About Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary
Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary is a 346.91 sq km wildlife sanctuary located on the western bank of the Hirakud Reservoir in Bargarh District, Odisha. Declared in 1985, it comprises dry deciduous forest in the Barapahad hills. It is known for its population of Indian bison, leopards, deer, and diverse birdlife, and for its eco-tourism initiatives including jungle safaris and boat safaris on the reservoir.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a forested landscape of dry deciduous hills bordering the Hirakud Reservoir. The sanctuary offers guided jeep safaris through forest tracks, boat safaris on the reservoir to view islands such as Bat Island and Sunset Island, and opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife sighting including bison, sambar, chital, leopards and peacocks. Facilities include eco-tourism cottages, interpretation centre and designated viewpoints over the reservoir.
Key highlights
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Located on the western shore of Hirakud Reservoir with scenic water and forest views
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Home to Indian bison (gaur), leopards, sambar, chital, wild boar and over 40 species of mammals
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Boat safari to reservoir islands including Bat Island and Sunset Island
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Rich birdlife with more than 250 bird species recorded
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Eco-tourism complex with jungle safari and nature trails in Barapahad hills
History of Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary
The Barapahad hills within the sanctuary served as a base for freedom fighter Veer Surendra Sai during his resistance against British rule between 1857 and 1864. The sanctuary was declared as a wildlife sanctuary in 1985.
Route
| By air | Nearest airport is Veer Surendra Sai Airport, Jharsuguda, about 90 km away; Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar is about 300 km away |
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| By train |