Bhitarkanika Reopens: Crocodile Haven Welcomes Tourists from August 1

Kendrapada: Bhitarkanika National Park, Odisha’s premier eco‑tourism destination, will reopen for visitors on August 1, 2026, after a three‑month closure.

The park was shut from May 1 to July 31 to ensure safety during the saltwater crocodile breeding season, when females aggressively guard their nests.

Forest officials confirmed that 117 crocodile nests were recorded this year, with 106 nests in the Kanika Range, signalling a healthy breeding population.

The reopening will restore access to boat services, watch towers, and entry gates, welcoming tourists eager to explore the mangrove ecosystem and diverse wildlife.

Authorities emphasised that the seasonal closure is vital for conservation, protecting both the endangered saltwater crocodiles and visitors.

Bhitarkanika remains one of India’s largest habitats for these reptiles, drawing thousands of eco‑tourists annually.