Kendrapada: Bhitarkanika National Park in Odisha’s Jagatsinghpur is set to reopen for visitors from August 1 after remaining closed for three months in view of the breeding season of estuarine crocodiles.
It has remained out of bounds for tourists since May 1. The prohibition is usually imposed in the wildlife sanctuary till July 31 to provide crocodiles a harmonious environment for mating and breeding. The reptiles, which lay their eggs on the surface, often turn violent while guarding their nests and attack intruders during this period.
This year, wildlife officials recorded 116 nesting sites of endangered estuarine crocodiles in the marshy wetlands of Odisha’s Bhitarkanika National Park, a slight rise from the 114 sites documented in 2024.
Forest officials safety measures are in place for the reopening of the park. Boating and guided nature trails will resume, enabling visitors to explore the park’s distinctive mangrove ecosystem and diverse wildlife once more.
Tourists can book their visits online. Rest houses are available in Dangamala, Habalikothi, and Gupti.
