Bhitarkanika Jungle Resort sits at the gateway to Bhitarkanika National Park, in the state of Odisha, in eastern India. It is one of the rare accommodations that allows guests to stay in direct contact with India's second-largest mangrove ecosystem, after the Sundarbans, and to arrange boat outings from the property—the heart of the experience here.

Why stay here

• Direct access to Bhitarkanika National Park, sanctuary for saltwater crocodiles and over 300 bird species.
• Accommodation in equipped tents and suites, favoring understated comfort over ostentatious luxury.
• Genuine eco-conscious commitment: solar electricity, backup generator as backup.
• Integrated travel desk to organize boat trips, excursions and park permits.
• Restaurant open continuously from 7am to 11pm, with cuisine rooted in Odisha's local produce.

The spirit of the place

The resort embraces a simple philosophy: days shaped by daylight, time on the water, and the sounds of the mangrove. The atmosphere remains that of a jungle camp, with 24-hour reception, local staff, and operations focused on wildlife observation. No spa or loud entertainment—evenings often extend around a campfire, with storytelling and folk music from the region.

The ecological commitment translates concretely through solar electricity use, complemented by a backup generator to ensure continuity of service in the heart of wetland terrain.

Accommodation

The site offers 17 units across five categories, from simplest to most spacious:

• Deluxe Non-AC Tent
• Deluxe AC Tent
• Premium AC Tent
• Mini-suite
• Family Suite

Each unit features comfortable beds, private bathrooms with hot and cold water, modern toilets, and continuous electrical supply thanks to the solar/generator coupling.

Dining and services

The restaurant The Crocodile, open daily from 7am to 11pm, serves home-cooked cuisine made from fresh local produce. Fish from neighboring rivers and estuaries take center stage—pomfret, vetki, khanga, hilsa, accompanied by shrimp and crabs according to availability. On the savory side, traditional Odisha dishes shine, notably deshi chicken and mutton slow-cooked with local spices. A selection of more international recipes rounds out the menu, and chefs adapt dishes to guests' dietary needs.

On the services side, the resort operates with round-the-clock reception, 24-hour CCTV surveillance, fire safety equipment, free on-site parking, and luggage storage for early arrivals or late departures. An integrated travel desk coordinates boat trips, guided hikes, and cultural excursions. First-aid services are available and a hospital is located approximately 5 miles away.

The park and activities

Bhitarkanika is home to the Indian subcontinent's largest population of saltwater crocodiles and over 300 bird species, including migrants traveling from as far as Siberia. Terrestrial wildlife includes axis deer, sambar, monitors, rhesus macaques, pythons, cobras, and fishing cats. Rarer sightings of leopards and hyenas have also been reported in the park.

Boat excursions depart from Khola, Gupti, Jayanagar, or Chandabali depending on the itinerary, with park permits required and arranged by the resort team. This complements guided hikes on forest trails, village visits to meet craftspeople and locals, fishing outings, and beach excursions.

Location and access

The resort sits just outside Bhitarkanika National Park, in Kendrapara district (Odisha). Plan for half a day's drive from Bhubaneswar, the state capital, which has the nearest airport. Arrival is by private vehicle, typically arranged in advance with the accommodation.

When to visit

The most favorable window runs October to February: pleasant temperatures, low humidity, and the presence of migratory birds. March to May brings intense heat but crocodiles are highly active, particularly during nesting season. The monsoon (June to September) causes partial park closures and complicates boat outings.

Combine with other stops in India

To extend an itinerary centered on nature and wildlife, several Nomadays properties lend themselves to a coherent sequence:

• Ranthambore Heritage Haveli, near Ranthambore Park (Rajasthan's tigers).
• Wonderland Tourist Camp, for a tent stay in another natural setting.
• Red Earth, nature refuge in southern India.
• Woodville Palace Hotel, for a heritage interlude in Himachal Pradesh.

Planning the rest of your journey

Bhitarkanika is an ideal stop for those seeking to venture beyond North India's well-trodden circuits. To craft a custom itinerary incorporating Odisha, its temples, and natural parks, explore our India trips.