Satkoshia located in the heartland of Orissa is a biological refuge and is considered as an important biogeographic stepping stone in the link between forest species of central India and south India.

The present Satkoshia Gorge Sanctuary has been constituted comprising of three erstwhile sanctuaries such as Raigoda (1935), Padmatola (1962) and Mahanadi (1962). This sanctuary derives its name from 'sat' (seven) and xkosh' (two miles) meaning 14 miles or 22 km. long gorge of the river Mahanadi. Biogeographically the area, north of Mahanadi is classed under Gadjat hills and that of south under North- Eastern Ghats. This region is in fact, the meeting point of Chhotnagpur plateau and Eastern Ghats biotic province.

Giant Squirrel

The sylvan beauty of Labangi, Raigoda, and the spectacular gorge view at Tikarpada with chain of wooded towering hills on either side, Sitalpani,Baliput, Badmul and the magnificent Hinjal forest along Mahanadi are most fascinating and absorbing.Satkoshia has the significant genetic and ecological importance as it is the wet portion of the Decanzone. It is famous for its unique gorge eco-system and serves as major water shed for the entire sanctuary and its periphery.

LOCATION
Satkoshia Gorge Sanctuary spreads over fourdistricts viz., Angul, Cuttack, Boudh and Nayagarh.It was notified vide Notification No. 12727/FFAH.dated 19th May, 1976 of Govt. of Orissa. The total area of the sanctuary is 795.52 Sq.km. The riverMahanadi divide the area into a greater north halfand a comparatively lesser south half being managedby two forest divisions of the state forestdepartment.

White Throated Kingfisher

Northern portion of the sanctuaryincluding Mahanadi River is managed by SatkoshiaWildlife Division with headquarters at Angul covering an area of 530.01 Sq.km, while the southern portionof the sanctuary is managed by Mahanadi Wildlife Division with headquarters at Nayagarh covering anarea of 265.51 Sq.km.Latitude: 20° 31' 37" to 20° 45' 37" North Longitude: 84° 43' 03" to 85° 05' 17" East

SEASON AND CLIMATE
There are three distinct seasons. The climate is tropical with well-defined seasons like:Summer (March/April-June);
Monsoon (JulySeptember/October) and Winter (mainly November- February).
Air temperature:
Winter (5 degree C)
Summer (47 degree C)
The sanctuary receives about 1400 mm. of rain fall with approximately 100 rainy days.

India's Frist Crocodile Rearing Center at Tikarpada

BIODIVERSITY

THE FLORA
Biogeographically Satkoshia is the meeting point of two biotic provinces for which it is rich in biodiversity.
The area north of Mahanadi is classified under Garhjat hills of Chhotnagapur plateau Biotic provinceand that of south under Eastern Ghat biotic province.Ecologically the vegetation of Satkoshia largely confirm to Northern tropical dry deciduous forest and moist peninsular low level Sal. However Northern tropical dry deciduous forest mostly with dry mixed deciduous type with Bamboo brakes are also found. Salia bamboo (Dendrocalamus strictus)forms the under storey in most hill slopes while Daba bamboo (Bambusa arundinacea) occur extensively along water courses. Riperian forests along
Mahanadi river is a different type having Hinjal,Arjun, Kochila, Pani gamar, Mankada kendu etc. The main tree species in hinter land are Sal, Piasal,Semul, Sisoo, Kurum, Kusum, Kasi, Gamar, Siris, Kendu, Asan, Karada, etc.

Gharial, Gavials ganeticus

So far 400 species of plants (126 trees, 98 shrubs,125 herbs and 51 climbers) have been recorded in the sanctuary.

THE FAUNA
The animal life of the sanctuary is quite interesting and varied. The gorge is the traditional home highly endangered Gharial, Mugger, Fresh water turtles orTerrapins. The forests are the stronghold of Elephant, Gaur, Tiger, Leopard, Sambar, Spotted Deer etc. Other wild animals found are Barking deer,Chousingha, Mouse deer, Rhesus macaque, Langur,Porcupine, Pangolin, Hare, Civet cat, Ratel, Wild dog,etc. Satkoshia has already been included in Mahanadi Elephant Reserve with a viable population of 180 elephants. With 11 tigers and 19 leopards,Satkoshia is being actively considered to be declared as a Tiger Reserve very soon.

FRH, Tikarpada

The avifauna of Satkoshia comprises of both residentas well as migratory population. Among resident birds Golden oriole, Hill myna, Hornbill, Bee eater,Paradise fly catcher, Sun bird, Red munia, Drongo, Babbler, Barbet, Indian pitta, Grey shrike, Scarlet minivet, Indian pipit, Gold fronted chloropsis, Red jungle fowl, Black patridge, Button quail, Crestedhawk eagle, Peafowl, Parakeet, Dove, Pigeons are note worthy. The riverine birds include lapwing,Jacana, Plover, Sandpiper, River tern, Stilt, Kingfisher.

The migratory birds include White eyed pochard,Tufted Pochard, Shoveller, Brahminy duck, etc.

There are numerous species of reptiles (gharial,mugger crocodile, gecko, king cobra, banded krait,gecko, rock python, rat snake, etc.)

River Patrolling by Montor Launch

So far, 38 species of mammals, 128 species of birds,27 species of reptiles, 4 species of amphibians and 183 species of fish have been recorded in the
sanctuary.

SPECIAL ATTRACTIONS
The scenic beauty of Satkoshia is enchanting and everlasting. The sylvan beauty of the forests withcaptivating fragrance is bewildering. There are scenic and rambling spots near Raigoda, Labangi,Tikarpada, Tulka, Sitalpani, Badmul, Baliput,Sisupathar dam, Bhimdhara fall, Bhurbhura etc.

There are excellent trekking routes viz. Rasanda-Kuadoli, Labangi Tulka, Tikarpada-Katrang ghat,Hatibari-Kandhaida, Majhipada-Kadalikhola,Majhipada- Kadalikhola, Karadapada, kadalikhola,Chhotkei-katrang, Baghamunda-Routbahal, Tulka-Chhotkei, etc.

Besides, there is limited facilities for boating in Tikarpada and Baliput area.

Bhimadhara Waterfal in Satkoshia

Satkoshia gorge of the river Mahanadi is one of the best habitats of the endangered gharial {Gavialis gangeticus) in the country and few such habitats in the entire world. A Research and Conservation Unit was established at Tikarpada during 1975 for rear,release and rehabilitation of gharials. The Gharial Research & Conservation Unit (Mini Zoo) and Interpretation Centre at Tikarpada are worth seeing.Present attraction of the sanctuary is Tikarpara for its natural beauty, Gharial Research Centre, various scenic spots, observing wildlife from the watch towers, making nature trails in day hours, making night halt inside the deep forests of sanctuary at FRH at different places at night times.

MODE OF APPROACH (HOW TO REACH THERE)

AIR WAYS
Bhubaneswar, the State capital is well connected to Calcutta, Delhi, and Mumbai and Chennai. Regular flights are also available from these cities by Indian Airlines or Air-Sahara. The nearest Airport is Bhubaneswar situated at a distance of 160 kms.from Angul

ROADWAYS
The Headquarters of Satkoshia Wildlife Division is at Angul on NH-42 about 160 Km from Bhubaneswar.Similarly the headquarters of Mahanadi Wildlife Division is at Nayagarh which is 87 Km from Bhubaneswar. Tikarpada is the key tourist attraction which is 60 kms from Angul.

Flying Migratory Ducks

RAILWAYS
The nearest railway station on Satkoshia Wildlife division side is Angul and that of Mahanadi Wildlife Division is Khurda Road of E.Co Railways. Direct buses are available to Tikarpada from Angul. One can take taxis on hire from Angul, Nayagarh, Boudh and Daspalla to reach the sanctuary.

ENTRY POINTS
The main entry point of sanctuary is Pampasar which is 30 Km from Angul on SH-23. One can also approach from Nayagarh through entry point at Chhamundia or Kusang of Mahanadi Wildlife Division.

ACCOMMODATION
There are Forest Rest Houses with sylvan back drop atTikarpada, Baghamunda, Labangi, Raigoda, Tulka, Pampasar, Purunakote in Satkoshia and Sitalpani (PWD IB), & FRH at Chhamundia and Kusang in Mahanadi Wildlife Division side.

PWD IB is available at Purunakote and Irrigation IBat Badmul. Circuit House, Forest Rest House and Luxury hotels are available at Angul. Besides, PWD IB and other accommodations are also available at Dasapalla and Charichhk. F.R.H reservation can be done at respective Division offices.

COMMUNICATION
A wireless communication system covering all important points within and around the sanctuary has been established. During emergency this communication network will usually be available to multi-day trekkers through the established base stations. At present the VHF Base Stations of the communication network in Satkoshia are located at places like Raigoda, Purunakot, Pampasar, Jilinda.

PASSPORT / VISA / INSURANCE
Foreign visitors are required to produce valid passport, visa and insurance.

FOOD AVAILABILITY
All F.R.Hs have crockery, cutlery and utensils. TheChoukidar can cook simple meals if provisions arecarried and supplied to him. There is no catering facility inside. Provisions are available at local villages or have to be procured and carried from places like Angul, Nayagarh, Boudh, Daspalla and Tikarpada.

Consumption of meat and liquor is not allowed inside the sanctuary.

SELECTED ECOTOURISM ACTIVITIES
Besides rich biodiversity, Satkoshia also provides facilities for elephant tracking, angling, cycling through through jungle tracks, hill climbing, bird watching, boating, trekking, etc. A few local people have been trained and can be engaged as guide and transporters to assist tourists and can earn.

A) ELEPHANT TRACKING

A Lone Tusker

Elephant trackers can be engaged who can locate the position of elephant herds and tourists can have opportunity to see elephants in their natural habitats.

ELEPHANT RIDING

There is a scope for elephant riding in plain areas viz. Purunakote-Baghmunda-Majhipada-Kadalikhola- Bipradihi-Tikarpada-Hatibari-Kandhaida zones. There is great scope for developing grass lands.Elephant riding in Tulka and Raigoda has another added benefit of controlling timber smuggling and poaching. In Tulka we have the magnificent Bhimdhara water fall and one can have elephant ride up to nearby Sisupathar dam through plain forests. Water is not a problem in these two places. It is learnt that people of Purunagada village were Mahouts during Darbar Administration. Further a few local people would earn by getting engagement in elephant management and guides.

A) ELEPHANT TRACKING
Elephant trackers can be engaged who ean locate the position of elephant herds and tourists can haveopportunity to see elephants in their natural habitats.

ELEPHANT RIDING
There is a scope for elephant riding in plain areas viz. Purunakote-Baghmunda-Majhipada-Kadalikhola-Bipradihi-Tikarpada-Hatibari-Kandhaida zones.There is great scope for developing grass lands.Elephant riding in Tulka and Raigoda has another added benefit of controlling timber smuggling and poaching. In Tulka we have the magnificent Bhimdhara water fall and one can have elephant ride up to nearby Sisupathar dam through plain forests. Water is not a problem in these two places.It is learnt that people of Purunagada village were Mahouts during Darbar Administration. Further a
few local people would earn by getting engagementin elephant management and guides.

C) WATER RAFTING/ WATER SPORTS
Baliput -Badmul zone is the excellent location for water sports due to shallow water. Water rafting facilities in the gorge is being developed. Baliput-Badmul is a scenic place. Baliput is well linked with Cuttack. Direct buses are plying between Cuttack and Kamaladiha.

D) CYCLING THROUGH JUNGLE TRACKS
This is possible in plain areas of sanctuary viz. Hatibari-Kardapada (5Km), Majhipada- Kadalikhola (6 Km), Purunakote-Baghamunda (9 Km), Tarava - Kumuri (8 Km) routes. In all these routes, tourists can see game tanks, natural salt licks, and study vegetation changes, find pug mark of tiger / leopard, hoove marks of herbivores etc. along nala beds. Local people can provide cycles and other item besides acting as guides.

E) HILL CLIMBING
The peak of Jodum R.F. is locally called Baigani Pahad (710 Mtr.) is one of the best spots for hill climbing. It is a place of pilgrimage for Goddess " Baigani". This would provide an exciting hill climbing expedition from Kamaladihi. There is a cliff at the top is a roosting place for endangered vultures. Another spot for hill climbing is Ranamundali (798 mtr.) on Labangi-Tulka forest. The local people can act as guide cum transporter.

F) BIRD WATCHING
The avifauna in Satkoshia is rich and varied. The avian extravaganza inside Satkoshia Gorge Sanctuary is enumerated below:

SONG BIRDS
Indian pitta, Grey shrike, Racket tailed drongo, Black headed oriole, Brahminy myna, Indian pipit, Scarlet minivet, Gold fronted chloropsis, Paradise fly catcher, White throated ground thrush, Purple sun bird, Red munia, etc.

GROUND NESTING BIRDS
Peafowl, Red jungle fowl, Black patridge, Button quail, Red spur fowl, etc.

RAPTORS
Crested serpent eagle, Crested hawk eagle, Osprey, Sahin falcon, Shikara, Honey buzzard, etc.

RIVERINE BIRDS
Bronze winged jacana, Spurwinged plover, Common sand piper, River tern, Black winged stilt, Small blue king fisher, Great stone plover, Yellow wattled lapwing etc.

OTHER BIRDS
Common green pigeon, Emerald dove, Spotted dove, Bee eaters, Alexandrine parakeet, Malabar pied hornbill, Golden backed wood pecker, Babblers, Barbets. Some of the important bird watching places are on edges of forests or ecotone zones viz. Labangi, Raigoda, Pampasar, Tikarpada, Karadapada, Baliput, Tulka, Sisupathar Purunakote, Baghamunda, Sitalpani, Badmul, Kuturi, Marada etc.One can find a lot of hill myna near Pampasar Range officer campus, Babblers and Grey hombills are plenty near Labangi, Golden hooked wood peckers are also plenty near Labangi. Open billed storks and
egrets are in plenty near Sisupathar dam.

MIGRATORY WATER BIRDS
Brahminy ducks, White eyed pochards, Bar headed geese, Shovellers and Tufted pochards are found in small flocks both upstream and down stream of the gorge on shallow waters and sand bars especially near Tikarpada, Ramgoanbali, Baliput, Badmul,Chhamundia, Chakragada, Sitalpani, Binkei.

G) ACTIVITIES INVOLVING LOCAL PEOPLE
Permanent shopping facilities, food and beverage supply, ecofriendly transport system viz. Plying Rikshaws from Baliput to Kamaladiha, selling handicrafts etc., and water rafting can also be done in Sisupathar Dam or Suhagi project which is close to Jilinda, the range headquarters on sanctuary boundary. At present local fishermen are using bamboo rafting for fishing or crossing the dam.Sisupathar Dam with a sylvan back drop provide an excellent vista of nature. This is also a very good
picnic spot. Local people can be engaged as guide for bird watching.

IDEAL TIME FOR VISIT
October to February

GUIDE
Forest staff on duty and licensed local guides after contacting local Range Officers.

CATERING/FOOD AVAILABILITY
No catering facility is available at present. Visitors are advised to carry their own provisions and
supplies. On request staff with the help of local people can arrange to a limited extent.

CONTACTS
Divisional Forest Officer & Wildlife Warden,Satkoshia Wildlife Division, Angul, At/Po-
Hakimpada, Angul, Dist. Angul-759143 (ORISSA),Ph/FAX-06764-236218 (O), 236219(R).
DFO, Mahanadi Wildlife Division, At/Po/Dist-Nayagarh, (ORISSA). Ph. /Fax-06753-253971(O).

SITES TO SEE

a) GRACU
Tourists can go around Gharial Research and Conservation Unit (GRACU) at Tikarpada. They can see the pioneering work done on rehabilitation of endangered gharials along with mugger. The method of captive rearing and release programme in nature-simulated incubation, hatching, growing, release and post release monitoring etc. This is the site where wild female mugger namely 'Basanti' volunteered captivity in search of a mate in GRACU. A trainededucated guide can be employed from Tikarpada fishermen community.

b) WATCH TOWERS
Tourists can visit Kandhaida, Kadalikhola,Kantarsingha where there are watch towers, game tanks and salt licks maintained for wild herbivores.

b) GAME TANKS / SALT LICKS
Tourists can go around the following game tanks
which are important from elephant management
point of view.
(i) Kandhaida
(ii) Kadalikhola
(iii) Routbahal
(iv) Bochinda Bhogra
(v) Jhumpurikhol
(vi) Kantarsingha
(vii) Rasanda
(viii) Khajurinalia
(ix) Nadapathar ~
(x) Pointri
(xi) Takarsingha
Check dams have been constructed to provide
water to wild animals during pinch summer months
at the : following places:
(i) Raigoda
(ii) Tulka
(iii) Chhotkei

d) VEGETATION STUDY
Tourists can go around the sanctuary which has different kind of vegetation in different zones.Bamboo forests in moist localities viz. near Ganjam Damak, near Katrang Nala,, Labangi, Sal forests of Raigoda range, Teak sample plots near Purunakot,mixed dry deciduous forest along Majhipada-Kuadoli,Hatibari-Kandhaida route, mixed moist deciduous forest along Rasanda-Kuadoli, Riparian forest along Mahanadi River with Phasi, Hinjali and Arjun trees etc.

CAMPING
Sanctuary has tremendous potentiality for organising nature camps involving tourists, students etc. Nature camps can also be organised by various youth clubs,nature clubs in Labangi, Tulka, (Bhimadhar water fall)' Majhipada (Near Majhipada nala), Binkei,Katrang ghat etc. camping facilities and camp gears can either be provided by sanctuary management or private sectors.Although elephants, Gaur and the Crocodiles are the common animals to which a visitor is usually attracted there are host of other interesting animal life in the sanctuary, which can be encountered during dawn or dusk in a drive.

TRACKS AND TRAILS
(i) Labangi-Suasari damak and back: 7km
(ii) Rasanda chhak-Kuadoli and back: 10.5km
(iii) Bhurkundi-Kuadoli and back: 12.5km
(iv) Raigoda-Kuadoli and back: 8.5km
(v) Hatibari-Kandhaaida and back 10km
(vi) Tikarpada-Ramgaon nala and back: 8km
(vii) Majhipada-Kadalikhola and back: 13km
(viii) Karadapada-Chupu nala and back: 12km
(ix) Labangi-Tulka: 14.5km
(x) Rasanda-Bhurkundi: 11.5km
(xi) Chhotkei-Katrang: 15km
(Xii) Majhipada-Bipradihi: 15km
(Xiii) Majhipada-Baghmunda: 15km
(xiv) Tikarpada-Katrang :14.0km

WATCH TOWERS
(a) Kandhaida
(b) Kadalikhola

WATERFALLS
(i) Bhimadhara near Tulka
(ii) Satidhari near Chhotkei

SCENIC SPOTS
The following spots are located inside Satkoshia Gorge Sanctuary (North side).

TIKARPARA
• Panoramic gorge in river Mahanadi.
• Boating in Mahanadi in full moon.
• Gharial Research and Conservation Unit(Crocodile rearing centre).
• Shiva temple on the bank of river.
• Basking crocodiles on sandy river bed.
• Flocks of migratory water fowl in winter.

BINKEI
Temple of Goddess Binkei on the river bank of Mahanadi, 8kms upstream from Tikarpada.

BALIPUT
Scenic river bank and chain of remote high hills on both sides, 25km from Tikarpara. Small forest rest shed available.

SISUPATHAR
Dam at Sisupathar on Suhagi nala.

TULKA
Bhimadhara waterfall and Satidhar; a perennial stream surrounded with dense forest. F.R.H. Tulka is located on a vantage point.

LABANGI
Scenic spot; high-wood hills; tranquility; F.R.H. In dense forest; perennial streams and nalas; rich insect life; variety of orchids.

PAMPASAR
Camping site at Bhurbhura nala area is a very good picnic spot, 4km from Pampasar F.R. shed available near entry point check gate.

BAGHMUNDA
Interior dense forest having forest bungalow.

RAIGODA
F.R.H.; scenic; surrounded by hills and dense forest.

KANDHAIDA
5km from Hatibari; watch tower for viewing wildlife in meadow; salt lick and game tank.

KADALIKHOLA
7km from Karadapada; game tank, grassland; salt lick; wildlife observation from watch tower.

THE GORGE
Fourteen miles long, narrow, ten metres deep and half a kilometer wide gorge with a chain of wooded hills on either side over looking the crystal-clear water of the river; the latter reflecting the hills and leisurely drifting clouds is simply fascinating and absorbing. In particular, the sunset over the gorge at Tikarpara present such a spectacle, which is to be seen to believe. Here time seems to have frozen in tune with the flow of water.

Visit Satkoshia to get fresh breath and cool, calm and quite environment.

Travel Packages