ double bedded
- Price/day with tax: 3700/- to 4300/-
- Extra entry ticket price: 40/- per person
- Check In & Check Out: 12 p.m. & 10 a.m.
Tarava Nature Camps
You can stay in these super cozy Swiss Cottage Tents at Tarava Nature Camp, right in the heart of the lush Satkosia Gorge Sanctuary. Imagine waking up to the sounds of birds on land and in the water amid all that greenery. The tents are like your little haven where the fresh air breezes in. It’s like nature’s lullaby right outside your tent.
- Accommodation type: Non AC Tents
- Capacity per room: 4 bedded/ double bedded
- Price/day with tax: 3700/-
- Extra entry ticket price: 40/- per person
- Check In & Check Out: 12 p.m. & 10 a.m.
Baghamunda Nature Camp
At Baghamunda Nature Camp, nature lovers have an exceptional spot waiting for them. The cottages perch atop a hillock, and the view is something else. It’s like being hugged by hills covered in lush trees. And if you visit during winter mornings, you’re in for a treat – you can watch mist gracefully sliding down the landscape. It’s like living in a dreamy painting right amid nature’s wonder.
- Accommodation type: Non AC Cottage
- Capacity per room: double bedded
- Price/day with tax: 3700/-
- Extra entry ticket price: 40/- per person
- Check In & Check Out: 12 p.m. & 10 a.m.
Also read: Chilika – Largest coastal lagoon
Best Time to Visit Satkosia Wildlife Sanctuary
While Nature has its unique charm each season, the best time to visit Satkosia is winter. The hilly landscape offers maximum greenery, especially from October to February, when temperatures remain between 15 to 22 degrees Celsius.
How to Reach Satkosia Wildlife Sanctuary
Satkosia Wildlife Sanctuary is 190 k.m away from Bhubaneswar, the capital of Odisha. You can travel by road or rail to Angul from Bhubaneswar.
Once you reach Angul, head towards Pampasara. Pampasara is 30 k.m. away from Angul, the main entry point to Satkosia Wildlife Sanctuary.
Summary
In conclusion, Satkosia Wildlife Sanctuary offers something for everybody. Families can relax and create a union between themselves and nature. Wildlife enthusiasts and bird watchers can explore the wilderness.
In Satkosia, nature dances with the universe in divine harmony, precipitating air and energy reflecting a green-tinted dynamism. The result is studded with breathtaking beauties, mountains, waterfalls, creeks, caves, and fountains.
4 Comments