Bhitarakanika

The Bhitarakanika is one of the most important tourist attractions that are located in the state of Orissa. This place is a must-visit for the nature-lovers. It houses a wide range of plant and animal life.

It is home to about 170 different varieties of migratory birds. Some of the most well known birds that are found here are kingfishers, sea eagles, open-billed storks, sand pipers, kites, whistling teals, darters and sea gulls.

The Bhitarakanika provides shelter to a variety of wild animals. Some of the major wild animals found here are crocodiles, pythons, king cobras, rhesus monkeys, wild pigs, spotted deer and sambars. There is a farm for breeding crocodiles in Bhitarakanika. The white crocodile sankhua, a rare species of crocodile is found here.

The Bhitarakanika of Orissa is the second biggest mangrove ecosystem in the entire country of India. It can also be termed a national park and a sanctuary. The total area of the Bhitarakanika in Orissa is 600 square kms. This sanctuary houses many varieties of evergreen mangrove plants. There are over 60 different types of mangrove plants in Bhitarakanika at Orissa.

The journey of lakhs of olive ridley sea turtles to Gahirmatha in the months of January to March every year is a fascinating phenomenon of the place. There are two 19th century religious structures, which add to the tourist value of the place.

This place is surrounded by rivers on three sides and sea on the remaining side. On a trip to Orissa, one must not forget to visit this place of immense natural beauty.