Karlapat Wildlife Sanctuary is Located in the heart of Kalahandi district, Karlapat Wildlife Sanctuary is one of Odisha’s most scenic and culturally rich forest landscapes. Home to pristine waterfalls, sacred groves, rare wildlife, and indigenous communities, Karlapat offers an immersive wilderness experience unlike any other. The sanctuary sits along the Eastern Ghats, making it a key biodiversity hotspot in the region.
About Karlapat Wildlife Sanctuary
Declared a sanctuary in 1992, Karlapat covers 175 sq. km of mixed deciduous forests, hills, streams, and river valleys. The area is revered by local tribes, who maintain sacred patches of forest and natural springs, contributing to its ecological and cultural importance.
The sanctuary is especially known for the Phurlijharan Waterfall, which remains the centerpiece of eco-tourism activities.
Key Attractions & Experiences
1. Dense Eastern Ghat Forests
The sanctuary features:
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Dry & moist deciduous forests
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Bamboo clusters
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Hill slopes with green canopies
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Seasonal streams & riverine vegetation
Perfect for photography, trekking, and birdwatching
2. Wildlife Sightings
Karlapat supports a variety of mammals and reptiles, including:
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Leopards
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Barking deer
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Sambar
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Civets
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Jungle cats
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Porcupines
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Monitor lizards
It has also been an important habitat for the endangered hill myna and four-horned antelope.
3. Phurlijharan Waterfall
The highlight of Karlapat:
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Multi-tiered waterfall surrounded by lush greenery
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Natural picnic spot
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Rainbow formation on sunny days
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Ideal for photography and slow-travel experiences
4. Birdwatching Paradise
Karlapat is rich in birdlife, with sightings of:
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Hill myna
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Green pigeons
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Peafowl
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Hornbills
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Emerald doves
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Various flycatchers
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Drongos & woodpeckers
Winter is the best birding season.
5. Cultural & Tribal Heritage
The sanctuary is home to Kutia Kondh and Gond tribal communities, known for:
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Sacred forests
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Traditional eco-friendly practices
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Tribal temples
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Indigenous festivals
This cultural connection adds depth to the wildlife tourism experience.
Conservation Importance
Karlapat Wildlife Sanctuary is ecologically vital due to:
✔ Endangered species protection
Shelters hill myna, pangolin, and four-horned antelope.
✔ Watershed protection
Forests protect the catchment of multiple streams feeding into the region’s rivers.
✔ Tribal conservation systems
Sacred groves enhance biodiversity and habitat health.
✔ Elephant movement corridor
Supports seasonal movement of elephants from nearby forests.
✔ Medicinal plant biodiversity
Rich in herbs used by indigenous communities.
Best Time to Visit
| Season | Experience |
|---|---|
| November – February | Ideal for wildlife, trekking, and pleasant weather |
| March – June | Hot but great for waterfall visits |
| July – September | Lush forests, but heavy rain may restrict entry |
How to Reach
By Road
Nearest town:
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Bhawanipatna – 15 km
Connected via State Highway and rural roads.
By Train
Nearest station:
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Bhawanipatna Railway Station (15 km)
Other major station: -
Kesinga (40 km)
By Air
Nearest airports:
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Jharsuguda Airport – 220 km
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Raipur Airport – 260 km
Entry & Visitor Information
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Entry timing: 6 AM – 6 PM
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No formal safari, but guided treks and nature visits are common.
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Forest permissions may be required for deeper trails.
Nearby Attractions
✔ Phurlijharan Waterfall (Inside sanctuary)
✔ Ghoghar Waterfall
✔ Karlapat Temple Area & Sacred Springs
✔ Bhawanipatna Town & Archaeological Sites
✔ Kia Falls (Nearby)
✔ Rabandhara Waterfall
Responsible Travel Tips
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Respect tribal customs and avoid disturbing sacred sites.
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Avoid littering near waterfalls and streams.
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Stay with guides when entering deep forest patches.
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Do not play loud music around forest or tribal zones.
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Maintain distance from wildlife.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. What is Karlapat Wildlife Sanctuary famous for?
Its waterfalls, wildlife, tribal culture, and Eastern Ghat landscapes.
2. Which district is Karlapat Sanctuary in?
It is located in Kalahandi district, Odisha.
3. Is Phurlijharan Waterfall part of the sanctuary?
Yes—it's one of its top attractions.
4. Are safaris available?
No formal jeep safaris, but nature trails and trekking routes are accessible.
5. What wildlife can be seen in Karlapat?
Leopards, deer, jungle cats, hill myna, reptiles, and many bird species.
People Also Ask (PAA)
Best time to visit Karlapat Sanctuary?
November–February offers the most pleasant climate.
How far is Karlapat from Bhawanipatna?
Approximately 15 km.
Are waterfalls accessible year-round?
Yes, but they are at their best during monsoon and winter.
Is Karlapat safe for tourists?
Yes, but stick to marked trails and avoid wandering alone.
Conclusion
Karlapat Wildlife Sanctuary is a unique blend of wildlife, waterfalls, tribal culture, and untouched forest landscapes. Whether you’re a nature lover, photographer, birder, or adventure seeker, this sanctuary offers an authentic and peaceful Odisha wilderness experience.
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