Satakosia gorge sanctuary represents a unique gorge ecosystem in India. It is one of the tremendous and genetic ecological importance as it is the wet portion of the deccan zone. According to the biogeographic classification, the area north of Mahanadi is classified under Chhotnagpur plateau and that of south under Eastern Ghats biotic provinces. The Satkosia represents the endemic life forms of both the biotic provinces in its traditional zone. Being the meeting point of two biotic province, Satkosia contributes the assemblage of floral and faunal extravaganza. Satkosia forms an important catchment of lower Mahanadi basin.
The scenic beauty of Satkosia is enchanting and everlasting. The narrow and deep gorge with chain of wooded towering hills on either side overlooking the crystal clear water of Mahanadi, the later reflecting hills and leisurely drifting clouds is simply fascinating and absorbing. The sylvan beauty of the forests with the captivating fragrance is bewildering.
Things to Do:
Picnic Spots: There are exotic picnic spots and the picnic spots near Raigada, Labangi, Tikarapada, Tulka, Sitalpani, Badmul, Baliput, Sisupathar Dam, Bhimdhara falls, Bhurbhura etc.
Nature camps: Nature camps are located at Tikarpada and Purnakote. At Tikarpada, the nature camp is pitched on the middle of the breathtaking gorge along the pristine sand banks of river Mahanadi. An overnight stay is fascinating and unforgettable. Camps have double bedded tents with toilets and water supply. Camps are run by local community groups. Visitors are advised to book the facilities in advance. The camp is operated during the winter months from October to March. At Purnakote the Nature camp has two tented accommodations.
Boat Cruise: Enjoy a boat ride on the river Mahanadi and view the majestic gorge and towering wooded mountains on both sides. One can sight plenty of crocodiles basking on the sand banks.
Nature Walk: Nature lovers and bird watchers can walk around and discover the unspoiled wilderness through designated nature trails. Different nature trails are available for trekking traversing through various zones of the tiger reserve and are generally 4 to 5 km in length. There are excellent trekking routes viz Rasanda – Kuadoli, Labangi - Tulka, Tikarpada – Katrang Ghat, Hatibari – Kandheida, Majhipada – Kadalikhola, Karadapada – KadaliKhola, Chottkei – Katrang, Baghmunda – Routbahal, Tulka – Chottkei etc.
Elephant rides: Elephant rides are available at Tikarpada. Visitors can get a feel of the dense forests and sight wild animals.
River view Picnics: Picnic locations are located at Goindi near Tikarpada and at Baliput. Picknickers can avail the bamboo crafted seats, cooking and washing platforms, boating facilities etc.
Fauna and Flora:
There are over 400 plant species comprising of 126 trees, 98 shrubs, 125 herbs and 51 climbers identified in the reserve.
Around 38 species of mammals, 161 species of birds, 27 species of reptiles, 4 species of amphibians and 183 species of fishes are found in the reserve. The reserve has significant population of tigers, leopards, elephants, spotted deer, sambar, chowsingha , barking deer, bisons, wild dog, sloth bear, jackal, giant squirrel and porcupine. The Satkosia gorge is the natural habitat of the two endangered species of fresh water crocodilians namely the gharial and mugger. The Gorge has turtles, terrapins, crabs, mollusks and other amphibians.
How to Reach There?
The reserve is 190 Km from Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Orissa State in India. Take the National Highway 42 and reach Angul. From there proceed to Pampasar which is the main entry gate of the reserve. Bhubaneswar is accessible by air, rail and road.
Contact info:
You can visit the website http://www.satkosia.org/ to get the telephone details and book camps. Please see the nature camp and tiger reserver brochure there for the details and descriptions.
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