People who love nature will find Bhitarkanika National Park, which is in the coastal state of Odisha, to be a unique and peaceful place to visit. Bhitarkanika is a great place to boat because it has a lot of different plants and animals and beautiful, peaceful scenery. This blog will tell you everything you need to know about boating in Bhitarkanika, including the best places to go, what to expect on your ride, and why you shouldn’t miss it.
What Makes Boating in Bhitarkanika Unique?
Bhitarkanika National Park has a wide range of ecosystems, from its calm mangrove forests to its saltwater swamps. The park is in Kendrapara District and is known for its diverse wildlife, including the rare saltwater crocodile. You can see this beautiful place up close when you go boating in Bhitarkanika. You can travel along winding rivers and narrow creeks.
Best Spots for Boating in Bhitarkanika
There are many places in Bhitarkanika where you can take a boat ride. People know these places for their beautiful scenery, wildlife, and quietness. Bhitarkanika has some of the best places to go boating:
1. The Kanika River
One of the best places for Boating in Bhitarkanika is the Kanika River. It runs through the middle of the park and is a beautiful ride through thick mangrove forests. As you glide along the water, you might see different kinds of birds, like kingfishers, herons, and egrets. The river is calm, which makes it a great place to take a leisurely ride and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature.
2. Bhitarkanika Creek
If you want to see more of the park, boating in Bhitarkanika Creek is a great way to do it. The park’s famous saltwater crocodiles live in the thick mangroves and saltwater swamps that surround this area. The creek runs through the park, making it a peaceful and quiet place to be. The thick green canopies above make it even more beautiful, making it feel like you’re floating through a jungle paradise.
3. The Dhamra River
The Dhamra River is another great place to go boating in Bhitarkanika. This river flows into the Bay of Bengal, and the ride here is a great mix of mangroves and open water. The view from the boat is amazing. Along the riverbanks are long stretches of green mangrove forests, and in the distance, you can hear waves crashing. Look out for birds that live in the water and the occasional crocodile sunning itself on the riverbanks.
4. Delta of the Mahanadi
Another great place to boat in Bhitarkanika is the Mahanadi Delta. This is a great place to see where freshwater and saltwater ecosystems meet. You can see a lot of different kinds of aquatic life here, like fish, crabs, and even the rare Olive Ridley turtles if you’re lucky. The mangrove forests and the calm waters make for a very peaceful boat ride.
Animals You Can See While Boating in Bhitarkanika
One of the best things about boating in Bhitarkanika is that you can see some of India’s most interesting and rare animals. There are over 200 kinds of birds, a few kinds of reptiles, and a lot of water animals in the park. While you’re out on the water, you might see some of these animals:
1. Crocodiles in salt water
Bhitarkanika is known for having a lot of saltwater crocodiles, which are one of the biggest types of crocodiles in the world. If you’re lucky, you might see these reptiles sunbathing on the riverbanks or swimming gracefully in the water while you’re boating in Bhitarkanika. These animals are fun to watch, but you should never get too close to them.
2. Watching birds
The park is a great place for birdwatchers. Look for the Indian kingfisher, white-bellied sea eagle, and painted storks while you’re on the boat. Bhitarkanika is a very important stop for migratory birds. You might see groups of birds flying overhead or sitting on the mangrove trees.
3. Olive Ridley Turtles
Some lucky visitors might see the endangered Olive Ridley turtles in the waters of Bhitarkanika, but it’s not a sure thing. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience to see these turtles while boating because they come ashore to lay their eggs.
4. Crabs and Fish
There are many different kinds of water life in Bhitarkanika’s waterways. You might see schools of fish swimming under the surface while you’re boating. There are also a lot of crabs running around in the rivers and creeks. You can sometimes see them hanging on to the roots of mangrove trees.
Safety Tips to keep in mind while Boating in Bhitarkanika
Bhitarkanika is usually safe for boating, but you should remember a few safety tips:
- Put on life jackets: If you’re not a good swimmer, you should always wear a life jacket.
- Listen to the Guide: They know the waters well and will keep you safe while you ride.
- Stay calm and quiet. Don’t make too much noise so you don’t scare off animals. This will also make it more likely that you’ll see animals.
- Bring sunscreen: The sun can be strong, so make sure to put it on before you go outside.
- Do not feed animals: If you see any animals while you are riding, do not try to feed them. This can change how they act.
How to Make a Reservation for Boating in Bhitarkanika?
It’s best to book your boat ride in Bhitarkanika ahead of time to make sure you get a spot. You can make a reservation with the park’s official authorities or a local tour company. Some hotels and resorts like Jungle Avengers close to the park also offer boat rides for their guests.
In Summary
Boating in Bhitarkanika isn’t just a way to get from one place to another; it’s a chance to really experience the beauty of nature. The ride is full of beauty and peace the whole time, from the thick mangrove forests to the quiet rivers full of animals. Bhitarkanika is a great place to go boating if you love nature, birdwatching, or just want to get away from the city for a while. The experience will stay with you long after your trip is over.