| Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary | |
|---|---|
| କୁଲଡିହା ବନ୍ୟଜନ୍ତୁ ସଂରକ୍ଷଣାଳୟ | |
IUCN category IV (habitat/species management area) | |
  Location of Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary in Odisha | |
| Nearest city | Balasore |
| Coordinates | 21°12′N 86°18′E / 21.20°N 86.3°E |
| Area | 272.75 km2 (105.31 sq mi) |
| Designated | January 4, 1984 |
| Visitors | 6340 (in 2015)[1] |
| Governing body | Ministry of Forest and Environment, Government of Odisha |
| Website | www |
The Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary (Odia: କୁଲଡିହା ବନ୍ୟଜନ୍ତୁ ଅଭୟାରଣ୍ୟ) is situated in the Balasore district of Odisha, India. The sanctuary is spread across 272.75 km2 (105 sq mi) in the Chota Nagpur Plateau region. It is linked with Simlipal National Park via the Sukhupada and Nato hill ranges. It is classified as an Eastern Highlands moist deciduous forests ecoregion.
Description
WS: Wildlife Sanctuary, WR: Water Reservoir, HT: Hill Top, O: Other Importance
Note: Owing to space constraints in the small map, the actual locations in a larger map may vary slightly
Kuldiha was declared a sanctuary on 4 January 1984.[2] It is famous for the Mayurbhanj Elephant Reserve that spreads across Simlipal, Kuldiha and Hadgarh wildlife reserves.[3] Locally in Kuldiha, the elephant reserve is known as Tenda Elephant Reserve.[4][5] There is a watch tower strategically created at Garsimulia for animal lovers to have a look at elephants bathing or drinking water from a small stream that runs right through the reserve.[6] The sanctuary offers night stay accommodation at Kuldiha entrance, Jadachua and Rishia in form of huts, tents and a few concrete houses. Prior reservation is required for night stay.[7] It is usually closed during the peak monsoon season which typically falls between July and September.[1] Major fire was reported in 2012 that engulfed both Simlipal and Kuldiha forests causing significant damage to flora and fauna.[8] The sanctuary has been declared an ecological sensitive zone as of August 2, 2013 by the government.[9]
Flora and fauna
The sanctuary is characterized by a diverse ecosystem, primarily consisting of a mixed deciduous forest where the majestic Sal tree stands as the dominant species. This rich habitat harbors a plethora of wildlife, showcasing the incredible biodiversity of the region. Among the notable inhabitants are the majestic Tiger, elusive Leopard, formidable Elephant, sturdy Gaur, graceful Sambar, vibrant Peafowl, acrobatic Giant Squirrel, melodious Hill Myna, and impressive Hornbills. The sanctuary also attracts various migratory birds, creating a haven for birdwatchers and enthusiasts. The diverse array of reptiles further contributes to the ecological balance of the sanctuary.
In addition to its significance as a wildlife habitat, the sanctuary plays a crucial role in environmental and animal research. Scientists conduct numerous scientific surveys and compile comprehensive reports, delving into the intricate details of the flora and fauna within the sanctuary. This wealth of research contributes not only to the conservation efforts of the region but also enhances our understanding of the broader implications of biodiversity preservation. The sanctuary stands as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of various species, fostering an environment where both scientific inquiry and the protection of nature thrive.
Tourism
Kuldiha is an integral part of tourism in northern Odisha, attracting tourists and scholars alike.
Ecotourism
Odisha's government took recognition of the environmental damage being done by private operators to many parks, sanctuaries and reserves resulting in a sustainable threat to biodiversity. It came up with an ecotourism focus to conserve the pristine state of nature while making it economically viable with a PPP model. Kuldiha sanctuary is operated in a community based ecotourism model that benefits locals and tribesmen inhabiting the core area of the sanctuary.[7][10][11][12]
Access
The sanctuary is almost equidistant from Bhubaneswar and Kolkata. It is easier to reach from Bhubaneswar, being the capital city of Odisha state. The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport. The nearest railway station is Balasore railway station. One can take NH16 (earlier designated NH5) and reach Nilagiri via Odisha state highway 19; thereafter a scenic narrow road leads to the sanctuary entrance.
See also
References
- ^ a b "Kuldiha Sanctuary Closed". The New Indian Express. 16 June 2015. Archived from the original on 13 December 2015.
- ^ Ramakrishna; Zoological Survey of India (2006). Faunal resources of Similipal Biosphere Reserve, Mayurbhanj, Orissa. Kolkata: Zoological Survey of India. p. 3. ISBN 8181711149.
- ^ "Mayurbhanj Elephant Reserve". www.simlipal.org. Retrieved 27 May 2016.
- ^ "Kuldiha Forest, Balasore – 350 kms [sic] from Kolkata". 6 June 2011.
- ^ Sharma, R P. The Indian Forester (Volume 122) (1996 ed.). University of Minnesota. pp. 927–931.
- ^ "Kuldiha- A less known Forest". 6 September 2009.
- ^ a b Udgata, Harsha Bardhan (November 2012). "Eco-Tourism Destinations of Odisha" (PDF). Government of Odisha. p. 49.
- ^ "Forest fire engulfs Similipal, Kuldiha areas". news18. 8 March 2012.
- ^ "Submission of proposals to the States for declaration of Eco-sensitive Zones." (PDF). Ministry of Environment and Forests (India). 2 August 2013. p. 3.
- ^ Raghu Prasad, R. "ECOTOURISM AND PROTECTED AREAS: CONTRIBUTING COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AND CONSERVING BIODIVERSITY, PILOTED IN SATKOSIA" (PDF). TERI University. Retrieved 30 May 2016.
- ^ "ECOTOURISM IN ODISHA". www.odishaecotourism.com. Retrieved 30 May 2016.
- ^ Barik, Bibhuti (June 2015). "Private push to eco-tourism". The Telegraph (Calcutta). Archived from the original on 5 August 2016.
Notes
Approval from Himalaya Publishing House to use their academic report uploaded herewith for future reference.
External links
- Kuldiha Tourism Archived 26 November 2020 at the Wayback Machine
This page was last edited on 8 April 2024, at 16:57