Chandaka Elephant Reserve Odisha

In the city of Bhubaneswar, Odisha, there is located a renowned wildlife sanctuary - Chandaka Elephant Reserve. Spread over an area of 175 sq km, the reserve was given its status in August 1982. Chandaka Reserve was originally established to proffer a safe shelter to elephants with an aim to save their population from hunters and poachers. However, at present, the sanctuary is a well-known tourism destination in Bhubaneswar and has become a concealed solitaire of rich wildlife and biodiversity. It now serves as a popular escape in the city for nature and wildlife buffs searching for an indelible wildlife experience. The forest of this exquisite wildlife sanctuary is compelling in its own way and hence brags itself as a perfect destination for eco-tourism in Odisha.

Flora and Fauna

The floral diversity of this enthralling wildlife sanctuary is divided into six types; coastal sal forests, secondary moist miscellaneous semi evergreen forests, moist kangada forests, eupatorium scrubs, planted teak, and thorny bamboo brakes. However, the important tree species in the Chandaka sanctuary includes Kalicha, Sunari, Karanja, Sidha, Teak, Kangada, Kochila, Belo, Giringa, Sal, Jamu, and Kumbhi. Apart from this, this wildlife reserve also has various floral species with medicinal properties. Baidanka, Guluchi Lata, Bhuin-Kakharu, Baidanka, Bhuinlimbo, Duramari, Salparni, Thalkudi, Patalgaruda, and Kurchi are just a few names in the list.

Whereas, the fauna is concerned, Chandaka Elephant Reserve serves as a dwelling land of various wild species which include Indian Elephant, Leopard, Chital, Mouse Deer, Barking Deer, Rhesus Monkey, Common Indian Mongoose, Wild Pig, Common Langur, Small Indian Mongoose, Small Indian Civet, Pangolin, Ratel, Wild Boar, Indian Wolf, Sloth Bear, Hyena, and more. Besides, the reserve is also a home to gorgeous birds that make this place also ideal for bird watching and hence. Here at Chandaka the which can be frequently seen include Red Jungle Fowl, Peafowl, Black-headed Oriole, Crested Serpent Eagle, Paradise Fly Catcher, Great Horned Owl, and more. However, a few species of reptiles can also be spotted in Chandaka Elephant Reserve. Bengal Monitor Lizard, Rock Python, Chameleon, Indian Flap Shell Turtle, Common Skink, Bamboo Pit Viper, Common Vine Snake, Kukri Snake, Common Krait, and Russel’s Viper are few species of reptiles in Chandaka Elephant Reserve.

Timing

10:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Best Time to Visit

From October to March, i.e., the winter season is the best time to plan a wildlife trip to Chandaka Wildlife Reserve. Throughout these months, the climate of the region pleasant and makes it easy for travellers to explore the reserve.