Satkosia Gorge Sanctuary

A sanctuary that is also a gorge, Satkosia derives its name from the words sat (seven) and kosh (two miles), meaning 14 miles or 22 km, which is the length of the gorge on the Mahanadi river. With a total area of 795 sq km, the sanctuary spreads over four districts (Angul, Cuttack, Nayagarh and Boudh) and is adjoined by the Baisipalli Sanctuary, another delightful place for wildlife enthusiasts.

Satkosia is best approached by road from Angul, which is 160 km from Bhubaneswar. The entry check gate at Pampasar is 30 km from Angul, and Tikarpada is 60 km from Angul. From the Nayagarh side (87 km from Bhubaneswar), the entry point is at Chamundia, but this set of roads is not at all well-maintained.

THING TO SEE AND DO

The meandering gorge, with a chain of low lying hills and thick forests on both sides, has the appearance of a place where time stands still. But do not be fooled by the calm waters, because there is danger lurking in the form of ferocious crocodiles and strong undercurrents, which can be fatal at times.

A crocodile basking in the sun, Satkosia Gorge Sanctuary

Wildlife Spotting

The forests of Satkosia are truly enchanting, and magnificent species such as sal, simul, rosewood, Arjun and several species of bamboo form a green canopy here. As many as 400 species of plants are said to thrive here, providing a hospitable habitat to the animal species. The animals seen here include elephants, tigers, leopards, spotted deer, barking deer, langurs, porcupines, pangolins, wild dogs and boars. The large elephant population has led to Satkosia being included in the Mahanadi Elephant Reserve. It’s not uncommon to see herds of elephants bathing or crossing the river. Those keen on sighting elephants can engage elephant trackers to locate herds.

With as many as 11 tigers and 19 leopards, there is a strong case for declaring Satkosia Gorge Sanctuary a tiger reserve. The gorge is home to the endangered long-nosed gharial, muggers, fresh water turtles and many kinds of fish. Reptile fauna include the king cobra, banded krait, python and gecko. The bird species found here are equally splendid, including both resident and migratory birds.

Tiger at Satkosia Gorge Sanctuary

Some of the special attractions in Satkosia are the Bhimdhara and Satidhar waterfalls (near Tulka), the Goddess Binkei Temple on the banks of the Mahanadi (8 km upstream from Tikarpada), and scenic spots such as Labangi, Baliput and Baghmunda. Strategically located watchtowers and salt licks help tourists spot animals.

Trekking

While several scenic spots have been identified for trekkers and picnickers, Tikar pada is perhaps the best-known one, both in terms of accessibility and infrastructure. A fairly large Forest Rest House serves as the base from where one can explore different places. Apart from providing a spectacular view of the Satkosia Gorge, Tikarpada is famous for the Gharial Research and Conservation Unit established in 1975, from where gharials have been successfully bred and released into the wild.

WHERE TO STAY AND EAT

There are Forest Rest Houses at various points such a Purunkote, Tikarpada and Chhotkei. While Purunkote (Tariff: ₹1,000-1,200) has two cottages and two tents, Tikarpada FRH (Tariff: ₹1,400-2,200, with meals) has nine tents and Chhotkei FRH (Tariff: ₹2,300-3,500, with meals and guide) has five cottages.

Reservations for these can be made by contacting the Divisional Forest Officer (Telefax: 06764-236218, Cell: 08763102681), Satkosia Wildlife Division, Hakimpada PO.

When to go October-February, summer is also suitable for sighting animals Location At the meeting point of the Chhotanagpur Plateau in the north and the Eastern Ghats in the south Air Nearest airport: Bhubaneswar Rail Nearest rail: Bhubaneswar