Balukhand-Konark Wildlife Sanctuary is nestled along the coastal circle of Konark and Puri in the state of Odisha. It extends from Keluni Muhan near Daluakani to Banki Muhan near Puri. Rivulets such as Kusabhadra River, Nuanai River, Prachi River and Kadua River pass through the sanctuary.

Notification: Wildlife Sanctuary on 23rd April, 1984.

Flora
Casuarina, cashew, tamarind, neem, karanja and polanga.

Wildlife
Important species: blackbuck and Olive Ridley turtles
Other species: Jungle Cat, Spotted Deer, Stripped Hyena, Wild Boar, Monkey, etc.

Avian Fauna
Herons, egrets, bulbul, owl, hawk, peafowl and other.

Getting there
Bhubaneswar is the nearest airport. The nearest bus terminal and railway station are at Puri, about 10km away from Balukhand-Konark Wildlife Sanctuary. Puri is about 3km away from the entry point of the sanctuary. The Puri-Konark marine drive road crosses through this protected reserve.

Tourist Information
Eight forest rest houses are available for over-night staying purposes. Prior booking has to be done for accommodation with the Divisional Forest Officer, Puri Forest Division. Alternatively, the visitors can reside at Konark or Puri where there are different budgeted hotels and resorts.

Olive Ridley turtles and blackbucks show special preference for sandy areas. Hence, the best places to spot them are at the sand pits at the mouths of the rivers and coastal sand dunes.

Boat ride in the Nuanai River, sun bath on the serene sandy beaches, wildlife photography and animal spotting are favourite activities of the tourists here. There are several temples, beautiful beaches and archaeological sites in and around Balukhand-Konark sanctuary that are worth visiting.

Additional Information
Location: Balukhand-Konark Wildlife Sanctuary, P.O. Khurda, Puri district, Odisha
Area: nearly 71.71 sq km
Average temperature: 40°C (summer) and 10°C (winter)
Best time to visit: October to May

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