National Parks in Odisha, List of National Parks in Odisha

National Parks in Odisha: Odisha is an Indian state in the eastern part of the country. Odisha is renowned for its forests, mountains, valleys, and wildlife. Odisha's national parks are not only unique, but also a nature lover's paradise. Odisha has a feature that distinguishes it from other states by spanning a larger area of forest and a diverse biodiversity. Forests encompass almost one-third of Odisha, including eighteen sanctuaries, two of which are national parks.

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Nationals Parks in Odisha

National parks are areas dedicated completely to the conservation of wildlife and biodiversity, with activities like development, forestry, poaching, hunting, and grazing on agricultural land strictly prohibited. Odisha has two national parks: Bhitarkanika National Park and Simlipal National Park. Here are the details:

1. Simlipal National Park 

The Simplipal Reserve is a refuge and one of India's Tiger Projects and National Parks. It is suitable for a variety of flora and fauna, with a wide range of rainfall and leaf kinds ranging from deciduous to lush green forests. It became a national park in 1980. Joranda and Barehipani are two breathtaking waterfalls in the park. The park is home to the largest tiger population in Orissa.

Simlipal is a diversified ecosystem, including forest foliage, wildlife, and Santhal tribal people nearby. The forest is flanked by high plateaus and hills, the highest of which is Mount Mangesheri. At least 12 rivers cross the plain. Budhabalanga, Palpala Bandan, Kahairi, and Deo are among the most famous. This vast forest is home to multiple waterfalls, which are a popular tourist attraction. It has withstood two cyclones, one in 1982 and the second in 1999, with little permanent damage and continues to enchant travellers.

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2. Bhitarkanika National Park

Bhitarkanika National Park is located in Kendrapara district of Odisha and is famous for its mangrove forests, rivers, and wetlands. Spread over 145 square kilometers, it was declared a national park in 1998. The park is home to India’s largest population of saltwater crocodiles and many birds like kingfishers and storks. You can also spot animals like deer, pythons, and monitor lizards. It’s best to visit between October and March, especially to see migratory birds. Bhitarkanika is also an important Ramsar Site and a breeding ground for crocodiles and Olive Ridley sea turtles.

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Why Odisha’s National Parks are Important

The national parks in Odisha are very important because they help protect animals, birds, and plants, especially those that are rare or endangered. They also support tourism, provide jobs for local people, and help us learn more about nature. These parks even protect the environment by reducing the damage from storms and keeping the climate balanced.

• Biodiversity conservation: National parks help protect many endangered animals and plants by giving them a safe place to live and grow. This helps maintain balance in nature and saves rare species from disappearing.

• Eco-tourism and livelihood support: These parks attract tourists, which creates jobs for local people as guides, drivers, and in small businesses. It helps communities earn money while also promoting nature conservation.

• Environmental education and research: National parks serve as outdoor classrooms where students, scientists, and visitors learn about wildlife and nature. They are also important for studying animals, plants, and ecosystems.

• Climate resilience: Forests and wetlands in national parks help reduce the effects of climate change. In coastal areas like Odisha, they also protect land and people from storms and floods caused by cyclones.

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