Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary

Debrigarh Wildlife Sanctuary, on the edge of the Hirakud Reservoir near Sambalpur, combines forested hill terrain with wetland habitat along the reservoir's shoreline, supporting leopards, sambar deer and significant migratory bird populations during winter months. The sanctuary's dual forest-and-wetland character gives it a varied ecological profile distinct from Odisha's more purely forest-based reserves.

Boat access along parts of the Hirakud Reservoir combines naturally with wildlife viewing within the sanctuary, and Debrigarh's relative proximity to Sambalpur makes it a practical addition for visitors already exploring the Hirakud Dam area. Watchtowers positioned at key points offer good vantage for spotting wildlife gathering near the water's edge, particularly during the drier winter months.

Declared a wildlife sanctuary to protect forest and wetland habitat around the Hirakud Reservoir, Debrigarh benefits ecologically from its position along the reservoir's extensive shoreline, which draws significant migratory bird activity each winter, adding to the reserve's overall biodiversity value.

About 40km from Sambalpur, roughly 1 hour by road.