Bhubaneswar: The Bhitarkanika National Park, Odisha’s famous mangrove ecosystem and crocodile sanctuary, has been closed to tourists starting today. The park will remain shut for three months — from May 1 to July 31, 2026 — to ensure a disturbance-free environment for the breeding and nesting season of estuarine (saltwater) crocodiles.
Rajnagar Forest Division officials have announced the annual closure. During this period, the crocodiles become highly sensitive as they build nests and lay eggs. Any human movement or noise can disturb the breeding process, and the reptiles are known to turn more aggressive during this time.
Tourists will not be allowed to enter the national park and the adjoining Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary through any of the main entry points, including Dangmal, Gupti, and Khola. The forest department has also strengthened security arrangements across the area for the next three months to safeguard the nesting sites.
Bhitarkanika is home to one of the largest populations of saltwater crocodiles in India, with the latest estimates placing the number above 1,800. The three-month closure is a regular conservation measure taken every year to protect these ancient reptiles during their most vulnerable phase.
The park is expected to reopen for visitors from August 1, 2026.
