Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary

The Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary, spread across a high-altitude plateau at approximately 900 metres above sea level, is one of the most important biodiversity hotspots in southern Odisha. Covering an area of 600 square kilometres of undulating terrain, dense forests, and grassy meadows, this sanctuary offers a wilderness experience that rivals more famous national parks.

The sanctuary is particularly significant as one of the few remaining habitats for the Indian bison (gaur) in Odisha. These magnificent animals, the largest of all wild cattle species, can be spotted grazing in the open meadows during early morning hours. The sanctuary also harbours leopards, sloth bears, wild boar, sambar deer, barking deer, and Indian giant squirrels.

Birdwatchers will find Sunabeda especially rewarding. The plateau's elevation and diverse habitats support over 150 bird species, including the crested serpent eagle, Malabar pied hornbill, Indian pitta, and various species of owls. During winter migration, the sanctuary's water bodies attract visiting species from Central and Northern Asia.

The landscape of Sunabeda is dramatically different from the surrounding lowlands. The flat-topped plateau is covered with unique laterite grasslands interspersed with dense sal and teak forests. Several perennial streams originate from the plateau, cascading down its edges as seasonal waterfalls during the monsoon.

Trekking through the sanctuary requires a forest department guide, which can be arranged at the Sunabeda Forest Rest House. The main trekking routes pass through dense forest, open grasslands, and along cliff edges offering panoramic views of the valleys below. Night stays at the forest rest house allow visitors to experience the plateau's extraordinary nocturnal soundscape.

The sanctuary borders the Sunabeda Plateau, which also has strategic importance ÔÇö the Indian defence establishment maintains a presence here. Visitors should carry valid identification and stay on designated paths.