---
title: "Bhitarkanika National Park: Odisha Mangroves"
description: "Bhitarkanika National Park is a protected mangrove ecosystem in Odisha, renowned for its saltwater crocodiles and rich estuarine biodiversity."
url: "https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/glossary/bhitarkanika-national-park"
---

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Model Diplomat Research Team · Last reviewed June 22, 2026

TL;DR

- Bhitarkanika National Park is a protected mangrove ecosystem in Kendrapara district, Odisha, India, known for its saltwater crocodile population and estuarine biodiversity.
- What is the difference between Bhitarkanika's national park and sanctuary status?
- Why is Bhitarkanika significant for olive ridley turtle conservation?
- When was Bhitarkanika designated a Ramsar site?
- How did the crocodile recovery programme at Bhitarkanika work?

[Civil Service & Diplomatic Exams](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/civil-services/glossary)Updated June 22, 2026

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## Timeline

1. 16 September 1998

   The core of that sanctuary—covering approximately 145 square kilometres—was upgraded to national park status by the Government of Odisha on , conferring the…

2. 19 August 2002

   Layered above this is the park's listing as a Ramsar Site of international importance on (the Bhitarkanika Mangroves), which obliges India to maintain the e…

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Example

In January 2024, the Odisha Forest Department's annual census at Bhitarkanika National Park counted over 1,800 saltwater crocodiles, reaffirming the park's status as the species' principal habitat in India.

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