Kendrapara, July 29 (UNI) After remaining closed to tourists for three months, Bhitarkanika National Park will reopen to visitors from August 1, officials said today.
The Raj Nagar Mangrove (Wildlife) Forest Division had imposed a ban on tourist entry from May 1 to July 31, 2025, to provide a peaceful and conducive environment for estuarine crocodiles during their nesting season, said Sudarshan Gopinath Jadav, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of Rajnagar Mangrove (Forest) and Wildlife Division.
To ensure safety and conservation compliance, the park authorities have made it mandatory for all visitors to carry a valid identity proof for entry.
Additionally, tourists accessing the park via waterways must wear life jackets and carry lifebuoys during their visit.
Strict restrictions have also been enforced against carrying liquor, polythene, and plastic bags inside the park, said Manas Kumar Das, Assistant Conservator of Forests (ACF) and in-charge of the Kanika Forest and Wildlife Range.