Kapilash Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Dhenkanal district of Odisha, Kapilash Wildlife Sanctuary is where spirituality, wildlife, and lush Eastern Ghat landscapes blend beautifully. Spread across 125 sq. km, the sanctuary surrounds the sacred Kapilash Hill (Chandrashekhar Hill) and is home to majestic elephants, dense sal forests, ancient temples, and peaceful trekking routes.
Just like the Balukhand–Konark Wildlife Sanctuary protects the coastal forests of Puri, Kapilash preserves inland hill ecosystems and Odisha’s elephant habitats — making it an important destination for eco-tourism and biodiversity conservation.
About Kapilash Wildlife Sanctuary
Declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1988, Kapilash forms a vital green zone for:
-
Eastern Ghat hill forests
-
Elephant movement corridors
-
Biodiversity protection
-
Sacred temple complexes
The sanctuary surrounds the revered Kapilash Temple, making it a popular destination for both pilgrims and nature lovers.
Key Attractions & Experiences
1. Dense Forests & Hill Ecosystem
Kapilash is rich in:
-
Sal, teak & bamboo forests
-
Mountain slopes and ravines
-
Seasonal streams
-
Rocky outcrops perfect for trekking
Nature walks here offer serene forest experiences throughout the year.
2. Elephant Sightings
Kapilash is known for:
-
Resident and migratory elephants
-
Elephant corridors linking nearby forests
-
Early morning and late evening sightings
It is one of the most important elephant habitats in coastal Odisha.
3. Wildlife Diversity
Other species include:
-
Barking deer
-
Sambar
-
Leopard (occasional)
-
Wild boar
-
Hyena
-
Jackal
-
Porcupine
-
Giant squirrels
Reptiles like monitor lizards, snakes, and geckos are also common.
4. Birdwatcher’s Paradise
The sanctuary hosts:
-
Peafowl
-
Hornbills
-
Parakeets
-
Jungle fowl
-
Barbets
-
Drongos
-
Woodpeckers
Winter attracts migratory birds around water bodies.
5. Kapilash Temple (Chandrashekhar Temple)
Located at the top of the hill (about 1,351 ft), this ancient Shiva temple is the spiritual heart of the region.
Highlights:
-
1,350 steps trek
-
Motorable road for vehicles
-
Forested hilltop with panoramic views
-
Sacred ponds and shrines
Conservation Importance
Kapilash Wildlife Sanctuary plays a crucial role in Odisha’s ecological stability:
✔ Protects elephant habitat & movement corridors
It is vital for the conservation of Odisha’s elephant population.
✔ Maintains Eastern Ghat biodiversity
Forests support a variety of mammals, birds, and reptiles.
✔ Safeguards watersheds
Streams and rivulets originating from the hills support nearby villages.
✔ Supports sacred forest culture
Traditional conservation practices by temple communities help protect groves.
✔ Acts as a climate buffer
Dense forests reduce soil erosion and regulate local climate.
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Experience |
|---|---|
| November – February | Best for wildlife, birds & trekking |
| March – June | Hot but good for forest visits & temple trips |
| July – September | Green and lush, but trekking trails may be slippery |
How to Reach
By Road
Nearest city: Dhenkanal (26 km)
Well-connected from:
-
Bhubaneswar (70 km)
-
Cuttack (60 km)
-
Angul (60 km)
By Rail
Nearest railway station: Dhenkanal Railway Station (26 km)
By Air
Nearest airport: Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar (70 km)
Entry & Visitor Information
-
Entry time: 6 AM – 6 PM
-
Temple timings vary by season
-
Camera allowed in designated areas
-
Trekking to the hilltop is a popular activity
Activities to Enjoy
Trekking & Nature Walks
Especially the staircase trek to Kapilash Temple.
Birdwatching
Early morning and late evening are ideal.
Photography
Hilltop sunrise, forest trails, wildlife, and temple architecture.
Spiritual Experiences
Quiet ambience around the temple and meditation zones.
Nearby Attractions
✔ Kapilash Shiva Temple (Hilltop)
✔ Kapilash Deer Park
✔ Saptasajya Hills & Temple
✔ Dhenkanal Rajbari Palace
✔ Joranda Mahima Gadi Temple
✔ Ansupa Lake (near Cuttack)
✔ Bhimkand Rock Art Site
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Kapilash Wildlife Sanctuary famous for?
Elephants, Kapilash Hill, dense forests, and the Shiva temple at the hilltop.
2. Is it safe to visit the sanctuary?
Yes, but avoid remote forest patches without a guide.
3. Are there trekking routes in Kapilash?
Yes — the stairway trek to the temple and several forest trails.
4. Is entry restricted during elephant movement?
Forest officers may restrict access temporarily for safety.
5. How far is Kapilash from Bhubaneswar?
Approximately 70 km.
People Also Ask (PAA)
Best time to visit Kapilash Wildlife Sanctuary?
Winter (Nov–Feb).
Can vehicles go to Kapilash Temple?
Yes, there is a motorable road.
Is Kapilash good for birdwatching?
Absolutely—home to hornbills, peafowl, and dozens of forest birds.
Are there accommodations nearby?
Yes—Dhenkanal offers hotels, forest rest houses, and eco-lodges.
Conclusion
Kapilash Wildlife Sanctuary is one of Odisha’s most peaceful and spiritually rich forest landscapes. Whether you come for wildlife, trekking, divine devotion, or simply to escape into nature, Kapilash offers a beautiful mix of ecology, tradition, and adventure.
From elephant corridors to ancient temples, hilltop views to dense sal forests — it stands as a symbol of Odisha’s sacred wilderness.
0 comments:
Post a Comment