1. Geography & Landscape Overview

Satkosia Tiger Reserve was designated in 2007 by uniting the Satkosia Gorge Wildlife Sanctuary and the Baisipalli Wildlife Sanctuary. Located across Angul, Cuttack, Nayagarh, and Boudh districts of central Odisha, the reserve protects the dramatic meeting zone of the Eastern Ghats and the Chota Nagpur plateau.

The reserve is bisected by the mighty Mahanadi River, which has carved out a stunning 22 kilometer long canyon known as the Satkosia Gorge.

Aquatic & Terrestrial Refuge

Beside protecting Bengal Tigers and Asian Elephants, Satkosia is world-famous as one of India's premier conservation habitats for the endangered Gharial (*Gavialis gangeticus*) and Mugger Crocodile (*Crocodylus palustris*).

2. Quick Facts & Metadata

Official Name Satkosia Tiger Reserve
State & Districts Odisha — Angul, Cuttack, Nayagarh & Boudh
Designation Year 2007
Core Area 523.61 sq km
Buffer Area 440.26 sq km
Total Area 963.87 sq km
Key River System Mahanadi River (Satkosia Gorge)
Nearest Access Points Bhubaneswar Airport (125 km), Angul Railway Station (60 km), Cuttack (110 km)

3. Tigers & Aquatic Biodiversity

Satkosia protects moist deciduous and sal forests that harbor rich prey populations of Sambar, Chital, Barking Deer, and Wild Boar. The Mahanadi river stretch supports freshwater turtles, otters, and thriving crocodilian species under active state protection.

4. Visitor & Access Information

Ecotourism activities including regulated boat safaris, nature camp stays at Tikarpada and Purunakote, and guided canopy walks are managed by the Odisha Forest Development Corporation (OFDC).

Best Time to Visit: October to May.

How to Reach: Nearest major airport is Biju Patnaik Airport in Bhubaneswar (125 km). Angul is the nearest railway head (60 km).