Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary Achieves Record Ecotourism Success in 2025-26
Bhubaneswar: The Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary has reached unprecedented heights in ecotourism during the 2025-26 financial year, recording an impressive Rs 6.02 crore in revenue while welcoming more than 1.4 lakh visitors. This represents a substantial increase from the previous year's figures of Rs 5.01 crore revenue and 85,000 tourists, marking Debrigarh as one of Odisha's fastest-growing wildlife destinations.
International Appeal and Visitor Demographics
Wildlife officials report that approximately 50% of tourists originated from within Odisha, while the remaining visitors traveled from other Indian states and numerous international locations including Italy, France, the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, West Indies, Germany, Finland, Ireland, Spain, and Brazil. Tourists from ten different foreign countries specifically utilized the sanctuary's homestay, safari, and birding facilities.
Innovative Ecotourism Initiatives
The sanctuary introduced several groundbreaking attractions that significantly enhanced visitor experience:
- Odisha's first forest homestays, providing immersive accommodation within natural surroundings
- A unique 2-kilometer birding trail designed for avian enthusiasts
- Star-gazing rooms featuring innovative glass roofing technology
- An Island Café situated within the Hirakud reservoir
- Guided star-gazing activities and a specialized wildlife library
This year, the sanctuary has shifted focus toward deeper nature-based experiences through expanded homestay options and enhanced birdwatching opportunities.
Wildlife Encounters and Recreational Activities
Wildlife officials guarantee sightings of numerous animal species including:
- Indian bison (gaur)
- Leopards and wild dogs
- Sambar and chital deer
- Sloth bears and wild pigs
- Peacocks and diverse ground-nesting birds
Beyond guided jungle safaris, visitors can enjoy:
- Hirakud reservoir cruises
- Island excursions to Bat Island, Cattle Island, and Sunset Island
- Multiple hiking trails spanning 2, 5, 10, and 20 kilometers
- Trekking, camping, kayaking, and cycling adventures
- Visits to Govindpur Birds Village and Dhodrokusum Green Village
- Exploration of Barabakhra Caves and Veer Surendra Sai Memorial
Community Engagement and Economic Impact
DFO Anshu Pragyan Das of the Hirakud wildlife division revealed that approximately 120 families from surrounding villages now participate actively in sanctuary operations as nature guides, safari drivers, boat operators, homestay hosts, and eco-facility staff. Remarkably, 40% of these community members are women, including female safari drivers, eco-guides, and support staff. The homestay facilities are entirely managed by tribal women who serve as primary breadwinners for their families.
Future Development Plans
PCCF (wildlife) Prem Kumar Jha emphasized that ongoing upgrades aim to strengthen both local livelihoods and tourist infrastructure. Officials announced plans to add 32 new night-stay cottages by summer's end, including 10 additional homestays at Dhodrokusum Green Village. Future enhancements will feature a canopy walkway and expanded safari and cruise facilities with new vehicles and boats, ensuring Debrigarh continues its trajectory as a premier ecotourism destination.
