About Karlapat Wildlife Sanctuary
Karlapat Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected forest area in Kalahandi district, Odisha, about 35 km from Bhawanipatna in the Eastern Ghats. Notified in 1992 and spread over 175.50 sq km, it is known for its dense dry deciduous forests, rolling hills and waterfalls. The sanctuary supports leopards, tigers, gaur, sambar, barking deer and diverse birds, making it a notable wildlife and nature destination in southern Odisha.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a forested Eastern Ghats landscape with undulating hills, streams and waterfalls including Phurlijharan within the sanctuary. The area offers jeep safari tracks and forest trails through sal and mixed deciduous forest, watch towers and viewpoints for wildlife and birdwatching. Facilities are basic with forest rest houses and guide assistance. Sightings include deer, wild boar, leopard and numerous bird species in a quiet, natural setting.
Key highlights
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175.50 sq km sanctuary in the Eastern Ghats notified in 1992
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Habitat for leopard, tiger, gaur, sambar, barking deer, sloth bear and giant squirrel
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Phurlijharan Waterfall located inside the sanctuary
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Dense sal and mixed dry deciduous forest with hilly terrain
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Birdwatching with diverse resident and migratory species
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Watch towers and forest trails for wildlife viewing
History of Karlapat Wildlife Sanctuary
Notified as Karlapat Wildlife Sanctuary in 1992 under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, covering 175.50 sq km of the Eastern Ghats in Kalahandi district. The area was historically part of the Kalahandi princely state forests and was designated to protect its dry deciduous forest ecosystem and fauna including tiger and leopard.
Culture & Context
The sanctuary lies in a region inhabited by tribal communities and is valued for its natural heritage and traditional forest dependence. Phurlijharan and other sites within the forest are locally significant as scenic and recreational spots for nearby communities.
Route
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