River cruise, crocodiles, cobras, serene beaches, birds

Another kingfisher
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Bhitarkanika - well the name sounds hardly familiar. This is situated in Orissa, an eastern province of India. This is 5 hours drive from Bhubaneswar, the capital of Orissa, and just 6 hours drive from Calcutta, the biggest city in Eastern part of India.

A nature's paradise - pure fun with loads of unique experiences

Mangrove forests quite rich in diversity is there for all to enjoy at Bhitarkanika. Boat is the way to go around the mangrove forest. While going on boat keep an eye open for the numerous birds you can watch. There are over 200 bird species in the Bhitarkanika forest. Look for eight different species of Kingfisher. Do not forget to keep an eye on the mammoth salt water crocodiles laying on the banks of the estuarine rivers. These crocodiles slip into water the moment boats approach them. So keep your camera ready and snap a few of the crocs.

Crocodiles are bred in national park there
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Take a refreshing walk in villages nearby after a trip in the forest. You will see the best of rural life of India. Note how village economy is self sufficient in these areas. Do not forget to go on a trekking trip to the forest where you will come across monitor lizards, cobras, python and spotted deer in big numbers. Check out the temples inside the forest. This would remind you this place was once ruled by one of the many rulers of India.

Take your time out and ask the local guide or the resort you would be staying (Riverside- The crocodile Park: - This is only good place to stay here till now) to arrange a trip to a sea beach. You would enjoy a serene completely unexplored beach. Lay there, enjoy the sun and come back after a few bottles of beer and some food. Chill out in the night on a river cruise. Have dinner on the deck of the boat in the full moon lit river. You would find good value for your money.

A rural life at best
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The Bhitarkanika national park is open till 14th of May. It closes down on 15th May and reopens on 1st of August. But best season for visiting is between October to April. So do not think much. Plan your trip this winter only. Go any time from December to May - fun and experience are waiting for you.

P:S: Riverside: The Crocodile Park is a new resort and has not yet started booking online. But you can book with them contacting them at the following e-mail addresses:

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info@apassindia.com

Sales@apassindia.com

Contact Person is - Ambrish Jha. His mobile numbers are: +91-9439365707;

+91-9583438084

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If you want to tour Orissa and other parts of India, do contact Ambrish in that case as well. Also visit www.visitindiawithus.com

Rest be sure they will arrange your trips in ways much different from other companies with a real human touch. They would advise you on visiting under-explored and unexplored areas of India in a budget which can go with your pocket.