Bhubaneswar: Bhubaneswar is bound by the Daya River in the south and the Kuakhai River in the east, providing an unparalleled richness in biodiversity.
The Chandaka Wildlife Sanctuary and the Nandankanan Zoological Park are successful conservation stories. One can experience the wild through the carefully curated nature trails at Chandaka.
The Chandaka Nature Trail will inject the freshness of the morning mist into your soul as you walk through its surreal foggy foliage. This special trail is part of the .FEST (Bhubaneswar City Festival).
The ancient forest trail of Chandaka-Dampara Sanctuary is spread over 193 sq km. The forest, once part of a huge tract referred to as reserve forest in textbooks, used to connect Odisha with Central India. It was declared an elephant sanctuary in 1982.
Located 20 km away from Bhubaneswar, the semi-evergreen forests are the city’s lungs. The sanctuary also happens to be the North Eastern limit of the Eastern Ghats mountain range.
The Chandaka Nature Trail offers a great opportunity to nature lovers to explore the beauty of the nature, and will also help create awareness about the role of natural ecosystems in ensuring a safe future.
With two access points, the sanctuary offers an opportunity to experience the natural treasures of Chandaka. The trail is a comfortably paced walk of 6-8 km with multiple stops to explain specific aspects of the forest and refreshment breaks.
Along with a brief history of the topographical masterpiece, you will also have the opportunity to enjoy a master class in wildlife photography.
“Thank God the walks are not just for providing information, but gives facts about biodiversity. It is certainly a wonderful way to detoxify,” said Ritesh, a participant at the walk.
Entering the forest instantly improves the mood. Another participant, Dr Alok Buddiya, said, “Forest walks de-clutter the brain. The therapeutic effect of nature can be easily accessed through forest trails. Bhubaneswar Nature Walks are a medicine for tired city souls. I hope everyone takes out time to experience this communion with nature.”
The walking trail at Chandaka begins at the Godibari Entrance Gate at 6:30am Sundays. One can register for the walk online at https://www.facebook.com/bhubaneswarnaturewalk/ and sign up to experience the magic of nature.
