Badarama
The Badarama Sanctuary is one of the most popular tourist attractions of the state of Orissa. This wildlife sanctuary is a must-visit for the natural lovers. Badarama sanctuary also popularly known as Usakothi, located in the district of Sambalpur, 48 km. from Sambalpur on the NH-6 under Bamra Forest Division. IT was set up in 1987. The position of the sanctuary is advantageous in the sense to the west of it lies the Hirakud Dam. Its prominent and attractive location in western Odisha with hilly undulating areas and rich dry deciduous mixed forests and wide variety of fauna including Tiger, Leopard, Elephant, Hyena, Wildboar, Spotted Deer, Sambar, Bear, Porcupine and a number of birds, reptiles etc. make it very beautiful. Sambal, Chital and Nilgai are some of the other special creatures that deserve special mention.
It is said that there are 15 tigers and 35 elephants in Ushakothi Sanctuary. Hunting leopards are common, wolves often raid on cattle of the farmers from nearby villages. Sloth Bears are rare but often noticed at dusk when they come for quenching their thirst in the nearby river.
The watch towers installed within the sanctuary provide a good view of the animals flocking the nearby watering points at night. Jeep safaris along with trained guides can be arranged by the Forest authorities. Accommodation is available at the Forest Rest House, Badrama, 3 km away. Guide and spot lights are available with the Forest Range Officer against nominal charges.
There are a variety of trees at this place like neem, sal, acacia, arjun, sandalwood and casuarinas. The wood obtained from these trees is often used for making various kinds of furniture.
Drainage at Ushakothi Sanctuary in Orissa
The principal rivers Wardha and Penganga watering Ushakothi Sanctuary at Yavatmal in Orissa flows along the boundary, making way for infiltration of these wild animals into the vicinity of the nearby villages.Nothing can be done for this; the tribal people know their proximity to the jungle and live carefully. Spiritually created by legendary Guru Vashishtha, River Wardha is also known as River Vashishtha. Showers are common here adding to the thriving plants and shrubs.
