Spread across the forested hills and plains on the outskirts of Bhubaneswar, Chandaka–Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary is one of Odisha’s most accessible and biodiversity-rich wildlife destinations. Known primarily as an Elephant Reserve, the sanctuary protects the fast-declining dry deciduous forests of the Eastern Ghats and serves as a critical green lung for the capital city.
For wildlife enthusiasts, bird photographers, and nature lovers, Chandaka offers a beautiful mix of nature trails, watchtowers, eco-tourism camps, butterfly zones, and safari experiences, making it a perfect getaway just minutes from urban life.
About Chandaka–Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary
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Location: Bhubaneswar & Cuttack districts, Odisha
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Established: 1982
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Area: 193.39 sq km
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Famous for: Asian Elephants, forest trails, watchtowers, scenic lakes
Chandaka is part of the Eastern Ghats’ complex forest system and protects one of Odisha’s last major natural elephant habitats.
Wildlife & Birdlife
Major Mammals
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Asian Elephant (flagship species)
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Leopard
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Barking Deer
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Wild Boar
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Gaur
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Hyena
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Rhesus Macaque & Langur
Birdlife
Chandaka is a prime birding hotspot with 180+ species:
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Crested Serpent Eagle
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Indian Pitta
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Emerald Dove
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Malabar Pied Hornbill
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Peafowl
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Woodpeckers & Drongos
Reptiles
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Indian Rock Python
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Monitor Lizard
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Cobra & Krait
Various geckos
Flora of Chandaka
The sanctuary hosts:
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Moist & dry deciduous forests
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Sal, Bamboo, Kendu, Asan, Sisoo
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Thick ground vegetation
The rich plant diversity supports elephants and several herbivore species that depend on the forest for food and shelter.
Top Things to Do in Chandaka–Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary
1. Elephant & Wildlife Safari
Guided safaris through forest tracks offer chances to spot:
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Elephants
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Deer
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Wild boar
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Various birds
(Sightings depend on season and time.)
2. Visit Watchtowers & Viewpoints
Popular:
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Deras Viewpoint
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Godibari Watchtower
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Kumar Khunti
Ideal for sunrise, birdwatching, and forest photography.
3. Explore Deras Dam
A serene reservoir with:
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Scenic viewpoints
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Cycling routes
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Picnicking zones
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Photography spots
4. Nature Trails & Trekking
Chandaka has easy and medium-difficulty trekking routes, great for:
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Birding
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Butterfly watching
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Nature walks
5. Eco-Tourism Camps
Accommodation options at:
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Deras Nature Camp
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Godibari Eco Camp
These offer a peaceful forest stay near Bhubaneswar.
Conservation Importance
Chandaka–Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary is crucial because it:
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Protects Odisha’s elephant corridor and a major elephant population.
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Preserves Eastern Ghats dry deciduous forests.
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Acts as a buffer green zone for Bhubaneswar city.
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Supports water conservation through natural lakes like Deras and Jhumka.
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Provides safe habitat for threatened species like the Indian pangolin and leopard.
The sanctuary’s protection is essential for maintaining ecological balance around the capital region.
Timings
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10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (varies by season)
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Last entry generally allowed before 3:30 PM (check at gate)
Entry Fees
Approximate (subject to change):
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Entry Ticket: ₹20–₹40
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Camera: ₹100+
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Vehicle Entry: ₹100–₹300
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Safari Charges: Based on route & vehicle type
(Always verify latest rates at the Godibari check gate.)
Best Time to Visit
November to February
Cool weather, clear views, and higher wildlife activity make winter ideal.
Avoid peak monsoon for safaris, as some tracks remain closed.
How to Reach Chandaka–Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary
By Air
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Biju Patnaik International Airport (Bhubaneswar) – 20 km
By Rail
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Bhubaneswar Railway Station – 18 km
By Road
Accessible from:
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Bhubaneswar (20–25 km)
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Cuttack (45 km)
Main entry gates:
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Godibari Gate (Primary gate)
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Deras Gate (for Deras dam & viewpoints)
Where to Stay
Inside Sanctuary
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Deras Nature Camp
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Godibari Eco Tourism Camp
Nearby Stays
Bhubaneswar offers:
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Resorts
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Budget hotels
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Premium hotels
Nearby Attractions
1. Deras Dam (Inside Sanctuary)
A scenic lake perfect for photography and picnics.
2. Jhumka Lake (5 km from Deras)
Boating, forest views, and a peaceful environment.
3. Nandankanan Zoological Park (15 km)
A popular zoo featuring a botanical garden and safari.
4. Khandagiri & Udayagiri Caves (22 km)
Ancient Jain caves carved in the 1st century BCE.
5. Dhauli Shanti Stupa (28 km)
A Buddhist peace pagoda overlooking Daya River.
FAQs about Chandaka–Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary
1. What is Chandaka Sanctuary famous for?
It is best known for its Elephant Reserve and lush forests near Bhubaneswar.
2. Are safaris available?
Yes, guided forest safaris are conducted through designated routes.
3. Can we spot elephants easily?
Elephants are present in the sanctuary, but sightings depend on season and time.
4. Which gate is better to enter?
Godibari Gate is the primary entry point for visitors.
5. Is Deras Dam inside Chandaka Sanctuary?
Yes, Deras Dam lies within the protected region.
People Also Ask (PAA)
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How far is Chandaka from Bhubaneswar?
Approximately 20–25 km. -
Is accommodation available inside Chandaka Sanctuary?
Yes, eco-tourism camps at Deras and Godibari. -
Best season to visit Chandaka Sanctuary?
Winter (Nov–Feb). -
Is Chandaka part of the Eastern Ghats?
Yes, it lies in the Eastern Ghats landscape.
Conclusion
Chandaka–Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary is one of Odisha’s most valuable ecological treasures—a peaceful forest escape located right next to Bhubaneswar. With its thriving elephant population, scenic nature spots, eco-tourism camps, and rich birdlife, the sanctuary offers a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility.
Whether you’re planning a wildlife safari, nature walk, or a weekend getaway, Chandaka promises a refreshing break into the heart of nature.
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