Welcome to Crocs Inn
Satkosia spreads along the magnificent gorge over the mighty river Mahanadi in Orissa.Established in 1976 as a wildlife sanctuary, Satkosia is a paradise of immense scenic charm. It is one of the best ecosystem in India, representing a diverse floral and faunal extravaganza.
The name Satkosia originates from two words ,Sat meaning seven and kosk meaning two miles,indicating the length of the gorge as 14 miles or 22 km. The area was declared as Satkosia Tiger Reserve in 2007, comprising two adjoining wildlife sanctuaries; the Satkosia Gorge sanctuary and Baisipalli sanctuary.The reserve is spread over 4 districts;Angul, cuttack,Nayagarh and Boudh.
The reserve has an area of 964 sq km with 524 sq km as core area. The area is also a part of the Mahanadi elephant reserve.
SIGNIFICANCE
SatkosiaTiger reserve has tremendous genetic and ecological importance. Apart from the tiger,the reserve has significant population of elephant. The reserve is the natural habitat of two endangered species of fresh water crocodiles; Gharial and Mugger. Satkosia for its unique gorge ecosystem serves as a major watershed for the entire region. It forms an important catchment of lower Mahanadi basin.
KEY ATTRACTIONS
Satkosia offers something for everybody. Families can relax and enjoy the splendor of nature. Nature lovers and bird watchers can explore the diversity of the wilderness. The reserve is studded with mountains, creeks, caves and waterfalls. Temple of Goddess Binikei is famous and attracts many pilgrims.
TIKARPADA
Located on the banks of river Mahanadi, Tikapada is the main attraction for visitors. One gets a panoramic viem of the satkosia Gorge. Tikarpada is a favorite place for local picnickers.
LABANGI
A small village famous for its pristine and tranquil natural setting. The majestic water fall of Labangi is a visitors paradise. The forest rest house is located on a hill top overlooking the majestic forests.
BINIKEI
Temple of Goddess Binkei located on the banks of river Mahanadi, 8 Kms west of Tikarpara. This is a famous pilgrimage destination.
PRUNAKOTE
Purnakote is located 10 km from Tikarpada on the main PWD road. One can enjoy the beauty and intensity of the forests at purnakote. Visitors can stay at the Nature camp at Chhotkei or in the forest rest house.
KEY ACTIVITIES
BOAT CRUISE Enjoy a boat ride on the river Mahanadi and view the majestic gorge and towering mountains on both sides. One can sight plenty of crocodiles basking on the sand banks.
NATURE WALK
Nature lovers and bird watchers can walk around and discover the unspoiled wilderness through the nature trails.
RIVER VIEW PICNICS
GHARIAL RESEARCH AND CONSERVATION UNIT (GRACU)
Visit the erstwhile Gharial Research and conservation Unit, at Tikarpada which pioneered the conservation Breeding and rehabilitation of fresh water crocodiles in india. The centre undertook artificial rearing of gharial and mugger crocodiles. Crocodile eggs were collected from the wild, hatched and reared; the hatchlings were eventually released into the Mahanadi river, their natural habitat.
