Nestled in the lush green forests of Keonjhar district lies the Hadagarh Wildlife Sanctuary. This lesser-known sanctuary is home to rich biodiversity and offers nature lovers an opportunity to observe wildlife in their natural habitat.
Hadagarh Wildlife Sanctuary is located adjacent to the Hadagarh Dam reservoir spread across 65 sq km. The dam was constructed across the Salandi River in 1978 for irrigation and flood control purposes. The reservoir and surrounding forest were declared a wildlife sanctuary in the 1980s.
The sanctuary is home to a considerable population of tigers, elephants, gaurs, sambars, leopards, sloth bears, and hyenas. It also harbors endangered bird species like a lesser adjutant stork, black stork, white-bellied sea eagle, and hill myna among others. During winter, the reservoir attracts migratory birds from central Asia and Europe.
For wildlife enthusiasts, jeep safaris are arranged by the forest department into the dense woods to spot the wildlife. Elephant rides are also offered occasionally to explore the forests. The huge reservoir offers boating facilities for visitors to enjoy the scenic beauty. Angling for Mahseer fish is another popular activity in the reservoir.
Trekking through the forests and hills of the sanctuary is an exciting activity. Birders have plenty of opportunities to observe resident and migratory bird species around the wetlands and woodlands. Hadagarh is still off the conventional tourist map of Odisha making it perfect for those looking for serene wilderness.
To reach Hadagarh Wildlife Sanctuary, you need to travel about 110 km from Bhubaneswar or Cuttack which are the nearest airport and railway stations. The route goes via Anandpur and Keonjhar passing through scenic countryside landscapes dotted with hills, lakes, and villages.
The best time to visit is from October to June when the climate is cool and comfortable. During summer, the temperature can rise up to 40 degrees Celsius making it avoidable for wildlife tourism. The monsoon season from July to September is also not ideal due to heavy rainfall.
Hadagarh Wildlife Sanctuary is a unique eco-tourism destination of Odisha for nature and wildlife lovers. With its rich biodiversity, scenic vistas, and ample opportunities for sighting wildlife in natural surroundings, it offers an exciting getaway into the wilderness of Odisha’s forests.
Tourist Facilities, Transportation, Tourist Attractions, How to Reach, Accessibility
Opening Time
Hadgarh Sanctuary’s open time is Monday to Sunday 6 am to Evening 5 pm
Best Time to visit Hadagarh Wildlife Sanctuary
The best time to visit Salandi Dam is at all times of the year.
Closest Bus Stand
The Closest Bus stop is Anandapur, which is located around 28 KM distance from Hadagarh Wildlife Sanctuary
Closest Railway Station
The Closest Railway Station is Bhadrak, which is located around 45 KM distance from Hadagarh Wildlife Sanctuary
Closest Airport
The Closest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar, which is located around 165 KM distance from Hadagarh Wildlife Sanctuary
