The Bagagahan Bird Sanctuary is located in Bhitarkanika, in the Kendrapara district of Odisha. As part of Odisha Tourism and the ecotourism spots in Odisha to visit, this sanctuary gives visitors a chance to spot a rich variety of avian fauna. This sanctuary spans over 10 hectares in the Bhitarkanika mangrove wetlands. It was accorded sanctuary status by the Odisha Forest Department to specifically protect the breeding habitats of birds in this region. The sanctuary is dotted with innumerable perennial water inlets which attract many migratory birds every year.
Some of the birds spotted here include storks, egrets, herons, cormorants, brahminy ducks, terns, sandpipers, and kingfishers, among many more species. Visitors may also be able to spot estuarine crocodiles basking on the river banks at the sanctuary. Activities to do here include nature walks along well-laid-out paths, bird-watching tours, boat rides through the wetland ecosystem, and wildlife photography. Expert guides are also available to assist visitors in identifying birds and understanding the local biodiversity better.
The nearest major town to Bagagahan Bird Sanctuary is Kendrapara, at a distance of just 7 km away. The sanctuary lies by the side of the Cuttack-Chandbali state highway. One can easily reach here via public transport like buses or private vehicles from Cuttack, Chandbali, and other places in Odisha through this route. The best time to plan a visit is during winter from November to February. This is when most migratory birds come from colder regions in the north and flock to Bhitarkanika. Post-monsoon months are also ideal. One can plan their Odisha tour including this sanctuary during this season.
While visiting Bagagahan Bird Sanctuary, one must also make time to explore nearby attractions like the Gahirmatha Beach, known for the annual mass nesting of endangered Olive Ridley Turtles, and the Bhitarkanika National Park, which is home to estuarine crocodiles, otters, deer, wild boars, among other fauna. The Bagagahan Bird Sanctuary is a unique ecotourism site in Odisha owing to its rich mangrove ecosystem and myriad species of birds. It is an ideal visit for nature lovers, bird watchers, and wildlife enthusiasts planning an ecotour in Odisha.
Tourist Facilities, Transportation, Tourist Attractions, How to Reach, Accessibility
Best Time to Visit Bagagahan Bird Sanctuary
The best time to visit Bagagahan Bird Sanctuary is any time of the year
Opening Time
Bagagahan Bird Sanctuary’s opening time is Monday to Sunday, 9 AM to 7 PM, every day.
Closest Bus Stand
The Closest Bus stand is Daspalla, which is located around 7 Km distance from Bagagahan Bird Sanctuary
Closest Railway Station to Bagagahan Bird Sanctuary
The Closest Railway Station is Nayagarh Town, which is located around 60 km from the Bagagahan Bird Sanctuary
Closest Airport
The Closest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport, which is located around 142 Km distance from Bagagahan Bird Sanctuary
