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Along the eastern coast, on the Bay of Bengal lies the state of Orissa. Earlier known as Kalinga, the city recorded in the annals of history for its resistance to the Mauryan King Asoka(in 3rd century BC).
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Nandankanan
The Nandankanan Zoo contains a Botanical garden and part of it has been declared a sanctuary. Over 67 kinds of mammals, 18 varieties of reptiles and 81 species of birds coexist in the deeply forested boundaries.
The Chandaka Elephant Reserve
The only one of its kind, it is perfect for eco-tourism activities.
Similipal Tiger Reserve
One of India's tiger reserves Similipal has more than 95 tigers within the lavish bounds of the sanctuary. leopards, elephants, crocodiles and over 231 species of birds people the forest and waterways in the park.
Bhitarkanika Sanctuary
Located in the second largest mangrove forest in the country, the sanctuary has protected the estuarine crocodile since 1975. Located slightly further away is the coastal area of Gahirmatha, where the giant Pacific Ridley sea turtles, travelling annually from South America to nest by the millions.
Tikarpara
The Satkosia Gorge is the ideal place for boating, angling and other adventure sports. The Gharial sanctuary at Tikarapara is a must for wildlife fans. Located about 211 kms from Bhubaneshwar, it offers forest bungalow accommodation at strategic places.
Ushakothi
Ushakothi offers visitors the perfect opportunity to see elephants, tigers, panthers and sambars.
Other sites
The White tiger and the Lion Safaris, Lakhari valley sanctuary and Karlapat.
One of the greatest benefits of Orissa's vast expanses of unspoilt natural landscape has been its ability to offer a protected yet natural habitat to the states incredible wildlife. Apart from the Nandankanan Zoo and Sanctuary and the Similipal National park, there are 18 smaller sanctuaries which house a wide variety of flora and fauna.
