Bhitarkanika is a mangrove forest ,wild life sanctuary, in the state of Odissa.It is famous for varieties of migratory birds,dense mangrove forest and crocodile reserves.It is a vast tract of forest and salt water and is home to many crocodiles.Infact the 23 foot long crocodile was also found only in Bhitarkanika and its a house of many white crocodiles also.
Planning a trip
My husband was working in Infosys Bhubneshwar and as we both were fond of travelling we were thinking to go for a day or two trip with our friends..One of our friend suggested and told us about Bhitarkanika,the forest which is around 172 kms from Bhubneswar and 4 and a hlf hr by car.But if we want to stay overnite we have to book the rooms which are quite limited in advance from the OFDC Eco Tourism Department.Credit goes to him .he did all the bookings and we forwaded towards our 1st trip to Forest.i.e Bhitarkarnika..
We started early in the morning by car and reached the place in around 5hrs from where we have to take the boat to go to the forest.The boat ride was just amazing,the beauty of nature was at its best and along with that so many crocodiles lying here and there,some crocodile swimming in the lake..so many birds sitting on the trees, flying from one tree to another.
Rooms and food
The rooms in the forest were well maintained and clean.There was a small restaurant inside the forest where they provide food and it was also simple and tasty.
Stay
At evening 6'0 clock only it becomes dark.People take torch in their hands and go.The rooms were near to the restaurant so it was not a concern..Its not quite safe to roam in the dark as it is a forest area and the sound of animals can be heard clearly and the people over there also told that at night animals roam around so its better to stay at rooms in night and enjoy the adventure of staying in forest.The night was just awesome,the dark night,we in the rooms,playing cards and quite horrified to come outside.
Next day early in the morning we went for a jungle walk,saw many animals especially deer and birds especially kingfisher.The beauty of nature early in the morning was a treat to watch and feel.No pollution,No congestion only peaceful and harmonious.
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Staying in the jungle,experiencing the dark adventorous night in the jungle,morning jungle walk,the view of animals,the natural scenary makes Bhitarkanika a must visit.
Go,experience and have fun..
