Sambalpur Elephant Reserve

Sambalpur Elephant Reserve is one of Odisha’s notified Elephant Reserves under Project Elephant. Situated in the north-western part of the state, the reserve safeguards important elephant habitats within the Bamara and Rairakhol Forest Divisions. Besides supporting resident elephant populations, it also conserves valuable Sal forests and forms an important biodiversity landscape containing the Badarma and Khalasuni Wildlife Sanctuaries.

Location

The reserve is located in Sambalpur district of western Odisha and extends across the Bamara and Rairakhol forest divisions. It lies within the Deccan Peninsula biogeographic region.

Brief History

Sambalpur Elephant Reserve was notified by the Government of Odisha on 27 March 2002 under Project Elephant. The reserve was created to ensure long-term protection of elephant habitats, migration routes and associated biodiversity in western Odisha.

Description

• State: Odisha
• Notification Year: 2002
• Extent: 426.9 sq km
• Elevation: 199–776 metres above mean sea level
• Biogeographic Zone: Deccan Peninsula

Landscape & Forest Types

The reserve is characterised by gently undulating hills, valleys and seasonal streams. Major forest types include:

• Moist Peninsular Low Level Sal Forest
• Northern Secondary Moist Mixed Deciduous Forest
• Northern Dry Mixed Deciduous Forest

Approximately 96% of the reserve comprises forest, making it one of the better-protected elephant habitats in Odisha.

Protected Areas

• Badarma Wildlife Sanctuary
• Khalasuni Wildlife Sanctuary

Flora

Sal dominates the landscape, accompanied by Asan, Dhaura, Piasal, Mahua, Kusum, Bamboo and several medicinal plant species.

Fauna

• Asian Elephant
• Leopard
• Sloth Bear
• Gaur
• Sambar
• Barking Deer
• Spotted Deer
• Wild Boar
• Indian Pangolin
• Numerous reptiles and birds

Elephants

The reserve protects one of western Odisha’s important elephant populations and provides secure habitat for herds moving through the Bamara and Rairakhol forest landscapes.

Weather

• Summer: 30–40°C
• Winter: 14–22°C
• Annual Rainfall: Around 1,450 mm

Best Time to Visit

November to March.

How to Reach

• Nearest Airport: Jharsuguda
• Nearest Railway Station: Sambalpur
• By Road: Well connected from Sambalpur, Jharsuguda and Rourkela.

Where to Stay

• Odisha Forest Department Forest Rest Houses (subject to prior permission)
• Government eco-tourism accommodation near Badarma and Khalasuni Wildlife Sanctuaries

Nearby Attractions

• Badarma Wildlife Sanctuary
• Khalasuni Wildlife Sanctuary
• Hirakud Dam
• Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary

Did You Know?

Nearly 96% of Sambalpur Elephant Reserve remains under forest cover, providing one of Odisha’s most intact elephant habitats.

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[Map showing location in India]

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Last Updated: August 2026