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Introduction
Bhitarkanika National Park in Odisha is one of India’s most celebrated national parks. Located in the Kendrapara district, Bhitarkanika National Park is India’s second largest mangrove national park and a Ramsar Site, famous for giant Saltwater Crocodiles.
Quick Facts
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| State | Odisha |
| Districts | Kendrapara |
| Year of Notification | 1998 (Ramsar Site 2002) |
| Total Area | 145 sq km core (672 sq km Sanctuary) |
| Landscape | Dense mangrove forests, estuarine tidal creeks, mudflats, and coastal delta islands. |
| Major Rivers & Waterbodies | Brahmani, Baitarani, and Dhamra rivers estuarine delta water channels |
| Nearest Airport | Biju Patnaik Airport Bhubaneswar (BBI) – 160 km |
| Nearest Railway Station | Bhadrak Railway Station (BHC) – 70 km / Cuttack – 140 km |
| Best Time to Visit | October to February |
Location
The national park lies in the Kendrapara region of Odisha. Boat jetty at Khola or Gupti.
History
Notified as a Sanctuary in 1975, National Park in September 1998, and Ramsar Site in 2002.
Landscape, Geography & Habitat
Covering an expansive area of 145 sq km core (672 sq km Sanctuary), the park’s terrain features Dense mangrove forests, estuarine tidal creeks, mudflats, and coastal delta islands.
Flora
Dominant vegetation and floral species include: Dense mangrove forests, estuarine tidal creeks, mudflats, and coastal delta islands.
Fauna
Primary Mammals & Key Species: Saltwater Crocodile (giant 20-ft Salty Crocs), King Cobra, Indian Python, Fishing Cat, Leopard Cat, Spotted Deer, Wild Boar, and Water Monitor Lizard.
Other Wild Animals & Wildlife
Avifauna & Bird Species: Asian Openbill Stork (over 80,000 breeding birds), 8 species of Kingfishers, White-bellied Sea Eagle, Black-headed Ibis, Night Heron, and Brahminy Kite.
Rivers & Water Bodies
The lifeline of Bhitarkanika National Park is sustained by: Brahmani, Baitarani, and Dhamra rivers estuarine delta water channels.
Other Attractions
Major nearby tourist attractions, historic monuments, and viewpoints include: Gahirmatha Olive Ridley Turtle Beach (15 km), Dangamal Crocodile Breeding Center (0 km), Chandbali (35 km).
Weather & Climate
Coastal tropical climate (15°C to 36°C).
How to Reach
- Nearest Airport: Biju Patnaik Airport Bhubaneswar (BBI) – 160 km
- Nearest Railway Station: Bhadrak Railway Station (BHC) – 70 km / Cuttack – 140 km
- Road Connectivity: Boat jetty at Khola or Gupti.
Best Time to Visit
The optimal tourism season for wildlife viewing in Bhitarkanika National Park is from October to February.
Accommodation
Odisha Forest Department Eco-cottages Dangamal.. Advance booking through official State Tourism or Forest Department portals is highly recommended.
Conservation Highlights
Guinness Record site for holding world’s largest living Saltwater Crocodiles.
Visitor Tips
Board the boat safari at Khola gate for crocodile and mangrove birding expeditions.
Did You Know?
- India’s SECOND LARGEST mangrove ecosystem after Sundarbans.
- Home to giant 20-foot Saltwater Crocodiles holding Guinness World Records.
- Adjacent to Gahirmatha, the world’s largest nesting beach for Olive Ridley Sea Turtles.
Last Updated: August 2026