Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary: The Glory Of Wild Odisha

Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary: The Glory Of Wild Odisha

Perched on the edge of the blue backwaters of Hirakud Dam, Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary in Bargarh district of Odisha is nature’s gem. It is known for its pristine landscape and easy sighting of wildlife. Spread across 743 square kilometres, Debrigarh boasts of a wide variety of flora and fauna. More than 40 species of mammals, 234 species of birds, 41 species of reptiles, 85 species of butterflies and 38 species of spiders call Debrigarh their home apart from the 42 species of fishes. It is also home to more than 250 varieties of plant species.

Flanked by Hirakud reservoir flanks on the eastern and northern sides, the sanctuary is an eco-sensitive zone. Literally a sanctuary, one can easily sight leopard, bison, sambar, elephants, wild boar, chital, chousingha, wild dog, porcupine, nilgai, peacock and many more wild animals in Debrigarh. It is an attractive birding site.

History has it that revolutionary freedom fighter Veer Surendra Sai made his base at Barapathar which is located in the heart of the sanctuary.

Where To Stay?

The Ecotour Nature Camp is a heaven on earth which is located on the banks of the Hirakud reservoir. On one side are the azure blue waters of the reservoir and on the other side stand tall green forests of the sanctuary. The nature camp is equipped with all the basic necessities and modern facilities for a comfortable stay in the lap of nature. Devoid from the noise and pollution of the cities, a stay for a few days here will recharge and rejuvenate you. Apart from this, one can book a stay at OTDC hotels, bed and breakfasts and homestays.

Places Of Attraction

While here, one can visit some beautiful places nearby like the Zero Point which is situated at the end of the right dyke from where one can see the Hirakud reservoir on one side and the Hirakud Dam and the sanctuary on the other side. One can visit the Hirakud Dam which is built right across the river Mahanadi. It is the world’s longest earthen dam that spans over 25 kilometres which includes 20 kilometres of dyke. The view is awe-inspiring. The Leaning Temple of Huma is worth the visit as it is one of the only two such temples in the world. It is located in the village of Huma which is 23 kilometres South of Sambalpur. Some other must-visit places are the Maa Samaleswari Temple, Nehru Park and Gandhi Minar. 

Food To Try

While you are around, do not forget to try the ‘chaula bara’ which is a staple snack of western Odisha. Sarasatia is a must-try sweet which is made only in Sambalpur. The main ingredient of this rare desert is the raisin of the twigs of the Ganjer tree. 

Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit Debrigarh Nature Camp is between November and March. The winters here are pleasant and one can feel the rustic vibe of quaint little villages. The smell of vegetation and the presence of nature can be felt everywhere. In the mornings, the wild animals come out to the edge of the water and bask in the warmth of the morning sunlight which is a remarkable sight. 

Things To Do

There are a number of activities that one can indulge in while here. One can go birding and enjoy the beautiful migratory birds and observe their flights of fancy, take a guided jungle safari and explore the native animals that roam freely and call this piece of paradise their home and also go on morning and evening treks amidst the ancient trees and explore this land of abundance. One can book a boat ride on the Hirakud reservoir and enjoy the beautiful colours of the rising and setting sunlight on the waters which is an exhilarating feeling. Spotting animals while trekking by foot or vehicle between Dhodrokusum and Chourasimal (20 kms) is an exciting activity for nature lovers, photographers and everyone in general. 

How To Reach?

Debrigarh is 289 kilometres away from Bhubaneswar and one can reach here via Sambalpur by road or train and from here you can book a cab. The nearest railway station is at Sambalpur and the nearest airport is at Jharsuguda. Debrigarh Nature Camp is 40 kms away from Sambalpur and can be reached from Sambalpur and Hirakud townships through the right dyke of the dam.

(Pictures: Internet)