Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary – A Complete Travel Guide

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Location:
Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary is a hidden gem nestled in the Koraput district of Odisha, situated near the town of Koraput. This sanctuary, covering an area of 600 square kilometers, is known for its rich biodiversity, pristine forests, and diverse ecosystems. The sanctuary is located at an altitude of approximately 900 meters above sea level, with scenic landscapes that include dense forests, hilly terrains, waterfalls, and river valleys. Sunabeda is a vital habitat for several species of flora and fauna, making it an attractive destination for wildlife enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and nature lovers.

The sanctuary is named after Sunabeda, which is believed to be a reference to the golden deer (“Suna” meaning gold and “beda” meaning deer in local dialect), a mythical creature said to inhabit the region. The sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife, including the Indian bison (Gaur), tigers, leopards, and various species of deer, along with a rich avian population, making it a prime spot for wildlife safaris.

Nearest Bus Stands and Airports:

  1. Nearest Bus Stand:
  • Koraput Bus Stand: The nearest major bus stand to Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary is Koraput Bus Stand, located around 30 km from the sanctuary. From Koraput, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach the sanctuary. The drive takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour.
  • Jeypore Bus Stand: Jeypore, another town near the sanctuary, is about 60 km away and also serves as a convenient access point to Sunabeda. Buses from Jeypore to Koraput and Sunabeda are available regularly.
  1. Nearest Airport:
  • Jeypore Airport (PYB): The nearest airport to Sunabeda is Jeypore Airport, located approximately 40 km away. This small regional airport connects Jeypore with Bhubaneswar and other major cities. From the airport, you can hire a taxi to reach Sunabeda.
  • Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar (BBI): The nearest major airport is Bhubaneswar, located around 550 km from the sanctuary. Bhubaneswar is well-connected to major cities in India, and from there, you can take a long drive or hire a taxi to reach Sunabeda.
Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary

Nearby Attractions:

  1. Tata Power Plant and Reservoir:
  • The Tata Power Plant, situated close to the Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary, offers a fascinating blend of nature and industrial infrastructure. The plant is located near a large reservoir, which serves as a good spot for birdwatching and fishing.
  • Distance from Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary: 5-10 km.
  1. Duduma Waterfalls:
  • The Duduma Waterfalls, located about 60 km from Sunabeda, is one of Odisha’s most beautiful waterfalls, cascading from a height of around 157 meters. It is surrounded by dense forests and offers a serene atmosphere perfect for nature walks, photography, and picnics.
  • Distance from Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary: 60 km by road.
  1. Malkangiri Dam:
  • Located around 80 km from Sunabeda, the Malkangiri Dam is a picturesque reservoir that is ideal for boating and birdwatching. The area is home to various species of migratory birds, especially during the winter months.
  • Distance from Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary: 80 km by road.
  1. Jagannath Temple, Koraput:
  • The Jagannath Temple in Koraput is a well-known pilgrimage site dedicated to Lord Jagannath. The temple’s architecture and the tranquil atmosphere make it a must-visit for those traveling to the Sunabeda region.
  • Distance from Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary: 30 km by road.
  1. Kailashgiri Hill:
  • The Kailashgiri Hill, located near Koraput, is famous for its stunning views of the surrounding hills, valleys, and the scenic Kolab Reservoir. It’s an ideal spot for nature walks, photography, and sightseeing.
  • Distance from Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary: 30 km by road.

Things to Do and Travel Suggestions:

  1. Wildlife Safari and Bird Watching:
  • The main attraction of the Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary is its diverse wildlife. The sanctuary is home to animals such as Indian bison, leopards, wild boar, sambar deer, and tigers. There are also several species of birds, making the sanctuary a paradise for birdwatchers. A guided wildlife safari is a must-do activity to explore the sanctuary’s rich flora and fauna.
  • Best Time to Visit: The best time for wildlife sightings is during the winter months (November to February), when the weather is cooler, and animals are more likely to be out and about.
  1. Trekking and Nature Walks:
  • Sunabeda is surrounded by dense forests and hilly terrains, making it an ideal spot for trekking and nature walks. The Kolab River, which flows through the sanctuary, offers picturesque views, and several trails within the sanctuary are perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
  • Best Time: Winter (October to March) is the best time for trekking, as the climate is more comfortable.
  1. Visit the Tribal Villages:
  • The Koraput district is home to several indigenous tribes, including the Dhemsa and Bonda tribes. You can visit these villages near the sanctuary to learn about their unique culture, lifestyle, and traditional crafts. Interacting with the local tribal people and experiencing their way of life can be an enriching experience.
  1. Photography:
  • With its diverse landscapes, wildlife, and tribal culture, Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary offers incredible opportunities for wildlife photography and landscape photography. Capture the majestic animals in their natural habitat, the lush forests, and the vibrant tribal culture.
  1. Fishing and Boating at Kolab Reservoir:
  • The Kolab Reservoir is located near the sanctuary and is a great spot for fishing and boating. The calm waters of the reservoir, surrounded by lush greenery and hills, create a peaceful setting for a relaxing day out in nature.

Travel Tips:

  • Best Time to Visit:
  • The best time to visit Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary is during the winter months (October to March), when the weather is cooler and wildlife sightings are more frequent. The summer months (April to June) can be quite hot, making wildlife spotting challenging. Monsoon (July to September) brings heavy rainfall, which can make trekking and safaris difficult.
  • Stay Options:
  • Sunabeda offers limited accommodation options. There are some basic forest guesthouses and eco-friendly lodges managed by the Odisha Forest Development Corporation (OFDC). However, for better amenities, you can stay in Koraput or Jeypore, where there are hotels and guesthouses to suit various budgets.
  • Koraput and Jeypore also have more restaurants and services that can be accessed before or after your visit to the sanctuary.
  • Connectivity:
  • While Koraput has better mobile connectivity, network coverage can be patchy in more remote parts of the sanctuary. It’s advisable to download offline maps or guides for navigation.
  • Packing Essentials:
  • Wear comfortable trekking shoes if you plan to go trekking. Bring lightweight clothes suitable for trekking, as well as light woolens for the cooler evenings. Don’t forget a camera, binoculars for birdwatching, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a first aid kit. A hat and sunglasses will be useful for daytime activities.
  • Safety:
  • The sanctuary is generally safe for tourists, but always go on safaris with a local guide. It is advisable to keep a safe distance from wild animals and avoid venturing into deep forest areas without a guide. If you’re trekking, be cautious of sudden weather changes, especially during the monsoon season.

Distances from Major Locations:

  1. From Bhubaneswar Airport (BBI):
  • Distance: 550 km
  • Estimated Travel Time: Around 12-14 hours by road.
  1. From Koraput Bus Stand:
  • Distance: 30 km
  • Estimated Travel Time: Around 45 minutes to 1 hour by road.
  1. From Jeypore Bus Stand:
  • Distance: 60 km
  • Estimated Travel Time: Around 1.5 to 2 hours by road.
  1. From Duduma Waterfalls:
  • Distance: 60 km
  • Estimated Travel Time: Around 1.5 hours by road.

Sunabeda Wildlife Sanctuary offers an offbeat adventure for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those interested in experiencing Odisha’s rich natural and tribal

heritage. Its dense forests, diverse wildlife, and scenic landscapes make it an excellent destination for an eco-friendly, immersive experience. Whether you’re trekking through the forests, spotting wildlife, or exploring the local tribal culture, Sunabeda provides a refreshing and unique travel experience.

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