Exciting moments can also be had at the Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary. Sprawled over 672 square kilometres, it has a variety of animals in its mangrove forests criss-crossed by rivers and creeks. Know for crocodiles, sea-turtles on the Gahirmatha beach and water monitor lizards, it has r are white crocodiles. It is also a sanctuary for deer and migratory birds. One can also see 10th-11th century temples, sculptures, and mud-forts and pottery.
Accommodation is available at the Forest Inspection Bungalow and Interpretation Centre at Dangmal and Forest Rest House at Ekakula on Gahirmatha beach. Contact Divisional Forest Officer, Rajnagar, Dist, Kendrapara.
You may go to Bhitarkanika via Chandbali and Rajnagar which are 160 km and 100 km respectively from Cuttack. Dangmal, the base is three hours from both Chandbali and Rajnagar by motor launch. For motor launch, contact the DFO, Rajnagar, or Assistant Director, Inland Water Transport, Chandbali.
Assistance : Tourist Office, Cuttack, Tel: 612225.
