Satkosia

Satkosia is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful ecosystems in Odisha. It not only has a magnificent gorge over the River Mahanadi but is also a tiger reserve and a breeding centre for fresh water crocodiles, gharial and mugger. Located close by is the Baisipalli Sanctuary. In fact, the Satkosia Tiger Reserve comprises two wildlife sanctuaries—the Satkosia Gorge sanctuary and Baisipalli sanctuary—both spreading over four districts of Angul, Nayagarh, Cuttack and Boudh. While the tiger reserve spreads over an area of 963.87sq km, the core area is 523.61 sq km.
There are three entry points to Satkosia, namely Tikarapada, Chhotakei, and Purunakote. While boating in the permitted area of Mahanadi towards the gorge, one can sight fresh water turtles like Chitra indica and Aspidiretes gangeticus perched on the rocks besides, the massive gharials and muggers basking in the sun on the river bank. The river is surrounded by majestic mountains on both the sides. Even as there are forest rest houses in Chhotakei and Purunakote, the most beautiful accommodation units in Satkosia are the 10 eco-tents in Tikarpada, which are maintained by a group of tribal youths of Tikarpada village hired by the forest department for the purpose.

The youths are extremely cordial and forthcoming; they not only maintain the tents and offer guided nature treks in the forest, but also cook for the visitors. On request, they catch fresh water fish from the river, which are cooked in an open kitchen for visitors. Tourists can go round the Gharial Research and Conservation Unit in Tikarpada where young sub-adult gharials are reared in captivity. A similar facility has been set up by the Satkosia Wildlife Division at Tarava village where local communities play host to the nature enthusiasts. Bookings for the forest rest houses and the eco-tents can be done through www.satkosia.org. The Satkosia eco-system is around 200 km from Bhubaneswar, which has the nearest airport link. If travelling by road from Bhubaneswar, one has to take the NH-6 till Cuttack and then divert to NH-42 towards Dhenkanal and Angul. Permit to enter Satkosia has to be obtained at the Divisional Forest Office at Angul and then proceed towards Pampasar, the main entry gate.