Odisha is a diverse habitat of forests, rivers, grass-lands, marshes and beaches. Crocodiles lurk in the marshy realm of Bhitarkanika, Olive Ridley turtles throng the beach at Gahirmatha, Irrawaddy Lakhari Valley Wildlife Sanctuarydolphins dance in the seas and thousands of birds flock the largest coastal lagoon in the country – Chilika Lake. Beyond well-known wildlife haunts like Simlipal, Satkosia and the NandanKanan Zoo near Bhubaneswar, there’s a great wealth of wildlife across the state. With over 20 wildlife sanctuaries, Odisha is a shining beacon of abode for various forms of wildlife. One of the sanctuaries is the Lakhari Wildlife Sanctuary which is renowned for its elephant population.
The Lakhari Wildlife Sanctuary is a relatively small wildlife zone in the Gajapati district of Odisha and is a place which has not been explored much by tourists. This serene, beautiful land has in it a rich variety of flora and fauna. It covers an area of 185 sq. km & was established in 1985.
Lakhari Valley Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Eastern Highlands where you find the moist eco-region.
Lakhari Valley Wildlife Sanctuary Fauna
Lakhari Valley Wildlife Sanctuary It is abundant in tropical dense deciduous forests, mountains, permanent water sources and a myriad of wildlife such as leopard, porcupine, civet, otter, pangolin, giant squirrel, fox, peafowl, parakeet, owl, myna, heron, hornbill, hyena, elephant, deer, sambar, and a rich diversity and reptiles.
The place has a tropical climate and receives a huge amount of rainfall each and every year due to its proximity to the Bay of Bengal.
The Lakhari Valley Wildlife Sanctuary Valley Sanctuary is home to a large number of elephants. The valley is a standout amongst the most elephant populated havens in India. The other main fascination of the region is the dark buck, which is available in huge numbers in the area. Notwithstanding this one can likewise observe different types of creatures like tiger, peafowl, panther and some more.
Birds like Rufous Woodpecker (Brown Woodpecker) which is a scarce breeding resident of Eastern Ghat, a Yellow Fronted Pied Woodpecker, Male White Rumped Shama, Crested Goshawk and Jerdon’s Chloropsis can be seen in these forests. Another fascinating species found here is the Indian Golden Gecko Calodactylodes aureus which is an endemic reptile species largely confined to the Eastern Ghats of India.
This Valley is a hotspot of nature, with a vast variety of vegetation and wildlife. If you are planning a picnic or a walk into nature, this Valley is the perfect spot. The best time of the year to visit this place is March – May.
You can read our another post on Forest Fire in Odisha: A Devastating Threat to Biodiversity and Ecosystems
Accommodation
Available at Digapahandi and Taptapani (Panthanivas of OTDC) and Chandragiri Buddhist Rest House at Jiranga.
How to Reach
By Road : The Lakhari Valley Sanctuary is well connected by road and nearest places by road is Chandragiri which is about 15km from wildlife reserve. The distance from state capital Bhubaneshwar is about 118 km.
By Rail : Nearest Railway Station is at Berhampur Near about 70-75Kms.
By Air : The nearest airport to this sanctuary is at Bhubaneswar.
Nestled in the enchanting landscapes of Odisha, the Lakhari Valley Wildlife Sanctuary stands as a testament to the diverse and vibrant ecosystem of the region. Spread across lush green terrain, this sanctuary is a haven for nature enthusiasts, providing refuge to a plethora of plant and animal species. With its breathtaking beauty and abundant biodiversity, Lakhari Valley Wildlife Sanctuary has become a cherished gem, offering a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the marvels of nature.
Stretching over a vast expanse, Lakhari Valley Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. The sanctuary boasts a rich assortment of plant species, ranging from towering trees to delicate flowers. The dense forests are adorned with magnificent Sal trees, providing shade and shelter to countless inhabitants. Surrounding the valley are sprawling grasslands and meadows, offering a stark contrast to the verdant woodland. The sanctuary’s diverse vegetation forms an intricate web of life, sustaining a multitude of animal species that call this place their home.
As one ventures into Lakhari Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, an enchanting world of wildlife reveals itself. The sanctuary teems with an impressive array of fauna, making it a paradise for animal enthusiasts and wildlife photographers alike. The region is inhabited by several endangered and rare species, adding to its ecological significance. Visitors may catch glimpses of majestic elephants, graceful deer, elusive leopards, and the magnificent Royal Bengal Tiger, which stands as the crown jewel of the sanctuary. The echoes of bird songs resonate through the foliage, as vibrant avian species including peafowl, hornbills, and parakeets add a splash of color to the sanctuary’s vibrant tapestry.
Beyond its captivating wildlife, Lakhari Valley Wildlife Sanctuary offers a respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Its serene atmosphere and pristine surroundings create an atmosphere of tranquility, inviting visitors to unwind and reconnect with nature. Trekkers and adventure enthusiasts can explore the sanctuary’s rugged terrain, meandering through forest trails and reveling in the sheer beauty of their surroundings. The sanctuary also presents opportunities for nature walks and birdwatching, providing an avenue for individuals to appreciate the intricate details of the local ecosystem.
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