Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary
Since 1985
Spanning 353 square kilometers in Odisha, the Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary – affectionately dubbed “The Land of Bisons”— stands as one of Eastern India’s richest pockets of biodiversity. Declared a sanctuary in 1985, this dense, sprawling forest was historically part of the ancient Barapahada hill range, a rugged terrain stretching across 777 square kilometers into neighboring Chhattisgarh.
Area of Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary: 353.81 sq. kms.
Year of Sanctuary Notification: 1985
Highest Peak of Debrigarh: 691 meters
Border with Villages: 100kms (approx.)
Shoreline with Hirakud Wetland (Ramsar Site): 90 kms(approx.)
Today, Debrigarh Nature Camp is easily accessible by road from Sambalpur, Bargarh, and Jharsuguda, and is supported by nearby airports in Bhubaneswar and Raipur, making it a premier destination for nature lovers worldwide.
Where Forests Meet the World's Longest Earthen Dam
What truly elevates Debrigarh Sanctuary into a breathtaking natural marvel is its seamless integration with Hirakud Lake. Formed by the damming of the magnificent Mahanadi River in the 1950s, Hirakud is the world’s longest earthen dam and one of Asia’s largest artificial lakes.
Debrigarh wildlife sanctuary is a Global Ecological Treasure. It is recognized internationally as an Important Bird Area (IBA) and a designated Ramsar Site in India, the Hirakud lake boasts a 90-kilometer shoreline that beautifully flanks the eastern edge of the sanctuary.
The creation of the reservoir submerged historic villages and valleys, transforming towering mountain peaks into a stunning labyrinth of forested islands just waiting to be explored by boat.
A Vibrant Ecotone of Rich Wildlife
The intersection of Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary’s dense greenery and Hirakud’s backwaters forms a vibrant amphi-terrestrial ecotone—a transitional zone where land and water ecosystems overlap. This unique habitat features open, grassy banks that provide sweet forage for antelopes and ungulates, while offering ideal ambush terrain for apex carnivores. It also serves as a critical, undisturbed breeding ground for diverse wildlife. Beneath the surface, the Hirakud lake teems with varied fish species, transforming the waters into a vital lifeline for thousands of local fishermen.
Wildlife Biodiversity breakdown of Debrigarh WLS
Mammals: 40 species
Birds: 234 species
Reptiles: 41 species
Amphibians: 12 species
Butterflies: 80+ species
Debrigarh eco tourism - Empowering Communities
Crucially, Debrigarh Sanctuary has become a national benchmark for sustainable conservation through its innovative, community-driven ecotourism model. Offering everything from thrilling jungle safaris, trekking, and kayaking to scenic Hirakud Lake cruises and island visits, the initiative successfully positions forest-dependent community members as direct stakeholders.
By providing lucrative, alternative livelihoods, ecotourism in Debrigarh has driven a profound social and economic transformation. Local residents are no longer just inhabitants; they have become passionate guardians of the land, proving that the protection of fragile ecosystems is most successful when intertwined with the empowerment of its people.
Stay at Debrigarh Nature Camp: Planet-Positive Luxury
Debrigarh Nature Camp provides planet-positive luxury accommodation experiences without compromising the Earth. It stands as the ultimate perch positioned amid sprawling grasslands, lush green hills, the shimmering Hirakud Wetland, and ancient forests.
It is the perfect retreat for nature lovers, backpackers, and conscious travelers alike. Booking the Debrigarh Nature Camp will ensure stunning, panoramic view of the Hirakud Lake directly from the rooms and dining hall, which adds an extra layer of indulgence, making this Debrigarh wetland resort your ideal sustainable holiday getaway.
Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary
Near Sambalpur, Odisha. Pin: 768030
Booking Office: 6294031617
(11am - 6pm, Mon-Sat)
Email: booking@debrigarh.com