Bhitarkanika National Park travel guide
Mangrove haven rich in crocodiles, birds, and wildlife.
Bhitarkanika is one of India�s largest mangrove ecosystems, home to saltwater crocodiles, deer, and rare bird species. The park features lush estuaries, creeks, and dense forests. It�s a haven for wildlife lovers and is comparable to the Sundarbans in ecological value.
Best time to visit Bhitarkanika National Park
Nov–Mar is the best time, dry and comfortable; Oct is good. The park closes May–Jul for crocodile breeding, and Aug–Sep is very wet.
| Month | Verdict | Temperature | Rain | Crowds | What to expect |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | best | 19–25 °C | 15 mm | medium | Cool and dry; good for creek boat trips and birdwatching |
| February | best | 21–28 °C | 20 mm | medium | Dry and pleasant; winter birds still around |
| March | best | 24–32 °C | 30 mm | low | Warming up but comfortable; the last of the winter season |
| April | mixed | 27–33 °C | 70 mm | low | Hot and humid; last month before the breeding-season closure |
| May | avoid | 28–32 °C | 200 mm | low | Park closes for the crocodile breeding season; hot and humid |
| June | avoid | 28–31 °C | 270 mm | low | Park closed; monsoon rain begins |
| July | avoid | 28–30 °C | 370 mm | low | Park closed until the end of the month; heavy rain |
| August | mixed | 28–30 °C | 360 mm | low | Park reopens; heavy rain, but lush mangroves and few visitors |
| September | mixed | 27–30 °C | 330 mm | low | Very wet; boat trips in the rain for those who don't mind |
| October | good | 26–29 °C | 180 mm | low | Rain easing; cyclones possible on this coast |
| November | best | 23–27 °C | 30 mm | medium | Dry and pleasant; winter birds arriving |
| December | best | 20–25 °C | 20 mm | medium | Cool and dry; winter birds, and river dolphins in the creeks |
How many days to spend in Bhitarkanika National Park
A day allows a creek boat safari and the crocodile breeding centre at Dangmal; a second adds the full-day trip to Ekakula beach.
How to reach Bhitarkanika National Park
- By air: Bhubaneswar (BBI) — 160 km, about 3.5–4.5 h by road
- By train: Bhadrak (BHC) — 66 km, about 2–3 h by road. Then by road to Chandbali for boats into the park
- By road: From Bhubaneswar — 150 km, about 3–4.5 h. Drive to Khola, the main entry point for boat trips
Getting around
Sightseeing is by boat through the creeks, from jetties such as Khola; you need a car or taxi to reach the jetties.
Things to do in Bhitarkanika National Park
- Emami Jagannath Temple — Modern Jagannath temple, grand architecture. (1 h · Free entry)
- Chandipur Beach Road — Vanishing sea, walk on seabed, peaceful beach.
- SHREE PANCHALINGESWAR TEMPLE — Hilltop Shiva temple, five lingas, sacred stream. (2.5 h · Free entry)
- kuldiha — Wildlife haven, elephants, rich biodiversity. (3 h · Paid entry)
- Nilagiri Palace — Historic palace, royal residence, Nilgiri State. (30 min)
- Khirachora Gopinath Temple — Monastery, Vaishnavite traditions, spirituality. (1 h · Free entry)
- Chandaneswar Temple — Revered Shiva temple, ancient, border location. (1 h · Free entry)
- Purba Bagda Sea Beach Road — Serene beach, less crowded, casuarina forests.
- ITR DRDO Gurudwara — Defence test range, missile and weapon systems.
- Bhitarkanika National Park — Pristine mangrove forest, rich biodiversity. (6 h · ₹40)
- Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary — World's largest Olive Ridley nesting site. (4 h · Paid entry)
- Ekkakula Beach — Serene, secluded beach, pristine beauty. (2 h)
- Pentha Sea Beach — Tranquil beach, casuarina plantations, scenic. (2 h · Free entry)
- Hukitola — Historic bungalow, rustic accommodation, mangroves. (2 h)
- Eco retreat bhitarkanika — Glamping, luxury tents, boat safaris.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best time to visit Bhitarkanika National Park?
Nov–Mar is the best time, dry and comfortable; Oct is good. The park closes May–Jul for crocodile breeding, and Aug–Sep is very wet.
How many days are enough for Bhitarkanika National Park?
1–2 days. A day allows a creek boat safari and the crocodile breeding centre at Dangmal; a second adds the full-day trip to Ekakula beach.
How do I reach Bhitarkanika National Park?
By air: Bhubaneswar (BBI) — 160 km, about 3.5–4.5 h by road. By train: Bhadrak (BHC) — 66 km, about 2–3 h by road. Then by road to Chandbali for boats into the park. By road: From Bhubaneswar — 150 km, about 3–4.5 h. Drive to Khola, the main entry point for boat trips.
What are the top things to do in Bhitarkanika National Park?
Emami Jagannath Temple, Chandipur Beach Road, SHREE PANCHALINGESWAR TEMPLE, kuldiha, Nilagiri Palace, Khirachora Gopinath Temple.
Plan your Bhitarkanika National Park trip
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Guide checked on 2026-10-06.