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The sleepy little town of Bhitarkanika, nestled in the heart of the mesmerizing Indian state of Odisha, is gearing up to host a grand fiesta&ndashthe Bhitarkanika Mahotsav&ndashfor the very first time. The festivity, set to take place in the scenic Bhitarkanika National Park, promises to be a delightful celebration of the region's rich cultural heritage and vibrant traditions.
With its lush green forests, sparkling rivers, and stunning mangrove wetlands, the Bhitarkanika National Park is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. And now, with the arrival of the Bhitarkanika Mahotsav, the park is all set to showcase its fascinating cultural heritage as well.
About The Mahotsav
The Mahotsav is slated to take place over a period of three days, from March 10-12, during which visitors will be treated to a plethora of colourful events and activities. From folk dances and music performances to traditional handicraft exhibitions and mouth-watering local delicacies, the festivity promises to offer a sensory feast for all.
One of the main highlights of the Mahotsav will be the showcase of the region's unique and exquisite handicrafts. Visitors will have the opportunity to witness skilled artisans at work, creating beautiful handcrafted items such as palm leaf paintings, terracotta figurines, and intricate bamboo handicrafts.
Apart from the cultural and artistic offerings, the Mahotsav will also have plenty to offer adventure enthusiasts. Visitors can take a thrilling boat ride through the park's scenic waterways or embark on a mesmerizing jungle trek to explore the region's diverse flora and fauna.
The Bhitarkanika Mahotsav is set to be a truly unforgettable experience, promising to leave visitors enchanted with the region's natural beauty and cultural richness.
What's More
If you happen to be exploring the exquisite Bhitarkanika National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary, make sure to take a short detour to the enchanting Gahirmatha Beach and Marine Sanctuary. Nestled just 35 km away, Gahirmatha is a globally significant nesting site for the endangered Olive Ridley turtles, making it a must-visit destination for any nature enthusiast.
Every year, from the end of February until the first week of March, these beautiful sea turtles make their way to the shores of Gahirmatha and Rushikulya to lay their eggs. The sight of these gentle creatures hatching their eggs and making their way back to the ocean is truly awe-inspiring and unforgettable.
Witnessing this magnificent natural phenomenon is an experience that should not be missed. As you bask in the tranquil surroundings of the beach, you can observe these gentle creatures as they go about their ancient ritual, oblivious to the world around them. Moreover, the Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary is a haven for a wide variety of marine life, including dolphins, crabs, and many species of fish, making it a must-visit destination for any marine life enthusiast.
How To Reach
Nearest airport Biju Patnaik International Airport
Nearest station Bhadrak Railway Station
By road Bhubaneswar and Cuttack are 115 km and 107 km away, respectively. You can hail a bus from these cities