Covering an area of 1330 sq km, the Satkosia Basipalli Sanctuary is one of the relatively less known sanctuaries in Orissa that has sometimes made its place in the news because of its Gharial Breeding Project.

Ever since its creation in 1976, the Satkosia Basipalli Sanctuary is not just visited by wild life lovers. Many adventurous trekkers have come here. It is a part of the tour itinerary of nature lovers as well. The Satkosia Basipalli Sanctuary also happens to be the base of work of scientists who are associated with the Gharial Research and Conservation Unit at Tikarapada.

This wild life sanctuary includes areas from the four districts of Angul, Budh, Cuttack and Nayagarh. The Angul sub division comprises of the mountainous parts of the Satkosia Basipalli Sanctuary. The vegetative cover of the sanctuary consists of moist deciduous, dry deciduous and moist peninsular sal forests.

The 22 km long Satkosia Gorge has been cut by the River Mahanadi across the Eastern Ghats. The essentially undulating topography of the Satkosia Basipalli Sanctuary poses challenges and the trekkers find it very thrilling and exciting to brave it. Tikarapada which is located right in the middle of the gorge should not be missed out on by nature admirers. From here one can get absolutely lovely views of the surrounding landscape.

There is no denying that the Satkosia Basipalli Wildlife Sanctuary is indeed a very scenic sanctuary. Beautiful flowers bloom - the flaming red Genwa, the crab like red Khalsi all contribute immensely to its picturesque surrounding. And the sight of this amazing variety of flora and fauna delights all visitors.

Some of the animals that can be sighted here are Tiger, leopard, elephant, gaur, wild goat, sambar, spotted deer, mouse deer, nilgai, four-horned antelope, red panda and sloth bear. Set out for the Satkosia Basipalli Sanctuary and you will get a chance to see all these animals in their natural habitat.

Different reptiles like the gharial, mugger crocodile, fresh water turtle and poisonous and non-poisonous snakes are also to be included in the list of Fauna.

Another added attraction of the Satkosia Basipalli Wildlife Sanctuary is boating in the river. It can be visited at any time of the year. The following information may prove useful when planning a visit to the Satkosia Basipalli Sanctuary.