Satkosia

Satkosia Basipalli Sanctuary is one of the eminent wildlife sanctuaries in Orissa that vividly illustrates the diverse natural heritage of the east Indian state. All though the sanctuary does not fall under the category of the celebrated national parks or the other renowned wildlife sanctuaries of Orissa, the wildlife reserve's latest venture, the Gharial Breeding Project has attracted a lot of attention.

The Satkosia Basipalli Sanctuary is an oasis of idyllic green that sprawls across a generous expanse of 1330 sq. km. The sanctuary came into being in the year 1976 and is a hit with all nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts and adventure freaks whose adrenaline rushes at the very mention of adventure. The sanctuary is also frequented by several scientists who are associated with the Gharial Breeding Project.

The sanctuary is shared between the districts of Cuttack, Nayagarh, Angul and Budh. The portions of the sanctuary that fall under the Angul sub division is relatively hilly and enveloped by moist and dry deciduous forests and dense groves. The sanctuary is adorned by the vibrant red hues of the Genwa and the Khalsi flowers.

Satkosia Basipalli Sanctuary's pride rests in the variegated species of fauna that are sheltered in the sanctuary's secluded premises. Tigers, elephants, leopards, red panda, sloth bear, gaur, sambar, nilgai, spotted deer, mouse deer, four horned antelope and wild goat are some of the species of wild animals that seek refuge in the precincts of Satkosia. The sanctuary is also an ornithologist and an etymologist's dream and houses fresh water turtle, gharial, mugger crocodile as well as several varieties of snakes.

Visitors can also go on a boating spree and explore the riverside and feel at home surrounded by the panoramic vistas.